Young children have a special capacity for discovering a relationship with God that can become the foundation for a joyful life of faith.
What if children came to know Jesus in a special, peaceful space, with materials designed just for them? Rooted in the principles of Montessori education and formally known as the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, this program is based on the Bible and liturgy of the church. Young children engage in individualized activity with hands-on materials.
The Good Shepherd Atrium is designed to be a regular, weekly commitment of 75 to 90 minutes where children can relax, settle into a routine, and most of all, come closer to Jesus.
Spaces are limited.
Level 1 (ages 3-5)
A place of joyful prayer for very young children, the Level 1 atrium invites them into relationship with a God who calls them by name, and loves them dearly.
- Option 1, Sundays from 8:45am to 10:00am
- (FULL: Option 2, Sundays from 11am to 12:30pm – waiting list only)
- Option 3: Mondays from 4:00 to 5:30pm
Level 2 (ages 6-9)
Using the parables of the True Vine and the Good Shepherd, children in the Level 2 atrium consider the question, “How are we called to live in covenant relationship?”
- Option 1, Sundays from 8:45am to 10:00am
- (FULL: Option 2, Sundays from 11am to 12:30pm – waiting list only)
- Option 3, Tuesdays from 4pm to 5:30pm
Learn more about the different characteristics of the two levels: cgsac.ca/levels
Ready to register?
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between Catch the Wave and the Good Shepherd Atrium?
Kids can attend both! The Good Shepherd Atrium is a formal weekly program which requires pre-registration and a year-long commitment with regular attendance. Catch the Wave happens within the Sunday mass, and it is open to any child at any time.
Is there a cost?
Yes. The fee for the Good Shepherd Atrium is $150. (Bursaries are available based on need.)
Does my child have to come for the full 75 or 90 minutes? That seems like a long time.
Part of the philosophy of the Good Shepherd program is that children can more readily come to know God when they are calm and unhurried. This long time period, rooted in the Montessori tradition, helps children to fully enter into a spirit of contemplation. The time passes quickly because the children enjoy the experience so much!
Can you tell me more about the team for this ministry?
Each atrium group has a lead catechist who has completed a 45-hour formation course through the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Association of Canada. There is also at least one assistant in the room as well. You can read more about the formation process for catechists at cgsac.ca.