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What is Catechesis of the Good Shepherd?
If you're new to the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and want to learn more, you’re in the right place. Here are the answers to some of the most common questions we get about CGS so that you can better understand this approach to religious formation.
What is the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd?
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a common religious experience involving children and adults in which the religious values of childhood, primarily those values of contemplation and enjoyment of God, are predominant. This experience is shared in a place particularly prepared for the religious life of children called the Atrium.
What does my child do during a CGS atrium session?
The catechist presents themes taken from Bible and liturgy and models use of the materials, which are then available for the child to work with. The children's personal work with the material aids their meditation, contemplation and absorption of the themes presented.
What is the atrium?
The atrium (or prepared environment) is one of the important elements that helps the relationship between God and the child to flourish. After a theme has been presented, the child is free to choose an activity that will make possible the inner dialogue with the “Interior Teacher.” How does the atrium help to nourish this relationship? ~ The atrium can be compared to a retreat house facilitating recollection and silence. ~ The atrium is a place for religious life, for community and worship—not a classroom for instruction. ~ The atrium is a place of meaningful work through which the child can have a conversation with God.
Why does my child call CGS activities "work"?
In CGS, activities are referred to as "work" to emphasize their importance and the children's active role in their spiritual growth. The child's work in the Atrium satisfies his/her own personal need for productive activity and his/her desire for understanding. This also builds a solid foundation of self-sufficiency and independence.
How is CGS different from other religious education programs?
Unlike traditional religious formation that is often preformulated and given to us as something to know in our head which Focuses on processed, predigested, truths CGS invites us into a living encounter with God. With CGS love is involved, the person of Jesus. We experience and are with this person inviting us to the joy of discovery through work.
Our aim as catechists is not to put people in touch with Christ but to put them into communion and intimacy with Christ. It is only Christ who can bring us to the Father. We are adults and children in this community trying to live in a common place and we have something to learn from one another –we’re a small community. We seek to live a common spiritual experience with the children, they will show us the way.
Why choose CGS for your child?
Choosing CGS for your child offers a unique opportunity to grow in faith through a method that respects their developmental needs and religious potential. CGS nurtures an active, personal relationship with God. It's method that invites relationship and spiritual discovery that aligns with the child’s natural curiosity and capacity for wonder.
Have questions? Want to sign up for CGS?