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 1st grade curriculum in the 5-Day School, as well as the Religious Education program on Wednesday evenings. It is our plan to continue growing the program each year, as more Catechists are formed in the method. If interested in the Wednesday evening program, please register below.