Faith Development

For millennia, religions have helped people seek answers to life's big questions.

At St. Richard's, we offer regular time and space to pray, reflect on big feelings and questions, and celebrate our faith. The only Episcopal school in the state of Indiana, St. Richard's is deeply committed to the inclusive welcome of The Episcopal Church and instilling our students with spiritual and ethical values alongside intellectual knowledge to serve them throughout their lives. Our community is enriched by people from many religious and philosophical traditions, and while all of our chapel services are rooted in the Episcopal tradition, we are deeply respectful of each student's innate spirituality and faith background. Students attend at least one chapel service and age-appropriate divinity class each week.

"Chapel services provide a physical and metaphorical space for children to think big thoughts and ideas about their world in a different way than in the classroom."

--Grade 8 parent

"My child became a good student and a good person as a result of their St. Richard's experience."

--Alumni parent

"Good students and good people are equally nurtured and celebrated at St. Richard's. Graduates are well prepared scholars and also good human beings."

--ISACS Accreditation Review

What are the beliefs of The Episcopal Church?

How is St. Richard’s affiliated with the Church?

St. Richard's was founded by and is extremely fortunate to have a continued partnership with the beautiful and historic Trinity Episcopal Church. Operations and finances of the school and church are managed separately. The rector (head priest) of Trinity and the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis sit on the board of trustees at St. Richard's, as non-voting members. The mission of the diocese compels us to offer a generous invitation and welcome and stand with the vulnerable and marginalized to transform systems of injustice.

What benefit does religious study bring to students?

Religion is a deeply human subject that gives us insight into the beliefs, practices, values, and traditions of various cultures. Whether we are examining the stories and practices of our own religion or those of others, it gives us the opportunity to connect with the human need for greater meaning and purpose. As educators in Episcopal schools, we are more than instructors of academic content: We are bearers of light, carriers of hope, and architects of potential. The families we serve help students see beyond their current circumstances, to recognize the extraordinary potential within themselves. We are not merely preparing students for tests or for secondary education, but for a life of meaning, of service, and of profound human connection. We are helping to bring hope in the darkness--illuminating paths, nurturing potential, and trusting in the extraordinary possibility that exists in every student entrusted to our care.

What curriculum is used in divinity classes for younger students?

Early Childhood students (Pre-K through Kindergarten) use Godly Play, a Montessori-based approach that helps students explore their faith through storytelling, absorb religious language, and enhance their spiritual experience through wonder and play. Grades 1 and 2 use a Christian formation program called Spark, which takes a cross-curricular approach to allow students to hear and retell Bible stories in a variety of ways, including writing, drawing, music, physical motions, puzzles, videos, math, science, social studies, and games. Grades 3 and 4 use a Christian formation program called Holy Moly, which is a process-oriented curriculum that encourages students to make connections between the biblical story and their own lives. Three or four times each school year, all Lower Division students (Grades 1-4) have a lesson about another major religion. Our students are accustomed to using inclusive language and experiences when it comes to spirituality, and they are eager to learn about other faiths and traditions.

What curriculum is used in divinity classes for older students?

Once students reach Middle Division (Grades 5-8), divinity class is a more rigorous academic course, with each grade level focusing on one topic for the entire school year. In Grade 5, students study the life and ministry of Jesus in the New Testament. Grade 6 students study the Old Testament, which coincides with their study of Ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt in history class. Grade 7 students study world religions, which includes many field experiences and guest speakers to help students learn about how various religions are expressed in the Indianapolis area. This curriculum includes visits to a local synagogue and Hindu temple. Grade 8 students explore ethical questions as they read about the history of antiracism in our country. This curriculum includes attending plays at the Indiana Repertory Theatre such as Nina Simone: Four Women and reading Stamped.

Do I have to be Episcopalian or religious to attend St. Richard's?

St. Richard's is open to people of all beliefs and faith traditions. In fact, a large percentage of our families (39%) self-identify as non-religious or prefer not to answer, 28% identify as Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist, or other Christian denominations; 19% as Catholic; and 14% as Episcopalian. While Chapel services are required, participating in the Eucharist is optional, based on family preference.

St. Richard's School Prayer

Oh, God, creator of light and fountain of all knowledge, bless this school we pray; and illuminate those who teach and those who learn here, that your light of truth and love may shine with growing brightness within us, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

St. Richard's Affirmation of Honor

As a member of St. Richard's Episcopal School, I celebrate: My love for God; the acceptance of personal responsibility; the values of knowledge, honesty, integrity, and service; and openness to the diverse world in which I live.

As Episcopal educators, we stand in a prophetic tradition. We are not merely preparing students for tests or college, but for a life of meaning, of service, and of profound human connection. We are helping to birth hope in a world that desperately needs it.
--National Association of Episcopal Schools