CATECHESIS OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD
A Catholic Montessori program for 4-6 year olds
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What is Catechesis of the Good Shepherd?
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a Montessori-based religious education program. Through hands-on materials and guided reflection, children engage in an enriching environment where they encounter the profound truths of the Catholic faith at their own pace. Inspired by the parable of the Good Shepherd, this hands-on experience, helps the children develop a lifelong love for Christ.
Faith and Spiritual Formation of the Child
Children are able to develop a deeper understanding of Catholic faith and traditions.
“Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of Heaven.”
Matthew 19:14
Prepare your child for the Atrium
Mass should be attended as a family as the child will make connections to the Mass through their Atrium experience.
Quiet and slow movement is encouraged in the Atrium in order to facilitate deep contemplation and prayer.
Ensure that your child is fed, has had a bathroom break, and is feeling well in order to allow catechists to facilitate a reverent and respectful environment for all of the children in the Atrium.
The Atrium
Children gather in a room specially prepared for them, called an Atrium, which contains simple yet beautiful materials that they use to draw near to God. In the early Church, the atrium was the place where the catechumens were prepared. For the child, the Atrium is a place of preparation for involvement in the larger worshipping community.
In an Atrium, the child can ponder a Biblical passage or a prayer by taking the material for that text and working with it – placing wood figures of sheep in a sheepfold of the Good Shepherd or setting sculpted apostles around a Last Supper table.
Resources for Parents
Please go to the parent page of cgsusa.org to find more information on the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and helpful literature for parents.
Topics include:
- Praying with your Child
- The Importance of the Environment
- Parent Newsletters
Contact Information:
Joseph Nieves-Serrano
Director of Faith Formation
joe@sainttims.org
813-961-1716