Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (Grades 3K-2)

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a beautiful approach for the faith formation of children. It has been used for over 60 years across several continents with many demographics–including Mother Teresa’s sisters in their personal formation and work with the poor children they serve across the world! The catechists are highly trained and often have fallen in love anew with Jesus Christ and the Church through the training.

There are three Levels in CGS: Level I (ages 3-6), Level II (ages 6-9), and Level III (ages 9-12). St. Francis Borgia opened its first Level I atrium in the Fall of 2021 and its first Level II atrium in the Fall of 2023. Three years old is the best time for your child to fall in love with Jesus, so it is the perfect time to enroll them in Christian Formation. St. Francis Borgia school children are welcomed and encouraged to attend as well!

The atrium is the sacred prepared environment (room) where Catechesis of the Good Shepherd takes place that helps the relationship between God and the child flourish. It is a place for religious life, for community and worship – not a classroom for instruction. It can be compared to a retreat house which facilitates recollection and silence. “The atrium is a place of meaningful work through which the child can have a conversation with God.” (www.cgsusa.org) We have a Level 1 and a Level II (serving 1st and 2nd grade only) atria in the North Church Hall. An additional Level I atrium is located in the Education and Activity Center. Everything in the atrium nourishes the religious potential of the child – from “practical life” work to Scripture materials and materials on the Holy Eucharist and baptism. CGS sessions are offered at various times throughout the week.