The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a religious formation methodology for children aged from three through to 12 and unites adults and children in a common religious experience.

Based on Montessori principles of education, CGS was developed in Rome in 1954 by a Catholic Hebrew and Scripture scholar, Sofia Cavaletti and Montessori Educator Gianna Gobbi.

Children learn in a specially prepared environment called 'the Atrium', a sacred, “hands-on” space where catechists and children hear, ponder and celebrate the most essential mysteries of our faith as revealed in Sacred Scripture and Liturgy. Catechists in the Atrium receive specific training in the methodology and the materials developed are carefully prepared to foster in children the inherent longing for a relationship with God and curiosity about the elements of our faith.

Parents/Adults Session

Date: Wednesday 19th February 7.30pm - 8.30pm
Venue: Children's Atrium, St Joseph's School, 4 Vagues Road, Papanui
Come and experience Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, whether you're a parent, grandparent, catechist, or just interested in knowing more about it. RSVP by Mon 17th Feb to Katherine Pawson, chch.childrens.atrium@gmail.com or text 0211079290.

Level 1 Part 1 Formation Course 2025

Dates: Wednesday 24th September to Wednesday 1st October 2025 with Sunday 28th as a day off (7 days total)
Venue: The Atrium, St Pius X Catholic Church, 57 Pine Avenue
This formation course is one of two parts and will equip you to run Catechesis of the Good Shepherd for 3-4 year olds. It is the foundation for all three levels of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Contact: Rosemary Roberts, cgsaotearoa@gmail.com, or 027 699 9451.