CATECHESIS OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD (CGS)

Here at St. Bernard's, we offer a Level 1 Atrium, which serves children ages 3-6 years old. The program runs September to May. For more information, please email Hannah Schilling.

What is Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, or CGS?

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is rooted in the two pillars of Sacred Scripture and Sacred Liturgy, while also drawing upon the Montessori principles of human development and deep respect for the dignity of every child. Focused especially on the spiritual needs of the youngest members of the Kingdom of God, CGS was founded in Rome in 1954 by Sofia Cavaletti in collaboration with Gianna Gobbi. Together, over the course of 25 years, they developed this world-renowned approach to helping children encounter Christ in a deep and meaningful way. Today, CGS has spread to more than 65 countries around the world!

The materials used in CGS were carefully developed over more than 50 years to meet the developmental needs of the child and are grounded in the Montessori method of education. Each week, the catechist prayerfully prepares the atrium environment and presents the Word of God to the children. The children are invited not only to hear the Word, but to listen deeply and respond to it, allowing them to grow in relationship with God. In the atrium, the catechist is not seen primarily as the teacher; rather, the Holy Spirit is recognized as the true teacher and guide. Through this approach, CGS seeks to nurture the whole child — body, mind, and spirit. To learn more about CGS please visit the national website.

What Is the Atrium?

In Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, children receive formation in a specially prepared environment called an Atrium (plural: Atria). The Atrium is a peaceful, prayerful space designed to nurture the child’s relationship with God through Sacred Scripture, Sacred Liturgy, and hands-on materials rooted in the Montessori method. Often described as a retreat-like environment for children, the Atrium invites them to hear, ponder, pray, and celebrate the essential mysteries of the Catholic faith.

During each session, children are free to work at their own pace and are encouraged to listen for the voice of Jesus in their hearts. The carefully prepared materials help foster wonder, contemplation, and curiosity about God’s loving plan of salvation while supporting the child’s natural spiritual development. Each catechist serving in the Atrium has completed extensive formation and specialized CGS training, allowing them to thoughtfully prepare the environment and guide the children as they grow more deeply in their relationship with Christ.