Deacon Kelly and Maureen Stone join The Catholic Morning Show to explain Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, a Montessori-based religious formation program that immerses children in Scripture, liturgy, and prayer within a dedicated "atrium" space. They walk through the program's age-based levels, the ninety-hour catechist formation process, and a new Level 1 training beginning this September at St. John the Apostle in Norwalk. Parents and prospective catechists will hear moving stories of children's faith and learn how to get involved before the August 25th deadline.
What Is Catechesis of the Good Shepherd? Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a religious formation approach for children built on Scripture and liturgy, delivered in an environment of silence, wonder, and prayer rather than a typical textbook or workbook setting. Instead of a classroom, children learn in an "atrium," using hands-on materials suited to their developmental stage — an approach rooted in the educational philosophy of Maria Montessori, one of Italy's first female physicians and the founder of the Montessori method.
Levels & Training
Becoming a trained assistant or catechist involves roughly 90 hours of formation, often spread across a retreat-style schedule.
Upcoming Training at St. John the Apostle, Norwalk A new Level 1 training begins Friday, September 11, with long-weekend sessions (Friday evening through Sunday) in September, October, and November, resuming in January and February. The training is led by formation leader Ginger Peterson. A special tuition rate is available for St. John the Apostle parishioners, and the scholarship application deadline is August 25.
How to Learn More Contact the parish office at St. John the Apostle in Norwalk, or reach Deacon Kelly and Maureen Stone directly by email (see Flags section for a note on the email address). More on CGS trainings across Iowa is available through the Shepherd's Staff association below.
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