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2 programs. The practical details, in one place. Follow each source for the latest information.
| Your shortlist | FraternusFraternus A Catholic brotherhood and mentoring program for boys. It uses a structured curriculum based on the virtues to help men mentor young men into virtuous Catholic adulthood. | AscensionEncounter: Experiencing God in the Everyday A middle school Catholic Bible study program from Ascension led by Mark Hart (updated as Encounter: The Bible Timeline for Middle School) that introduces grades 6 to 8 to salvation history using the color-coded Bible Timeline Learning System. |
|---|---|---|
| Publisher | Fraternus | Ascension |
| Category | Youth ministry | Youth ministry |
| Ages | Middle School / High School Boys | Middle School (Grades 6-8) |
| Format | Parish chapter model with leader manuals and weekly curriculum | 4-DVD video series and online streaming, print student workbook, and leader guide |
| Sessions | Weekly chapter meetings throughout the school year | 8 sessions (eight 30-minute video lessons) |
| Price (as published) | $120/yr annual member dues (includes Daily Sword&Spade and weekly content); parish chapter charter by application | Student Workbook $16.95; Leader Guide $21.95; Starter Kit $99.95; 2024 Starter Pack $79.95 |
| Spanish edition | no | yes (Encounter: La Biblia en el Tiempo para la Escuela Intermedia available) |
| Leader guide | Provides comprehensive captain and commander manuals with weekly discussion guides, game plans, and mentoring strategies. | Dedicated Leader Guide (ACEN-940494 / ACEN-882515) includes full student workbook content plus facilitator notes, discussion prompts, and suggested answers. |
| Last updated | 2026-10-15 | 2026-10-15 |
| Source | View source | View source |
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