Helping Children Grow in a Personal Relationship with
Jesus
Why Families Love CGS
Many parents are looking for more than another classroom.
They want their children to know Jesus—not simply learn about Him.
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd offers children a peaceful, prayerful environment called the Atrium, where they discover the beauty of the Catholic faith through Scripture, the liturgy, and carefully prepared materials designed specifically for each stage of childhood. Rather than relying primarily on lectures or worksheets, children are invited to listen, wonder, pray, and respond to God’s invitation in a way that speaks to their natural desire for Him.
Latest News & Info
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Bulletin Article, A Season of Growing – July 26, 2026
A Season of Growing Green is the color of growth, and during Ordinary Time we often refer to this season in the Atrium as the Growing Season. Many of the presentations during this time center on Jesus’ parables about the Kingdom of God. Why did Jesus teach in parables? As Sofia Cavalletti writes in The…
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Welcome to Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS)
Our mission in CGS is simple yet profound: to help children fall in love with God. This begins by offering them a space where they can pray, reflect, wonder, and work—at their own pace—using hands-on materials based on Scripture and the liturgy. The catechist’s role is not to lecture, but to prepare the environment…
CGS Welcomes Children and Families
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd provides a peaceful, prayerful environment where children encounter Jesus through Sacred Scripture, the liturgy, and hands-on materials created for their stage of development.
Level I Children
Young children encounter Jesus as the Good Shepherd while growing in prayer, wonder, and awareness of God’s love.
Level II Children
Children explore the Kingdom of God, Sacred Scripture, the Mass, moral formation, and the sacraments.
St. John School Students
Students may experience the Atrium as part of their continued faith formation and Catholic education.
Parish and Community Families
Parishioners, newcomers, and families exploring St. John are warmly invited to learn more about CGS.
Ready to Learn More?
Discover current opportunities, session information, and registration details for your child.
What Happens During an Atrium Session?
Each Atrium session gives children time to listen, wonder, pray, and work at their own pace in a peaceful environment prepared especially for them.
The Atrium is not simply a classroom. It is a sacred space where children are invited to encounter Jesus and respond to His love.
Welcome and Prayer
Children enter the Atrium quietly, prepare their hearts, and begin their time together in prayer.
Scripture or Liturgical Presentation
A trained catechist presents a passage from Sacred Scripture, a moment from the Mass, or another aspect of Catholic life.
Hands-On Work
Children choose specially prepared materials that help them revisit and reflect on what they have heard.
Quiet Reflection
Children are given time for personal prayer, drawing, writing, contemplation, and peaceful independent work.
Community and Celebration
Children may gather for shared prayer, songs, Scripture, or a celebration connected to the liturgical year.
Closing Prayer
The session concludes with prayer and a peaceful transition back into the child’s day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, the Atrium, and what families can expect when participating at St. John.
What ages can participate in CGS?
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd serves children at different developmental stages. Level I is generally for children ages 3–6, while Level II is generally for children ages 6–9.
Does my child need to be Catholic?
Families who are new to St. John or exploring the Catholic faith are welcome to learn more about the program. Please contact the parish so we can help determine the best opportunity for your child.
What is an Atrium?
The Atrium is a peaceful, prayerful environment prepared especially for children. It contains hands-on materials that help them reflect on Sacred Scripture, the Mass, prayer, and the liturgical year.
How long is an Atrium session?
Session length may vary depending on the child’s level and the current parish schedule. Registration information will include the available days, times, and session length.
What should my child bring?
Children generally do not need to bring special materials unless families are notified otherwise. The Atrium is carefully prepared with the resources children will use during each session.
How do I register my child?
Use the registration link on this page to view current openings and enrollment information. You may also contact the parish office with questions about placement, schedules, or availability.