Learning Ministries

Adult Faith Formation – Life Changing Journey – 60

Contact: Sr. Beatrice Caulson at 332-6279, ext. 17

The mission of this ministry is to educate adults in all areas of the faith in order to empower them to fully participate in their faith journey and grow in relationship with God. Varied subjects offered in the classes including reflection, prayer, reading and discussion. Registration and classes are held in the Spring and the Fall.

Scripture Based Small Faith Sharing Groups – 19

Contact: Sr. Beatrice Caulson at 332-6279, ext. 17

The mission of these groups is to share faith based on the Sunday’s Readings . The groups meet in private homes or the Church to share God’s actions in one’s life and to bring that faith to those in one’s life.

Adult Faith Formation – 20 and 20a

Contact: Sr. Beatrice Caulson at 332-6279,ext. 17

Held after the 8:00am Mass on Sunday offering an opportunity to look at the current church teachings with the eyes of an adult. This group will coincide with the Sunday Faith Formation classes.

Women’s Bible Studies – 21 and 21a

Contact: Nancy Sanders at 376-0665

Wild Women of Faith meets on Monday evenings from 7:00 – 9:00pm in the Church Hospitality Area. The group uses the Beth Moore Series which begins with a video presentation followed by small group discussions. Opportunity to grow in your relationship with God and fellowship with other women sharing their spiritual journey.

Men’s Bible Study Group – 63

Contact: Mike Sanders at 376-0665

Jesus is still calling, “Come and Follow me”. Jesus calls each of us to follow him by faith, to abide in Him and let His Word abide in us. Come join other men as we read and study God’s divine road map for our earthly journey: the Bible, the blue print for true life. Come and discover how to have and grow a personal relationship with your Lord and Savior within a supportive group of other men of faith. This men’s group meets weekly, day and time to be determined.

Rite of Christian Initiation B for Children – 27 and 27a

Contact: Beverly Turner at 386/462-5316

Adapted to provide Formation in the Faith for children between the ages of 6 -17 who have not been baptized or whose non-Catholic baptism is accepted by the Church or who are baptized Catholic but have not received age appropriate preparation for the Sacraments of Reconciliation or Eucharist. Sessions are held on Sunday mornings from 9:00am to 9:50am , Wednesday evenings in conjunction with the Faith Formation classes and Sacramental Preparation classes during the school year. Teachers who can work with children and a willingness to work toward their certification as a Level I catechist are needed. Sponsors are also needed to be there as a part of the candidate’s faith exploration.

Rite of Christian Initiation B Adults – 27 and 27b

Contact: Sr. Beatrice Caulson at 332-6279, ext. 17

This ministry consists of inviting and providing an atmosphere of love and concern where people interested in the Catholic faith will be able to learn about the faith and if the Spirit leads him or her to do so, join our Parish Community as a full member. Each participant has a sponsor, participates in designated Rites, prayer, spiritual reflections and classes on the Catholic faith. Sessions are once a week from 6:00pm to 8:15pm with supper provided. Teachers with a knowledge of their faith, ability to work with adults and able to facilitate discussions are needed. Sponsors are also needed to walk with the candidates on their faith journey.

Baptismal Preparation for Parents – 25 and 25a

Contact: Carrie Marco to schedule at 332-6279, ext. 12

Sr. Beatrice Caulson at 332-6279, ext. 17

Classes designed to prepare couples and godparents for the Baptism of their child/god child. This ministry details the responsibility of the parents to provide their child the opportunity to develop a relationship with God and the teachings of the Catholic Church. Meetings are held once a month on Tuesday from 7:00pm to 9:00pm . Teachers are needed who can share their faith journey and facilitate discussions.

ALPHA – 30 and 30a

Contact: Skip and Jenny Harriet at 335-3786 or

Sr. Beatrice Caulson at 332-6279, ext. 17

This program leads the individual on a faith journey to come to know Jesus personally. One finds peace and purpose through authentic Christianity. The program lasts eleven weeks and includes one weekend.

Wee Worship – 28 and 28a

Contact: Lisa McQuagge at 332-6279, ext. 20

Janine Plavac at 335-2773

Religious education programs for 3-5 year olds. Classes require registration due to size limitations. Classes meet on Sunday from September until May during the 6pm and 10am Mass. Children hear bible stories, sing, play and make crafts. Teachers and assistants are fingerprinted and have a background check.

Faith Formation K-5 (Kindergarten - 5th Grade ) 28 and 28b

Contact: Lisa McQuagge at 332-6279, ext. 20

Assistance to families in the faith education of their children, which includes supplemental sacrament preparation classes for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion. Time commitment for Catechists is an average of two hours per week (on a rotating basis), and Assistant Catechists an average of one hour per week.

Pathfinders (6th through 8th Grade) – 28c

Contact: Deacon Bo Turner at 332-6279, ext. 54

A faith formation group for all 6th - 8th graders wanting to experience fun, fellowship and faith sharing with their peers. Come join the group on Sundays from 4:00pm to 5:15pm in Walsh Hall. Come join our team and make a difference in the life of a Pre-Teen!

Summer Camp and Vacation Bible School – 28e

Contact: Patti Dugan at 332-6279, ext. 37

Children’s ministry program for PreK through 8th grade held during the summer for proclaiming the Good News of Jesus to elementary school age children. Curriculum is comprised of a variety of activities including sports, arts, educational fun and Vacation Bible School . The program is structured so families can register to participate according to their interests and summer childcare needs.

This ministry offers a multitude of steward opportunities for teachers, assistants, childcare and snack providers. Please call for further details as we work together to make this an enriching and fun program for the children.

Confirmation Classes(10th Graders) – 29 and 29a

Contact: Ronnie Eisele at 332-6279, ext. 19

Preparation for the sacrament of Confirmation takes teens through their journey of professing their faith. Classes are held on ten selected Sundays from 7:00 – 8:00pm in the Middle School media room. Enrollment in Youth Group (Visions) is also a requirement.

Queen of Peace Academy – 55

Contact: Sr. Nancy Elder at 332-8808, ext. 10

Marian Dailey at 332-8595

This ministry is dedicated to the education of students following the mission of the Catholic Church. The Academy strives to create a lasting and deeply spiritual effect, addressing the social, intellectual, aesthetic and physical aspects needed to prepare the students for the future. Steward volunteers are needed to assist in activities including, but not limited to, monitoring the lunchroom, Physical Education, Art, library, classroom, material preparation, technology and the Extended Day program. A complete listing of opportunities is available at the Academy.

St. Patrick’s Interparish School – 56

Contact: Doug and Lisa Adel at 332-8887

This ministry strives to provide a Christ-centered environment rooted in Gospel values and in our rich Catholic heritage. The school is dedicated to the growth of the students through diverse, advanced curricula that reflects academic excellence and Christ centered living. The staff and students are committed to promoting peace and justice in the community through their service. Steward volunteers are welcomed.

St. Francis High School – 57

Contact: Ernie Herrington, Principal at 376-6545

Gainesville ’s only Catholic diocesan high school offering a coed college preparatory curriculum. Established in August 2004, the school reflects a 21st Century Catholic learning environment incorporating academic, athletics, fine arts and student activities that provide leadership, values and personal service to the greater Gainesville community.

The mission of the school is to develop young men and women into leaders who exhibit service, faith, community, honor and scholarship in the Catholic tradition. For additional information on volunteering at the school please call or email them at info@sfchs.org.