While most parishes in the archdiocese are winding down their religious education and other programs for the summer, others are taking advantage of summer free time to give both children and adults a chance to learn more about their faith.

One such parish is St. Cecilia Parish in Ashland where pastor Father Richard P. Cornell believes that, with schedules sometimes being more relaxed, families on the lookout for fun and educational activities can take advantage of this time to attend to two courses being offered at this parish on "Ascension Press Altaration" and "Theology of the Body" -- the latter being for seventh graders and above, and their parents.

The course "Ascension Press Altaration" is designed to deepen understanding of the Mass. The course will be offered on two Saturdays, July 18 and 25 from to 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The course video will include presentations by well-known speakers in the field of Catholic apologetics including Mark Hart, Chris Stefanick and Mike Schmitz.

With the course "Theology of the Body," Father Cornell sees an opportunity to facilitate an understanding and discussion of the Church's teaching on human sexuality. Videos of talks by speakers such as Jason and Crystalina Evert, both well known for speaking about chastity and the Catholic Church, will be featured in the presentation that will take place over the course of two Saturdays: Aug. 8 and 15 from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Those interested in attending one or both sessions should email youthministry@saintceciliparish.org. Both courses will take place at the Family Center on Esty Street in Ashland.