Faith formation is integrally woven throughout our entire program. That said, there is special time designated within each child's schedule for faith formation. This includes classroom faith formation (sometimes known as "religion class") as well as time in our Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Atrium.
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a hands-on method of faith formation based on the Montessori method of learning. Unlike a textbook-based curriculum, Catechesis of the Good Shepherd utilizes a dedicated prepared space for children called an "atrium" and a teacher to facilitate the children's time spent in the atrium. The atrium is filled with child-sized furnishings and manipulatives or models of people, places, and objects found in scripture and liturgy.
These materials are introduced to the children throughout the year. Each week, the children choose materials to continue their meditation about particular Scripture texts or signs from the liturgy. Because children learn by using their hands, working with materials allows them to enter more deeply into meditation, nurturing their relationship with God.
The Diocese of Madison has embraced CGS and we are excited to be offering it here at Blessed Sacrament School. For more information, go to the CGS national organization's website.