Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
(Pre-school age 3 through Kindergarten*)
Sundays,
9:45-10:35 a.m.
We offer Catechesis of the Good Shepherd for our youngest students. This program offers a Montessori approach to the religious formation of children. It is rooted in the New Testament, the liturgy of the church, and the educational principles of Maria Montessori. Children as young as age three may begin in this program, and are invited to remain in the Catechesis program up to age six.
Children gather in our "atrium", a specially prepared environment which contains simple yet beautiful materials for their use. Our two trained Catechists present scripture and liturgy along with the companion materials. In the atrium your child can ponder a biblical passage or a prayer from the liturgy by taking the material for that text and working with it - placing wood figures of sheep in a sheepfold of the Good Shepherd, setting sculpted apostles around a Last Supper table, or preparing a small altar with the furnishings used for the Eucharist. Older children work with more advanced presentations and materials, and those who are able to read and write often copy parables from the Bible or lay in order written prayers from the rite of Baptism.
New students are always welcome; however, an orientation session is required before a child joins the program. Contact the parish office at 779.1139.
National Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
*Children in Pre-K/Kindergarten may also enroll in our Bible-based Sunday School program.