The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is the response to the hunger of the child who wants to be close to God.  It is an exciting alternative to the traditional religious education.  The curriculum is structured so that it accommodates and nurtures the faith, moral, and physiological states of the child's growth.  This non-scholastic, hands on approach is for children Toddlers through 5th grade. This opportunity is offered weekly, during the school year, for an hour and a half.  A variety of days and times are available.  It is best to consider this program as a multi-year commitment since each session builds on previous sessions and each year build's on the child's experiences the previous year.

Atrium ... The Gathering Place

The environment, known as the atrium, is a special setting, child-sized and beautiful, where the child may come to know and enjoy the presence of God in his or her life. This place has often been described as a peaceful, prayerful experience for the child.

Curriculum ...

Because children respond in the same way to elements of the Christian message, the core curriculum includes the following.

• COVENANT…the celebration of our relationship with God and with all people.
• CHRISTOLOGY…the study of Jesus.
• LITURGY…the language of “signs” as a vital aspect of our worship.
• SACRAMENTS...gestures and words that help us on our life’s journey and join us together with God and other people through Jesus.

These themes are offered in such a way as to develop the religious potential present in every child…the capacity to love and be loved.

History

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd originated in 1954 in Rome, Italy. Inspired by Montessori principles of education, this program can be found in many countries such as Africa, South America Brazil, Colombia, and Argentina, Chad, Mexico, Australia, Canada, and the United States. Atriums can be found in homes, churches, and schools.

The program runs from approximately September through May. For further information or to become involved as a volunteer please call Pamela at (480) 874-3712 or stop by the parish office.

Director of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd 

Pamela Contu-Owen

Email Pamela
480-874-3712

English Registration
 

Complete Fillable form and email to Pamela Contu-Owen at pcontuowen@olphaz.org

Spanish Registration
 

Complete este formulario y regrese a la Oficina Parroquial

Parent Handbook

Calendario

Calendar