God and the child have a unique relationship with one another, particularly before the age of six. Growth of this relationship should be assisted by the adult, but is directed by the Spirit of God. Children need their own place to foster the growth of that relationship, and the child’s spiritual growth is best served through tangible but indirect means.

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS), a religious formation methodology for children ages 3-12, unites adults and children in a common religious experience. Based on Montessori principles of education, CGS was developed in Rome in 1954 by a Catholic Hebrew and Scripture scholar, Sofia Cavaletti and Montessori collaborator Gianna Gobbi. Children learn in a specially prepared environment called the Atrium, a sacred, “hands on” space where catechists and children hear, ponder and celebrate the most essential mysteries of our faith as revealed in Sacred Scripture and Liturgy. Catechists in the Atrium receive specific training in the methodology. Materials are carefully prepared to foster in children the inherent longing for a relationship with God and curiosity about the elements of our faith.

Mary Our Queen offers the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program as a part of our Preschool through 2nd grade curriculum in the 5-Day School, as well as the Religious Education program on Wednesday evenings.

Our parish is hosting a retreat-like ‘Formation’ to be certified as a catechist for the program. Anyone who completes formation and commits to being a catechist at MOQ or SJV will have their tuition covered. The first year you are a catechist, you will be paired with a mentor to lead a session of CGS with you, followed by the opportunity to lead a session on your own. The following year, you will earn a stipend for every session you lead.

Click the link below to register for the 2025 Formation.