1. Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Amber Nonn
(920)

2. What is it?
Religious Education for children based on methods of Maria Montessori
Began in Rome in 1954
Developed by Sophia Cavaletti, a scriptural scholar, and Gianna Gobbi, an expert Montessori collaborator
Now in 37 countries and embraced by many religious orders, priests, and bishops
It’s been called, “Spiritual direction for children.”
Focus on Scripture – lectio divina
Providing a place of prayer

3. God
Environment
Child

4. The Atrium
The prepared environment that fosters the existing relationship between God and the Child
Origins: a place between the sanctuary and the street – a bridge
Hand-made, hands-on materials
Real materials (polish, glass, brass, candles, wine)
Points to scripture, liturgy, and parish
Ideally 8-12 children
60 – 90 minute sessions

5. Materials and Presentations
52 Presentations over 3 year cycle
Intro and Practical Life
Prayer
Nomenclature for Life in the Church
Biblical Geography
Prophecies
Infancy Narratives
Parables of the Kingdom
The Good Shepherd
Pascal Narratives
Baptism
Eucharist
Celebrations
Thoughtful and carefully chosen material for each presentation
Presentations happen as a group, a small group, or individually
Children work independently and enjoy freedom within limits

6. The Catechist Creates and maintains the environment
Catechists provide the space, materials and time to encounter God
Set the stage, give the message, and get out of the way
“…it is Christ…who is taught…and it is Christ alone who teaches…” 
Catechist says, “I am here to also come close to God with the children. ”
We catechize the children who catechize us.
We wonder and ponder with them.

7. The Levels
 “To receive and enjoy the gift, to respond freely to the gift, to share the gift with all.”  
Level I (ages 3 – 6): "To receive and enjoy the gift"
Good Shepherd
Wonder at the Love of God
Level II (ages 6 – 9): “to respond freely to the gift"
True Vine
Actions and decisions have impact – morality
Level III (ages 9 – 12): "to share the gift with all." 
Armor of Light
Discover their own role in the Plan of God and Salvation History 

8. Example Atrium

9. Our Lady of Good Help Atrium Appleton, WI

11. Geography of Holy Land materials
Visitation materials (wooden box opens into a diorama of the house of Elizabeth)
Parable of the Good Shepherd materials
Mass nomenclature materials

12. Our Lady of Good Help Atrium Appleton, WI
Child walks line (practical life activity)
Child works with Nativity & Adoration of Magi materials

13. Catechist presents: The Parable of the Pearl of Great Price
child works with eye dropper on suction cup soap dish (practical life)

14. Portable Atrium