Parents, who through their interaction as the primary teacher of the faith, determine that their child has reached the necessary maturity for greater participation and understanding of the Sacramental life of the Catholic church, may seek to enroll in a process of preparation for First Penance and First Eucharist.    The following criteria should be in place. - Baptismal Certificate on file in the Faith Formation Office. - You are an active, registered member of a Catholic parish; either St. Augustine or another parish that will verify your registration with them. - Your child has reached the age of at least 7 years old. - Your child is presently enrolled in a formal faith formation program and has had at least one previous year formal instruction.   Preparing for these Sacraments takes place in “Family Programs” separate from St. Augustine School or St. Augustine After School Programs. Children generally are prepared and celebrate First Penance as their first Sacramental experience after Baptism, around age seven.           Some children are capable of preparing for and celebrating First Eucharist as well, around age seven. It is the parents judgment of maturity, the influence of program materials and consistent attendance at Sunday Mass that helps to make this the appropriate time to experience these “first” of young faith.  A discussion with the Director will help you to determine a course of preparation if you are undecided. Look for a mailing from the Faith Formation Office inviting you to register for either process, or call the Faith Formation Office at 727-9290 extension 111 for more information.