Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at St. Bridget!
At St. Bridget, we are offering a special program for children called: Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. While there are different levels of instruction for multiple ages, we are currently offering this catechesis for children ages 3-6 years old.
We have two “pilot” groups that have already begun their instruction, but we will formally begin Catechesis of the Good Shepherd September 2026. Please learn more about this Montessori based instruction below!
What is the history behind Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS)?
“Catechesis of the Good Shepherd came about through the work of two Roman Catholic laywomen in Rome: Sofia Cavalletti and Gianna Gobbi. They were inspired by the educational principles of Maria Montessori, also a Catholic. The materials they prepared for children, since 1954, were based on the Bible, the Roman Catholic liturgy and sacraments, Tradition, and Church teachings.” -CGS website.
To learn more about the founders, click HERE.
The Atrium
The “atrium” is the name of the room prepared for CGS. Our atrium is in the Upper Room at church. We are so grateful to our parishioners who have donated their time and talents in assisting with the many projects needed for our CGS atrium.
What does a day in the atrium look like?
• Children work independently for a portion of the time. The materials they work with are specifically designed for the young child to enter into a relationship with God.
• The catechist presents new themes from the Bible or Liturgy, including the Gospel, life in the Church, the Incarnation, the Sacraments and more.
• The children gather at the prayer table to listen and speak to God through Liturgical celebrations, communal prayer and song.
What are the materials used in the atrium?
The materials used in the atrium are oftentimes handmade (but not always) with care and intention, related to the Bible and the Liturgy. The children use the materials to better understand, and to consider faith stories and the traditions that we practice when we worship.
Some examples: Jerusalem mustard seeds, figurines of the Holy Family, and the Paschal candle used in Baptism.
Information taken from All Saints Parish in Des Moines, IA.