Baptism for Children Ages 7-16

What is it?
The Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA) for Children is a special program for children 7 years of age and older who have not been baptized.  Parents with children younger than seven who seek Baptism should contact Anne Vieira at the parish office.     

Who is eligible?
Any child who is at least seven years old and who, for one reason or another, was not baptized is eligible for this program.  The child must be enrolled and participating in one of the age-appropriate Faith Formation programs in the parish.  The family is registered as a member of the parish.  

When does the program take place?
The program begins when you enroll your child in the appropriate level parish faith formation program.  The registration forms for these other programs are available in the parish office, or you may view them on-line at the parish web site.   

There is a special period of formation for these children which begins on the first Sunday of Lent (February 21, 2010), during the 11:30 am Sunday Mass.  The children attend this Mass with their families.  During this Mass the children are dismissed from the church, and walk with their teacher to a classroom where they study until Mass ends.  Then they rejoin their parents in the parish courtyard.  You can obtain a copy of this special schedule of meetings by following this link .    

What do they study?
The children are prepared to receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.  According to the rules of the Church, once a child has reached the age of seven, s/he then follows the preparation guidelines for RCIA as if s/he were adult.  This catechesis will include sacramental education and reflection on the scripture.    

Is there a cost for this program?
There is no charge for preparation for the sacraments in the Catholic Church.  Your donations in the Sunday collection help pay for the costs of this program.    

Who will be teaching the children?  
Tom Rinkoski, the Director of Faith Formation for St. Augustine Church, will teach the children during the Lenten sessions.  He is the parish’s lead catechist, has an M.Ed from Boston College and over 35 years in church teaching experience.    

How do I enroll my child?
Step #1 is to make sure your child is registered in one of the existing parish faith formation programs according to his grade level.

• If your child is in Kindergarten through and including 5th grade follow this link for more information K-5:  K-5
• If your child is in 6th, 7th, or 8th grade, please follow this link for information Middle School:  Middle School
• If your teen is in High School, find out more information by following this link:  CYA       

Step #2 is to enroll your child in the RCIA for children program.  You can find that registration form at the Parish Office or complete it on-line using the tab to the left.   

Finally, you should schedule an informational meeting with Tom to learn more about this program.  See contact information below.    

Who do I contact with questions or concerns?
Tom Rinkoski, Director of Faith Formation and Youth Ministry, St. Augustine Catholic Church, 1738 W University Ave, Gainesville, FL  32603.    You can reach him at the office phone at (352) 372-3533, ext. 152.  The best way to contact him is e-mail at tomrinkoski@yahoo.com.