REGISTRATION DEADLINE: MONDAY, JUNE 1ST
Course Description
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a Montessori-based religious formation program for children, beginning at the age of three. It seeks to create and facilitate a sacred, “hands-on” space for children called an atrium, in which both the children and their catechists can hear, ponder, and celebrate the most essential mysteries of the Catholic faith as revealed in the Scriptures and the Liturgy. Originally developed in Rome by Sofia Cavalletti and Gianna Gobbi fifty years ago, the Catechesis continues to spread world-wide. This course will ground the participant in the theory and praxis of CGS while also concretely preparing him/her to develop and facilitate an atrium for 3-6 year old children.
Course Objectives
To explore with participants the general developmental characteristics and religious characteristics of the 3-6 year old child.
Formation Leaders
Ellen Schlosser is a nationally recognized Level 1 Formation Leader for CGS, a current catechist in all three levels, has the preliminary certification in Infant Toddler training, and is currently the coordinator of CGS for two local parishes. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Literature from the University of Dallas, an AMI Elementary Assistant Certificate from AMI Prague, and has a background in education. Happily married to Rob for 25 years, they have 6 children ranging in age from 14 to 24.
Shelly Buchan is a nationally recognized Level 1 Formation Leader for CGS, is currently the Children's Discipleship Lead at St. Charles Parish in Hartland, WI. She also leads CGS at an Episcopal/Anglican seminary where she is also a regular guest lecturer on Children’s Formation. She received her BA in Christian Education from Wheaton College, IL, and her Elementary Education Certification from the College of St. Elizabeth, NJ. She has been happily married to Thomas for 30 years, and they have two children.
Required Texts
Religious Potential of the Child - Author: Sophia Cavalletti
The Good Shepard and the Child: A Joyful Journey - Authors: Rojcewicz, Cavalletti, Coulter
Nurturing the Whole Child: Montessori Principles Applied to the Catechesis of Children - Author: Gianna Gobbi
Participants should check with their home parishes before purchasing books.
*Please note the text books are available for purchase from CGSUSA. Links will be sent with confirmation email
Tuition: $235 Level 1 Part A
Level 1 Part B Dates - TBD 2027
Coffee, Tea and Snacks will be provided through out the course. Please bring your own Lunch!
