Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a method of religious formation for children rooted in Scripture, liturgy, and tradition of the Catholic Church. In the atrium, children and adults listen together for the voice of the Good Shepherd and enter more deeply into the mysteries of the Kingdom of God.
How CGS works at St. Croix Catholic School
At St. Croix Catholic School, Catechesis of the Good Shepherd complements the religious education woven throughout the school day. Weekly time in the atrium is a gift for our students: a quiet place where they can listen, pray, and grow in their relationship with God.
The atrium is a prepared space where work, silence, and contemplation lead to prayer and a deepened relationship with God. Following the Church’s liturgical year, children come to know the great moments of salvation history and discover their place within God’s loving plan.
Serving children in Preschool through Fifth Grade, Catechesis of the Good Shepherd offers a common religious experience in which each level reveals the face of God children most need at their developmental stage.
The heart of catechesis for children under six revolves around the Parable of the Good Shepherd. Jesus announces that He is the Good Shepherd who calls each one by name. The sheep listen to the voice of the Shepherd and follow Him.
The elementary-age child is drawn to the image of the True Vine. “I am the vine, you are the branches, whoever remains in Me, and I in him, will bear much fruit, because without Me you can do nothing.” This proclamation responds to the deep need of children to better know their relationship with God, family, friends, and the larger community while preparing for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion.
The older child is delighted to understand the history of salvation through God’s plan of cosmic communion, linking all people together through His love. Emphasis is placed on our response to God’s generosity, recognition of the responsibilities accompanying His great gifts, and our role as a collaborator with God.
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