Middle School Religious Studies
St. Augustin Catholic Middle School uses the Spirit of Truth series from Sophia Institute. Students participate in weekly masses, classroom prayer, liturgy planning, and large and small group discussions. Students are not given a lot of homework, but tests and projects are staple of the class.
Grade 6 This year the sixth-grade will study the Old Testament and its meaning for Catholics. The study of the Old Testament guides sixth graders to see in Jesus the fulfillment of all the Father has promised, as well as the perfect response to his love. Students are encouraged to respond to God's call to enter into a loving relationship with God and with the Church.
Grade 7 Jesus is the way. Through His words and actions, Jesus shows us what God is like. He shows us that God is always ready to reach out to the lost, to love the forgotten, and to forgive the sinner. Jesus shows us a God of unconditional love. Jesus is the way to the Father. Jesus is the truth. By his words and actions, he shows us the truth about God. It is a truth all people seek. Jesus is the Life. Jesus promised a share in his divine and eternal life to those who believe and follow him. Jesus gives us this faith and continues to strengthen it through Scripture, prayer, the sacraments, the faith community, and the Church. It is faith that is alive and growing.
Grade 8 The light of faith handed down through the past 2,000 years has been passed to this generation. Jesus, the light of the world, enkindled the flame of eternal life by his death and Resurrection. He promised his followers that He would be with them until the end of time. In the 8th- grade text, students will see how the Church shone like a light in the dark ages. They will see how the Church has survived social systems, political systems, and persecutions. They will be encouraged to think in newer, more profound ways about Catholic truths. The Holy Spirit, the four gifts that mark the Church, and Mary's role will become more apparent. Students will learn how the commandments are a sign of loyalty to Christ, who said, "If you love me, you will keep my commandments." (John 14:15)