Sunday Morning Family Faith Formation

In this program, St. Augustine Church partners with your family in the work of faith development and growth. We offer classes for children and teens, adult education for parents, and intergenerational events to celebrate faith!

When does this program take place?
The Family Faith Formation program meets on Sunday mornings from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm.  Families can attend the 9:00 am Mass and join us immediately afterwards.  At 10:30 am, children, teens and adults gather in Parish Lounge for the Opening.  Then children go to classrooms in Hurley Hall with their teachers, and the parents remain in the Lounge.  At 12:30 pm, children return to the Parish Lounge with their teachers..  

Who is eligible to enroll in this program?
Children and teens who will be in grades Kindergarten through and including grade 8 in the 2010-2011 academic year.  The families should be registered members of St. Augustine Church.

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, who, as volunteers, 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 for grades Kindergarten through and including 5th grade. This is 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.    The Middle School Teens meet on Sunday mornings for a Bible Study program (This is different than the regular Wednesday evening Middle School Religious Education Program which you can check out at the following link: Middle School).

Why are parents expected to attend?
Parents are expected to attend every time there is a scheduled 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?
Yes.  We ask that each family pay a fee of $40.00 per child to cover textbooks, supplies, and other program expenses.  No family is asked to pay more than $120.  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.  Also please register your child for the RCIA for children (RCIC) program by following this link:  RCIC.  It is this process that prepares them for Baptism.  

What about First Communion?
St. Augustine offers a separate program for children in the 2nd grade who are ready to receive their First Communion.  Learn more about this program by following this link: First Communion.  There you will can also register them for the program on-line.  

How do I register my children for the Sunday Faith Formation program?
You can register your children in two ways: 

1. Register on-line by following this link: Sunday Registration Form.   
2. Pick up a registration form at the Parish Office.  Complete and return to the parish office no later than September 20.  Include a check payable to St. Augustine Church.        

Whom do I ask for more information?
For additional information regarding this program or any other aspect of religious education contact Tom Rinkoski, Director of Faith Formation at St. Augustine.  You can reach him by phone at (352) 372-3533, ext. 152 or e-mail at tomrinkoski@yahoo.com.