Saturday, May 17, 2008
Today's Reading from the New American Bible

Putting Faith First

    We believe. We believe in Jesus. We believe in families. We believe faith is a gift from God. We believe
            what you do with that gift matters – a lot! We believe these years (Kindergarten through 5th grade) are
            a key period in the faith formation of the people of God.

     In our program, St. Augustine Church partners with your family in the task of faith formation
            and development.  We hope to support you in nurturing the seeds of faith with classes for children
            and adults plus intergenerational sessions. Our Sunday K–5 program is designed to foster
            a living, conscious, and active faith.

On this web page you will find:

• Information on the program
• A schedule for all the meetings
• Frequently Asked Questions, and
• A link to the Registration Form

                On behalf of the entire catechetical team at St. Augustine,
                I look forward to working with you and your family in
                this special time of faith development.  Please join us in
                taking time to put faith first!  If you have any questions
                concerning this faith formation program or any other at
                St. Augustine you can contact me at tomrinkoski@yahoo.com
                or at the parish office at (352) 372.3533.

 Faith Formation @ St. Augustine
for children in grades K thru 5^th
and their parents

Faith Formation Schedule

Download the 2007-2008 K–5 Faith Formation Schedule
 

Frequently Asked Questions

When does this program take place?

The Kindergarten through 5th grade program meets on Sunday mornings from 10:30 to 11:15 am. This allows families to choose to attend Mass at 9:00 or 11:30. Children meet in classrooms at Hurley Hall, and the parents’ class is in the Lounge in the Main Building.

Who are the teachers in our program?

The catechists (religion teachers) for the children are volunteers who willingly give of their time and energy. Being a Student Center we are blessed to have many University of Florida students as volunteers who bring enthusiasm and spirit to their teaching! The catechists for the adults include members of the parish staff and other guests.

Which textbooks do we use?

We use Faith First Legacy Edition, a series of textbooks published by Resources for Christian Living, (Allen,TX).  These textbooks have received approval at both the national and diocesan levels.  You can learn more about them on-line at www.faithfirst.com.

Why are parents expected to attend?

Parents are expected to attend every time there is a scheduled religious ed class. First, we believe that faith formation is a life-long process. Second, we believe there is a strong witness value for your children when they see you attending. We offer adult education on a variety of topics. In addition, a few of these sessions will focus on parenting and faith formation, providing ideas and approaches to use at home.

Is there a fee for the Faith Formation program?

Yes. We ask that each family pay a fee of $35.00 per child to cover textbooks, supplies, and other program expenses. No family is asked to pay more than $105. If this fee poses a financial burden for your family, simply indicate this on the registration form and other arrangements will be made.

What if my child is not baptized?

Please enroll your child in this program, noting this on the registration. In addition, ask Tom about the RCIA for children program. It is this process that prepares them for Baptism.

What about First Communion Preparation?

St. Augustine offers a separate program for children in the 2nd grade who are ready to receive their First Communion. Please register your child for this program using the proper form.

Who do I ask for more information?

For additional information regarding this program or any other aspect of religious education contact Tom Rinkoski, the Director of Religious Ed at St. Augustine. You can reach him by phone at 352.372.3533 or via internet at tomrinkoski@yahoo.com.

How do I register my son/daughter?

There are two ways to register:

1. Pick up a registration form at the church office. Complete the form and return with your check (made payable to St. Augustine Church) by the deadline of Monday, September 16, 2007.

2. Download the registration form from this link. Complete the form and return with your check (made payable to St. Augustine Church) by the deadline of Monday, September 16, 2007.

   The parish office is open 9:00 am till 10:00 pm every day; it may be convenient to drop these off after Mass on Sunday.  Just be sure they place your envelope in Tom Rinkoski’s mailbox.