The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) method of catechesis is a Montessori-based, Scripture- and liturgy-centered approach to faith formation that fosters a deep, personal relationship between the child and Christ, the Good Shepherd. CGS has been embraced worldwide since the 1960’s for its reverence for the child, its fidelity to the teachings of the Church, and its fruitfulness in nurturing lifelong faith.
Through careful preparation of the catechist and the environment, children are given space to listen, ponder, pray, and encounter God in a profound and joyful way. The Atrium is a sacred, hands-on space in which both the children and their catechists can hear, ponder, and celebrate the most essential mysteries of the Christian faith as revealed in the Scriptures and the Liturgy.
Formation in this method not only equips catechists to serve children more effectively but also becomes a rich source of spiritual renewal for the adults themselves. Many pastors have shared how CGS strengthens parish life by cultivating reverence, attentiveness to Scripture, and a deeper love for the Eucharist among both children and catechists.
We would be honored to support catechists who can serve the community in our diocese with competence, prayerfulness, and fidelity to the Church. The formation dates allow any parish or school looking to open an Atrium in the fall plenty of time to prepare materials.
Please feel free to contact us for additional details or to schedule a presentation and a tour to learn more about CGS.
The course is divided into 2 parts and both parts are required for certification. For those who have already completed Part 1 of formation, they only need to register for Part 2.
Part 1 (3 weekends)
- Sat, Feb 28 9am – 5pm
- Sun, March 1 10am – 5pm
- Sat, March 21 9am – 5pm
- Sun, March 22 10am – 5pm
- Sat, April 26 9am – 5pm
- Sun, April 26 10am – 5pm
Part 2 (2 long weekends)
- Sat, May 23 9am – 5pm
- Sun, May 24 10am – 5pm
- Mon, May 25 9am – 5pm
- Sat, July 3 9am – 5pm
- Sun, July 4 10am – 5pm
- Mon, July 5 9am – 5pm