Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Here at St. Anne, our three through nine-year-olds have the unique opportunity to take part in an internationally renowned formation experience known as Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. It takes place in a sacred space called an Atrium. This space allows these young children to encounter our Good Shepherd, Jesus, in a deeper way than in a classroom setting.


This offering is only made possible by the dedicated catechists who go through intensive training each summer to become a "guide" in the Atrium. If you feel called to lead young souls toward the loving arms of Christ, please prayerfully consider joining this vital ministry!

 

Contact us for more info: CGS@stanneba.org

CGS Atrium Level One: The 3-6 years old child enters the mystery of the Eucharist by first learning the names of the articles used on the altar and then through the most important gestures including the preparation of the chalice, the epiclesis and offering, and the sign of peace. Through the experience of seeing these gestures, presented one by one, the Mass emerges as the Sacrament of the Gift. The child becomes acquainted with the historical character of the liturgy through the events of the Last Supper, Christ’s death, and His resurrection.

 

CGS Atrium Level Two: The elementary-age child is captured by the image of the True Vine. “I am the vine, you are the branches, whoever remains in me, and I in Him, will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing". The proclamation responds to the deep need of these children to better know his or her relationship with God, family, friends, and the larger community. Moral parables offer a model for comparing their behavior with that of the Pharisee, the Tax Collector, or the Good Samaritan. The elementary children see the parts of the Mass—the Liturgy of the Word, the Preparation of the Gifts, the Eucharistic Prayer, and the Communion—as one unified prayer made of many smaller prayers. Children prepare for the celebration of First Communion (or Solemn Communion) through a series of communion meditations focusing on the relationship with Jesus. Preparation of personal missals filled with illustrations and prayers is also part of this preparation which helps to deepen their love and understanding of the Eucharist.