Beginning Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that a person took and sowed in a field. It is the smallest of all the seeds, yet when full-grown it is the largest of plants. It becomes a large bush, and the birds of the sky come and dwell in its branches.” Matthew 13:31-32

One comes to know about The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from a friend, a parishioner, the Director of Religious Education or Faith Formation, a priest, or a bishop. There are several factors one needs to take into consideration when beginning Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in a parish, school, or even a home setting.

Characteristics of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd:  #3 The atrium is a community in which children and adults live together a religious experience that facilitates participation in the wider community of the family, the church, and other social spheres.

  • The atrium is a place of prayer, in which work and study spontaneously become meditation, contemplation, and prayer.
  • The atrium is a place in which the only Teacher is Christ; both children and adults place themselves in a listening stance before his Word and seek to penetrate the mystery of the liturgical celebration. 

Visit an Atrium

To capture a vision of what The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd offers children, it can be beneficial to connect with a church in the area (if at all possible) that has already established an atrium for children. Our association may be able to help you locate parishes in your area.

Arranging a small group to visit an atrium can be invaluable to understanding this method of catechesis and what it can be like for children. If possible, it can also be helpful to experience one or two of the presentations (lessons) as they are given to the children or even observe an atrium session with children. Either one can make a difference in capturing the vision of CGS. What an impression it makes for the adult to enter the sacred atrium environment that has been so carefully prepared to nurture the young child’s spiritual life compared to hearing about it!

CGS An Introduction Courses for Adults CGS In The Home CGS In The Parish CGS In The School