Program for ages 3-6

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a hands-on approach for children to come to know and love God more and more. It is rooted in Sacred Scripture and the Liturgy and based on the educational principles of Dr. Maria Montessori, focusing on the child's developmental needs and the unique relationship between God and the child.

Catechesis takes place in the "atrium", a specially prepared environment, a place for prayer, where the child and the adult listen and learn from the one Teacher, Jesus Christ. Everything in the atrium has been specially prepared for the child to touch, to hold, and to use. The materials are child-sized and beautiful. Small clay figurines and 3D models are depicting the life of Jesus, a sandpaper globe, and raised-surface map of the Land of Israel and the City of Jerusalem. There is a small wooden sacristy cabinet that holds miniature replicas of the articles of the Mass, such as the chalice, paten, and crucifix, and so much more! These items spark interest and help the child in a tactile way, through their senses, to come to know Jesus in their heart. 

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd sessions usually last about 2 hours which allow time to slow down, listen, pray, work, sing, wonder, ponder, and to just “be” with God.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd meets weekly from September through May. We offer 4 sessions: Tuesday Evenings from 4:30 – 5:45 pm, and Wednesday,  Friday, and Saturday Mornings from 9:30 am - 11:30 am.

The 2024-2025 Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Registration Information may be found HERE.

For more information, contact

Sarah Reznicek

 Director of Faith Formation

sreznicek@stjohnwinfield.org