Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Brought to St. Ann's parish in August of 2016, Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a Montessori-based faith formation program founded on two pillars: Sacred Scripture and Holy Liturgy. Through the use of Scripture and materials, which we call “work,” children are invited to enter into a deeper relationship with God.

“What if you could prepare an environment where the child is able to entrust themselves to the love of God for their entire lives? That would be religious formation for the whole of their life, even through adulthood.”

Level I (3-6 year olds): Preschool children are attracted to the Good Shepherd’s abiding love for His sheep. They develop a special love for Jesus, the Good Shepherd, even before they realize that they are the sheep. The children hear the Bible story in the words of the catechist, using Scripture verses, and discuss and reflect on what they heard. Materials that accompany all lessons are available for the children to invite them into further exploration of  the messages God has given us in the Bible and through the Church.

Level II (1st-3rd grade) builds on the covenantal love between God and His children, but adds the element of the merciful, forgiving love of Jesus and calls for a response from the children. Children in this age level, we spend quite a bit of time reflecting on the History of the Kingdom of God, from the first moments of creation through parousia.  Older children  also receive preparation for the sacraments of Reconciliation, and the Holy Eucharist within their time in the atrium( CGS classroom.)

 Level III (4th grade and older)continues this exploration of the Hisory of the Kingdom of God as both catechist and student dive deeper into the study of Abraham, Moses along with the timeline of the Jewish people as it ties into God's plan for all of us.  We also will spend a great deal of time pondering the Sacraments as gifts to our Church and confirmation of God's grace working in our lives.

You’re in luck! St. Ann's Catholic Parish will be offering Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Formation Training for Level 1 beginning in June of 2024. All catechists will be able to take the course at the discounted rate of $99 which covers all books, as well as nursery so please contact Kristin Atkinson in the parish office if you would like to join us!