Program Description
CGS uses the Montessori method of learning/formation and focuses on exploring the religious values of childhood, primarily those values of contemplation and enjoyment of God. This experience is shared in a place particularly prepared for the religious life of children called 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 a work that will make possible the inner dialogue with the “Good Shepherd.” The atrium can be compared to a retreat house facilitating reflection and silence. Students typically prepare for First Reconciliation and First Communion in Second Grade.

Age Group
Children in PreK-5th Grade

Time & Location Details
4:30-6:00 pm or 6:30-8:00 pm on Wednesdays in the Activity Center (lower level) of Pax Christi

How to Sign-up
Visit our Faith Formation Web Page for more information and for the registration link

Volunteers Are Needed
There are a variety of ways volunteers can assist in making formation opportunities at Pax Christi a great experience for our children, youth, and their families. We are in need of Catechists/Small Group Leaders, Assistant Catechists/Small Group Leaders, Subsitutes, Child Care Supervisors, Room/Supplies Preparation, and more. Visit our Volunteer Information Web Page or contact our staff for more information about volunteering.

A note about First Penance & Reconciliation and First Eucharist Preparation
Students in Second Grade who enroll in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd typically prepare for First Penance & Reconciliation and First Eucharist. Asside from participating in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd on a weekly basis there will be a few added opportunities: two child and parent retreats/workshops, a special Penance and Reconciliation Service, and a First Eucharist Practice. For more information about these first sacraments visit our Sacramental Preparation Web Page.

Beyond the Classroom
Learn more about Catechesis of the Good Shepherd by visiting the National Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Web Site.

History of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Sofia Cavalletti, with the help of Gianna Gobbi, began this work in 1954 in Rome. A known Hebrew scholar/theologian, Sofia discovered that the child received the Word of God from Holy Scripture with joy. She discovered that the children want only the essential things, the big truths, not watered down. Sofia discovered that the child already has an established relationship with God, and what is primary for the child is the relationship with God.

Another important aspect of CGS is the knowledge that the adult cannot replace the work of the Holy Spirit in teaching the child about God. The adult (the catechist) prepares the materials, studies the Scriptures, prays, and then makes a presentation to the children. The work is then put in the hands of the child, trusting that God’s own Holy Spirit is working within the child to nurture the love relationship between God and the child. Therefore, we say that the true teacher is the Holy Spirit, not the adult!

The prepared environment helps the child respond to the child’s vital religious needs, respecting the relationship that already exists between God and each child, meeting the child’s needs both developmentally and spiritually.