Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

What is our work?

If you are a child who participates in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, your work is intentional and self-driven. Using the Montessori Method combined with a contemplative classroom, called an atrium, you are encouraged to pursue your own endeavors of the spirit through thought- provoking presentations and repetitive, meditative activities.

Ultimately, your work is to wonder. To wonder about who Jesus is; to wonder about the world and where your relationship with God fits into that world. Your work is to begin aligning your inner clock with the liturgical calendar of the church year. Your work is to begin to understand that all of God’s children are called to live into a way of life that incorporates all people and is at its core innate to us all.

If you are an adult who serves as a catechist in one of our Catechesis of the Good Shepherd atria, your work is also intentional and child-driven. Your work is simultaneously to encourage the children’s wonder while allowing their discoveries to blossom largely unassisted. Each presentation or work that is given to a child becomes a tool for that child—tools that she can use to break open her relationship with Christ. As a result, the relationship between a child and a catechist is reciprocal. While a child is becoming familiar with a presentation he is uncovering spiritual truths which he shares with the catechists.

To learn more about what your child’s work can be, please contact Abigail Whorley for more information. St. Stephen’s currently offers two Level I atria serving children ages 3-6 and Level II atrium to serve children ages 6-9. Watch a video of work in the Atrium here.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd: Frequently Asked Questions

How old does my child need to be?
3-6 for Level I
6-9 for Level II, opened Fall 2010

How often does it meet?

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd meets every Sunday morning from 10:10-11:00 a.m. during the Christian education period as well as on Wednesday afternoons from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Families are encouraged to participate by volunteering either to assist in an atrium or help make materials. Families are also asked to commit to bringing their child to a session no fewer than twice a month.

Is there tuition?

No.

May I visit?

Catechists are always willing to schedule a visit with you. Parents, however, are not encouraged to spontaneously drop in as it can be disruptive to the children.

May I be a Catechist?
We regularly offer Level I training. For more information on becoming a Catechist, please contact Abigail Whorley.

More information:

Abigail Whorley

Sofia Cavaletti

Sofia Caveletti, the founder of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, died August 23, 2011. You can read more about her and her work here.

Video of our work in the Atrium