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What is CGS?
If you're new to the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and want to learn more, you’re in the right place. Here are the answers to some of the most common questions we get about CGS so that you can better understand this approach to religious education.
What is the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd?
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a program designed to help children explore their faith with a special emphasis on liturgy, scripture, and activities that respect their innate relationship with God. Developed by Sofia Cavalletti and her colleague Gianna Gobbi in Rome, it draws from the principles of Montessori education, emphasizing a hands-on, child-centered approach to spiritual development.
What kind of activities does my child do in class?
In a CGS class, children participate in a variety of activities or "works" that include handling miniature artifacts found in the liturgy, praying, or reflecting on and reenacting stories from scripture. These activities are designed to aid meditation, prayer, and understanding of the faith.
What is an atrium?
An atrium in the context of CGS is a peaceful, purposeful space where children come to learn and reflect about their faith. It's designed to be a spiritual environment, equipped with simple yet profound materials that help children enter into deep contemplation and connection with God.
Why does my child call CGS activities "work"?
In CGS, activities are referred to as "work" to emphasize their importance and the children's active role in their spiritual growth. This term reflects the Montessori belief that children are naturally motivated to learn and that their efforts to understand the world around them are serious and meaningful.
How is CGS different from other religious education programs?
Unlike traditional religious education that often focuses on memorization of doctrine, CGS invites children into a living encounter with God. It prioritizes personal discovery and experiential learning, which respects and utilizes the child's natural capacity for wonder, spirituality, and connection with the divine.
Why choose CGS for your child?
Choosing CGS for your child offers a unique opportunity to grow in faith through a method that respects their developmental needs and fosters an active, personal relationship with God. It's an invitation to spiritual discovery that aligns with their natural curiosity and capacity for wonder.
Have questions? Want to sign up for CGS?
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