Atrium Photo Tour
CGS Registration

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is the response to the hunger of the child who wants to be close to God. It is an exciting alternative to the traditional religious education. The curriculum is structured so that it accommodates and nurtures the faith, moral, and psychological states of the child’s growth. This non-scholastic, hands on approach is for children 3 years old through 6th grade. This opportunity is offered weekly, during the school year, for an hour and a half. A variety of days and times are available. It is best to consider this program as a multi-year commitment since each session builds on previous sessions and each year builds on the child’s experiences the previous year.

2008-2009  Session Calendar coming soon.

The environment, known as the atrium, is a special setting, child-sized and beautiful, where the child may come to know and enjoy the presence of God in his or her life. This place has often been described as a peaceful, prayerful experience for the child.

Because children respond in the same way to elements of the Christian message, the core curriculum includes the following.

These themes are offered in such a way as to develop the religious potential present in every child...the capacity to love and be loved.

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd originated in 1954 in Rome, Italy. Inspired by Montessori principles of education, this program can be found in many countries such as Africa, South America Brazil, Colombia, and Argentina, Chad, Mexico, Australia, Canada, and the United States. Atriums can be found in homes, churches, and schools.

The program runs from approximately September through May. Registration dates will be advertised in the O.L.P.H. weekly bulletin and a reminder mailing will be sent to registered parishioners. For further information or to become involved as a volunteer please call Shari at 480-874-3712 or stop by the parish office registration materials.