We are pleased to offer Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) to young children at St. Anthony de Padua Catholic Parish. Through this unique, hands-on program, we hope to nurture in the littlest members of our parish a special relationship with God. 

CGS is a Montessori-based religious formation program for children. Within a specially prepared environment, called the atrium, children are invited to contemplate and enjoy the presence of God, deepening their relationship with Him.

Children receive presentations on a variety of topics, including presentations on the articles of the altar, prayers and gestures used during Mass, biblical geography, parables, and key events in the life of Jesus.

Simple yet beautiful materials aid the child in understanding during their personal work time. These lovingly hand crafted items - such as child-size replicas of our altar, ambo, and baptismal font -  provide a means for children to contemplate the mysteries of faith touched upon in each presentation.

Level 1 Atrium Serving Children Ages 3-6
Our Level 1 Atrium is offered Sunday mornings from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. in the Church Meeting Room, at the same time that our Religious Education Program meets in the parish school. 
 

If you would like to enroll your child in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, please contact CGS Director, Ellen, at higgins.ellen@gmail.com. Space is limited.

Please join us! Parents are encouraged to get involved by helping in the atrium and with arrival and dismissal. We also need catechists to be trained. If you are interested in helping, please contact CGS Director, Ellen, at higgins.ellen@gmail.com.

Note that all volunteers must complete the Safe Environment Program before working with children in our parish.