Why do we charge for religious education?

[JaminB123]

I am a recent convert to the Catholic faith. I want to enroll my 9-year-old into religious education this year. It’s an $85 charge to register her. Now, I can afford it and I don’t mind paying it, since I’m sure the money will be put to good use within the parish. But… it seems strange to have to pay for what is essentially equivalent to sunday school, something no Protestant, Mormon, etc. would ever charge directly for.

So… Why do Catholics charge money to teach the gospel to children?

Thanks!
Ben

 

[Fr.Charles_Grondin]

Parishes charge money to help pay for the costs of religious education materials, facilities and utilities used, pay for youth leaders, etc.

Of course an inability to pay the fee would in no way disqualify someone for religious education.