The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program is a beautiful, hands-on way of nurturing the growth of children’s relationship with our loving God as well as learning about our faith, the Bible and the Mass .  It was developed by Dr. Sofia Cavaletti, a Bible Scholar and Gianna Gobbo, a Montessori Educator, who believed that God and the child have a unique relationship with one another, particularly before the age of six, and this relationship could be assisted by an adult but is directed by the Spirit of God. Given a quiet space for contemplation and prayer, it is the Holy Spirit himself who helps the children learn. The Holy Spirit acts within the child; it is He who initiates a relationship. It is He who gives growth and wisdom. In this environment, the children’s relationship with God grows and blooms.

In the Atrium, you will see children quietly involved in “prayer work” as they contemplate the presentations offered each day. Trained catechists offer these presentations to the children and observe them as they work with carefully prepared materials. This hands-on approach allows the children to encounter God’s love for them and their contemplation leads them to form insights and draw conclusions that allow faith to root deeply in their souls.

St. John-St. Charles' Level I Atrium for children 3 - 6 years is joyfully anticipating a new session in  September 2022, with limited openings.  It will continue to be housed in Father Duff Hall below St. John the Evangelist Church. Our atrium maintains a quiet, contemplative atmosphere for the children to conduct their prayer work, provide the children with places for individual and group work, as well as places for prayer and reflection. For more in-depth information about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program, we encourage you to watch the video below or visit the National Catechesis of the Good Shepherd web site.

For more information about our program and Atrium, please complete the information request form.

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