Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Children's Formation
(from the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA website)
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a common religious experience involving children and adults in which the religious values of childhood, primarily those values of contemplation and enjoyment of God, are predominant. This experience is shared in a place particularly prepared for the religious life of children called the Atrium.
God and the child have a unique relationship with one another particularly before the age of six. The growth of this relationship should be assisted by the adult but is directed by the Spirit of God within the child. Children need their own place to foster the growth of that relationship. This spiritual growth is best served through tangible but indirect means.
“If we want to help the child grow near to God, we should, with patience and courage…seek to go always closer to the vital nucleus of things. This requires study and prayer. The child himself will be our teacher if we know how to observe him. ”
The atrium (or prepared environment) is one of the important elements that helps the relationship between God and the child to flourish. After a theme has been presented, the child is free to choose an activity that will make possible the inner dialogue with the “Interior Teacher.” How does the atrium help to nourish this relationship?
The atrium can be compared to a retreat house facilitating recollection and silence.
The atrium is a place for religious life, for community and worship—not a classroom for instruction.
The atrium is a place of meaningful work through which the child can have a conversation with God.
The atrium was the place in the early church where the catechumens were prepared. For the child, too, the atrium is a place of preparation for involvement in the larger worship community.