In this minisitry catechists:

1. Listen with the children to the Word of God, while respecting the childs needs and capacities
2. Ponders with the child the mysteries of the Kingdom of God
3. Wonders with the child about God, who is love
4. Enjoys with the child living in communion with the Holy Spirit
5. Seeks to understand with the older child how we are being called to be stewards of His Kingdom
6. Celebrates with the child the presence of the Risen Christ in our lives

GALLERY of CATECHISTS busy at work - click here

Opportunities for Adults

- The Good Shepherd Catechesis nurtures the spirituality of the adult as well as the child and facilitates religious formation in a supportive community environment as catechists and assistants.

- Formation for adults in Canada is available through CGSAC formation committee or the Archdiocese of Toronto. Following the completion of a course an adult may then work as a catechist at the level at which he/she has been certified.

- Formation is divided into 3 levels – co-relating with the 3 age groups within an atrium.  Level I formation is the foundation course and is a pre-requisite for Level II , which is a  pre-requisite for Level III.  

- Each formation level course offers:

• an opportunity to learn about the spiritual growth and development of children
• reflections on the key biblical themes presented to the children
• discussions on the essential theological tenets of our faith
• presentations on the practice of our faith (liturgical signs and symbols), hands on experience with the materials that the children use in an atrium
• prayer, praise and celebration in the way of the Good Shepherd
• guidance on setting up and directing the growth of an atrium
• assistance in completing a personal journal (album) that includes background information and an outline for each presentation given to the children in the specified level
• plans for making the materials used by the children in an atrium including helpful hints on involving your church community in the process of building an atrium

 Courses consists of a minimum of 60 hours of in-class work and 30 hours of observation
Click here for courses currently being offered in Canada and registration information

 Go to www.cgsusa.org for courses offered in the United States

Many atriums offer opportunities for interested adults to assist with the children during an atrium session. In addition certain atriums require assistance setting up the area for the children and then following the session putting everything away.  All atriums welcome adults who are willing to give of their time and talents to make materials – i.e carpentry, sewing, drawing or calligraphy or help out with the administrative tasks. Contact your local atrium director to find out how you can help and become involved in the Good Shepherd’s work. The CGSAC extends a warm invitation to all adults who are supportive of the the Shepherd Catechesis to join as members. Click here for member registration and feel free to register at the CGSAC forum.

CGSAC suggest that all adults be screened prior to working with children and obtain a high risk security check through their local police station – the usual cost is $30.00.

GOOD SHEPHERD CATECHESIS CERTIFICATE PROGRAMME


Offered by
The University of St. Michael's College, Continuing Education Division
In co-operation with
The Catholic Office of Religious Education, Archdiocese of Toronto

This formation programme for the Good Shepherd Catechesis includes the following elements:

Seminars

• The religious capacity and needs of children How parents, teachers and catechists can help the child's relationship with God, including sacramental preparation
• Themes form the Bible and liturgy for children

Presentations

• The purpose and use of the handmade catechetical materials to help children's prayer and mediation

Practice

• Introduction to the "atrium" (the setting designed to help the God-child relationship) and visits to some of the parish-based atrium centres in Toronto Assistance in compiling a personal handbook relating to the biblical and liturgical materials for children Hands-on experience with these catechetical materials
  
• Discussion on reading assignments and observation of children

Enrollment for courses is limited. For more information or to register, please contact: Good Shepherd Catechesis Certificate Programme
University of St. Michael's College,
Continuing Education Division
Tel: (416) 926-1300 ext. 3332; Fax: (416) 926-7287
Web Site: www.utoronto.ca/stmikes