Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is an approach to faith formation based on the educational principles of Maria Montessori. It was started in Rome by Sofia Cavalletti (a Hebrew Scripture scholar) and Gianna Gobbi (a Montessori directress), and has spread to several countries throughout the world. The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is divided into three age levels: Level I (3-6 years old), Level II (6-9 years old), and Level III (9-12 years old).
The children are instructed in the faith in a room called the atrium, which was originally the space in the church in which the catechumens were prepared for their full reception into the church. It is in the atrium that the children learn about different aspects of liturgy and scripture in a way that is appropriate to their age and developmental level.
Saint Pius X opened a Level I atrium in the fall of 2004, a Level II atrium in the fall of 2005, and a Level III atrium in the fall of 2006. Catechesis of the Good Shepherd requires the gifts of an entire community to thrive.
After-school classes meet the following days/times:
Monday 3:45-5:00 pm: Level I, II, & III Monday 5:30-6:45 pm: Level I, II, & III Thursday 3:45-5:00 pm: Level I, II
The miniature altar in the Level I atrium.
The Parable of the Good Shepherd
The Birth of Jesus and the Adoration of the Shepherds