The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Method

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a Montessori-based religious formation program designed for children. It aims to create and nurture a sacred, hands-on environment called an atrium, where both children and catechists can hear, ponder, and celebrate the essential mysteries of the Christian faith as revealed in the Scriptures and the Liturgy. The atrium serves as a space for children to develop their relationship with God, a connection that already exists within them.

Children's relationship with God comes naturally. In the atrium, they learn the vocabulary of the Church, explore the question “Who are you, Jesus?”, and discover how to pray and listen to God. They work at their own pace with hands-on materials and presentations that include the Bible, the liturgy, and the sacraments. Through this process, they celebrate God’s immense love for them and build a strong foundation of faith. This foundation encourages the child to respond to serving God and others.

Dr. Maria Montessori once noted that a child told her, “Help me to help myself,” rather than asking her to do it for them. In the atrium, this sentiment is reflected in the child's desire: “Help me to come to God by myself.”

Program Offerings:

• Level I classes (for children ages 3-6) will be offered once a week on Thursdays from 4 – 5 pm. Children must be fully potty trained to attend these classes.

• Level II classes (for children ages 6-9) will be offered once a week on Thursdays from 4 – 5 pm. In the CGS program, children are prepared for and receive the sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Communion. Both children and parents are required to attend four separate sacrament preparation sessions, and children also participate in a weekend retreat during their sacrament year.

Please note that space is limited. 

For more information go to the official CGS website CLICK HERE