catechesis of the good shepherd

what is catechesis of the good shepherd?

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is an approach to the religious formation of children ages 3-12, (Pre-K-6th grades). It is rooted in the Bible, the Liturgy of the Church and the educational principles of Maria Montessori. Here at St. Patrick, we offer this beautiful program for our children’s faith formation.

When children encounter what is beautiful, awesome and essential they express joy. For children, this joy is the first and most important response to God’s gift. CGS offers a space in which the child can experience and express joy. The atrium is the name for the classroom that is set aside for the child. It is a prepared environment offered to the children which is like a “retreat center” for the child. It is a place where the children have the time and space to fall in love with God.

CGS invites children into a deep and personal relationship with Jesus, the Good Shepherd. It offers a sacred space where children can encounter God. As the children grow in their faith, they remind us of the profound simplicity with which we are called to approach God.

cgs levels

There are three levels of CGS, Level I which is for the 3-6 year-old, Level II for the 6-9 year-old (grades 1st-3rd ) and Level III for the 9-12 year-old (grades 4th-6th).

  • In Level I for the 3-6 year old, it focuses on the Parable of the Good Shepherd, who calls each one of us by name. The children have concrete works and materials centered on the important gestures of the Mass, the names of the articles used on the altar, the historical life of Christ and the parables taught by Christ on the Kingdom of God.

  • In Level II, for the 6-9 year old (1st-3rd grades), we focus on deepening the child’s understanding of the Mass and the Bible. It builds upon the foundation laid in Level I by exploring the relationship with Christ and the History of the Kingdom of God. The curriculum uses hands-on materials and presentations to help the children engage with Scripture, Liturgy and moral formation.

  • In Level III for the 9-12 year old (4th-6th grade), children dive deeper into the Liturgy, particularly the rite of the sacraments and explore the typology of Christ through Old Testament themes. This level builds upon previous ones, fostering a deeper understanding of the Mass, including its prayers and propers.

If you have any questions or would like to inquire about volunteering with Catechesis of the Good Shepherd please contact Michelle Rooney below:

Michelle Rooney

CGS Coordinator
810-229-9863 Ext. 216
cgs@stpatchurch.org