The Diocese of Erie is interested in assuring you as parents that the religious education program of your parish meets diocesan standards for the formation of your child(ren). To accomplish this we have asked all of the religious education programs of the diocese to participate in a Self-Study and Assessment process. This process asked each parish to measure itself against diocesan standards (diocesan policies) and to chart a plan for continuous improvement.

Diocesan staff visited each parish after a thorough review of the material prepared by the parish and met with the pastor, the religious education leader, catechists and parents. Each parish that participated received a detailed written report in which the parish religious education program was commended on areas of excellence, was offered recommendations on how to strengthen some areas, and was provided with a list of required actions necessary to meet minimum diocesan standards.

Parishes that are diocesan accredited have received a large framed-certificate which was to be hung in a prominent place in the religious education area. This certificate lists the years for which the program has been accredited. If you do not see such a certificate in your parish you are encouraged to ask the religious education leader and or pastor if the program is accredited by the diocese.