"As the primary educators of their children, parents have the right and the duty to choose the kind of educational environment that they determine best suits their children's educational needs.  Therefore, home schooling is a viable option for the general education of children. (National Directory for Ctechesis 259)."

"If Catholic parents choose to provide catechesis for the children in their home, that catechesis must be both complete and authentic. (See Code of Canon Law #226 §2.) The bishop of the diocese, the pastor of the parish, the parents, and the children all have God-given responsibilities that must be respected in considering home-based catechesis. 

The home-based catechesis of children is a cooperative effort between the children, their parents, parish leadership, and the diocesan bishop.  Parents who choose to be not only the primary educators of their children but also their catechists must adhere to all guidelines for catechists as outlined by the diocesan bishop.  (National Directory for Catechesis 259)." (See Code of Canon Law #776 and #774, §1.)

Parish catechetical leaders in the Diocese of Lake Charles assist parents who desire to provide for their children's religious education at home.  Parents should register their children at their church parish religious education program.  The parish catechetical leader will provide the parents with a diocesan guidance on what texts and curriculum materials to use and the Circle of Grace (Safe Environment Education Program) lessons or the CD. Parents are encouraged to attend appropriate training and formation sessions provided by the parish and diocese.

For information on the catechesis and reception of the sacraments, go to the section Sacramental Preparation.