Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a unique approach to children’s religious education, rooted in Scripture and the liturgy. Developed through observing the spiritual needs and responses of children themselves, CGS recognizes that each child already has a relationship with God.
Our role is to nurture and support the deepening of that relationship through thoughtful, age-appropriate presentations and experiences.
"I am the Good Shepherd, I know mine and mine know me." John: 10
What will my child learn in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd?
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) offers children a peaceful, sacred space to grow in their relationship with God. Each session takes place in a specially prepared environment called the atrium—a calm and inviting room designed to support prayer, reflection, and discovery.
In the atrium, children are encouraged to move slowly, speak quietly, and listen for the voice of Jesus in their hearts. They work at their own pace, engaging with hands-on materials that help them explore key elements of our Catholic faith—such as the Kingdom of God, the Sacraments, the life of Jesus, and more. Through Scripture, song, and silence, children’s prayer life is gently nurtured.
More than just learning about the faith, children come to fall in love with God. CGS is founded on the belief that each child already has a relationship with God, and our role is to help them deepen it. Each week, your child will experience presentations based on the Bible and the liturgy, leading naturally into moments of quiet study, reflection, and prayer.
The materials used in CGS have been developed and refined over the past 50+ years to meet the developmental needs of children. Based on the Montessori method, this approach supports the whole child—body, mind, and spirit—and encourages self-directed, meaningful engagement. Each group receives guidance from a trained adult catechist, who presents core themes from Scripture and liturgy. Afterward, children are invited to choose and work with materials that help them reflect and respond to God’s love in their own personal way.
Children participate in age-appropriate levels:
- Level I: Ages 3–6
- Level II: Ages 6–9
- Level III: Ages 9–12
- Journey Continues: Ages 12–14.
Holy Trinity also offers a Sacramental Preparation Program to prepare children and their parents to receive their First Reconciliation and First Eucharist sacraments.
What happens in the Level I atrium?
Level I begins with an introduction to the atrium—a sacred, peaceful space thoughtfully prepared for the children. In these early weeks, we guide them in how to move and speak with care, how to handle materials respectfully, and how to show kindness to one another within this special environment.
The year opens with practical life activities such as pouring water, sweeping, and arranging flowers. These simple, hands-on tasks capture the children’s attention and help them develop coordination, concentration, and reverence for their surroundings. As they repeat these exercises, they grow in self-control—quietly preparing their hearts for moments of stillness, reflection, and prayer.
Our presentations follow the rhythm of the Church’s liturgical year. During Advent, we share the stories of Jesus’ birth; in Lent, we reflect on the Last Supper; and in the Easter season, we contemplate the Empty Tomb. Other presentations for children ages 3–6 include the sacred vessels and gestures of the Mass, the geography of the Holy Land, and the signs and symbols of Baptism.
At the heart of this level is the Parable of the Good Shepherd, which speaks deeply to the young child’s soul. Sofia Cavalletti and Gianna Gobbi found that children are especially drawn to this image of Jesus—the Shepherd who knows each one by name and loves them completely. This parable is shared often, inviting the children to rest in the quiet joy of being known and loved by God.
What happens in the Level II atrium?
Level II builds upon the foundations laid in Level I, revisiting many of the same materials but with added depth and detail appropriate for the child’s growing understanding.
A key focus in this level is the unfolding of Salvation History—the story of God’s loving plan for humanity—and the unique role each of us plays within it. Children also begin to explore the structure and content of the Bible: how it came to be, the names of its books, and how to navigate Scripture through chapter and verse.
As children prepare for First Reconciliation and First Communion, they are introduced to parables that speak to the themes of forgiveness, grace, and communion with God. Among these, the Parable of the True Vine (John 15:1–11) is especially meaningful. Sofia Cavalletti and Gianna Gobbi found this image deeply resonates with children at this stage, as they begin to understand their connection to Christ and to one another.
Moral formation is also a central theme in Level II. Children reflect on moral parables and the Maxims—short sayings of Jesus that guide us in how to live in right relationship with God, with ourselves, and with others. The prayers and gestures of the Mass are revisited and synthesized, helping the children connect the liturgy with their own interior life.
Throughout, we reflect on the gifts God gives us and how we can respond with love and service, working together to help build the Kingdom of God.
"I am the vine, you are the branches; remain in me." — John 15
What happens in the Level III atrium?
Level III invites children into a deeper exploration of Salvation History, focusing on the story of the People of God and their journey throughout time. A key component is the timeline of the Jewish People, which helps children understand the unfolding of God’s plan and how it leads to the coming of Christ.
In this level, children study the Sacraments in greater depth and explore the full structure and meaning of the Mass, including its prayers and gestures. They are introduced to typology, a way of reflecting on Old Testament events—such as Creation, the Fall, the Flood, and the lives of Abraham and Moses—as prefigurations of Christ and His saving work.
Children also receive meditations on Reconciliation, the moral life, and the prophets, encouraging them to reflect on their own relationship with God and their call to live with integrity and purpose.
A central theme in Level III is Parousia—the promised return of Christ when “God will be all in all.” Children at this age, often described as “children of hope,” are filled with longing and anticipation. They are eager to welcome Jesus and actively seek ways to help prepare the world for His coming.
What happens in Journey Continues?
Journey Continues is designed as a natural extension of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd for adolescents, ideally welcoming students as they move directly from Level III into this next stage of formation. Like Level II’s approach to sacrament preparation, participation is flexible—your child is welcome to join at any point during the 2–3 year program, regardless of when they receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. This program is built on four core pillars:
- Scripture
- Service
- Experiential Skills
- Sacramental Living
Together, we journey with your child through each of these areas, nurturing a deeper, more mature faith that is rooted in relationship with Christ and expressed in daily life. Whether or not your child has received Confirmation, they are invited to grow spiritually and personally alongside their peers.
A central emphasis of Journey Continues is living out our faith through active service to the Church and community, encouraging adolescents to become engaged, compassionate disciples.
What is the Sacramental Preparation program?
The Sacramental Prep Program helps children and their parents prepare for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist. This program offers the same quiet, meditative atmosphere experienced in the Atrium. Preparation takes the place of other parish sacrament preparations for those who choose it. Any child enrolled in a Level II CGS class is eligible to participate in the CGS Sacraments preparation program.
Embracing Maria Montessori’s vision of the developmental stages of the child, and within a prepared environment (the atrium), the CGS catechist offers presentations based on scripture & liturgy. The child’s personal work using materials provided enables further meditation on the mysteries addressed by the presentations, inviting the child to hear and follow Jesus’ voice, remain in Jesus, and build the Kingdom of God.
Holy Trinity's CGS program is available to all children from preschool age to 8th grade. It also serves to host various independent groups such as the Women's Bible Study and homeschool networks throughout each day during school terms.
- The program has three levels for children ages 3 1/2 years (DOB 4/8/2023 or earlier) thru 8th grade
- Children meet once a week with a CGS catechist in an atrium
- Sessions run August through May
- Children already enrolled in HTS' Kindergarten, 1st grade or 2nd grade OR enrolled in HTEEC will attend CGS atrium sessions during the school day. If this is the case for your child, there's no need for you to fill out a registration form.
- Preference for admission is given to Holy Trinity Parishioners. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis and will close based on availability.
You can register your child(ren) in one of two ways:
- Fill out the ONLINE FORM below
- Request a hardcopy of the registration form from Diane Jones and bring it with a check to the office. Contact her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
|
Level I 3 session times available
|
Level II 3 session times available
|
Level III 3 session times available
|
Journey Continues
|
Please note: If your child is already enrolled in Holy Trinity School's kindergarten, 1st grade or 2nd grade, OR will be attending Holy Trinity Early Education Center, it is NOT necessary to submit a registration form.
Online Registration
- CGS Registration 2026-2027
- CGS Sacramental Prep Interest
- Journey Continues - *Registration is now closed for Journey Continues. Contact Emily Wobker at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you would like to be placed on a waitlist.
An atrium is a carefully prepared environment where great truths about our faith are placed before the children to satisfy their spiritual needs in age-appropriate ways. Parents are welcome to sit in on their child's class.
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd sessions at Holy Trinity are held once a week in the Atria (2nd floor of the Father Quigley Center) in the afternoons and early evenings, from mid-September through end of April. Please note:
- Children attending Holy Trinity Early Education Center receive CGS atrium session during their class day
- Children attending Holy Trinity Catholic School kindergarten and 1st grade receive CGS Atrium session during school hours.
Parents are welcome to sit in on their child's session at any time. Volunteers willing to assist lead catechists are also welcome; this is a nice way to begin learning about this unique program.
INCLEMENT WEATHER
CGS follows the Holy Trinity School schedule and snow days. During inclement weather, CGS sessions are cancelled when Holy Trinity School is listed as CLOSED on the news. To confirm cancellation of a session, you may call the catechist that leads your child's class
2026-27 After School Calendar
- Tuesday, September 29, 6:30-7:30 PM (CGS parent information meeting)
- Week of Sept. 22-24 FIRST WEEK of sessions
- Week of Nov. 24-26; NO SESSIONS, Thanksgiving Break
- Weeks of Dec. 22-31: NO SESSIONS, Christmas Break-Sessions Resume on January 5
- Wednesday, February 10; NO SESSIONS- Ash Wednesday
- Week of March 16-18: NO SESSIONS - Spring Break
- Week March 23-25; NO SESSIONS - Holy Week
- Week of April 27-29: Last CGS sessions for 2027
Holy Trinity Parish offers a sacramental preparation program that draws from the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. This preparation offers the same quiet, meditative atmosphere experienced in the atrium. This preparation takes the place of other parish sacrament preparations for children and their families who choose it. Any child enrolled in a Level II CGS class is eligible to participate in the CGS Sacraments preparation.
Please note that there is a $45 fee for 1 child's participation ($65 for 2 children in the Sacramental Preparation program.)
Six evenings of meditations will occur during Lent, leading up to the children’s First Reconciliation and Eucharist. These meditations are done in two groups; children meeting in one group, their parents meeting in another, both reflecting on the same parables. A catechist will help guide the meditations. The meditations will center around the True Vine, the Found Coin, the Found Sheep, the Healing of the Centurion’s Servant, and the Prodigal Son.
After Easter, children will enter into a focused retreat time during which the Sacraments will be further prepared for and celebrated. The retreat will be held on the Holy Trinity campus Thursday through Sunday, from morning to mid-afternoon each day. During this retreat, the children will prepare for Reconciliation and First Eucharist in a reflective manner through atrium works they have used before in their CGS sessions. They will also practice with catechists how to receive these Sacraments. They will also help plan and attend Mass and read Scripture.
On Saturday, the children will celebrate their First Reconciliation and renew their baptismal promises with their families. On Sunday, the children will receive their First Eucharist with their families and the Holy Trinity parish community at one of the Sunday masses. Following this, the children and their families will enjoy a brief reception, children will share some of what they have worked on in their retreat time, and will enter back into retreat until the afternoon, allowing them to savor the experience of receiving Jesus for the first time.
Sacraments Prep Schedule for '26-'27 To Be Announced
If you're interested in our CGS First Communion Preparation, please fill out the below form. For other options for Sacramental prep, please click here.
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) offers formation for adults, equipping them to share God’s Word and the Liturgy in ways that speak profoundly to the hearts of children.
Is the Holy Spirit calling you to this sacred work with the Good Shepherd and His children?
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a collaborative ministry that invites adults to walk alongside children as they grow in their relationship with God. Becoming a CGS catechist involves more than just teaching—it’s a deeply enriching spiritual journey. Catechists complete over 90 hours of formation before leading a class, and many find that their own faith is nourished just as much as the faith of the children they serve. Not ready to lead just yet? We also welcome volunteers to assist in the atrium. Supporting a lead catechist is a wonderful way to become familiar with this unique and contemplative approach to faith formation. We offer ongoing adult formation opportunities focused on:
- Proclaiming the mysteries of God to children in ways that speak to their hearts
- Creating materials that support children’s prayer and meditation
- Reflecting more deeply on the Catholic faith, leading to a fuller, more joyful understanding of its richness
Training is available in various formats, including intensive summer sessions and monthly courses. Scholarships and financial assistance are available—we don’t want cost to be a barrier to anyone feeling called to this ministry. For course dates & financial assistance , please contact Diane Jones at 913-895-0662 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
The catechesis of the Good Shepherd began its development in Rome in 1954, a collaborative effort between Sofia Cavalletti, a Hebrew scholar (pictured at left with children in her atrium) and Gianna Gobbi, a Montessori guide. Together they developed an approach which not only appealed to the profound religious intuition of younger and older children, but which evolved from the children themselves.
The National Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd was formed in 1984 in North America with its main aim being that of “involving adults and children in a common religious experience in which the religious values of childhood are predominate.” For more information, go to: www.cgsusa.org
Holy Trinity's Catechesis of the Good Shepherd began in 1996. It started with three catechists and a handful of children ages 3-6 in a single atrium located in the Parish Center basement.
Each year more than thirty catechists at Holy Trinity serve over 600 children, ages 3-12, in a beautiful and peaceful space including seven atria located on the 2nd floor of the Father Quigley Faith Formation Center.
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd thrives because of the time, talent, and hearts of volunteers—adults who have fallen in love with the Good Shepherd and want to help children discover that same love.
Those who enroll in CGS formation often find themselves surprised and moved by how deeply their own faith is nourished. Before leading a session, catechists complete over 90 hours of training, and many describe the experience as transformative—both spiritually and personally. As they accompany children in their faith journey, their own relationship with God is deepened as well.
We also welcome assistants at all age levels. Parent volunteers, in particular, often cherish the chance to glimpse what their children experience during atrium sessions. Many describe it as a beautiful and meaningful way to connect with their child’s spiritual growth—and children are delighted to have their parents share that sacred space with them.
Time Commitment
1 1/2 to 2 hours per week, depending on your availability. You can commit to just once, or once a month or weekly, depending on your schedule.
Training
Onsite training is available for those interested in being an assistant.
Please note that VIRTUS Training is required for working with children.