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
