The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd ATRIUM at Our Lady of Perpetual Help

Download Registration Form: CGS ATRIUM OLPH registration

Registrations Forms are also available at the Parish office.

Contact Veronica Isinger 780-467-8410 or Vanessa MacDonald Bv.macdonald18@gmail.com if you have any questions.

In a retreat-like atmosphere, through the use of special materials designed just for them, children hear the Word proclaimed and grow in their relationship with God. The most essential treasures of the Christian faith, from Scripture and liturgy, touch the heart of each child and lead to deep contemplation, prayer, and joy.

Ages 3-6 years, *Children must be toilet trained*

September 30, 2024 – May 29, 2025

Session times: Monday 10:00 – 11:30 am (space available) or Thursday 10:00 am – 11:30 am (class FULL)

$50 per child or $70 per family.

Cash or cheque payable to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish

The Founders of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd:

This beautiful work was created by three gifted women who had a great love for scripture and the church and a great love for children and how they learn. They saw in children a great capacity for God. The CGS is not so much instructing children but rather in listening to God with children.

Dr. Maria Montessori became the first woman medical doctor in Italy. Early in her career she started working with children in the slums of Rome. Her training as a scientist allowed her to observe the children with an eye to recognise their intrinsic needs. Montessori accumulated a series of materials that are still used in Montessori schools around the world today. The Montessori Method is based on the idea that children learn best when the environment supports their natural desire to acquire skills and knowledge. Maria was born in 1870 and died in 1952.

Dr. Sofia Cavalletti was a Hebrew and Scripture scholar. Her experience in preparing a 7 year old boy to receive the Eucharist changed her whole life and began developing the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. One of her influential books is called, The Religious Potential of the Child. Sofia died in 2011.

Professor Gianna Gobbi was an author, educator, professor, catechist and formation leader. She was mentored by Dr. Montessori and worked in Montessori schools for 15 years. Professor Gobbi  and Dr. Sofia Cavalletti developed the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in Rome in 1954. One of her helpful CGS books is entitled Listening to God With Children. Gianna died in 2002.

 

“The prepared environment is called the ‘atrium’…it is a place of spiritual retreat…in which work easily becomes prayer…a place of worship where children and adults celebrate the Word together”

Sofia Cavalletti, “Characteristics of the Good Shepherd Catechesis