September 21, 2001

Dear Parent(s)/Guardian(s),

Welcome back to the 2001-2002 Religious Education Program of Saint Francis Parish. I am writing to invite you to a meeting regarding your child’s formation for the Sacrament of Confirmation. It is important that everyone involved in this program understand our new policies and procedures regarding the participation of the students and sponsors, and this will be addressed in the homily. As such, parents are requested to attend the mandatory meeting this Sunday evening, September 30^th at 7:00 p.m. We will begin with the Celebration of Mass and afterward proceed to the basement to complete the meeting. The meeting is important given the content, and we would ask you to please bring the completed forms. Please reserve from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. for this gathering.

Enclosed in this package is information relative to the program. I would encourage you to review the material over the next few days, and then sign and date these forms along with your teen. You will need to bring the enclosed items to the upcoming parents/teachers meeting: Request for Candidacy in the Sacrament of Confirmation Program (both candidate and parent need to sign this form); Personal Information Form; your child’s baptismal record, and a check for $10.00 payable to Saint Francis (this is required only of those being Confirmed this year and covers the gown fee). We have also enclosed in your package the schedule for the year. It consists of the class dates and topics discussed. The Confirmation program begins Sunday evening, October 14^th at 5:30 p.m. followed by 7:00 p.m. Mass. Sponsor’s are required to attend this presentation and a second presentation on February 10^th, 2001.

This year the incoming Confirmation I Candidates will be going on a one-day retreat to a ropes course in Hopkinton, Massachusetts. The date is Saturday October 20^th from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The cost is $40.00 payable to Saint Francis Parish, and should be returned with the permission form to the parish office by September 30th.

Recognizing the many obligations each of us face we have carefully prepared this program so that it might prove practical for your son/daughter, and also not unduly place burdens on your busy schedules. St. Francis Parish is a family of caring people; we pray that you continue to enjoy this experience. Please be assured that you may reach me at the parish office with any concerns you may have regarding your teenager’s welfare, or with regard to their performance in the program. Be assured of our continued prayers.

Sincerely, Yours In Christ,

Reverend John F. Carmichael, Parochial Vicar