CATECHESIS OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD
Learning Scripture
Meeting the Shepherd
Growing in Faith
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is an approach to the religious formation of children which utilizes alternative instruction models to help them develop an informed and genuine relationship with God
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a faith formation method for children, rooted in scripture and liturgy, that emphasizes a child's relationship with God, particularly through the image of the Good Shepherd. It offers a prepared environment called an atrium, where children can explore biblical and liturgical themes through hands-on materials.
Core Elements of CGS
- The Atrium: A specially prepared, child-friendly room filled with tactile materials like small altars, dioramas of biblical sites, and tactile scripture maps.
- Age Levels: Divided into developmental tiers including Level I (ages 3–6), Level II (ages 6–9), and Level III (ages 9–12).
- Key Themes: Focuses heavily on the Good Shepherd parable, the life and infancy of Christ, the parables of the Kingdom, and liturgical celebrations of the Mass and sacraments.
- Methodology: Adults offer brief, focused presentations from scripture or liturgy, and children independently choose hands-on materials to meditate, pray, and respond at their own pace.
There are two Atria at each campus of Columbia River Catholic.
- At St. Thomas Aquinas, we have a level one atrium guiding 3 to 6 years old. It is located within the school kindergarten rooms. It is also open on Sunday morning during regular faith formation sessions, Sunday 9:45 to 11am. Level 2, which teaches 6 to 9 year old's, Monday mornings between 10 and noon, and is open to all CRC parishioners.
- At Holy Redeemer, on Wednesday afternoon, we have a level one, 3 to 6 year old session beginning at 3:30 (to 5pm) and then again, at 6pm to 7:45. On Wednesday night's there is also a level 2+ that begins at 6pm to 7:45 for grades 1 through 5th grades . On Sunday morning, we offer a level 2 (6 to 9 year old's) which includes sacramental preparation from 9:45 to 11:30 for grades 1 through 3. In this session, accommodations can be made for special needs individuals.
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