In dioceses across the United States, bishops are attempting to regulate these educational endeavors, particularly in the realm of catechesis. Some pastors refuse to allow children to receive first sacraments unless the children attend the parish religious educational program. In most instances, the catechists have no more ability to teach the Faith than the parents. Not being the parent of the child, the catechist lacks the God-given primacy to form the child. In a greater breach of natural rights, some bishops attempt to regulate the actual educational endeavors that occur within the home.
Many parents form or join home schooling associations before any issues arise.
Others form loose associations with the primary purpose of vindicating rights that may be violated by unnecessary ecclesiastical regulations. When an active association exists with the purpose of promoting and supporting the parents primary obligation to educate their children, home schooling endeavors seem to produce more fruit. Furthermore, they are able to address common issues, such as attempts to regulate education within the home. Even though a home schooling association may be incorporated in secular law, unless its statutes are reviewed by the diocesan bishop, it has no recognition in canon law. Furthermore, unless the association has juridic personality, the association itself has no rights in law.