Catechesis of the Good Shepherd  

Ages 3-9 on Sunday Mornings 8:30-9:45 AM

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd:(Ages 3-9) *Scroll to the bottom for registration*

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is an approach to the religious formation of the child. It is rooted in Sacred Scripture, liturgy, and the educational philosophy and method of Maria Montessori. Each week the children gather in a room prepared for them called an “atrium.” This specially prepared space contains many materials that the children can work with and use. For example, there is an area in the room set aside for work with the articles of the Mass: a smaller than child-size model altar, chalice, paten, lectionary, Missal, tabernacle, chasubles, among other articles. Other areas in the classroom include: an area dedicated to the sacrament of baptism, dioramas depicting key events in the life of Jesus (the Annunciation, Visitation, Nativity, the Presentation in the Temple, the visit of the magi, and the Last Supper), a few select parables, and a prayer area where the children gather to pray. 

This particular type of religious experience is well suited to the needs and capacities of the young child. 

St. Matthias the Apostle has two atriums. The upper room is dedicated to children 3 to 6 years of age. The classroom area is dedicated to children 6 to 9 years of age. This program is held on Sundays from 8:30-9:45 am starting in October and concluding in May. It is highly recommended that children enroll in the program at age 3. Children should have a minimum of 2 years atrium experience to enrol in the 6-9 year old program.

Fee for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd: $65/$100 family cap for all programs.

Registration forms are available below or in the Gathering Area or at the rectory.