It is with great joy that we announce The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd method of faith formation at St. John Neumann Church.

Level One Atrium Enrollment for 3–6-year-olds

  • Children attend one session per week
  • Must turn 3 by July 1, 2023
  • Must be toilet trained (no pull ups)

We will offer three sessions for the 2023-2024 year*:

  • Sessions begin the week of September 12, 2023, and conclude the week of May 14, 2024.
  • Tuesdays 9:30 am-11:00 am
  • Tuesdays 5:00 pm-6:15 pm
  • Wednesdays 9:30 am-11:00 am

*Limit of 8 children per session

Register at sjnohio.com

Contact Annette Klanac for more information: annette@sjnohio.com / 440-238-1770

Background
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a Catholic curriculum centered on scripture, sacred tradition, sacraments, and liturgy. The classroom, called an atrium, is a prepared environment with hands on materials related to Catholic teaching. The children are given lessons as well as unstructured time to allow the Holy Spirit to direct their will in ways which foster prayer and contemplation.

Level I Curriculum Overview: The Good Shepherd
The 3–6-year-old is particularly capable of enjoying the most essential elements of our faith-the announcement of God’s love especially experienced through Jesus, the Good Shepherd, who died and is risen. The heart of the atrium at this age group revolves round the Parable of the Good Shepherd who calls each one of us by name. The faith is handed on to the child through concrete works and materials centered on the important gestures of Mass, the names of the articles used on the altar, the historical life of Christ, and the parables taught by Christ on the Kingdom of God.

“In catechesis . . . it is Christ alone Who teaches. Anyone else teaches to the extent that he is Christ’s spokesman.” — Catechism of the Catholic Church # 427

Catechesis is an ancient word meaning “echoing God’s Word.” The person who does this is known as a catechist. CGS catechists receive 90+ hours of training before leading a CGS session. These catechists find their own spiritual life is fed, as well as the spiritual lives of the children they serve. In many ways, this is adult formation given through the child! To inquire about catechist training, please contact: Annette Klanac- annette@sjnohio.com / 440-238-1770