What is Catechesis of the Good Shepherd?

Developed in Rome by biblical scholar Sofia Cavalletti and Montessorian Gianna Gobbi in 1954, Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is rooted in the conviction that the young child possesses the profound capacity to enter into a deep and meaningful relationship with Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd. The CGS approach is internationally recognized as an effective and developmentally appropriate method of faith formation for young children. It’s a Montessori-based Catholic faith formation program where children can grow in their relationship with God through a deep engagement in Sacred Scripture, Liturgy, and respect for the child’s rich relationship with God. Central to CGS is the atrium, a specially prepared room containing beautiful materials that children work with as a way of meditating upon the essentials of our faith found on key scripture passages or liturgical moments.

CGS Level One - Ages 3 - 6: The heart of the atrium at this age group revolves round the Parable of the Good Shepherd who calls each one of us by name. The faith is handed on to the child through concrete works and materials centered on the important gestures of Mass, the names of the articles used on the altar, the historical life of Christ, and the parables taught by Christ on the Kingdom of God. . They will be immersed in the atrium and work with materials that focus on the life of Christ, the Church, the geography of Israel, the Paschal Mystery, the Infancy Narratives, the Parables, and the Sacraments.

CGS Level Two- Ages 6-9 Grades 1-3 As children grow, their questions often shift from "Who is God?" to "What is God's plan for me?" In Level 2, we explore God's Plan of Salvation as revealed throughout Scripture and help children discover their place within God's loving plan. Together, we reflect on the teachings and parables of Jesus, learning about morals and justice, mercy, forgiveness, and how to live as members of the Church community. Children preparing for the Sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion receive special formation in the rites and prayers of the Church while deepening their understanding of God's love and presence in their lives. As part of their preparation, they will also participate in a full-day retreat, offering a special opportunity for prayer, reflection, and community as they prepare to receive these important sacraments.