Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS)
A Montessori-Based Catholic Faith Formation Program for Children
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a unique religious education program that helps children deepen their relationship with God through hands-on learning, prayer, and reflection. Rooted in the Bible and the liturgy of the Catholic Church, CGS uses the Montessori method to engage children’s natural sense of wonder and spirituality.
At the heart of CGS is the Atrium—a specially prepared, peaceful space designed to help children encounter God. In the Atrium, children work with beautiful materials that connect them to Scripture, the sacraments, and the life of the Church in a developmentally appropriate way.
Class Times:
Level 1 & 2 CGS:
Wednesdays 5:30 PM or 7:00 PM, or Tuesdays 5:15 PM
Toddler CGS:
Wednesdays 5:00 PM
CGS fosters a lifelong relationship with Jesus Christ and encourages children to respond to God’s love with joy, reverence, and a growing sense of responsibility.
Program Levels:
Toddler C.G.S. (ages 18 months- 3 yrs):
Introduces the youngest children to God’s love in a calm, nurturing space where they can explore at their own pace. Through simple prayers, hands-on activities, and gentle presentations, toddlers begin to experience the quiet joy of God’s presence.
Level I (Ages 3–6):
Focuses on the love of Jesus, the Good Shepherd; introduces basic prayers, gestures of the Mass, and key parables.
Level II (Ages 6–9):
Builds on earlier themes with deeper reflection on Scripture, the moral life, and the liturgical year.
Level III (Ages 9–12):
Explores salvation history, the plan of God, and how we are called to live out our faith in the world.
Ready to sign up? Want to Learn More?
We’d love to welcome your child into the Atrium! Register your child today or if you would like to know more please contact us, we’re happy to answer your questions or help you get started!
Additional Growth Opportunities
For parents of school-age children:
Learn more about our Religious Education (RE) Program, which offers hands-on, experiential learning and Bible study, specially designed for school-age students.
For teens looking for connection and growth:
We invite you to learn more about our S.T.A.T. (St. Thomas Aquinas Teen) program—a dynamic community where teens can deepen their faith.
For parents of school-age children:
Learn more about our Religious Education (RE) Program, which offers hands-on, experiential learning and Bible study, specially designed for school-age students.
For teens looking for connection and growth:
We invite you to learn more about our S.T.A.T. (St. Thomas Aquinas Teen) program—a dynamic community where teens can deepen their faith.