Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a programme that enables children to discover their relationship with God, beginning as young as 3 years of age. The programme does not take place in a classroom setting but in a specially prepared environment called an “Atrium”.

Originated in Rome in 1954, the CGS, rooted in Scripture and Liturgy structured around the Montessori educational principles, has spread widely across the world. The Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd was formed in 1984 in North America with its main aim being that of “involving adults and children in a common religious experience in which the religious values of childhood are predominant.” Other aims include building community among catechists, outreach to every child, aiding the continuity and creative growth of the spirit of the catechesis, establishing rapport with the wider ecclesial community, and encouraging, documenting, and spreading the research related to the religious life of the child and to the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.

Currently in Singapore, there are 5 CGS Atriums, the first two having started in 2005, at the Parish of St Ignatius and the Parish of St Mary of the Angels. All Atriums are associated to the Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (Australia) www.cgsaust.org.au and all catechists have undergone formal training with trainers from Australia. Continual training sessions have been organized yearly since.

Today, our Catechists at St Mary of the Angels are equipped to work with children from ages 3 – 6 and 6 - 9 years of age. The formation process for the CGS Catechist is an on-going process as we continue training in preparation for the older age group children. Over the next years, we will eventually grow and prepare our atrium with works to invite our parish children up to 12 years old to deepen their understanding of the mystery of our faith.

Current weekly Atrium sessions are at the following times:

Fridays: 4.30pm to 6.00pm

Saturdays: 9.30am to 11.00am; 11.30am to 1.00pm; 1.30pm – 3.00pm