We are excited to introduce Catechesis of the Good Shepherd for St. Isidore children ages 3-6 in the fall of 2027.
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a Montessori-based approach to religious formation that invites young children to encounter and explore their faith in a peaceful, hands-on environment called an Atrium. Rather than simply teaching children about our faith, the program helps them enter into a relationship with Christ through Scripture, prayer, and the rich traditions of the Catholic Church.
We need specially trained catechists for the Atrium.
A catechist’s role in the atrium is not like a traditional teacher. One never explains and always proclaims. The main task for the catechist is to introduce the Word of God and be a co-listener to God’s word with the children. The catechist must be with the children, listen, learn, and celebrate.
CGS catechists have these qualities:
Listens to God alongside the child, honoring the child’s unique spiritual capacity and questions.
Recognizes Christ as the only true Teacher, stepping back to let the Holy Spirit guide the child.
Watches the developmental and vital needs of children to offer the right scriptural or liturgical presentation at the right time.
Cultivates wonder, awe, and a prayerful lifestyle aligned with Scripture and the liturgy.
Maintains a calm, peaceful demeanor that helps keep the atrium a meditative, retreat-like environment.
To become a catechist, you complete approximately 100 hours of specialized formation in the Level One program. The training is offered during eight retreat weekends over the course of the calendar year, which includes studying Scripture, the Liturgy, Montessori principles, and how to accompany young children in their relationship with God.
Training will be offered right here at St. Isidore in 2027 during the following weekends. Sessions will run on Saturdays from 9am-4pm and on Sundays from 10:30am-4pm:
There is a certification fee for becoming a catechist. Scholarships are available.
We welcome men and women to join us in this beautiful and rewarding ministry. If you're interested in becoming a catechist, please complete this interest form.
We are beginning construction now! We need people with the following skills to help create this sacred space:
We welcome donations to help cover costs for construction, materials, and catechist training.