What is Catechesis of the Good Shepherd?
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is religious formation for our youngest parishioners. Even the youngest child is capable of having an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ, and the atrium is a place designed to foster that religious potential. CGS honors the dignity of each child and regards their spiritual life equally as important as an adult’s.
What is an Atrium?
An atrium is an environment prepared especially for children containing the materials on the life and teachings of Jesus and the liturgy and sacraments of the Church. It is arranged specifically to aid in the development of the spiritual life. The adult catechist and the child enter into a shared experience through selected presentations of Scripture and liturgy, and the children are called forth deeper though their personal work.
The word “atrium” actually means “portico, or porch entrance to a large house.” The Atrium was a term given to this space by Maria Montessori. It was chosen because in the ancient church, the atrium was a gathering space between the Church Proper and the street. It was the place where the catechumens, those preparing for initiation to the Church, would receive instruction. The Atrium has a similar purpose for our children, as it is a place to help them enter into full, conscious, and active participation in the liturgical and communal life of the Church
CGS Levels
CGS Infant/Toddler Atrium (0-3yrs)
CGS offers a toddler atrium to serve children ages 0-3 years old with simple, age-appropriate materials. They will also engage together at a communal table with simple foods prepared by the children.
CGS Level I Atrium(3-6 yrs)
In Level I for the 3-6 year old, it focuses on the Parable of the Good Shepherd, who calls each one of us by name. The children have concrete works and materials centered on the important gestures of the Mass, the names of the articles used on the altar, the historical life of Christ and the parables taught by Christ about the Kingdom of God.
CGS Level II Atrium (6-9 yrs)
In Level II, for the 6-9 year old (1st-3rd grades), we focus on deepening the child’s understanding of the Mass and the Bible. It builds upon the foundation laid in Level I by exploring the relationship with Christ and the History of the Kingdom of God. The curriculum uses hands-on materials and presentations to help the children engage with Scripture, Liturgy and moral formation.
CGS Level III Atrium (9-12yrs)
In Level III for the 9-12 year old (4th-6th grade), children dive deeper into the Liturgy, particularly the rite of the sacraments and explore the typology of Christ through Old Testament themes. This level builds upon previous ones, fostering a deeper understanding of the Mass, including its prayers and propers.
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