Beginning
History | Beginning | Mission
What is needed to begin
There are several key factors that help to bring the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd to a parish:
Pastor
- The encouragement and support of the pastor is essential.
Community
- Parents and other adults in a parish community usually read and discuss together one of several fine books on the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. With the encouragement of the parish staff, some may choose to take the formation course and become catechists; others may prepare a room to become the atrium; many adults use carpentry, painting, sewing, and sculpting skills to make materials.
Space
- Ideally the parish can provide a room dedicated solely to the atrium. Shared space is a bit more difficult, due to the many materials, but not impossible.
Training
- Someone from the parish must be willing to take the course in order to get the atrium started. Two or more persons are even better. Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is not a published program.
Finances
- This catechesis is feasible for any parish. Costs involve preparing the atrium, making materials, and sending catechists to training courses. With a little ingenuity, the atrium and materials can be prepared very simply and scholarships are available for some of the courses.
