Click on the Links below for general information about Catechesis of the Good Shepherd: 

View a video about CGS

National CGS website

What is Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS)? 

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a method of helping children enter into a relationship with God. It was developed based on the educational principals of Maria Montessori, an expert who studied early childhood development in depth and greatly valued the dignity and immense potential of the child for learning. 

Where does CGS happen? 

CGS takes place in a room called the "Atrium". This is what the entrance space in Basilicas was called in ancient times. The Atrium is "more like a church than a classroom." (Religious Potential of the Child, 1992). It is a place where the children learn to contemplate God. For All Saints, Atria will be located in the Annex building at 310 Cardinal Place. 

How did CGS get started? 

Two women, Gianna Gobbi and Sofia Caveletti, started using this method in the 1950s in Italy. Through extensive experience praying with children and observing them work in the "Atrium" they identified which scripture passages seemed to resonate the most deeply with the children. One of these passages was the parable of the Good Shepherd. They wondered why the children grasped onto this particular story so much. By listening closely, they heard the children saying they loved the story "because the Good Shepherd knows my name!" Developing this personal loving relationship with Christ is what CGS is all about. 

What happens in the Atrium? 

The children are presented with short scripture passages which they ponder with the trained adult Catechist. Some of the presentations have "materials" that go along with them. For example, for the story of the Annunciation, the children listen to the scripture and are then presented with clay figures of Mary, the angel Gabriel, and the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove. After hearing the scripture, the children are invited to "work" with the materials. This leads them to internalize the scriptures and contemplate it in a personal way. Similar presentations are given with materials to teach about the Liturgy. This helps the children understand what is going on at Mass and become more engaged as they make connections between what they absorb in the Atrium and what they see in the Liturgy on Sunday. 

Who is CGS for? 

CGS has four levels. The Toddler Atrium is for newborns through age 36 months. At least one parent attends the session with each toddler.   Level I is for ages 3-6, Level II is for ages 6-9, and Level III is for ages 9-12. All Saints offers all four levels. Catechists for this program go through an extensive year-long training program for each level.  

Does CGS replace PSR or Religious Education in the Catholic School setting? 

CGS  greatly increases the benefit your child gains through other religious education programs. The CGS Atrium is a place of religious life that recognizes the deep bond between God and the child , first; the difference between "pouring in" vs "calling forth" that which already exists. "In Catechesis...it is Christ alone Who Teaches. Anyone else teaches to an extent that he is Christ's spokesman." (Catechism of the Catholic Church, #427). Special circumcstances will be individually evaluated. 

How can I register my child for CGS at All Saints? 

CGS@allsaints-stpeters.org to request a registration form.