ABOUT GOOD SHEPHERD ATRIUM
Building a joyful
life of faith
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.
WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?
A peaceful
weekly routine
The is designed to be a regular, weekly commitment of 75 to 90 minutes where children can relax, settle into a peaceful weekly routine, and most of all, come closer to Jesus.
Spaces are limited. Advance registration is required.
Spaces are limited. Advance registration is required.
Cost: $150 year
AGES 3–5
Level 1
A place of joyful prayer for very young children, the Level 1 atrium invites them into relationship with Jesus the Good Shepherd, who calls them by name and loves them dearly.
- Sunday, 8:45-10am
- Sunday, 11:15am-12:30pm
- Monday, 4:00-5:30pm
Ages 6–9
Level 2
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?”
- Sunday, 8:45-10am
- Sunday, 11:15am-12:30pm
- Monday, 4:00-5:30pm
- Tuesday, 4:00-5:30pm
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.
We can only come occasionally. Is that okay?
Children thrive on predictable routines. The atrium experience works best when they can attend at least three weeks a month. This way, they can establish a rhythm and participate with more depth.
Does my child have to come for the full 75 or 90 minutes? That seems like a long time.
Children can more readily come to know God when they are calm and unhurried. This long time period 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 90-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.
Is there a cost?
Yes. The fee for the Good Shepherd Atrium is $150. (Bursaries are available based on need.)
OUR CATECHISTS
Meet the Team
Chiara Yousef
Line Argentino
Zarah Idaboh
Laila Marina
Lucie McElligott
Lauren Aslin
Shelly Bayne
Angela Olaguera
Rebecca Malone
Young children have a natural ability to enjoy their relationship with God in a very deep way. Children are capable of enjoying the presence of God; they are able to give themselves totally to God's love
— Sofia Cavalletti, Founder of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd