Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) combines the story of the Good Shepherd with the educational principles of Maria Montessori to take make children feel engaged and understand the importance of the liturgy. Central to this approach is the Atrium, a sacred space prepared for the children. A place of beauty, the Atrium is designed for being with and enjoying God, listening to God’s Word, and praying. At St. Andrew Catholic School, we offer levels one and two Atriums for children ages 3-9 years old. 

Maria Montessori knew that young children are generally not able to see the world in abstract ways. That is why the Atrium uses child-sized materials that are thoughtfully presented so children can experience the Mass and our faith in a concrete way.

Students attend CGS lessons once a week. Through these weekly lessons, children get a true ownership of their faith that daily religion lessons alone do not always accomplish.