At St. Patrick Parish, we believe that stewardship is more than a program, it is a way of life. Stewardship is how we live out our faith daily by caring for the gifts God has given us, nurturing their growth, and passing them on to future generations. Our parish school is a vital part of this mission. In the Diocese of Jefferson City, our Catholic schools exist to partner with parents in forming children in the faith. The reason we do not charge tuition for our parish families is rooted in this understanding: that parents are committed to raising their children in the Catholic faith and are active stewards who support the life and ministry of their parish.
There is an important distinction between a parochial school and a private school. A private school provides an education; a parochial school provides formation in faith. Our school is an integral part of the parish’s ministry, supporting parents in their sacred responsibility to pass on the faith to their children. By offering a Catholic education from preschool through eighth grade, St. Patrick Parish strives to give families the best opportunity to grow together in a Christ-centered environment. Because our faith is the foundation of all we do, the parish funds the school through the generosity of its members. Parishioners who live out their faith through active stewardship are sponsored by the parish and may enroll their children in the school.
To be considered an active steward, a parishioner:
- Participates in the Eucharist regularly, attending weekend Mass faithfully.
- Completes a Stewardship Renewal Form, indicating commitments of prayer, participation, and sacrificial giving — and strives to live those commitments.
- Supports the parish financially through regular, sacrificial giving in gratitude for God’s blessings.
These three expressions of stewardship help us determine whether a family is actively living their faith in community. Families who are not active stewards are not eligible for parish sponsorship and therefore will be asked to assume tuition responsibility if currently enrolled or will not be enrolled.
Please note that these expectations apply to Catholic families seeking parish sponsorship. We are also blessed to welcome non-Catholic families into our school community as space allows. Admission for non-Catholic students is considered on an individual basis by the pastor and principal.
At St. Patrick, our mission will always be faith first: forming disciples, nurturing families, and building up the Body of Christ through our school and parish life. Together, in gratitude and generosity, we live the beautiful call to stewardship.
Last updated Nov. 11, 2025