Children
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS)
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is for ages 3-12 (preschool through the 6th grade). In CGS we present age-appropriate themes from the Bible and our Anglican liturgy with materials the children use to internalize and ponder the great mysteries of our faith.
Instead of a “classroom” environment the children learn in an “atrium.” The atrium is like a chapel where children come to experience God and begin to connect the story of salvation history with their own their life as a Christian. St. John’s has all three atrium levels open.
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a true formational approach to the religious education of children. Developed by Hebrew scholar and theologian, Dr. Sofia Cavaletti, Ph.D and Montessori trainer, Gianna Gobbi, the aim of the Catechesis is to help the child “come close to God.”
The program is based on Montessori principles of education. The “Catechesis” introduces the child to the Bible and the liturgy of the Church through hands-on materials. These materials help the child to develop his or her own relationship with God and with the Church. The adult catechist and the child are co-learners seeking together the mystery of God and God’s kingdom.