CATECHESIS OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD
CGS
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a distinct approach to catechesis, through which the youngest children build deep, lifelong relationships with Christ and His Church.
Originating in Rome in the 1950s, the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd uses a rich Montessori approach to engage children as young as 3 in age-appropriate, hands-on materials, based on Sacred Scripture and the Liturgy.
Because it engages children so profoundly, it has become the best approach to young children's catechesis in a growing number of dioceses, parishes and schools around the U.S and the world, including here in the Diocese of Sacramento
“Let the children come to me; do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of God.”
-Mark 10: 14
Atrium and Levels
Atrium
is a specially prepared space for the child, with beautiful handmade material, and montessori style work for the children. Here even the youngest children can build deep, lifelong relationships with Christ and His Church.
Level 1
for the 3-6yr old child
The level I atrium lays the foundation for the child’s encounter with the Catholic community of faith. In the atrium, work and study spontaneously become meditation, contemplation, and prayer.
Our level I atrium is for children 3 to six years old . We welcome the youngest three year olds who are toilet trained. The children meet on a weekly basis for two hour sessions. They are given presentations, when they are ready, and then work with that presentation at their own pace. They learn about the life of Jesus, the Mass, the Catholic Liturgical year, and practical life skills.
Level 2
for the 6-9 yr old child
The level II atrium builds on the foundation for the child’s encounter with the Catholic community of faith. The child’s religious experiences are deepened, which facilitates greater participation in the wider community of our Church. Here the children will prepare to receive their sacraments of Holy Communion and Confession.
The children receive a spiral expansion of the Level I presentations.
Upcoming events
2026 - 2027
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FAMILY MASS AND POTLUCKS
Thursday Sept. 10th 5:00pm - Mass and Potluck
Thursday Jan 21st 5:00pm - Mass Only
Thursday March 4th 5:00pm - Mass Only
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PARENT MEETINGS
Mondays (Lunes):
Oct 19th 4:30pm
Feb 22nd 4:30pm
Thursday (Jueves):
Oct 22nd 4:30pm
Feb 25th 4:30pm
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ABIDE IN ME FIRST COMMUNION RETREAT
May 20th - 23rd, 2027
8am - 4pm
St. Mary’s Parish Hall
Parent Forms and Resources
Registration Form (English)
Parent Agreement
What to bring for Registration
Formulario de Registraron (Espanol)
Circle of Grace:
Parent Letter and Opt-out form
September English Spanish
October English Spanish
November English Spanish
January English Spanish
February English Spanish
March English Spanish
April English Spanish
May English Spanish
Summer English Spanish
Space is limited and priority is given to active St. Mary’s parishioners
For more information about the program, please give us a call or Email us!
E: cgs@stmarysvacaville.com T: 707-448-390