Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

What is Catechesis of the Good Shepherd?

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a Montessori-based religious formation program for children.  It seeks to create and facilitate a sacred, ‘hands-on’ space for children called an atrium, in which both the children and their catechists can hear, ponder, and celebrate the most essential mysteries of the Christian faith as revealed in the Scriptures and Liturgy.

This program takes place in a specially-prepared room called an "atrium." 

The atrium is prepared very simply, containing hands-on "works" inspired by Scripture and the liturgy.  When the children enter the atrium, they remove their shoes (remembering that this is "holy ground") and put on slippers.  They choose a material to "work" with, perhaps a child-sized altar, equipped with two candles, a small crucifix, a chalice, and a paten. Perhaps they choose to work with the "Pearl of Great Price" diorama, reenacting the scene of the merchant and the pearl in miniature.  At some point each session the children will see a presentation of a new work that helps lead them to contemplate the wonder of Scripture or the liturgy. At the end of the session, the children and adults gather for communal prayer.  Through every act in the atrium, both the children and adults seek to "listen to God."  This method is foundational for helping instill the values of our parish and program, helping form our youngest children in prayer and love of Christ.  It is a Montessori-based method founded by Sofia Cavalletti and Gianna Gobbi. 

For the 2021-2022 catechetical year, masks must be worn at all times by everyone over age 2, regardless of vaccination status.

• The Infant and Toddler Atrium will meet Monday mornings from 10:45am-12:15pm. This atrium is appropriate for 0-3 year olds. At least one parent must be present.
• Level I Atrium will meet Thursday evenings from 4:30-6pm and 6:30-8pm. This atrium is appropriate for 3-6 year olds (roughly preschool and kindergartners).
• Level II Atrium will meet Thursdays evenings from 4:30-6pm and 6:30-8pm. This atrium is appropriate for 6-9 year olds (roughly first, second and third graders).
• Level II Transition Atrium will meet Thursdays from 6:30-8pm. This atrium is appropriate for fourth graders who have experience in this type of formation.

To register, or for more information, please contact Holly Mohr at hmohr@maryqueenofpeacepgh.org.

To explore more about Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, please visit www.cgsusa.org.