Our Mission
Statement

The FNE is an international association in the Catholic Church for youth and young adults that builds its members into saints through an adventurous outdoors program. We create a space of freedom where we live simply and in contact with nature, become stronger and healthier, and grow in virtue and character. It is here where we learn that the greatest adventure of our lives is the one we live with God.


Explorers is a method of education of the child through a pedagogy developed by Father Jacques Sevin and Baden-Powell. "Our mission is a bold one: to help all our members become everyday saints and through them to bring God’s joy and peace to the families and communities of North America. We do this through camping, playing, cooking, the outdoors, helping others along with a deep sense of brotherhood or sisterhood.

We welcome you to explore and join the FNE family at SFDS.

We develop all aspects of the child

Health & Strength

Spiritual- To serve others

Social and Character

Intellectual and Practical Skills

The FNE is a member of the UIGSE-FSE, which was recognized on August 26, 2003 as an international Lay Association of the Faithful of Pontifical Right. This means our organization has been granted “official recognition and explicit approval” by the Holy See. It also means we fall under the authority of the Pope, and are overseen by the Dicastery for the Laity, Family, and Life.


The Archdiocese of Atlanta Catholic Committee on Scouting provides support to parishes to help Catholic youth participate in Boy Scout, Girl Scout, American Heritage Girls, Federation of North-American Explorers, and Trail Life USA as a Youth Ministry. The AACCOS also offers programs, religious medals and awards for Catholic scouts to grow in their Catholic faith and the ideals of scouting. Each year the AACCOS holds several events to promote Catholic Scouting. These events include a Boy Scout Religious Encounter, Scouter Development, Religious Emblems Counselor Training, and the Annual Bishop’s Scout Mass and Awards Ceremony. We are able to accomplish these events, because of the many dedicated leaders that donate their time and energy to providing a quality program.


Otters

Ages 6 to 7

Uniform cost is $50.00

Timber Wolves

Ages 8 to 12

Uniform cost is $100.00


Explorers

Ages 12 to 16

Uniform cost is $100.00


Wayfarers

Ages 17 to 24

Uniform cost is $100.00


2025-2026 calendar

August

  • Saturday, August 9, 9:00 AM: Mass, followed by meeting
  • Sunday, August 24, The FNE will host a meet-and-greet for all new families after the 10:30 a.m. Mass.
  • Friday, August 29: Meeting at 4:30 PM, Mass at 7:00 PM

September

  • September 13 (Saturday): Attend 9:00 AM Mass, meeting until 1:30 PM
  • September 26 (Friday): Meeting from 4:30 PM to 6:45 PM, attend 7:00 PM Mass


October

  • October 11 (Saturday): Attend 9:00 AM Mass, meeting until 1:30 PM
  • October 24–26 (Friday–Sunday): Fall Campout, no meeting at SFDS


November

  • November 8 (Saturday): Attend 9:00 AM Mass, meeting until 1:30 PM
  • November 21 (Friday): Meeting from 4:30 PM to 6:45 PM, attend 7:00 PM Mass


December

  • December 13 (Saturday): Attend 9:00 AM Mass, meeting until 1:30 PM
  • December 22 (Monday, tentative): Explorer Girls and Boys to help decorate church for Christmas (date to be confirmed)


January

  • January 10 (Saturday): Attend 9:00 AM Mass, meeting until 1:30 PM
  • January 23 (Friday): Meeting from 4:30 PM to 6:45 PM, attend 7:00 PM Mass


Join the FNE family at SFDS

Adventure Awaits.


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