Purpose

 1. To serve God and the child in their special place of encounter, the atrium; to be a helper and guide.

2. To assist the catechist in providing a quiet, prayerful, and loving environment for children to encounter the Good Shepherd. 

 3. To observe the interaction between the Holy Spirit and the children.

 Responsibilities

 1.  Prayer: Personal as well as for the children

2.  Listen to God with the children; sitting with children (silently) during presentations and prayer time.

3. Speaking sparingly and softly while moving in a slower, more careful way. Speaks to one or very few children at a time.  Refrains from adult conversation while in the atrium.

4. Assists the children in their individual work: practical life activities (including personal care needs), lighting candles, reading scripture, restocking supplies, checking (stopping) negative, harmful, or disruptive behavior.

5.  Assist the catechist, or request, in setting up, and maintaining the environment and in record keeping.

6. Interacts with parents but refers them to catechist for the primary communications.

7. Be in frequent contact with the catechist, especially regarding the schedule.

Time Commitment: 3 hours weekly; 85-100 hours yearly (29-33 weeks a year)

Length of Commitment:  Minimum of one year

Weekly Requirements: Spend time in prayer prior to class.

Session times:

Monday 11:00am – 12:30pm

Monday 4:00pm – 5:30pm

Tuesday 11:00am – 12:30pm

Wednesday 1:30 – 3:00pm