Helping children encounter the Good Shepherd through prayer and wonder.
WHO WE SERVE
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd serves children ages 3 years through Level III (6th grade). Rooted in Scripture, the liturgy, and the educational philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori, CGS invites children into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ through quiet reflection, hands-on materials, and wonder.
Children preparing for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist also receive sacramental preparation within the Atrium in partnership with their families. Sacramental preparation occurs naturally within Level II while remaining rooted in the larger life of the Atrium.
WHY CATECHESIS OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD?
The child already possesses a deep capacity for relationship with God. Catechesis of the Good Shepherd honors that gift by creating a peaceful environment where children can encounter Scripture and the liturgy at their own pace through prayer, contemplation, and carefully prepared materials.
WHAT MAKES CGS DIFFERENT?
Unlike a traditional classroom, the Atrium is a prepared environment designed specifically for children's religious formation.
Children are invited to:
• work with beautiful hands-on materials
• pray in silence
• hear Scripture proclaimed
• respond through meaningful work
• develop a personal relationship with Jesus
WHAT IS AN ATRIUM?
The Atrium is not a classroom. It is a carefully prepared environment where everything—from the furniture to the prayer corner to the catechetical materials—has been intentionally designed to foster prayer, concentration, and wonder.
THE CHILD’S JOURNEY
Level I (Ages 3–6) Sundays 1pm-3pm; Fridays 9:30am-11:30am
Children discover God's unconditional love through the parables of Jesus, prayer, practical life, and the beauty of creation.
Level II (Grades 1–3) Sundays 1pm-3pm
Children begin making connections between Scripture, the liturgy, and their own response to God's love while preparing for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist when appropriate.
Level III (Grades 4–6) Sundays 1pm-3pm
Children explore salvation history, moral formation, and their growing role within the Church and the Kingdom of God.
During an Atrium session, a child may...
• Gather for communal prayer.
• Listen to a Scripture presentation.
• Choose work from the Atrium.
• Spend time in quiet reflection.
• Return materials carefully.
• Close with prayer.
The Role of the Catechist
The catechist is not primarily a lecturer or teacher. Instead, the catechist observes, listens, presents key moments from Scripture and the liturgy, and then steps back so the Holy Spirit can continue the child's work.
The Role of the Parent
Although children attend the Atrium independently, parents remain the primary educators of their children in the faith. Throughout the year, families are invited to parent gatherings and sacramental celebrations that strengthen the connection between the Atrium, parish life, and the home.
Come See the Atrium
The best way to understand Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is to experience it.
Families interested in CGS are encouraged to schedule a visit to the Atrium before registering. We'd love to introduce you to this beautiful way of nurturing a child's relationship with Christ.