Catechesis of the Good Shepherd - Level I

GUARDIAN ANGEL PRAYER 1

GUARDIAN ANGEL PRAYER 2

"If you place confidence in children, you will give them a start in dealing by themselves with God. In silence and recollection they will not delay in finding their way to Him, and they will arrive at religious experiences which would astound even those who are proficient in the spiritual life." 
                          - Dr. Sofia Cavalletti
 

What is Catechesis of the Good Shepherd?
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (or CGS) is the joyful Christian formation of children which utilizes the Montessori method of education. At this time, our CGS Level I program is open to young disciples ages 4 through 6 years. (We hope to offer Levels II and III in the future to children 6 through 12 years of age.)

In the quiet and peaceful atrium at Saint Lawrence Martyr, a certified CGS catechist will lead your child to discover who Jesus is and help him or her develop a deep love for Him as the Good Shepherd Who protects, defends, and cares so much for us. 

Your child will also:

• Learn about the liturgical colors and seasons of the Church

• Experience practical life exercises which help develop control of movement and the contemplative potential of the child

• Discover the richness of the Mass by working with child-sized articles used by the priest such as the paten and chalice; children will also learn hands-on about the vestments worn by the priest at Mass

 
Where did CGS come from?
In 1954, an Italian biblical and Hebrew scholar, Dr. Sofia Cavalletti, was asked to give religious instruction to a 7 year-old by the child’s mother. Having no experience with children, initially Dr. Cavalletti refused. However, the Holy Spirit guided Dr. Cavalletti and her colleague, Maria Montessori (who developed the now popular Montessori method of education) to collaborate on catechizing very young children.

Why should my child come to CGS at St. Lawrence Martyr?

Parents, as initial and primary evangelists to their children, should initiate them at an early age into the mysteries of the Faith. [Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) 2225]

CGS at Saint Lawrence Martyr offers:

• Certified Level I catechists who are faithful to the magisterium (teachings) of the Catholic Church and vetted according to archdiocesan Child and Youth Protection policies
• A beautiful atrium filled with materials created and/or donated by the catechists, fellow parishioners, and generous benefactors
• A convenient location: Our atrium is located in the same building as the church at the Parkside campus. Families can attend Mass together on Saint Lawrence Martyr’s campus either before or after atrium
• Modest, budget-friendly tuition fees.