Sunday Celebration of the Word with Children (9 AM Mass)
We invite all children to participate in a celebration that extends from the main assembly’s liturgy. The Celebration of the Word with Children (Children’s Liturgy) is part of the Eucharistic liturgy and helps children grow in their understanding of Jesus and God’s love. Through prayer, scripture, and participation, children are encouraged to let God’s word take root in their daily lives.
Children of catechetical age — especially those preparing for Confirmation, Eucharist, or Reconciliation — are encouraged to participate regularly.
The children also get to proclaim the Word of God through our Christmas Pageant and Good Friday Passion of our Lord.
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS)
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a Christian formation program for children ages 3–12. It is based on the teaching methods of Maria Montessori and on the understanding that there is a deep bond between God and each child.
The program nurtures a child’s spiritual life through prayerful reflection, scripture, liturgy, and hands-on materials.
Program Levels
- Level I: Ages 3–6
- Level II: Ages 6–9
- Level III: Ages 9–12
The classroom environment, called the Atrium, is not a traditional classroom. It is a spiritual place of worship and reflection where children encounter Christ through Word and action.
Skye and the Parable of the Leaven
Skye works with the leaven after hearing the Parable of the Woman and the Leaven.
Congratulations to Gavin! Gavin created a drawing of the Resurrection of Jesus titled “God is Not Ded.” His artwork was submitted for theological reflection after a call for children’s artwork by the CGUSA.
The American Association for the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd featured his artwork on their website and in their publications.
The Atrium Experience
The Atrium is a carefully prepared environment where children:
- Grow in the knowledge of Jesus and His love
- Work independently with hands-on materials
- Explore scripture and liturgy at their own pace
- Develop prayer and contemplation naturally
The catechist’s role is to:
- Prepare the environment
- Present materials and lessons
- Step back and allow the child’s relationship with God to grow
The work done in the Atrium prepares children for active participation in the liturgical life of the Church community.
The regional Atrium is located at:
The Pro-Cathedral – Lower Sacristy
History of CGS
The vision for the CGS began in Rome in 1954 with Dr. Sofia Cavalletti, a Hebrew Scripture scholar and her co-worker, Gianna Gobbi, a Montessori educator. Today, CGS is practiced in 37 countries worldwide, including Canada.
Learn more about CGS in Canada: cgsac.ca
Videos & Resources
Learn More About the Atrium
Introduction Videos
Children’s Liturgy Video Series
In response to the pandemic, Heidi and Mark Witte began producing free weekly 25-minute Children’s Liturgy videos. These interactive sessions:
- Encourage participation
- Appeal to various learning styles
- Help children better understand the Gospel and their faith
Diving Into the Mass Videos
Who to Contact
If you are interested in finding out more about our Atrium, would like a tour, or would like to bring your child out to our gatherings contact Erin Tayler at 705-840-8509 or betayler@fibreop.ca.