Encountering Jesus Through Catechesis Of The Good Shepherd

We often find comfort and consolation in the image of the Good Shepherd, trusting God’s gentle care and provision for us, His sheep. However, for children 3 to 6 at Holy Family Cathedral School, the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd is at the center of their understanding of the faith, as they encounter Him in our Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program or CGS.

“Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a unique catechesis experience in which the child receives the most essential elements of our faith,” says Fr. David Carvajal, Associate Pastor. “The heart of the catechesis for children under 6 revolves around the Parable of the Good Shepherd. Jesus announces that He is the Good Shepherd who calls each one by name. The sheep listen to the voice of the Shepherd and follow Him.”

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a Montessoriinspired faith formation experience, quite distinct from a traditional classroom. Our Level 1 classroom, or “atrium,” is designed for our school children in pre-K through first grade, and tailored to their specific developmental and learning needs. Rather than desks and a whiteboard, the atrium is filled with small tables, mats to encourage “floor work,” and nothing higher than a child’s eye level. Rather than textbooks, children learn from handmade dioramas of Gospel stories, an altar and “Mass set” that is just their size, maps of Biblical locations, various practical life elements, and much more.

“Materials on the life of Jesus Christ and His teachings help to make the mystery of God concrete for the child,” Fr. Carvajal says. “A ‘hands-on’ approach allows children to participate and engage in the elements of the faith, allowing for wonder to remain at the center of learning.”

CGS gives children the chance to begin their faith formation at a time in their life when studies show they are actually most attentive to learning about God and connecting with Him in prayer, which is at the heart of this experience.

“Our students appreciate their quiet and peaceful time in the atrium,” says catechist Ms. Camille Zumwalt. “From the moment they walk into the room until they leave, they are practicing slow, intentional movements, with great respect for God. They understand that in the atrium, their work is their prayer.”

“The end goal of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is to guide children to profound theological understandings for themselves — without being told,” Fr. Carvajal adds.

Although this opportunity is currently only available to children at Holy Family Cathedral School, we hope to be able to expand the program to the rest of the parish soon. Parents who are interested in allowing their child to grow closer to God in the atrium are encouraged to consider serving as a catechist or assistant in the atrium.

“We hope to continue to grow the number of students participating in this beautiful spiritual formation,” Ms. Zumwalt says.

For more information on Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, or if you would like to become trained to serve as a catechist or assistant in the atrium, please contact Fr. Carvajal at frcarvajal@tulsacathedral.com.