Redeeming Conflict

As we strive for communion in our diversity it is inevitable that disagreements and conflicts will arise. One of the greatest hindrances to our witness as Christians is the way we treat one another when we disagree.  This session will be an overview of Ann Garrido’s book “Redeeming Conflict” and will highlight some of the key habits that help us to handle conflict in a way that is redemptive and not destructive. There will be opportunity for some personal reflection as part of the session.

Dorothy Burns currently serves as chair for the CGSAC Board. She began her journey with CGSAC at a Level 1 course in Calgary, AB in 2013. By the end of 2018 she had also completed Levels 2 and 3. She found what she learned through CGS invaluable in her work as Director of Religious Education for Christ the Redeemer Catholic Schools and as a volunteer in her parish for sacramental preparation and RCIA. Upon retirement in June 2017, with three other Level 1 catechists, she started a Level 1 atrium in her home parish of St. James. She has found the insights of the book “Redeeming Conflict” equally inspiring for her work and personal life, and wants to share that message with others.

The Work of Our Hands: Material Making with Polymer Clay

Many items in the atrium can be made using polymer clay, commonly referred to by the brand name, “Sculpey”. In this workshop, we will create a Mary figure suitable for the Infancy Narratives. I will share tips & techniques for using polymer clay in your atrium.

Required Supplies & Equipment 

· 4 – 6* oz polymer clay available in 2oz

   bricks & 1oz multipacks at craft stores

  (*suggested colours: white, blue, beige.        Minimum 4oz required per figure)

· Oven

· Silicone mat or plastic placemat

· Aluminum foil

· Metal paper clips

· Tooth pick or wooden skewer

· Wooden dowel or rolling pin

Regina Ramos-Urbano has been involved with Catechesis of the Good Shepherd for 18 years, since her eldest child was 4 years old. Starting as a parent volunteer she is now a Level 1, 2, and 3 catechist at Holy Cross Atrium in Winnipeg and an Entry Level 1 Formation Facilitator. She is very experienced in material making for all thee levels and her materials are used in various atriums in Manitoba, including a traveling set for the Sagkeeng First Nation.

Singing for

the Terrified - Reprise!

At the Gathering last year, many of us delighted in Mariann Dunsmore’s ideas about singing with children. This year, we will see how to gain access to the songbook and videos she has given us, introduce some additional songs, and discuss tips for singing with children via Zoom. No vocal expertise required to attend--Paula certainly has none!*

*Paula’s words and not the official opinion of CGSAC 😊

Paula Rush went uncertainly to catechesis training in 2006 only to fall in love during the first presentation. Now she is a certified level 1-3 catechist and an Entry Level 1 Formation Facilitator. She helped establish and serves at the atrium at St. Francis of Assisi parish in Kitchener, ON. Paula writes a weekly blog for level 1, level 2, and level 3
children, reflecting on the Sunday Gospel readings. She and her husband, Jim, have five children and live in Waterloo, ON.