Catholic school teachers will take a fresh look at their religious education materials this school year, as a step in the process of adopting new religious education standards promulgated by the diocesan Office of Catechesis.

More than 30 Catholic teens spent a week improving their prayer life and leadership skills at the annual Catholic Leadership Institute (CLI), held July 11-16 at the Villa Maria Catholic Life Center on Lake Springfield. The retreat featured daily Mass and Liturgy of the Hours, personal prayer time, talks and small group discussions on discipleship and leadership.

Over 300 youth from 10 dioceses spent the week of June 23-28 at Sacred Heart-Griffin High School learning more about the faith and helping the Springfield community. Camp attendees aided several organizations throughout the week, including Habitat for Humanity, Sojourn Shelter and Central Illinois Food Bank. They also helped with landscaping and repairs at local homes, parks and churches.