Preparing for the First Moments
In The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd method of faith formation, the work of the catechist is to prepare the environment for the child. The child is introduced to the environment in such a way that the child will be comfortable in the space so they can work to know God. This prepared environment is called an “atrium.” The term “atrium” corresponded to the name of the space in the ancient basilica, which lay between the street and the inner sanctum of the church. It was like an entryway or foyer, and it was in this place that the faithful prepared themselves, both physically and spiritually, to enter the church and participate in the liturgy. If our aim is to help children enjoy a relationship with God, we must ask, “What kind of environment can we create that will respect and cultivate the child’s needs and capacities at this level of their development, especially in terms of their spiritual development?” We want to create a space where it is okay to be small, considering what we have come to know about the role of the prepared environment and its impact upon the life of the youngest child.
We have been working to prepare a Level 2 Atrium (ages 6-9). Volunteers have been gathering on our craft nights to help make materials for the atrium. Thank you to all who have attended so far. We have two more nights planned, Monday, August 4 and 18, 6-9 p.m. in the Parish Center.
If you would like a sneak peak at our Atria, plan to stop by next week during Totus Tuus on Friday, August 1st from 12-3 p.m. I would love to answer any questions you may have or show you a presentation.
Next we have a registration link for those whose children are not attending St. John School but would like their children involved in CGS (Catechesis of the Good Shepherd). These sessions will be held Wednesday mornings from 10:30-Noon for both levels. We will also offer afternoon sessions on Wednesdays, 4:30-6 p.m. for Level 1(ages 3-6) and 6-7:30 p.m. for Level 2 (ages 6-9). https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSczFKGUD5aJTkZ8nsJ_hGRAOFESE9gV5n04zhzpi00213T8ZA/viewform?usp=header
The link will not be live until it is published on Monday, July 28 at 9:00 a.m. Please note that it will be only available to St John Parishioners first. We will keep a waitlist and notify others as openings come available.
Children who attend St. John School grades Preschool age 3 to First Grade will be attending Atrium as part of the regular class schedule.
It takes much time, talents, and treasure to prepare the atria space and for catechists to be trained. The CGS program allows the space for a child and catechist to experience the love and presence of God. With careful planting of seeds much good fruit will come to bear. And the children will learn what it is to follow the Good Shepherd (Level 1) and to remain on the vine (Level 2).
One of my favorite moments from this past year working with the children in the Level I Atrium was a 4 year old girl joyfully proclaiming, “Everything here is REAL because Jesus is REAL.”