The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is an approach to the religious formation of children 3 to 12 years of age, inspired by the Montessori principles of education. The catechists meet with the children in a prepared environment called the “atrium”.

The catechist presents materials with close links to biblical and liturgical sources, and the child is free to choose an activity that will allow him or her to carry on a conversation with God.

The atrium is divided into three levels of formation. Level I meets on Sunday mornings from 9:30 to 10:30 am. This level is for children 3 to 5 years of age.

Level II meets on Wednesdays from 4:00 to 5:15 pm and is geared to children who are 6 to 9 years of age.

Level III meets on Wednesday from 6:15 to 7:30 pm for children 10 to 12 years of age. Completion of Level II formation is required for Level III.

Students who enroll in our Traditional Religious Education program or in our Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program also receive formation for the reception of the Sacraments of Reconciliation, Eucharist and Confirmation at the appropriate age and readiness. The formation for all sacraments includes students and their parents in a multi-generational setting which fosters prayer, formation, and service throughout their preparation process.

Parental involvement is key to the success of this program. See the Be a RE Volunteer Page for more details.

For more information about Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, please visit the website of the National Association of CGS at www.cgsusa.org.

For more information call the Religious Education Office at 708-383-4185 or reled@stgilesparish.org.

2008-2009 Calendar for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

2008-2009 Calendar in Adobe Reader (pdf - 88 KB)

Children and Family Liturgy Participation Form 2008-2009 in Adobe Reader (pdf - 85 KB)