CGS

We are blessed at Mary, Seat of Wisdom to have a vibrant Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) program. We want to tell you a little about this methodology for faith formation of children. 

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is one approach to the religious formation of children. It is rooted in the Bible, the liturgy of the Church, and the educational principles of Maria Montessori. Children gather in an "atrium," a room specially prepared for them, which contains simple yet beautiful materials that they use to ponder the Word of God. The atrium, which is located in MSW's Clark Ministry Center, can be compared to a retreat house for children. Through the beauty of the materials and the way in which they bring a child to a closer relationship with God, the children fall in love with God. 

CGS faith formation can start for the child as young as four years of age. The goal is for the child to participate in weekly, 1-1/2 hour sessions that are held during the school year and led by specially trained catechists. The Catechesis is presented in four levels that the children consistently progress through as their understanding and faith develops over the years. This methodology provides preparation for First Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation for these students. 

Registration for Level I of CGS is now open for families with children going into PreK4 or Kindergarten in the fall who are ready to begin their faith formation pathway. We currently have Level I sessions with openings on Sundays at 9:15, Mondays at 4:30 p.m. and Wednesdays at 3:30 p.m. Please reach out to the Faith Formation Office at 847-825-8763 or email Gretchen Spoo at gspoo@mswparish.org to learn more about CGS for your child.