98: Welcoming the Children (Level 1)

Today Dan helps us break open chapter 6 of The Religious Potential of the Child for 6 to 12 Year Olds that speaks about historical events and the typological reading of scripture.

Dan Teller earned a Masters in Montessori Education from Xavier University in 1984 and has been involved in Montessori education almost continually ever since. After teaching at a public Montessori school for 11 years, Dan served as a parochial school principal for three years before founding Queen of Angels Montessori School in 1998. Dan served as a principal, teacher, and catechist at the school (now named Good Shepherd Catholic Montessori, serving children ages 3-14) until retiring in 2022.

Dan began his formation in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 1998. He is formed as a catechist at Level I, II, and III in CGS and has worked at all three levels of atria for 25 years. He began work as a formation leader around 15 years ago and has enjoyed training future CGS catechists at all three levels. Dan had the opportunity to serve as an American representative on the CGS International Consiglio for 10 years in the early 2000’s.

Dan is married to Maureen and they reside in Cincinnati, Ohio. They have seven children and three grandchildren.

TODAYS LISTENER QUESTION- Would you recommend sharing presentations to the whole group at the Prayer Table? Many new catechists are struggling with concerns that they need to get all of the presentations to all of the children under time constraints.

Podcasts Episodes For the Beginning of the Atrium Year:

122: Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART ONE

123: Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART TWO

Podcasts Episodes You May Be Interested In:

Ch 2: The Parable of the Good Shepherd from Ways to Nurture the Relationship with God with Dan Teller

Books you might be interested in:

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGS Atrium Locator - Please check if your church atrium in in our atrium locator. If not, please send this link to the COORDINATOR of your CGS program to add your atrium to the locator. THANK YOU! If you have any questions please email contact@cgsusa.org

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

29:Tb95,“I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees you.” – Job 42:5 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Today Dan helps us break open chapter 6 of The Religious Potential of the Child for 6 to 12 Year Olds that speaks about historical events and the typological reading of scripture. Dan Teller earned a Masters in Montessori Education from Xavier University in 1984 and has been involved in Montessori education almost continually ever since. After teaching at a public Montessori school for 11 years, Dan served as a parochial school principal for three years before founding Queen of Angels Montessori School in 1998. Dan served as a principal, teacher, and catechist at the school (now named Good Shepherd Catholic Montessori, serving children ages 3-14) until retiring in 2022. Dan began his formation in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 1998. He is formed as a catechist at Level I, II, and III in CGS and has worked at all three levels of atria for 25 years. He began work as a formation leader around 15 years ago and has enjoyed training future CGS catechists at all three levels. Dan had the opportunity to serve as an American representative on the CGS International Consiglio for 10 years in the early 2000’s. Dan is married to Maureen and they reside in Cincinnati, Ohio. They have seven children and three grandchildren. TODAYS LISTENER QUESTION- Would you recommend sharing presentations to the whole group at the Prayer Table? Many new catechists are struggling with concerns that they need to get all of the presentations to all of the children under time constraints. Podcasts Episodes For the Beginning of the Atrium Year: 98: Welcoming the Children (Level 1) 122: Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART ONE 123: Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART TWO Podcasts Episodes You May Be Interested In: Ch 2: The Parable of the Good Shepherd from Ways to Nurture the Relationship with God with Dan Teller Books you might be interested in: The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER CGS 7 Minute Video CGS Atrium Locator - Please check if your church atrium in in our atrium locator. If not, please send this link to the COORDINATOR of your CGS program to add your atrium to the locator. THANK YOU! If you have any questions please email contact@cgsusa.org Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd2a:T117f,

“I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees you.” – Job 42:5

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

98: Welcoming the Children (Level 1)

Today Dan helps us break open chapter 6 of The Religious Potential of the Child for 6 to 12 Year Olds that speaks about historical events and the typological reading of scripture.

Dan is married to Maureen and they reside in Cincinnati, Ohio. They have seven children and three grandchildren.

Podcasts Episodes For the Beginning of the Atrium Year:

122: Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART ONE

123: Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART TWO

Podcasts Episodes You May Be Interested In:

Ch 2: The Parable of the Good Shepherd from Ways to Nurture the Relationship with God with Dan Teller

Books you might be interested in:

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

2b:T10ea,

“I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” John 10:10

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

98: Welcoming the Children (Level 1)

Today Stephanie helps us break open chapters 4 and 5 of The Religious Potential of the Child for 6 to 12 Year Olds

Stephanie Diethelm has been a catechist since 1998. She completed her Level 1 training with Tina Lillig, Barbara Searle and Carol Nyberg in Chicago in 1999 and says that it changed her life. She has been a formation leader for the National Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd since 2005. She has worked extensively with children and adults in a variety of settings and now works with children in an atrium both at Red Mountain Community School and All Saints Episcopal Church in Birmingham, AL. She also completed the Education for Ministry (EfM) Seminar course through Sewanee: University of the South School of Theology in 2019 and has been a trained mentor for EfM Groups since 2020. She resides in Birmingham, AL and has two children, Catherine (33) and Christopher (30).

TODAYS LISTENER QUESTION- I hear there isn't any use for the slow controlled movements of practical life in level 2 or 3. Yet as an adult we are asked to make materials and explore practical life to slow us down. Doesn't the 2nd plane child also need help with slowing down and contemplation?

Podcasts Episodes For the Beginning of the Atrium Year:

122: Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART ONE

123: Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART TWO

Podcasts Episodes You May Be Interested In:

Books you might be interested in:

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

2c:Ta9d,“I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” John 10:10 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Today Stephanie helps us break open chapters 4 and 5 of The Religious Potential of the Child for 6 to 12 Year Olds Stephanie Diethelm has been a catechist since 1998. She completed her Level 1 training with Tina Lillig, Barbara Searle and Carol Nyberg in Chicago in 1999 and says that it changed her life. She has been a formation leader for the National Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd since 2005. She has worked extensively with children and adults in a variety of settings and now works with children in an atrium both at Red Mountain Community School and All Saints Episcopal Church in Birmingham, AL. She also completed the Education for Ministry (EfM) Seminar course through Sewanee: University of the South School of Theology in 2019 and has been a trained mentor for EfM Groups since 2020. She resides in Birmingham, AL and has two children, Catherine (33) and Christopher (30). TODAYS LISTENER QUESTION- I hear there isn't any use for the slow controlled movements of practical life in level 2 or 3. Yet as an adult we are asked to make materials and explore practical life to slow us down. Doesn't the 2nd plane child also need help with slowing down and contemplation? Podcasts Episodes For the Beginning of the Atrium Year: 98: Welcoming the Children (Level 1) 122: Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART ONE 123: Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART TWO Podcasts Episodes You May Be Interested In: Practical Life with Sherry Mock Grace and Courtesy for the Second Plane Child PsychicDeviations with Maggie Radzik Ch. 3 Helping the Child with Maggie Radzik Books you might be interested in: The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER CGS 7 Minute Video CGS Atrium Locator - Please check if your church atrium in in our atrium locator. If not, please send this link to the COORDINATOR of your CGS program to add your atrium to the locator. THANK YOU! If you have any questions please email contact@cgsusa.org Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd2d:Te5f,

“I praise you, because I am wonderfully made; wonderful are your works! My very self you know.” Psalm 139:14

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

Montessorians Maggie Radzik and Anna Hurdle answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Practical Life across all levels! They explore the spiritual capacities developed through Practical Life, the foundational activities you might find at each level, helpful tips for presenting Practical Life activities, and so much more. Whether you are new to Practical Life or looking to deepen your understanding, this conversation offers practical guidance and thoughtful insight for every level.

Maggie Radzik has been working in Montessori for over 35 years and has been a Level I formation leader for more than 10 years. She has served both the Montessori classroom and the atrium at all levels, Toddlers through Adolescents. She is a certified Montessorian at all levels as well. I am currently the Director of Our Lady of Guadalupe Family Life Center in Ave Maria, FL

Podcasts Episodes You May Be Interested In:

Books you might be interested in:

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

2e:T8c6,“I praise you, because I am wonderfully made; wonderful are your works! My very self you know.” Psalm 139:14 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Montessorians Maggie Radzik and Anna Hurdle answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Practical Life across all levels! They explore the spiritual capacities developed through Practical Life, the foundational activities you might find at each level, helpful tips for presenting Practical Life activities, and so much more. Whether you are new to Practical Life or looking to deepen your understanding, this conversation offers practical guidance and thoughtful insight for every level. Maggie Radzik has been working in Montessori for over 35 years and has been a Level I formation leader for more than 10 years. She has served both the Montessori classroom and the atrium at all levels, Toddlers through Adolescents. She is a certified Montessorian at all levels as well. I am currently the Director of Our Lady of Guadalupe Family Life Center in Ave Maria, FL Podcasts Episodes You May Be Interested In: Practical Life with Sherry Mock Grace and Courtesy for the Second Plane Child Psychic Deviations with Maggie Radzik Ch. 3 Helping the Child with Maggie Radzik Books you might be interested in: The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER CGS 7 Minute Video CGS Atrium Locator - Please check if your church atrium in in our atrium locator. If not, please send this link to the COORDINATOR of your CGS program to add your atrium to the locator. THANK YOU! If you have any questions please email contact@cgsusa.org Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd2f:T997,“So that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me.” John 17:21 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Joann joins us on the podcast again to explore the characteristics of an environment that allows for cosmic education to flourish. Joann Terranova: In the past Joann has served as a Pastoral Assistant for Children’s Ministry in Catholic parishes, and began her involvement with CGS in 1998. She helped to begin the atrium at St. Michael Olympia WA, and currently serves as a Toddler Catechist. Her ministry as a formation leader began in 2007, and she is recognized to serve Levels 1, 2, &3. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Religious Studies and Psychology, a Master’s in Adult Christian Community Development and Master’s in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Today's Listener Questions: We are all getting prepared to begin our atrium years soon. It would be so helpful to have a podcast dedicated to what the first month or so should look like in a Level 1 or 2 atrium with practical ideas and tools. Podcasts Episodes You May Be Interested In: 55: Cosmic Education Welcoming the Child (Level 1)122. Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child Part ONE Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child Part TWO RPC2 – Introduction and Chapter 1 with Joann Terranova Cosmic Education and Peace with Laura Accettullo Books you might be interested in: The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER CGS 7 Minute Video CGS Atrium Locator - Please check if your church atrium in in our atrium locator. If not, please send this link to the COORDINATOR of your CGS program to add your atrium to the locator. THANK YOU! If you have any questions please email contact@cgsusa.org Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd30:Tfc9,

“So that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me.” John 17:21

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

Joann joins us on the podcast again to explore the characteristics of an environment that allows for cosmic education to flourish.

Joann Terranova: In the past Joann has served as a Pastoral Assistant for Children’s Ministry in Catholic parishes, and began her involvement with CGS in 1998. She helped to begin the atrium at St. Michael Olympia WA, and currently serves as a Toddler Catechist. Her ministry as a formation leader began in 2007, and she is recognized to serve Levels 1, 2, &3. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Religious Studies and Psychology, a Master’s in Adult Christian Community Development and Master’s in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.

Today's Listener Questions:

We are all getting prepared to begin our atrium years soon. It would be so helpful to have a podcast dedicated to what the first month or so should look like in a Level 1 or 2 atrium with practical ideas and tools.

Podcasts Episodes You May Be Interested In:

55: Cosmic Education

Books you might be interested in:

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

31:Ta64,“So that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me.” John 17:21 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Laura Accettullo helps us explore the Montessori philosophy of Cosmic Education more deeply, highlighting its connection to peace and religious education. Since being introduced to the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2000, Laura has received CGS certification in Levels I, II, III and Infant-Toddler, an A.M.I. Assistants to Infancy Orientation certificate, and is additionally recognized as a CGS National Formation Leader for Levels I and II. A Montessori child herself, Laura is co-founder of John XXIII Montessori Center where she currently prays with children in the Level II, Level III and the Toddler Atrium. Laura and her husband have nine grown children and 20 grandchildren and continue to work on their farm in the Shenandoah Valley of VA. Listener Question for Today: In our atrium we have several catechists who were trained by different instructors and their album pages all differ as to what year/ages the presentation should be given. We would like to be on the same age/level schedule of presentations. Is there a standard? If so, why do different trainers have varying presentation ages for their album pages? Podcasts Episodes You May Be Interested In: 158: Stories from the Atrium 161: RPC2 Ch. 2- Mystery of Time 160: Introduction and Ch.1 of RPC2 139: What to try when things seem to be failing with Cathy Johanni 124: Work of the Second Plane Child 55: Cosmic Education Books you might be interested in: Ways of Holy Joy Drinking from the Sources The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER CGS 7 Minute Video CGS Atrium Locator - Please check if your church atrium in in our atrium locator. If not, please send this link to the COORDINATOR of your CGS program to add your atrium to the locator. THANK YOU! If you have any questions please email contact@cgsusa.org Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd32:T111b,

“So that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me.” John 17:21

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

158: Stories from the Atrium

Laura Accettullo helps us explore the Montessori philosophy of Cosmic Education more deeply, highlighting its connection to peace and religious education.

Since being introduced to the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2000, Laura has received CGS certification in Levels I, II, III and Infant-Toddler, an A.M.I. Assistants to Infancy Orientation certificate, and is additionally recognized as a CGS National Formation Leader for Levels I and II. A Montessori child herself, Laura is co-founder of John XXIII Montessori Center where she currently prays with children in the Level II, Level III and the Toddler Atrium. Laura and her husband have nine grown children and 20 grandchildren and continue to work on their farm in the Shenandoah Valley of VA.

Listener Question for Today:

In our atrium we have several catechists who were trained by different instructors and their album pages all differ as to what year/ages the presentation should be given. We would like to be on the same age/level schedule of presentations. Is there a standard? If so, why do different trainers have varying presentation ages for their album pages?

Podcasts Episodes You May Be Interested In:

161: RPC2 Ch. 2- Mystery of Time

160: Introduction and Ch.1 of RPC2

139: What to try when things seem to be failing with Cathy Johanni

Drinking from the Sources

55: Cosmic Education

Books you might be interested in:

Ways of Holy Joy

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

33:Tad0,“You know this, my beloved brothers and sisters: everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger” - James 1:19 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Sr. Mary Rose joins us today to explore the role of the adult for the level two and three atria, how to prepare, qualities of an adult serving the 2nd plane child, as well as the role of the assistant in the level two and level three atria. Sr Mary Rose Bingham became a Dominican Sister of St. Cecilia of Nashville, TN in 1980. She has had the opportunity to serve as a teacher and principal in several states. Besides a Masters in Educational Administration, she has a Masters in Elementary Education with Montessori Primary and a Masters in Theology. She is a CGS Level 1 and 2 formation Leader and pending Level 3. She delights in being with children in a Level 1,2, and 3 atria while also traveling to give formation courses both nationally and internationally. Listener Question for Today- What are some ways to help a 3-year-old who cries for his mom during the first sessions of the year? How do you discern whether to keep trying such tactics as diversion, keeping the child close to you, etc., or to have the child wait a few weeks or months before returning to the atrium because he simply isn't ready? I've found this issue to be especially difficult when a crying child causes distress in other children nearby. Also, is it ever appropriate to have a parent present in the atrium with a child who is anxious about separating for any length of time? Podcasts Episodes You May Be Interested In: 161: RPC2 Ch. 2- Mystery of Time 160: Introduction and Ch.1 of RPC2 139: What to try when things seem to be failing with Cathy Johanni 124: Work of the Second Plane Child Books you might be interested in: The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER CGS 7 Minute Video CGS Atrium Locator - Please check if your church atrium in in our atrium locator. If not, please send this link to the COORDINATOR of your CGS program to add your atrium to the locator. THANK YOU! If you have any questions please email contact@cgsusa.org Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd34:T10b8,

“You know this, my beloved brothers and sisters: everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger” - James 1:19

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

161: RPC2 Ch. 2- Mystery of Time

Sr. Mary Rose joins us today to explore the role of the adult for the level two and three atria, how to prepare, qualities of an adult serving the 2nd plane child, as well as the role of the assistant in the level two and level three atria.

Sr Mary Rose Bingham became a Dominican Sister of St. Cecilia of Nashville, TN in 1980. She has had the opportunity to serve as a teacher and principal in several states. Besides a Masters in Educational Administration, she has a Masters in Elementary Education with Montessori Primary and a Masters in Theology. She is a CGS Level 1 and 2 formation Leader and pending Level 3. She delights in being with children in a Level 1,2, and 3 atria while also traveling to give formation courses both nationally and internationally.

Listener Question for Today-

What are some ways to help a 3-year-old who cries for his mom during the first sessions of the year? How do you discern whether to keep trying such tactics as diversion, keeping the child close to you, etc., or to have the child wait a few weeks or months before returning to the atrium because he simply isn't ready? I've found this issue to be especially difficult when a crying child causes distress in other children nearby. Also, is it ever appropriate to have a parent present in the atrium with a child who is anxious about separating for any length of time?

Podcasts Episodes You May Be Interested In:

160: Introduction and Ch.1 of RPC2

139: What to try when things seem to be failing with Cathy Johanni

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

Books you might be interested in:

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

35:Tc8c,“And Jesus increased in wisdom and in years, and in divine and human favor.” Luke 2:52 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Dr. Montessori advised, “We must revise the learning environments and approaches for these new and different children. Our method should correspond to these different stages of the child’s life, finding a different environment, in a different way of dealing with him (the child) in each stage.” Creative Development in the Child, Volume I Cathy Johanni joins us on the podcast to discuss the psychological characteristics of the second plane child and how these characteristics inform our work in the atrium. Cathy Johanni lives in Columbus, Ohio where she has enjoyed accompanying children on their spiritual journeys for more than two decades. She is recognized as a formation leader in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at levels I, II, and III. She has been involved in Montessori education for a decade, working with children ages 5-14. A member of the editorial committee for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Annual Journal. Cathy has authored articles and contributed to The Roman Missal Third Edition and the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd: Changes to Materials . She holds a Bachelor’s degree in cultural anthropology from Princeton University, a Master’s degree from The Ohio State University and Montessori Elementary certificates. Married for 31 years, she is the mother of five. Listener Question for today: How can we best help children integrate into the atrium when they begin CGS later, without having gone through Level I? In my parish, I have a number of children who are beginning in Level II around second grade because of sacrament preparation. They don’t have the Level I foundation, and I want to serve them well while also honoring the method. How can I guide them so they can enter into the work of the atrium in a meaningful way, even though they’ve missed the earlier formation? Podcasts Episodes with Cathy Johanni: Tools for Freedom and Responsibility 139: What to try when things seem to be failing with Cathy Johanni 124: Work of the Second Plane Child AnthropologicalCatechesis Books you might be interested in: The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER CGS 7 Minute Video CGS Atrium Locator - Please check if your church atrium in in our atrium locator. If not, please send this link to the COORDINATOR of your CGS program to add your atrium to the locator. THANK YOU! If you have any questions please email contact@cgsusa.org Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd36:T1295,

“And Jesus increased in wisdom and in years, and in divine and human favor.” Luke 2:52

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

139: What to try when things seem to be failing with Cathy Johanni

Dr. Montessori advised, “We must revise the learning environments and approaches for these new and different children. Our method should correspond to these different stages of the child’s life, finding a different environment, in a different way of dealing with him (the child) in each stage.” Creative Development in the Child, Volume I

Cathy Johanni joins us on the podcast to discuss the psychological characteristics of the second plane child and how these characteristics inform our work in the atrium.

Cathy Johanni lives in Columbus, Ohio where she has enjoyed accompanying children on their spiritual journeys for more than two decades. She is recognized as a formation leader in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at levels I, II, and III. She has been involved in Montessori education for a decade, working with children ages 5-14. A member of the editorial committee for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Annual Journal. Cathy has authored articles and contributed to The Roman Missal Third Edition and the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd: Changes to Materials . She holds a Bachelor’s degree in cultural anthropology from Princeton University, a Master’s degree from The Ohio State University and Montessori Elementary certificates. Married for 31 years, she is the mother of five.

Listener Question for today:

How can we best help children integrate into the atrium when they begin CGS later, without having gone through Level I? In my parish, I have a number of children who are beginning in Level II around second grade because of sacrament preparation. They don’t have the Level I foundation, and I want to serve them well while also honoring the method. How can I guide them so they can enter into the work of the atrium in a meaningful way, even though they’ve missed the earlier formation?

Podcasts Episodes with Cathy Johanni:

Tools for Freedom and Responsibility

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

AnthropologicalCatechesis

Books you might be interested in:

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

37:Tdf1,

“As it was in the beginning, is now, and evermore shall be”

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

161: RPC2 Ch. 2- Mystery of Time

Deb Pelletier is our guest on the podcast today to dive into Chapter 3 of The Religious Potential of the Child: 6 to 12 Year Old which speaks about the Globality of Biblical History. She helps break down what that means and how we live this in the level two and three atria.

Deb began her CGS journey in 1995, and has been a Formation Leader for over 20 years at all three levels. She is currently the Director of Faith Formation at a Franciscan Parish in Hartford, CT where she is a catechist in the atria levels, multiple times per week, most especially in Level 3.

She is a Professor Emeritus, Doctor of Physical Therapy program and lives with her husband in Glastonbury, CT and enjoys spending time with her 3 year old granddaughter.

Podcasts Episodes You May Be Interested In:

160: Introduction and Ch.1 of RPC2

139: What to try when things seem to be failing with Cathy Johanni

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

Books you might be interested in:

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

38:T819,“As it was in the beginning, is now, and evermore shall be” Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Deb Pelletier is our guest on the podcast today to dive into Chapter 3 of The Religious Potential of the Child: 6 to 12 Year Old which speaks about the Globality of Biblical History. She helps break down what that means and how we live this in the level two and three atria. Deb began her CGS journey in 1995, and has been a Formation Leader for over 20 years at all three levels. She is currently the Director of Faith Formation at a Franciscan Parish in Hartford, CT where she is a catechist in the atria levels, multiple times per week, most especially in Level 3. She is a Professor Emeritus, Doctor of Physical Therapy program and lives with her husband in Glastonbury, CT and enjoys spending time with her 3 year old granddaughter. Podcasts Episodes You May Be Interested In: 161: RPC2 Ch. 2- Mystery of Time 160: Introduction and Ch.1 of RPC2 139: What to try when things seem to be failing with Cathy Johanni 124: Work of the Second Plane Child Books you might be interested in: The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER CGS 7 Minute Video CGS Atrium Locator - Please check if your church atrium in in our atrium locator. If not, please send this link to the COORDINATOR of your CGS program to add your atrium to the locator. THANK YOU! If you have any questions please email contact@cgsusa.org Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd39:Tf57,

“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so must you do also.” - Colossians 3:12-13

“As moral activity develops, he [the child] wants to use his own judgment, which often will be quite different from that of his teachers. There is nothing more difficult than to teach moral values to a child of this age; he gives an immediate retort to everything that we say, having become a rebel…An inner change has taken place, but nature is quite logical in arousing now in the child not only a hunger for knowledge and understanding, but a claim to mental independence, a desire to distinguish good from evil by his own powers, and to resent limitation by arbitrary authority. In the field of morality, the child now stands in need of his own inner light.” Maria Montessori, To Educate the Human Potential, pg 4

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

139: What to try when things seem to be failing with Cathy Johanni

Anna and Kerri discuss the article Grace and Courtesy in the Elementary Community by Elise Huneke-Stone and what Grace and Courtesy looks like in the level two and three atria.

Read the article HERE

Podcasts about Second Plane Child:

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

Books you might be interested in:

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

3a:T973,“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so must you do also.” - Colossians 3:12-13 “As moral activity develops, he [the child] wants to use his own judgment, which often will be quite different from that of his teachers. There is nothing more difficult than to teach moral values to a child of this age; he gives an immediate retort to everything that we say, having become a rebel…An inner change has taken place, but nature is quite logical in arousing now in the child not only a hunger for knowledge and understanding, but a claim to mental independence, a desire to distinguish good from evil by his own powers, and to resent limitation by arbitrary authority. In the field of morality, the child now stands in need of his own inner light.” Maria Montessori, To Educate the Human Potential, pg 4 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Anna and Kerri discuss the article Grace and Courtesy in the Elementary Community by Elise Huneke-Stone and what Grace and Courtesy looks like in the level two and three atria. Read the article HERE Podcasts about Second Plane Child: 139: What to try when things seem to be failing with Cathy Johanni 124: Work of the Second Plane Child Books you might be interested in: The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER CGS 7 Minute Video CGS Atrium Locator - Please check if your church atrium in in our atrium locator. If not, please send this link to the COORDINATOR of your CGS program to add your atrium to the locator. THANK YOU! If you have any questions please email contact@cgsusa.org Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd3b:T100e,

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Episode 41 – The Elementary Aged Child with Anna Hurdle

Sr. Mary Rose joins us today to explore the prayer life of the second plane child—what it can look like in the atrium and beyond, how we as adults and catechists can nurture the child’s natural relationship with God, and the role communal prayer plays in the Level II and III atria.

Characteristic #3: The atrium is a community in which children and adults live together a religious experience which facilitates participation in the wider community of the family, the church, and other social spheres.

The atrium is a place of prayer, in which work and study spontaneously become meditation, contemplation, and prayer.

The atrium is a place in which the only Teacher is Christ; both children and adults place themselves in a listening stance before his Word and seek to penetrate the mystery of the liturgical celebration.

Podcasts about Second Plane Child:

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

Books you might be interested in:

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

3c:Ta8a,“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Sr. Mary Rose joins us today to explore the prayer life of the second plane child—what it can look like in the atrium and beyond, how we as adults and catechists can nurture the child’s natural relationship with God, and the role communal prayer plays in the Level II and III atria. Sr Mary Rose Bingham became a Dominican Sister of St. Cecilia of Nashville, TN in 1980. She has had the opportunity to serve as a teacher and principal in several states. Besides a Masters in Educational Administration, she has a Masters in Elementary Education with Montessori Primary and a Masters in Theology. She is a CGS Level 1 and 2 formation Leader and pending Level 3. She delights in being with children in a Level 1,2, and 3 atria while also traveling to give formation courses both nationally and internationally. Characteristic #3: The atrium is a community in which children and adults live together a religious experience which facilitates participation in the wider community of the family, the church, and other social spheres. The atrium is a place of prayer, in which work and study spontaneously become meditation, contemplation, and prayer. The atrium is a place in which the only Teacher is Christ; both children and adults place themselves in a listening stance before his Word and seek to penetrate the mystery of the liturgical celebration. Podcasts about Second Plane Child: Episode 41 – The Elementary Aged Child with Anna Hurdle 124: Work of the Second Plane Child Books you might be interested in: The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER CGS 7 Minute Video CGS Atrium Locator - Please check if your church atrium in in our atrium locator. If not, please send this link to the COORDINATOR of your CGS program to add your atrium to the locator. THANK YOU! If you have any questions please email contact@cgsusa.org Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd3d:T1cb9,

"When all things are subjected to Him, then the Son Himself will also be subjected to the One who subjected all things to Him, so that God may be all in all." -1 Corinthians 15:28

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Website on the Aquinas Children’s Worship Partnership

Ann Garrido joins us on the podcast again and today she speaks about the life and theology of Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, the French Jesuit priest whose writings and theology Sofia mentions in the chapter My Readings from Way of Holy Joy which is a book of selected writings of Sofia Cavalletti. Ann tells us about this unique theologian, helps us explore the similarities in his work and those of Maria Montessori and Sofia Cavalletti as well as where we can see his influence in the work of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.

Ann Garrido has been a catechist of the Good Shepherd since 1996. She has served as a catechist and formation leader at all three levels. Ann is an Associate Professor and Director of the Aquinas Children’s Worship Partnership at the Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri. She is the author of multiple works, including her newest book Redeeming Power about the healthy and holy exercise of leadership. Ann Garrido’s website HERE

“Above all, trust in the slow work of God. We are quite naturally impatient in everything to reach the end without delay. We should like to skip the intermediate stages. We are impatient of being on the way to something unknown, something new. And yet, it is the law of all progress that it is made by passing through some stages of instability- and that it may take a very long time. And so I think it is with you, your ideas mature gradually- let them grow, let them shape themselves without undue haste. Don’t try to force them on, as though you could be today what time (that is to say, grace and circumstances acting on your own good will) will make you tomorrow. Only God could say what this new spirit gradually forming within you will be. Give our Lord the benefit of believing that God’s hand is leading you, and accept the anxiety of feeling yourself in suspense and incomplete.” - Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, The Making of a Mind, from a letter written July 4, 1915

“The Son of God became man so that man might become God” - St Althanasius, Bishop of Alexandria, On the Incarnation

CGS Heritage

A good biography of Teilhard

Podcasts about CGS Heritage/Influencers:

109: Father Dalmazio Mongillo

92: Who was Adele Costa Gnocchi

78: A Glimpse of Gianna Gobbi

76: Romano Guardini

71: A Glimpse at Sofia

68: Eugenio Zolli

60: Pioneers of CGS with Betty Hissong

57: Celebrating the Life of Tina Lillig

Podcasts Episodes with Ann Garrido:

Episode 19 – Typology with Ann Garrido

Episode 53 – The Birth and Infancy of Jesus with Ann Garrido

Episode 59 – Preaching with Children with Ann Garrido

Episode 68 – The CGS Heritage – Eugenio Zolli with Ann Garrido

Episode 111. About Justice, A Meditation by Fr Mongillo with Ann Garrido

127: Redeeming Administration

Books by Ann Garrido

ANN’S NEW BOOK – REDEEMING POWER

Redeeming Administration

Redeeming Conflict

A Year with Sofia Cavalletti by Ann Garrido

Preaching with Children

Books you might be interested in:

Way of Holy Joy

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

3e:Tf98,"When all things are subjected to Him, then the Son Himself will also be subjected to the One who subjected all things to Him, so that God may be all in all." -1 Corinthians 15:28 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Ann Garrido joins us on the podcast again and today she speaks about the life and theology of Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, the French Jesuit priest whose writings and theology Sofia mentions in the chapter My Readings from Way of Holy Joy which is a book of selected writings of Sofia Cavalletti. Ann tells us about this unique theologian, helps us explore the similarities in his work and those of Maria Montessori and Sofia Cavalletti as well as where we can see his influence in the work of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Ann Garrido has been a catechist of the Good Shepherd since 1996. She has served as a catechist and formation leader at all three levels. Ann is an Associate Professor and Director of the Aquinas Children’s Worship Partnership at the Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri. She is the author of multiple works, including her newest book Redeeming Power about the healthy and holy exercise of leadership. Ann Garrido’s website HERE “Above all, trust in the slow work of God. We are quite naturally impatient in everything to reach the end without delay. We should like to skip the intermediate stages. We are impatient of being on the way to something unknown, something new. And yet, it is the law of all progress that it is made by passing through some stages of instability- and that it may take a very long time. And so I think it is with you, your ideas mature gradually- let them grow, let them shape themselves without undue haste. Don’t try to force them on, as though you could be today what time (that is to say, grace and circumstances acting on your own good will) will make you tomorrow. Only God could say what this new spirit gradually forming within you will be. Give our Lord the benefit of believing that God’s hand is leading you, and accept the anxiety of feeling yourself in suspense and incomplete.” - Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, The Making of a Mind, from a letter written July 4, 1915 “The Son of God became man so that man might become God” - St Althanasius, Bishop of Alexandria, On the Incarnation Website on the Aquinas Children’s Worship Partnership CGS Heritage A good biography of Teilhard Podcasts about CGS Heritage/Influencers: 109: Father Dalmazio Mongillo 92: Who was Adele Costa Gnocchi 78: A Glimpse of Gianna Gobbi 76: Romano Guardini 71: A Glimpse at Sofia 68: Eugenio Zolli 60: Pioneers of CGS with Betty Hissong 57: Celebrating the Life of Tina Lillig Podcasts Episodes with Ann Garrido: Episode 19 – Typology with Ann Garrido Episode 53 – The Birth and Infancy of Jesus with Ann Garrido Episode 59 – Preaching with Children with Ann Garrido Episode 68 – The CGS Heritage – Eugenio Zolli with Ann Garrido Episode 111. About Justice, A Meditation by Fr Mongillo with Ann Garrido 127: Redeeming Administration Books by Ann Garrido ANN’S NEW BOOK – REDEEMING POWER Redeeming Administration Redeeming Conflict A Year with Sofia Cavalletti by Ann Garrido Preaching with Children Books you might be interested in: Way of Holy Joy The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER CGS 7 Minute Video CGS Atrium Locator - Please check if your church atrium in in our atrium locator. If not, please send this link to the COORDINATOR of your CGS program to add your atrium to the locator. THANK YOU! If you have any questions please email contact@cgsusa.org Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the3f:T1008,

“For if you cry out for insight, and raise your voice for understanding; if you seek her as silver and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will understand the fear of the LORD, and discover the knowledge of God.” Proverbs 2: 3-5

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

CGS Resources for Priests and Religious

Anna and Kerri discuss three different listener questions that we have received. What to do when you do not have enough formed catechists, what to do if you have formed catechists but no church atria, and how to end the atrium year among catechists.

Watch your Member Memo emails once a month for the date to the next Membership 101 Zoom Meeting where Mary Heinrich will walk you through the CGSUSA website and its many resources there.

Catechetical Themes

Podcasts with Priests:

CGS and Christian Unity with Bishop Talley

CGS and Accompaniment with Fr Boniface Hicks

A Priest in CGS with Fr Kevin Douglas

CGS and Ignatian Spirituality with Fr Joseph Hill

A Priest in CGS with Fr Joseph Lustig

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

Books you might be interested in:

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in the Parish Setting

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Episode 75: FAQs: Beginning The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd with Karen Maxwell

Podcast Episodes you might be interested in:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

40:T8bd,“For if you cry out for insight, and raise your voice for understanding; if you seek her as silver and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will understand the fear of the LORD, and discover the knowledge of God.” Proverbs 2: 3-5 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Anna and Kerri discuss three different listener questions that we have received. What to do when you do not have enough formed catechists, what to do if you have formed catechists but no church atria, and how to end the atrium year among catechists. Watch your Member Memo emails once a month for the date to the next Membership 101 Zoom Meeting where Mary Heinrich will walk you through the CGSUSA website and its many resources there. CGS Atrium Locator - Please check if your church atrium in in our atrium locator. If not, please send this link to the COORDINATOR of your CGS program to add your atrium to the locator. THANK YOU! If you have any questions please email contact@cgsusa.org Catechetical Themes CGS Resources for Priests and Religious Podcasts with Priests: CGS and Christian Unity with Bishop Talley CGS and Accompaniment with Fr Boniface Hicks A Priest in CGS with Fr Kevin Douglas CGS and Ignatian Spirituality with Fr Joseph Hill A Priest in CGS with Fr Joseph Lustig CGS 7 Minute Video Books you might be interested in: The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in the Parish Setting The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues Podcast Episodes you might be interested in: Episode 75: FAQs: Beginning The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd with Karen Maxwell BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd41:Tfad,Episode 165. Building of Relationship with Carolyn Kohlhaas “If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered.” Psalm 130: 3-4 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study "Moral existence is a response to the Lord's loving initiative. It is the acknowledgement and homage given to God and a worship of thanksgiving. It is cooperation with the plan God pursues in history." Catechism of the Catholic Church, Paragraph 2062 “To teach morality, the catechist must be convinced that at its roots is love, and then proceed from that principle. Morality emerges from love. We must never wander far from this source, not even when we teach explicitly the Law, which shows us the way we must follow to reach God. The entire Law has been summarized by Jesus in the two commandments of love, and He has made love the badge of allegiance. ‘One cannot obey more than one loves,’ wrote the prior of the Little Brothers of Jesus.” (Teaching Doctrine and Liturgy) “We can never stress too much the necessity of anchoring every moral teaching in a solid, kerygmatic orientation. Before providing specific instructions of what I am to do, moral formation must tell me with whom I do it, for whom I do it, with whom I am in relationship. Often we rush to action without having given enough thought to these primary questions.” (RPCII, 83) “The primary and fundamental attitude of the person educated in the moral life is the awareness of belonging: to belong to God, to belong to God’s world, to belong to humanity.”- Father Mongillo Carolyn joins the conversation today to walk us through how morality evolves and progresses in a child’s life and how we can meet those needs in all levels of the atria. Carolyn Kohlhaas is a nationally recognized Formation Leader for CGS at all three levels of formation. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theology and in Religious Education from Franciscan University of Steubenville and her AMI Primary (3-6) and Elementary (6-12) Level Certifications from the Montessori Training Center of Minnesota. Carolyn has a Master of Education degree (Loyola College, Maryland) as well as a Master of Arts in Theology (St. Paul Seminary School of Divinity). She has worked with children in Atriums in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis since 2006 and with adults in formation courses across the US since 2009. wosatrium.weebly.com CGS IN SCHOOLS Books you might be interested in: Development of the Rome Atrium The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues Podcast Episodes you might be interested in: Episode 34 – The Paschal Mystery Episode 55 – Cosmic Education TINA LILIG MEMORIAL FUND During the month of February, we remember our first national director, Valentina Lillig, and we honor her legacy by encouraging generosity to the Tina Lillig Memorial Fund. The mission of the Tina Lillig Memorial Fund is to support the growth and development of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd through catechist formation, missionary outreach, and the work of the United States Association of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGSUSA). To these ends, the TLM Fund offers a source of financial aid (in the form of partial scholarships) to applicants who would find paying the full tuition of a course to be a hardship. If you or your community needs scholarship or grant support for formation, please visit our website and apply [this could be a link in the show notes]. The next deadline for applications is April 30. Thank you to all the donors who have generously supported the TLM Fund and made formation courses possible for catechists across the US and the world. BECOME A CGSUS42:T1b68,

Episode 165. Building of Relationship with Carolyn Kohlhaas

“If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered.”

Psalm 130: 3-4

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

"Moral existence is a response to the Lord's loving initiative. It is the acknowledgement and homage given to God and a worship of thanksgiving. It is cooperation with the plan God pursues in history." Catechism of the Catholic Church, Paragraph 2062

“To teach morality, the catechist must be convinced that at its roots is love, and then proceed from that principle. Morality emerges from love. We must never wander far from this source, not even when we teach explicitly the Law, which shows us the way we must follow to reach God. The entire Law has been summarized by Jesus in the two commandments of love, and He has made love the badge of allegiance. ‘One cannot obey more than one loves,’ wrote the prior of the Little Brothers of Jesus.” (Teaching Doctrine and Liturgy)

“We can never stress too much the necessity of anchoring every moral teaching in a solid, kerygmatic orientation. Before providing specific instructions of what I am to do, moral formation must tell me with whom I do it, for whom I do it, with whom I am in relationship. Often we rush to action without having given enough thought to these primary questions.” (RPCII, 83)

“The primary and fundamental attitude of the person educated in the moral life is the awareness of belonging: to belong to God, to belong to God’s world, to belong to humanity.”- Father Mongillo

Carolyn joins the conversation today to walk us through how morality evolves and progresses in a child’s life and how we can meet those needs in all levels of the atria.

Carolyn Kohlhaas is a nationally recognized Formation Leader for CGS at all three levels of formation. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theology and in Religious Education from Franciscan University of Steubenville and her AMI Primary (3-6) and Elementary (6-12) Level Certifications from the Montessori Training Center of Minnesota. Carolyn has a Master of Education degree (Loyola College, Maryland) as well as a Master of Arts in Theology (St. Paul Seminary School of Divinity). She has worked with children in Atriums in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis since 2006 and with adults in formation courses across the US since 2009. wosatrium.weebly.com

CGS IN SCHOOLS

Books you might be interested in:

Development of the Rome Atrium

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Episode 34 – The Paschal Mystery

Podcast Episodes you might be interested in:

Episode 55 – Cosmic Education

TINA LILIG MEMORIAL FUND

During the month of February, we remember our first national director, Valentina Lillig, and we honor her legacy by encouraging generosity to the Tina Lillig Memorial Fund.

The mission of the Tina Lillig Memorial Fund is to support the growth and development of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd through catechist formation, missionary outreach, and the work of the United States Association of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGSUSA). To these ends, the TLM Fund offers a source of financial aid (in the form of partial scholarships) to applicants who would find paying the full tuition of a course to be a hardship.

If you or your community needs scholarship or grant support for formation, please visit our website and apply [this could be a link in the show notes]. The next deadline for applications is April 30. Thank you to all the donors who have generously supported the TLM Fund and made formation courses possible for catechists across the US and the world.

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

43:T11eb,

“For once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Live as children of the light.” Ephesians 5:8

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Great Vigil of Easter for Episcopalians

Ruth joins us on the podcast to explore the theology behind the Easter Vigil Mass and also how it parallels to the celebration of the Liturgy of Light in the atrium.

Ruth Ohm Sutherland is a catechist in Levels Infant-Toddler-3 and a Formation Leader for Levels 1 and 2. She has started the CGS in several cities, most recently in Wausau, Wisconsin; she offers atrium sessions for Levels 1-3 in Wausau. Prior to moving to Wisconsin, Ruth taught Sacred Scripture at St. Patrick’s Seminary & University in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Roman Catholic Novus Ordo Easter Vigil

Roman Catholic 1962 Extraordinary Form of the Mass

Books you might be interested in:

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Episode 62 – Christ the Good Shepherd and the Eucharist

Podcast Episodes with Ruth:

Episode 77 – Eucharist: God with Us

Podcast Episodes for the Easter Season:

Episode 34 – The Paschal Mystery

Episode 61 – The Roots of the Eucharist and the Easter Mystery

Episode 84 – The Family in Easter with Gerturde Mueller Nelson

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

44:Tb14,“For once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Live as children of the light.” Ephesians 5:8 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Ruth joins us on the podcast to explore the theology behind the Easter Vigil Mass and also how it parallels to the celebration of the Liturgy of Light in the atrium. Ruth Ohm Sutherland is a catechist in Levels Infant-Toddler-3 and a Formation Leader for Levels 1 and 2. She has started the CGS in several cities, most recently in Wausau, Wisconsin; she offers atrium sessions for Levels 1-3 in Wausau. Prior to moving to Wisconsin, Ruth taught Sacred Scripture at St. Patrick’s Seminary & University in the San Francisco Bay Area. Great Vigil of Easter for Episcopalians Roman Catholic Novus Ordo Easter Vigil Roman Catholic 1962 Extraordinary Form of the Mass Books you might be interested in: The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues Podcast Episodes with Ruth: Episode 62 – Christ the Good Shepherd and the Eucharist Episode 77 – Eucharist: God with Us Podcast Episodes for the Easter Season: Episode 34 – The Paschal Mystery Episode 61 – The Roots of the Eucharist and the Easter Mystery Episode 84 – The Family in Easter with Gerturde Mueller Nelson BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd45:T18bb,

“If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered.”

Psalm 130: 3-4

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

“To ‘build the house’ which morality will inhabit, some mastery of the body is necessary” (Spontaneous Activity in Education, 7: Will, 147

“We must always give the children “the big picture” that informs and sustains immediate behaviors. Bracketing for a moment all we have said up to this point about presenting the kerygma, what foundation would moral exhortation rest upon without kerygma? If moral exhortation were left to stand alone, if good behaviors were taught for their own sake, it would be like preparing robots who know and follow rules instead of persons who participate in God’s plan for the fullness of life.” (RPCII, 94)

“We must remember that Christian morality is a morality of “you can.” Through the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, “we can”; or, in the words of St. Paul, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).” (RPCII, 88)

Carolyn joins the conversation today to walk us through how morality evolves and progresses in a child’s life and how we can meet those needs in all levels of the atria.

Books you might be interested in:

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Episode 34 – The Paschal Mystery

Podcast Episodes you might be interested in:

Episode 55 – Cosmic Education

TINA LILIG MEMORIAL FUND

During the month of February, we remember our first national director, Valentina Lillig, and we honor her legacy by encouraging generosity to the Tina Lillig Memorial Fund.

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

46:Tfcb,“If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered.” Psalm 130: 3-4 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study “To ‘build the house’ which morality will inhabit, some mastery of the body is necessary” (Spontaneous Activity in Education, 7: Will, 147 “We must always give the children “the big picture” that informs and sustains immediate behaviors. Bracketing for a moment all we have said up to this point about presenting the kerygma, what foundation would moral exhortation rest upon without kerygma? If moral exhortation were left to stand alone, if good behaviors were taught for their own sake, it would be like preparing robots who know and follow rules instead of persons who participate in God’s plan for the fullness of life.” (RPCII, 94) “We must remember that Christian morality is a morality of “you can.” Through the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, “we can”; or, in the words of St. Paul, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).” (RPCII, 88) Carolyn joins the conversation today to walk us through how morality evolves and progresses in a child’s life and how we can meet those needs in all levels of the atria. Carolyn Kohlhaas is a nationally recognized Formation Leader for CGS at all three levels of formation. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theology and in Religious Education from Franciscan University of Steubenville and her AMI Primary (3-6) and Elementary (6-12) Level Certifications from the Montessori Training Center of Minnesota. Carolyn has a Master of Education degree (Loyola College, Maryland) as well as a Master of Arts in Theology (St. Paul Seminary School of Divinity). She has worked with children in Atriums in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis since 2006 and with adults in formation courses across the US since 2009. wosatrium.weebly.com Books you might be interested in: The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues Podcast Episodes you might be interested in: Episode 34 – The Paschal Mystery Episode 55 – Cosmic Education TINA LILIG MEMORIAL FUND During the month of February, we remember our first national director, Valentina Lillig, and we honor her legacy by encouraging generosity to the Tina Lillig Memorial Fund. The mission of the Tina Lillig Memorial Fund is to support the growth and development of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd through catechist formation, missionary outreach, and the work of the United States Association of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGSUSA). To these ends, the TLM Fund offers a source of financial aid (in the form of partial scholarships) to applicants who would find paying the full tuition of a course to be a hardship. If you or your community needs scholarship or grant support for formation, please visit our website and apply [this could be a link in the show notes]. The next deadline for applications is April 30. Thank you to all the donors who have generously supported the TLM Fund and made formation courses possible for catechists across the US and the world. BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and47:T191e,

“But of that day or hour, no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” Mark 13:32

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

“The religious needs and capacities of older children are no less great or essential than those of younger children. Their religious potential is no less strong; rather, it is expressed through the new capacities of their own stage of development.” - Sofia Cavalletti, The History of the Kingdom of God, Part 1, Pg. 173

Rebekah joins us on the podcast today to discuss the Spiral Method and how it applies to our work in CGS.

Rebekah Rojcewicz is a catechist and formation leader in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd having completed her training in 1981 in Rome with Dr. Sofia Cavalletti and Gianna Gobbi. She has translated several of their books and articles from the original Italian and has written and edited various parts of the CGS core texts. She is also the author of Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues. Rebekah is a catechist at her parish, St. Patrick Catholic Church, and for the Missionaries of Charity atrium in Memphis, Tennessee. She serves on the formation advisory council for CGSUSA, as well as on the International Board for the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.

Characteristic #3 - The atrium is a community in which children and adults live together a religious experience which facilitates participation in the wider community of the family, the church, and other social spheres.

The atrium is a place of prayer, in which work and study spontaneously become meditation, contemplation, and prayer.

The atrium is a place in which the only Teacher is Christ; both children and adults place themselves in a listening stance before his Word and seek to penetrate the mystery of the liturgical celebration.

“The pilgrimage of faith is not a journey in a straight line with death waiting at the end, but a kind of spiral through which progress is made only in successively deeper experiences of death and rebirth.” - Mark Searle

Books you might be interested in:

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Episode 42 – The Mystery of Time

Podcast Episodes you might be interested in:

Episode 57 – Celebrating the Life of Tina Lilig

TINA LILIG MEMORIAL FUND

During the month of February, we remember our first national director, Valentina Lillig, and we honor her legacy by encouraging generosity to the Tina Lillig Memorial Fund.

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

48:Tfa9,“But of that day or hour, no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” Mark 13:32 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study “The religious needs and capacities of older children are no less great or essential than those of younger children. Their religious potential is no less strong; rather, it is expressed through the new capacities of their own stage of development.” - Sofia Cavalletti, The History of the Kingdom of God, Part 1, Pg. 173 Rebekah joins us on the podcast today to discuss the Spiral Method and how it applies to our work in CGS. Rebekah Rojcewicz is a catechist and formation leader in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd having completed her training in 1981 in Rome with Dr. Sofia Cavalletti and Gianna Gobbi. She has translated several of their books and articles from the original Italian and has written and edited various parts of the CGS core texts. She is also the author of Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues. Rebekah is a catechist at her parish, St. Patrick Catholic Church, and for the Missionaries of Charity atrium in Memphis, Tennessee. She serves on the formation advisory council for CGSUSA, as well as on the International Board for the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Characteristic #3 - The atrium is a community in which children and adults live together a religious experience which facilitates participation in the wider community of the family, the church, and other social spheres. The atrium is a place of prayer, in which work and study spontaneously become meditation, contemplation, and prayer. The atrium is a place in which the only Teacher is Christ; both children and adults place themselves in a listening stance before his Word and seek to penetrate the mystery of the liturgical celebration. “The pilgrimage of faith is not a journey in a straight line with death waiting at the end, but a kind of spiral through which progress is made only in successively deeper experiences of death and rebirth.” - Mark Searle Books you might be interested in: The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues Podcast Episodes you might be interested in: Episode 42 – The Mystery of Time Episode 57 – Celebrating the Life of Tina Lilig TINA LILIG MEMORIAL FUND During the month of February, we remember our first national director, Valentina Lillig, and we honor her legacy by encouraging generosity to the Tina Lillig Memorial Fund. The mission of the Tina Lillig Memorial Fund is to support the growth and development of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd through catechist formation, missionary outreach, and the work of the United States Association of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGSUSA). To these ends, the TLM Fund offers a source of financial aid (in the form of partial scholarships) to applicants who would find paying the full tuition of a course to be a hardship. If you or your community needs scholarship or grant support for formation, please visit our website and apply [this could be a link in the show notes]. The next deadline for applications is April 30. Thank you to all the donors who have generously supported the TLM Fund and made formation courses possible for catechists across the US and the world. BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live49:T1872,

“But of that day or hour, no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” Mark 13:32

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

Rebekah joins us on the podcast today to discuss chapter 2 of The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 year Olds on the Mystery of Time.

The atrium is a place of prayer, in which work and study spontaneously become meditation, contemplation, and prayer.

The atrium is a place in which the only Teacher is Christ; both children and adults place themselves in a listening stance before his Word and seek to penetrate the mystery of the liturgical celebration.

Books you might be interested in:

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Episode 42 – The Mystery of Time

Podcast Episodes you might be interested in:

Episode 57 – Celebrating the Life of Tina Lilig

TINA LILIG MEMORIAL FUND

During the month of February, we remember our first national director, Valentina Lillig, and we honor her legacy by encouraging generosity to the Tina Lillig Memorial Fund. Learn more and donate HERE

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

4a:Tfac,“But of that day or hour, no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” Mark 13:32 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Rebekah joins us on the podcast today to discuss chapter 2 of The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 year Olds on the Mystery of Time. Rebekah Rojcewicz is a catechist and formation leader in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd having completed her training in 1981 in Rome with Dr. Sofia Cavalletti and Gianna Gobbi. She has translated several of their books and articles from the original Italian and has written and edited various parts of the CGS core texts. She is also the author of Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues. Rebekah is a catechist at her parish, St. Patrick Catholic Church, and for the Missionaries of Charity atrium in Memphis, Tennessee. She serves on the formation advisory council for CGSUSA, as well as on the International Board for the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Characteristic #3 - The atrium is a community in which children and adults live together a religious experience which facilitates participation in the wider community of the family, the church, and other social spheres. The atrium is a place of prayer, in which work and study spontaneously become meditation, contemplation, and prayer. The atrium is a place in which the only Teacher is Christ; both children and adults place themselves in a listening stance before his Word and seek to penetrate the mystery of the liturgical celebration. “The pilgrimage of faith is not a journey in a straight line with death waiting at the end, but a kind of spiral through which progress is made only in successively deeper experiences of death and rebirth.” - Mark Searle Books you might be interested in: The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues Podcast Episodes you might be interested in: Episode 42 – The Mystery of Time Episode 57 – Celebrating the Life of Tina Lilig TINA LILIG MEMORIAL FUND During the month of February, we remember our first national director, Valentina Lillig, and we honor her legacy by encouraging generosity to the Tina Lillig Memorial Fund. Learn more and donate HERE The mission of the Tina Lillig Memorial Fund is to support the growth and development of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd through catechist formation, missionary outreach, and the work of the United States Association of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGSUSA). To these ends, the TLM Fund offers a source of financial aid (in the form of partial scholarships) to applicants who would find paying the full tuition of a course to be a hardship. If you or your community needs scholarship or grant support for formation, please visit our website and apply [this could be a link in the show notes]. The next deadline for applications is April 30. Thank you to all the donors who have generously supported the TLM Fund and made formation courses possible for catechists across the US and the world. BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volu4b:Te59,

"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear? The Lord in my life’s refuge; of whom should I be afraid?” - Psalm 27:1

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

Joann joins us on the podcast to discuss the Introduction and Chapter One of The Religious Potential of the Child for 6 to 12 Year Olds.

Joann Terranova: In the past Joann has served as a Pastoral Assistant for Children's Ministry in Catholic parishes, and began her involvement with CGS in 1998. She helped to begin the atrium at St. Michael Olympia WA, and currently serves as a Toddler Catechist. Her ministry as a formation leader began in 2007, and she is recognized to serve Levels 1, 2, &3. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Religious Studies and Psychology, a Master's in Adult Christian Community Development and Master's in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.

Books you might be interested in:

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

4c:T9f4,"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear? The Lord in my life’s refuge; of whom should I be afraid?” - Psalm 27:1 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Joann joins us on the podcast to discuss the Introduction and Chapter One of The Religious Potential of the Child for 6 to 12 Year Olds. Joann Terranova: In the past Joann has served as a Pastoral Assistant for Children's Ministry in Catholic parishes, and began her involvement with CGS in 1998. She helped to begin the atrium at St. Michael Olympia WA, and currently serves as a Toddler Catechist. Her ministry as a formation leader began in 2007, and she is recognized to serve Levels 1, 2, &3. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Religious Studies and Psychology, a Master's in Adult Christian Community Development and Master's in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Books you might be interested in: The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd4d:Tef5,

"Arise! Shine, for your light has come, the glory of the Lord has dawned upon you. Though darkness covers the earth, and thick clouds, the peoples, upon you the Lord will dawn, and over you his glory will be seen.” - Isaiah 60:1-2

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Link to Maria Montessori’s Speech from January 6, 1942

We’re kicking off Season 6! With an overarching theme of the Second Plane Child, we’re especially excited to welcome Anna Hurdle as our co-host this season.

Anna Hurdle is a catechist and formation leader at levels I, II and III. She is a retired elementary Montessori guide and coordinator of CGS at her parish in Charlotte, NC. Anna serves the National Association through the Episcopal Committee and the Formation Advisory Council.

Books you might be interested in:

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom

Episode 28- Montessori's Epiphany with Sherry Mock

Podcast Episodes you might be interested in:

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

4e:T9eb,"Arise! Shine, for your light has come, the glory of the Lord has dawned upon you. Though darkness covers the earth, and thick clouds, the peoples, upon you the Lord will dawn, and over you his glory will be seen.” - Isaiah 60:1-2 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study We’re kicking off Season 6! With an overarching theme of the Second Plane Child, we’re especially excited to welcome Anna Hurdle as our co-host this season. Anna Hurdle is a catechist and formation leader at levels I, II and III. She is a retired elementary Montessori guide and coordinator of CGS at her parish in Charlotte, NC. Anna serves the National Association through the Episcopal Committee and the Formation Advisory Council. Link to Maria Montessori’s Speech from January 6, 1942 Books you might be interested in: The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues Podcast Episodes you might be interested in: Episode 28- Montessori's Epiphany with Sherry Mock BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd4f:Tddb,

"Amen, I say to you, whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it." Luke 18:17

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Today, we share stories from atria across the country, from all levels. Again and again, the children reveal their deep capacity to recognize the most essential aspects of our faith.

Thank you to all our members and our donors who have given to the 2025-26 Annual Appeal and Tina Lillig Memorial Fund. Your donations make it possible for CGSUSA to expand formation opportunities, give mission courses, invest in technology, create catechist and parent resources and publications, and offer many wonderful events that build our catechist community. All of these initiatives help us serve children with love and generosity. The revenue generated from membership fees covers about 55 percent of the cost of the benefits of membership, so philanthropy is essential to delivering excellent support to catechists, ministry leaders, families, and children. To find out more or make a gift, please visit www.cgsusa.org/donate. Thank you!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

50:T9df,"Amen, I say to you, whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it." Luke 18:17 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Today, we share stories from atria across the country, from all levels. Again and again, the children reveal their deep capacity to recognize the most essential aspects of our faith. Thank you to all our members and our donors who have given to the 2025-26 Annual Appeal and Tina Lillig Memorial Fund. Your donations make it possible for CGSUSA to expand formation opportunities, give mission courses, invest in technology, create catechist and parent resources and publications, and offer many wonderful events that build our catechist community. All of these initiatives help us serve children with love and generosity. The revenue generated from membership fees covers about 55 percent of the cost of the benefits of membership, so philanthropy is essential to delivering excellent support to catechists, ministry leaders, families, and children. To find out more or make a gift, please visit www.cgsusa.org/donate. Thank you! The Religious Potential of the Child CGSUSA Store BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd51:T129c,

Diane helps us think about this time of Advent as not just a time to remember what happened 2000 years ago but also preparation for today and for this unknown time of Jesus coming again.

Diane Olsen has been involved in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd since 1990. She has received all formation levels and was recognized as a formation leader in 2002. She is actively involved leading catechist formation around the country. Diane has a philosophy and math degree from St. John’s College in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies-Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from the Aquinas Institute of Theology, St. Louis, Missouri. She is a wife, mother, and grandmother.

Links for this Episode:

The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

Episode 42 – The Mystery of Time

Episode 104 – Incarnation and the Annunciation

Podcast Episodes you might be interested in:

Episode 27 – The Mystery of the Incarnation

Episode 53 – The Birth and Infancy of Jesus

Episode 104 – Incarnation and the Annunciation

Episode 105 – Welcoming the Christ Child as a Sacred Act

Episode 128 – CGS Advent in the Home

Episode 129 – The Family in Advent

Episode 132 – The Depth of the Christmas Season

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

52:Td61,Diane helps us think about this time of Advent as not just a time to remember what happened 2000 years ago but also preparation for today and for this unknown time of Jesus coming again. Diane Olsen has been involved in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd since 1990. She has received all formation levels and was recognized as a formation leader in 2002. She is actively involved leading catechist formation around the country. Diane has a philosophy and math degree from St. John’s College in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies-Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from the Aquinas Institute of Theology, St. Louis, Missouri. She is a wife, mother, and grandmother. Links for this Episode: The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa Episode 42 – The Mystery of Time Episode 104 – Incarnation and the Annunciation Thank you to all our members and our donors who have given to the 2025-26 Annual Appeal and Tina Lillig Memorial Fund. Your donations make it possible for CGSUSA to expand formation opportunities, give mission courses, invest in technology, create catechist and parent resources and publications, and offer many wonderful events that build our catechist community. All of these initiatives help us serve children with love and generosity. The revenue generated from membership fees covers about 55 percent of the cost of the benefits of membership, so philanthropy is essential to delivering excellent support to catechists, ministry leaders, families, and children. To find out more or make a gift, please visit www.cgsusa.org/donate. Thank you! Podcast Episodes you might be interested in: Episode 27 – The Mystery of the Incarnation Episode 53 – The Birth and Infancy of Jesus Episode 104 – Incarnation and the Annunciation Episode 105 – Welcoming the Christ Child as a Sacred Act Episode 128 – CGS Advent in the Home Episode 129 – The Family in Advent Episode 132 – The Depth of the Christmas Season The Religious Potential of the Child CGSUSA Store BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd53:T135f,

"Hear, O Israel, The Lord is our God, the Lord alone.” Deuteronomy 6:4

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa

As we begin our Advent journey—a time of waiting with the children—we hear the message of the prophets, calling us to prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus and for the fulfillment of the history of the Kingdom of God at the Parousia. Today, Donna Turner helps us ponder the great richness of the prophets and their prophecies for both us and the child.

Donna Turner is a Level III catechist and Formation Leader. She is the Co-Director of the Good Shepherd Center-Memphis, TN, and the volunteer coordinator of CGS at St. Philip Episcopal Church-Memphis. Donna serves CGSUSA as a member of the Formation Advisory Council and the Episcopal Committee. She lives in Germantown, TN.

Podcast Episodes you might be interested in:

Episode 27 – The Mystery of the Incarnation

Episode 53 – The Birth and Infancy of Jesus

Episode 104 – Incarnation and the Annunciation

Episode 105 – Welcoming the Christ Child as a Sacred Act

Episode 128 – CGS Advent in the Home

Episode 129 – The Family in Advent

Episode 132 – The Depth of the Christmas Season

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

54:Td6c,"Hear, O Israel, The Lord is our God, the Lord alone.” Deuteronomy 6:4 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study As we begin our Advent journey—a time of waiting with the children—we hear the message of the prophets, calling us to prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus and for the fulfillment of the history of the Kingdom of God at the Parousia. Today, Donna Turner helps us ponder the great richness of the prophets and their prophecies for both us and the child. Donna Turner is a Level III catechist and Formation Leader. She is the Co-Director of the Good Shepherd Center-Memphis, TN, and the volunteer coordinator of CGS at St. Philip Episcopal Church-Memphis. Donna serves CGSUSA as a member of the Formation Advisory Council and the Episcopal Committee. She lives in Germantown, TN. History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa Thank you to all our members and our donors who have given to the 2025-26 Annual Appeal and Tina Lillig Memorial Fund. Your donations make it possible for CGSUSA to expand formation opportunities, give mission courses, invest in technology, create catechist and parent resources and publications, and offer many wonderful events that build our catechist community. All of these initiatives help us serve children with love and generosity. The revenue generated from membership fees covers about 55 percent of the cost of the benefits of membership, so philanthropy is essential to delivering excellent support to catechists, ministry leaders, families, and children. To find out more or make a gift, please visit www.cgsusa.org/donate. Thank you! Podcast Episodes you might be interested in: Episode 27 – The Mystery of the Incarnation Episode 53 – The Birth and Infancy of Jesus Episode 104 – Incarnation and the Annunciation Episode 105 – Welcoming the Christ Child as a Sacred Act Episode 128 – CGS Advent in the Home Episode 129 – The Family in Advent Episode 132 – The Depth of the Christmas Season The Religious Potential of the Child CGSUSA Store BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd55:T1699,

"The unfolding of your words gives light..” -Psalm 119:130a

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Episode 37: CGS and Spiritual Direction with Autumn Domingue

“You will find God when you find your true self, and you find yourself when you find God.” Henri Nouwen

"The purpose of the contemplative life is the perfection of love.” St Thomas Aquinas

“Listening is so much like loving, that most people can’t tell the difference.”

Today, Autumn Domingue joins us again on the podcast to explore the contemplative method—what it is and how it fits into the history of the Church, as well as its place within the rich tradition of CGS. She also guides us through practical tools for becoming a more contemplative listener and responder.

Autumn Domingue is a spiritual director and life coach who delights in walking alongside others as they seek deeper meaning and purpose. For the past twelve years, she has supported individuals in her private practice. With over thirty years of experience as a catechist and formation leader, and as a new instructor at Aquinas Institute of Theology, Autumn is equally at home nurturing children in the atrium and guiding graduate students in their study of spirituality. Autumn’s website

Spiritual Direction 101

Podcast Episodes you might be interested in:

Episode 42: The Mystery of Time with Autumn Domingue

Episode 85: CGS and Accompaniment with Fr Boniface Hicks

Episode 102: Theological Reflection with Autumn Domingue

Episode 126: The Thinking Environment with Jennifer Bell

Episode 154: Holy Simplicity

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

56:Tebd,"The unfolding of your words gives light..” -Psalm 119:130a Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study “You will find God when you find your true self, and you find yourself when you find God.” Henri Nouwen "The purpose of the contemplative life is the perfection of love.” St Thomas Aquinas “Listening is so much like loving, that most people can’t tell the difference.” Today, Autumn Domingue joins us again on the podcast to explore the contemplative method—what it is and how it fits into the history of the Church, as well as its place within the rich tradition of CGS. She also guides us through practical tools for becoming a more contemplative listener and responder. Autumn Domingue is a spiritual director and life coach who delights in walking alongside others as they seek deeper meaning and purpose. For the past twelve years, she has supported individuals in her private practice. With over thirty years of experience as a catechist and formation leader, and as a new instructor at Aquinas Institute of Theology, Autumn is equally at home nurturing children in the atrium and guiding graduate students in their study of spirituality. Autumn’s website Spiritual Direction 101 Thank you to all our members and our donors who have given to the 2025-26 Annual Appeal and Tina Lillig Memorial Fund. Your donations make it possible for CGSUSA to expand formation opportunities, give mission courses, invest in technology, create catechist and parent resources and publications, and offer many wonderful events that build our catechist community. All of these initiatives help us serve children with love and generosity. The revenue generated from membership fees covers about 55 percent of the cost of the benefits of membership, so philanthropy is essential to delivering excellent support to catechists, ministry leaders, families, and children. To find out more or make a gift, please visit www.cgsusa.org/donate. Thank you! Podcast Episodes you might be interested in: Episode 37: CGS and Spiritual Direction with Autumn Domingue Episode 42: The Mystery of Time with Autumn Domingue Episode 85: CGS and Accompaniment with Fr Boniface Hicks Episode 102: Theological Reflection with Autumn Domingue Episode 126: The Thinking Environment with Jennifer Bell Episode 154: Holy Simplicity The Religious Potential of the Child CGSUSA Store BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd57:Tf73,

"I salute you, Queen Wisdom. May the Lord safeguard you with your holy sister, pure and holy simplicity.” - St Francis of Assisi, The Praise of Virtue

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Today we read Sofia Cavalletti’s 2003 journal article “Holy Simplicity,” and then Anna Hurdle joined me to discuss the beauty and wisdom found in her words.

Read the article “Holy Simplicity” HERE

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

58:Tb34,"I salute you, Queen Wisdom. May the Lord safeguard you with your holy sister, pure and holy simplicity.” - St Francis of Assisi, The Praise of Virtue Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Today we read Sofia Cavalletti’s 2003 journal article “Holy Simplicity,” and then Anna Hurdle joined me to discuss the beauty and wisdom found in her words. Anna Hurdle is a catechist and formation leader at levels I, II and III. She is a retired elementary Montessori guide and coordinator of CGS at her parish in Charlotte, NC. Anna serves the National Association through the Episcopal Committee and the Formation Advisory Council. Read the article “Holy Simplicity” HERE Thank you to all our members and our donors who have given to the 2025-26 Annual Appeal and Tina Lillig Memorial Fund. Your donations make it possible for CGSUSA to expand formation opportunities, give mission courses, invest in technology, create catechist and parent resources and publications, and offer many wonderful events that build our catechist community. All of these initiatives help us serve children with love and generosity. The revenue generated from membership fees covers about 55 percent of the cost of the benefits of membership, so philanthropy is essential to delivering excellent support to catechists, ministry leaders, families, and children. To find out more or make a gift, please visit www.cgsusa.org/donate. Thank you! The Religious Potential of the Child CGSUSA Store BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd59:T1819,

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” – 2 Corinthians 3:17

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Purchase Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom by Jane Nelson and Chip DeLorenzo

Chip DeLorenzo, co-author of Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom, and his wife Kathleen, a Level I CGS catechist, join us to share how they became involved in both Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and Positive Discipline. They explore the connections between Positive Discipline and Montessori philosophy, and offer practical tools to help us maintain freedom and limits in our work with children in the atrium.

Chip and Kathleen DeLorenzo are longtime Montessori educators and parents of five Montessori-educated children. Chip has been teaching since 1995, is co-author of Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom, and has trained thousands of teachers and parents through his workshops and lectures. Kathleen is a certified Primary Guide who taught in Children’s House classrooms for 10 years, and is also a Level One Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Guide, bringing together Montessori education and spiritual formation for children. Together, Chip and Kathy share a passion for supporting families, educators, and children in living out the principles of Montessori both in the classroom and at home.

For more information about Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom, newsletter articles, or to register for the online PDMC course please go to the link below. If you register for the course, please indicate CGS as your group affiliation.

Pdmc-montessori.org

Positivediscipline.com

Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline:

Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia

Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita

Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child

Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child

Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni

Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita

Episode 142 – Adults as Potential Obstacles for Development with Pilar Bewley

Episode 145 – Psychic Deviations with Maggie Radzik

Episode 146 – Tools for Freedom and Discipline

Episode 147 – Development of the Will

Episode 152 – Positive Discipline with Pilar Bewley

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

5a:Tf19,“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” – 2 Corinthians 3:17 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Chip DeLorenzo, co-author of Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom, and his wife Kathleen, a Level I CGS catechist, join us to share how they became involved in both Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and Positive Discipline. They explore the connections between Positive Discipline and Montessori philosophy, and offer practical tools to help us maintain freedom and limits in our work with children in the atrium. Chip and Kathleen DeLorenzo are longtime Montessori educators and parents of five Montessori-educated children. Chip has been teaching since 1995, is co-author of Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom, and has trained thousands of teachers and parents through his workshops and lectures. Kathleen is a certified Primary Guide who taught in Children’s House classrooms for 10 years, and is also a Level One Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Guide, bringing together Montessori education and spiritual formation for children. Together, Chip and Kathy share a passion for supporting families, educators, and children in living out the principles of Montessori both in the classroom and at home. Purchase Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom by Jane Nelson and Chip DeLorenzo For more information about Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom, newsletter articles, or to register for the online PDMC course please go to the link below. If you register for the course, please indicate CGS as your group affiliation. Pdmc-montessori.org Positivediscipline.com Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline: Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita Episode 142 – Adults as Potential Obstacles for Development with Pilar Bewley Episode 145 – Psychic Deviations with Maggie Radzik Episode 146 – Tools for Freedom and Discipline Episode 147 – Development of the Will Episode 152 – Positive Discipline with Pilar Bewley The Religious Potential of the Child CGSUSA Store BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd5b:T1646,

“God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline. II Timothy 1:7

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Purchase Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom by Jane Nelson and Chip DeLorenzo

Pilar joins us once again to discuss Positive Discipline and share practical tools that can help us uphold both freedom and limits—whether in the atrium or at home.

Pilar Bewley is an AMI-certified guide for Primary and Elementary levels and a Positive Discipline facilitator. After spending over a decade teaching in Montessori classrooms, Pilar began homeschooling her children in 2019. Her passion for making Montessori education accessible inspired her to create Mainly Montessori, where she mentors parents who choose to homeschool using Montessori principles. Connect with Pilar on Instagram at @mainly.montessori.homeschool or visit her website at www.mainlymontessori.com.

Pdmc-montessori.org

Positivediscipline.com

Types of Parenting Chart

Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline:

Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia

Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita

Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child

Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child

Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni

Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita

Episode 142 – Adults as Potential Obstacles for Development with Pilar Bewley

Episode 145 – Psychic Deviations with Maggie Radzik

Episode 146 – Tools for Freedom and Discipline

Episode 147 – Development of the Will

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

5c:Td52,“God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline. II Timothy 1:7 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Pilar joins us once again to discuss Positive Discipline and share practical tools that can help us uphold both freedom and limits—whether in the atrium or at home. Pilar Bewley is an AMI-certified guide for Primary and Elementary levels and a Positive Discipline facilitator. After spending over a decade teaching in Montessori classrooms, Pilar began homeschooling her children in 2019. Her passion for making Montessori education accessible inspired her to create Mainly Montessori, where she mentors parents who choose to homeschool using Montessori principles. Connect with Pilar on Instagram at @mainly.montessori.homeschool or visit her website at www.mainlymontessori.com. Purchase Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom by Jane Nelson and Chip DeLorenzo For more information about Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom, newsletter articles, or to register for the online PDMC course please go to the link below. If you register for the course, please indicate CGS as your group affiliation. Pdmc-montessori.org Positivediscipline.com Types of Parenting Chart Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline: Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita Episode 142 – Adults as Potential Obstacles for Development with Pilar Bewley Episode 145 – Psychic Deviations with Maggie Radzik Episode 146 – Tools for Freedom and Discipline Episode 147 – Development of the Will The Religious Potential of the Child CGSUSA Store BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd5d:T146f,

“Your speech must always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.” Colossians 4:6

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Stephanie and Maris dive into the huge subject of communication and how we can see it’s importance deep in our CGS roots, the value of good communication among the catechists and assistants in the atrium, as well as between different CGS church communities.

Maris Wimberly began the work of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2008 and is a Nationally Recognized Formation Leader in Levels I, II, & III. She has a BS in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Birmingham-Southern College and is a former preschool teacher. Maris is the coordinator of CGS at Our Lady of Sorrows Church and School in Homewood, AL, and a catechist in all 3 atrium levels throughout the week. She also works with 7th and 8th graders in preparation for Confirmation.

Facets of Joy

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month:

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

5e:Tfa2,“Your speech must always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.” Colossians 4:6 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Stephanie and Maris dive into the huge subject of communication and how we can see it’s importance deep in our CGS roots, the value of good communication among the catechists and assistants in the atrium, as well as between different CGS church communities. Maris Wimberly began the work of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2008 and is a Nationally Recognized Formation Leader in Levels I, II, & III. She has a BS in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Birmingham-Southern College and is a former preschool teacher. Maris is the coordinator of CGS at Our Lady of Sorrows Church and School in Homewood, AL, and a catechist in all 3 atrium levels throughout the week. She also works with 7th and 8th graders in preparation for Confirmation. Stephanie Diethelm has been a catechist since 1998. She completed her Level 1 training with Tina Lillig, Barbara Searle and Carol Nyberg in Chicago in 1999 and says that it changed her life. She has been a formation leader for the National Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd since 2005. She has worked extensively with children and adults in a variety of settings and now works with children in an atrium both at Red Mountain Community School and All Saints Episcopal Church in Birmingham, AL. She also completed the Education for Ministry (EfM) Seminar course through Sewanee: University of the South School of Theology in 2019 and has been a trained mentor for EfM Groups since 2020. She resides in Birmingham, AL and has two children, Catherine (33) and Christopher (30). Facets of Joy The Religious Potential of the Child CGSUSA Store BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc5f:T1839,

“Train the young in the way they should go; even when old, they will not swerve from it.” Proverbs 22:6

“In the absence of a faith environment where the child may live, of which he feels himself a part and in which he feels himself almost held, we risk cultivating hothouse flowers in the atrium, which are incapable of enduring the severity of the external climate. On the other hand, without a place where the child can come in touch with the religious reality in a way and at a rhythm suitable to children, there is the danger the child will pass by great things without ever being able to grasp, interiorize, and make these realities his own. The initiation of a child into Christian life is not a work that can be fulfilled by the catechist alone, nor by the parents alone, It is the whole Christian community that proclaims Christ, and the child must enter into contact with the entire Christian community. The catechist’s work – valuable as it is- must be sustained and confirmed by a community that lives what the catechist proclaims.” Sofia Cavalletti, The Religious Potential of the Child page 30-31

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Episode 96 – MAPS-CGS Degree

Hannah Marconeri shares with us idea on how to get parents involved in the CGS program as an aid to the CGS program but also for their own personal spiritual growth as well as to aid in the prayer life of their domestic churches.

Hannah Marconeri began her journey with The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2011 and currently serves as a catechist and Director of Discipleship at St. Robert Bellarmine in Flushing, MI. She works with families in the Catholic school and in the parish setting. She is a Level One and Two Formation Leader and has a masters degree in Pastoral Studies and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (MAPS-CGS) from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, MO.

Episode 74 – Spiritual Preparation of the Adult

Episode 98 - Welcoming the Children

Episode 122 - Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART ONE

Episode 123 - Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART TWO

Episode 124 - The Work of the Second Plane Child

A List of Podcast Episodes for Parents

Parent Pages

Baptism as a Beginning

The Good Shepherd and the Child: A Joyful Journey

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

60:Tfae,“Train the young in the way they should go; even when old, they will not swerve from it.” Proverbs 22:6 “In the absence of a faith environment where the child may live, of which he feels himself a part and in which he feels himself almost held, we risk cultivating hothouse flowers in the atrium, which are incapable of enduring the severity of the external climate. On the other hand, without a place where the child can come in touch with the religious reality in a way and at a rhythm suitable to children, there is the danger the child will pass by great things without ever being able to grasp, interiorize, and make these realities his own. The initiation of a child into Christian life is not a work that can be fulfilled by the catechist alone, nor by the parents alone, It is the whole Christian community that proclaims Christ, and the child must enter into contact with the entire Christian community. The catechist’s work – valuable as it is- must be sustained and confirmed by a community that lives what the catechist proclaims.” Sofia Cavalletti, The Religious Potential of the Child page 30-31 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Hannah Marconeri shares with us idea on how to get parents involved in the CGS program as an aid to the CGS program but also for their own personal spiritual growth as well as to aid in the prayer life of their domestic churches. Hannah Marconeri began her journey with The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2011 and currently serves as a catechist and Director of Discipleship at St. Robert Bellarmine in Flushing, MI. She works with families in the Catholic school and in the parish setting. She is a Level One and Two Formation Leader and has a masters degree in Pastoral Studies and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (MAPS-CGS) from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, MO. Episode 96 – MAPS-CGS Degree Episode 74 – Spiritual Preparation of the Adult Episode 98 - Welcoming the Children Episode 122 - Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART ONE Episode 123 - Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART TWO Episode 124 - The Work of the Second Plane Child A List of Podcast Episodes for Parents Parent Pages Baptism as a Beginning The Good Shepherd and the Child: A Joyful Journey CGSUSA Store BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Ch61:T1593,

“The Lord said to Abram: Go forth from your land, your relatives, and from your father’s house to a land that I will show you.” Genesis 12:1

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Episode 96 – MAPS-CGS Degree

There is a new MAPS-CGS Cohort through Aquinas Institute in St Louis starting in January and applications are currently open to join! Carolyn Wright joins us to tell us a little about the program, who should prayerfully consider if this is the direction God is calling you, what are the logistics of the program, and so much more!

Carolyn Wright, MDiv., DMin serves on the faculty of Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri. She teaches in the areas of ministerial formation and Christian spirituality. Carolyn directs the Master of Arts in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (MAPS-CGS) degree program, the Theological Field Education program, and the Graduate Certificate in Spiritual Direction program at Aquinas. Carolyn has been a longtime advocate for CGS since she completed Level I (2010) and Level II (2011) formations. She recently completed Level III formation (2025). Carolyn is available to talk further about the MAPS-CGS degree program at Aquinas (wright@ai.edu | 314-256-8879)

Episode 74 – Spiritual Preparation of the Adult

Episode 98 - Welcoming the Children

Episode 122 - Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART ONE

Episode 123 - Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART TWO

Episode 124 - The Work of the Second Plane Child

MAPS-CGS Master’s Degree Brochure

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

62:Tf24,“The Lord said to Abram: Go forth from your land, your relatives, and from your father’s house to a land that I will show you.” Genesis 12:1 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study There is a new MAPS-CGS Cohort through Aquinas Institute in St Louis starting in January and applications are currently open to join! Carolyn Wright joins us to tell us a little about the program, who should prayerfully consider if this is the direction God is calling you, what are the logistics of the program, and so much more! Carolyn Wright, MDiv., DMin serves on the faculty of Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri. She teaches in the areas of ministerial formation and Christian spirituality. Carolyn directs the Master of Arts in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (MAPS-CGS) degree program, the Theological Field Education program, and the Graduate Certificate in Spiritual Direction program at Aquinas. Carolyn has been a longtime advocate for CGS since she completed Level I (2010) and Level II (2011) formations. She recently completed Level III formation (2025). Carolyn is available to talk further about the MAPS-CGS degree program at Aquinas (wright@ai.edu | 314-256-8879) Episode 96 – MAPS-CGS Degree Episode 74 – Spiritual Preparation of the Adult Episode 98 - Welcoming the Children Episode 122 - Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART ONE Episode 123 - Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART TWO Episode 124 - The Work of the Second Plane Child MAPS-CGS Master’s Degree Brochure REGISTER FOR MAPS CGS Virtual Information Session and Lecture Series CGSUSA Store BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd63:T1f85,

“For the Lord gives wisdom;  from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” ~ Proverbs 2:6

“3. The atrium is a community in which children and adults live together a religious experience that facilitates participation in the wider community of the family, the church, and other social spheres. • The atrium is a place of prayer, in which work and study spontaneously become meditation, contemplation, and prayer. • The atrium is a place in which the only Teacher is Christ; both children and adults place themselves in a listening stance before his Word and seek to penetrate the mystery of the liturgical celebration.” - 32 Points of Reflection of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

EPISODE 72- Characteristic of the Good Shepherd Catechesis

Beate and Ann discuss the variety of meanings and the importance of de-schooling as it pertains to our work in catechesis.

Ann Garrido has been a catechist of the Good Shepherd since 1996. She currently serves as a Level One catechist at her parish while she also serves as a formation leader for the US Association at all three levels. Ann is an Associate Professor at Aquinas Institute of Theology, a graduate school of theology and ministry in the Dominican tradition. She is the author of multiple works, including her newest book Redeeming Power about the healthy and holy exercise of leadership. Ann Garrido’s website HERE

Beate Buescher is a wife, mother, Omi, and catechist who began her journey with Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2003. Her educational background is in early childhood education and she is passionate about faith, learning, nature and positive parenting. When she walked into her first formation course, she felt that she had finally found her tribe! Beate is currently listening to God alongside Level 1 and 3 children and is certified in all levels of CGS, including Infant/Toddler. She is a recognized Level 1 Formation Leader.

Read the article Characteristics of the Good Shepherd Catechesis by Sofia Cavalletti

2014 Consiglio Report: De-Schooling

Books by Ann Garrido

ANN’S NEW BOOK – REDEEMING POWER

Redeeming Administration

Redeeming Conflict

A Year with Sofia Cavalletti by Ann Garrido

Preaching with Children

Podcast Episodes with Ann Garrido

Episode 19 – Typology with Ann Garrido

Episode 53 – The Birth and Infancy of Jesus with Ann Garrido

Episode 59 – Preaching with Children with Ann Garrido

Episode 68 – The CGS Heritage – Eugenio Zolli with Ann Garrido

Episode 111. About Justice, A Meditation by Fr Mongillo with Ann Garrido

Episode 127 – Redeeming Administration with Ann Garrido

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

The Prepared Environment: Making Materials

with Don Martin (The Catechist's Husband) and Lynda Catalano

Tuesday, August 26, 2025

7:00 - 8:30 pm EDT

Join Don Martin, CGSUSA Vendor, The Catechist's Husband, and Lynda Catalano, CGSUSA Formation Leader, who will share her wisdom and passion for making the materials by hand. Don and Lynda's sessions will be followed by time for questions. All those present will be registered for a drawing for an atrium material from the Catechist's Husband.

Mark your calendars for this SPECIAL EVENT.

Registration Here!

This is a free Zoom Session

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

64:Tf99,“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” ~ Proverbs 2:6 “3. The atrium is a community in which children and adults live together a religious experience that facilitates participation in the wider community of the family, the church, and other social spheres. • The atrium is a place of prayer, in which work and study spontaneously become meditation, contemplation, and prayer. • The atrium is a place in which the only Teacher is Christ; both children and adults place themselves in a listening stance before his Word and seek to penetrate the mystery of the liturgical celebration.” - 32 Points of Reflection of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Beate and Ann discuss the variety of meanings and the importance of de-schooling as it pertains to our work in catechesis. Ann Garrido has been a catechist of the Good Shepherd since 1996. She currently serves as a Level One catechist at her parish while she also serves as a formation leader for the US Association at all three levels. Ann is an Associate Professor at Aquinas Institute of Theology, a graduate school of theology and ministry in the Dominican tradition. She is the author of multiple works, including her newest book Redeeming Power about the healthy and holy exercise of leadership. Ann Garrido’s website HERE Beate Buescher is a wife, mother, Omi, and catechist who began her journey with Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2003. Her educational background is in early childhood education and she is passionate about faith, learning, nature and positive parenting. When she walked into her first formation course, she felt that she had finally found her tribe! Beate is currently listening to God alongside Level 1 and 3 children and is certified in all levels of CGS, including Infant/Toddler. She is a recognized Level 1 Formation Leader. EPISODE 72- Characteristic of the Good Shepherd Catechesis Read the article Characteristics of the Good Shepherd Catechesis by Sofia Cavalletti 2014 Consiglio Report: De-Schooling Books by Ann Garrido ANN’S NEW BOOK – REDEEMING POWER Redeeming Administration Redeeming Conflict A Year with Sofia Cavalletti by Ann Garrido Preaching with Children Podcast Episodes with Ann Garrido Episode 19 – Typology with Ann Garrido Episode 53 – The Birth and Infancy of Jesus with Ann Garrido Episode 59 – Preaching with Children with Ann Garrido Episode 68 – The CGS Heritage – Eugenio Zolli with Ann Garrido Episode 111. About Justice, A Meditation by Fr Mongillo with Ann Garrido Episode 127 – Redeeming Administration with Ann Garrido CGSUSA Store The Prepared Environment: Making Materials with Don Martin (The Catechist's Husband) and Lynda Catalano Tuesday, August 26, 2025 7:00 - 8:30 pm EDT Join Don Martin, CGSUSA Vendor, The Catechist's Husband, and Lynda Catalano, CGSUSA Formation Leader, who will share her wisdom and passion for making the materials by hand. Don and Lynda's sessions will be followed by time for questions. All those present will be registered for a drawing for an atrium material from the Catechist's Husband. Mark your calendars for this SPECIAL EVENT. Registration Here! This is a free Zoom Session BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts65:T1a95,

"For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control.” 2 Timothy 1:7

"We must remember that the phenomenon of internal discipline is something which. Must be achieved, not something pre-existent. Our function is that of guides upon the road of discipline.” - Maria Montessori, The Call of Education

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Sister Maria Teresita joins us again on the podcast to explore the development of the will in children and how we can aid and hinder this development. She also speaks to us about what Montessori called the levels of Obedience.

Sister Maria Teresita is a Dominican Sister of St. Cecilia. She currently serves as an upper-elementary guide at St. Philip Learning Center, a Catholic Montessori homeschool enrichment program in Franklin, TN, a catechist for Levels 2 and 3 in a parish setting, and a formation leader for CGS Levels 1 and 2. Sister holds an AMI diploma at the Elementary level, a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies (Aquinas College, Nashville), and a M.A. in Montessori Education (Loyola University, Maryland). She has enjoyed nearly 20 years serving children as a classroom teacher in both conventional and Montessori settings and 14 years as a catechist of the Good Shepherd in all three atria levels. Sister began her Montessori journey as a child in a Montessori school where she developed a deep love for learning. She is a convert to the Catholic faith and delights in every opportunity to “listen to God with children.”

Spontaneous Activity in Education by Maria Montessori

The Four Planes of Development Booklet

Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline:

Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia

Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita

Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child

Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child

Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni

Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita

Episode 142 – Adults as Potential Obstacles in Development with Pilar Bewley

The Prepared Environment: Making Materials

with Don Martin (The Catechist's Husband) and Lynda Catalano

Tuesday, August 26, 2025

7:00 - 8:30 pm EDT

Mark your calendars for this SPECIAL EVENT.

Registration information will come in July.

This is a free Zoom Session

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

66:Tfad,"For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control.” 2 Timothy 1:7 "We must remember that the phenomenon of internal discipline is something which. Must be achieved, not something pre-existent. Our function is that of guides upon the road of discipline.” - Maria Montessori, The Call of Education Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Sister Maria Teresita joins us again on the podcast to explore the development of the will in children and how we can aid and hinder this development. She also speaks to us about what Montessori called the levels of Obedience. Sister Maria Teresita is a Dominican Sister of St. Cecilia. She currently serves as an upper-elementary guide at St. Philip Learning Center, a Catholic Montessori homeschool enrichment program in Franklin, TN, a catechist for Levels 2 and 3 in a parish setting, and a formation leader for CGS Levels 1 and 2. Sister holds an AMI diploma at the Elementary level, a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies (Aquinas College, Nashville), and a M.A. in Montessori Education (Loyola University, Maryland). She has enjoyed nearly 20 years serving children as a classroom teacher in both conventional and Montessori settings and 14 years as a catechist of the Good Shepherd in all three atria levels. Sister began her Montessori journey as a child in a Montessori school where she developed a deep love for learning. She is a convert to the Catholic faith and delights in every opportunity to “listen to God with children.” CGSUSA Store Spontaneous Activity in Education by Maria Montessori The Four Planes of Development Booklet Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline: Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita Episode 142 – Adults as Potential Obstacles in Development with Pilar Bewley The Prepared Environment: Making Materials with Don Martin (The Catechist's Husband) and Lynda Catalano Tuesday, August 26, 2025 7:00 - 8:30 pm EDT Join Don Martin, CGSUSA Vendor, The Catechist's Husband, and Lynda Catalano, CGSUSA Formation Leader, who will share her wisdom and passion for making the materials by hand. Don and Lynda's sessions will be followed by time for questions. All those present will be registered for a drawing for an atrium material from the Catechist's Husband. Mark your calendars for this SPECIAL EVENT. Registration information will come in July. This is a free Zoom Session BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcew67:T1cb4,

"For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control.” 2 Timothy 1:7

“The child’s development follows a path of successive stages of independence and our knowledge of this must guide us in our behavior towards him. We have to help the child to act, will, and think for himself. This is the art of serving the spirit. An art which can be practiced to perfection only when working among children.” Maria Montessori, The Absorbent Mind

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Claire Paglia and Cathy Johanni join us to discuss four tools that can be used in your atrium and in your home: modeling, scaffolding, isolation of difficulty and purposeful work.

Claire Paglia is a child of the atrium. As an adult, she is an AMI-trained guide who has been in the primary environment for 12 years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in education with a concentration in Montessori from Loyola University, Maryland. She worked for a year as a course assistant for the primary training center. In 2012, she received her Level I formation and has been a catechist at her church in varying capacities since then. She enjoys spending time with her family and particularly enjoys preparing Montessori-friendly spaces at home for her three children. @_athomewithmontessori_

Five Reasons to Stop Saying “Good Job” by Alfie Kohn

Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline:

Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia

Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita

Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child

Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child

Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni

Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita

Episode 142 – Adults as Potential Obstacles in Development with Pilar Bewley

The Prepared Environment: Making Materials

with Don Martin (The Catechist's Husband) and Lynda Catalano

Tuesday, August 26, 2025

7:00 - 8:30 pm EDT

Mark your calendars for this SPECIAL EVENT.

Registration information will come in July.

This is a free Zoom Session

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

68:Tfb1,"For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control.” 2 Timothy 1:7 “The child’s development follows a path of successive stages of independence and our knowledge of this must guide us in our behavior towards him. We have to help the child to act, will, and think for himself. This is the art of serving the spirit. An art which can be practiced to perfection only when working among children.” Maria Montessori, The Absorbent Mind Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Claire Paglia and Cathy Johanni join us to discuss four tools that can be used in your atrium and in your home: modeling, scaffolding, isolation of difficulty and purposeful work. Claire Paglia is a child of the atrium. As an adult, she is an AMI-trained guide who has been in the primary environment for 12 years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in education with a concentration in Montessori from Loyola University, Maryland. She worked for a year as a course assistant for the primary training center. In 2012, she received her Level I formation and has been a catechist at her church in varying capacities since then. She enjoys spending time with her family and particularly enjoys preparing Montessori-friendly spaces at home for her three children. @_athomewithmontessori_ Cathy Johanni lives in Columbus, Ohio where she has enjoyed accompanying children on their spiritual journeys for more than two decades. She is recognized as a formation leader in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at levels I, II, and III. She has been involved in Montessori education for a decade, working with children ages 5-14. A member of the editorial committee for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Annual Journal. Cathy has authored articles and contributed to The Roman Missal Third Edition and the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd: Changes to Materials . She holds a Bachelor’s degree in cultural anthropology from Princeton University, a Master’s degree from The Ohio State University and Montessori Elementary certificates. Married for 31 years, she is the mother of five. CGSUSA Store Five Reasons to Stop Saying “Good Job” by Alfie Kohn Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline: Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita Episode 142 – Adults as Potential Obstacles in Development with Pilar Bewley The Prepared Environment: Making Materials with Don Martin (The Catechist's Husband) and Lynda Catalano Tuesday, August 26, 2025 7:00 - 8:30 pm EDT Join Don Martin, CGSUSA Vendor, The Catechist's Husband, and Lynda Catalano, CGSUSA Formation Leader, who will share her wisdom and passion for making the materials by hand. Don and Lynda's sessions will be followed by time for questions. All those present will be registered for a drawing for an atrium material from the Catechist's Husband. Mark your calendars for this SPECIAL EVENT. Registration information will come in July. This is a free Zoom Session BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We69:T1c93,

“Let the children come to me and hinder them not, for of such is the Kingdom of God” Matthew 19:14

"A creature can be led astray by something that is in itself quite small. It is something that creeps in unnoticed under the guise of love and assistance but which is actually due to blindness of an adult whose unconscious egoism can have a truly diabolical influence upon a child. And yet children are constantly being born anew, bearing within themselves unspoiled the plan according to which they should normally develop." Maria Montessori

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Read Maggie’s Article “The First-Plane Child and Obstacles to Normalization” Online Here

Maggie speaks to us about Montessori’s philosophy of Psychic Deviations, how they come about, different types of deviations as well as how they can be healed through Normalization and work.

Five Reasons to Stop Saying “Good Job” by Alfie Kohn

Maria Montessori Speaks to Parents

Secret of Childhood by Maria Montessori

Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline:

Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia

Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita

Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child

Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child

Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni

Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita

Episode 142 – Adults as Potential Obstacles in Development with Pilar Bewley

Purchase the book Discovery of the Child to learn more.

The Prepared Environment: Making Materials

with Don Martin (The Catechist's Husband) and Lynda Catalano

Tuesday, August 26, 2025

7:00 - 8:30 pm EDT

Mark your calendars for this SPECIAL EVENT.

Registration information will come in July.

This is a free Zoom Session

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

6a:Tfb8,“Let the children come to me and hinder them not, for of such is the Kingdom of God” Matthew 19:14 "A creature can be led astray by something that is in itself quite small. It is something that creeps in unnoticed under the guise of love and assistance but which is actually due to blindness of an adult whose unconscious egoism can have a truly diabolical influence upon a child. And yet children are constantly being born anew, bearing within themselves unspoiled the plan according to which they should normally develop." Maria Montessori Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Maggie speaks to us about Montessori’s philosophy of Psychic Deviations, how they come about, different types of deviations as well as how they can be healed through Normalization and work. Maggie Radzik has been working in Montessori for over 35 years and has been a Level I formation leader for more than 10 years. She has served both the Montessori classroom and the atrium at all levels, Toddlers through Adolescents. She is a certified Montessorian at all levels as well. I am currently the Director of Our Lady of Guadalupe Family Life Center in Ave Maria, FL Read Maggie’s Article “The First-Plane Child and Obstacles to Normalization” Online Here Five Reasons to Stop Saying “Good Job” by Alfie Kohn Maria Montessori Speaks to Parents Secret of Childhood by Maria Montessori Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline: Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita Episode 142 – Adults as Potential Obstacles in Development with Pilar Bewley Purchase the book Discovery of the Child to learn more. The Prepared Environment: Making Materials with Don Martin (The Catechist's Husband) and Lynda Catalano Tuesday, August 26, 2025 7:00 - 8:30 pm EDT Join Don Martin, CGSUSA Vendor, The Catechist's Husband, and Lynda Catalano, CGSUSA Formation Leader, who will share her wisdom and passion for making the materials by hand. Don and Lynda's sessions will be followed by time for questions. All those present will be registered for a drawing for an atrium material from the Catechist's Husband. Mark your calendars for this SPECIAL EVENT. Registration information will come in July. This is a free Zoom Session BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepare6b:T1ba2,

“For freedom Christ set us free; so stand firm and do not submit again to the yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1

"Every useless help is an obstacle to the child's development." Maria Montessori

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia

Cecilia joins us on the podcast again to help us explore how to foster Independence in the 0-3 year-old. How we as the adult can help this growth in the child rather than be an obstacle.

Cecilia Drabbant holds an Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) diploma in Assistant to Infancy (0-3), as well as an AMI certificate in Montessori Core Principles. She also holds an Architecture Engineering degree from Universitas Katolik Parahyangan, Bandung, Indonesia, and completed her formation in evangelization from Emmanuel School of Mission in Rome, Italy. Her work includes serving both as a Toddler Directress and a Toddler Catechist for the weekly sessions at Renaissance Montessori School. Since being introduced to the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2012, she has received CGS formation in Levels I, II, III, and Infant-Toddler, and has the opportunity to work with children at all levels. Additionally, she is recognized as a Level 1 Formation Leader. A particularly meaningful moment in her ministry was when she and her team brought the first CGS Formation Course to Indonesia in its native language.

Currently, Cecilia serves as a Catechist and Atrium Program Director at Renaissance Montessori School in Nokesville, VA, also a Level II Catechist at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Parish Church in Colonial Beach, VA.

Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline:

Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita

Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child

Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child

Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni

Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita

Episode 142 – Adults as Potential Obstacles in Development with Pilar Bewley

Purchase the book Discovery of the Child to learn more.

The Prepared Environment: Making Materials

with Don Martin (The Catechist's Husband) and Lynda Catalano

Tuesday, August 26, 2025

7:00 - 8:30 pm EDT

Mark your calendars for this SPECIAL EVENT.

Registration information will come in July.

This is a free Zoom Session

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

6c:Tfa4,“For freedom Christ set us free; so stand firm and do not submit again to the yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1 "Every useless help is an obstacle to the child's development." Maria Montessori Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Podcasts by Series Level One Book Study Level Two Book Study Cecilia joins us on the podcast again to help us explore how to foster Independence in the 0-3 year-old. How we as the adult can help this growth in the child rather than be an obstacle. Cecilia Drabbant holds an Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) diploma in Assistant to Infancy (0-3), as well as an AMI certificate in Montessori Core Principles. She also holds an Architecture Engineering degree from Universitas Katolik Parahyangan, Bandung, Indonesia, and completed her formation in evangelization from Emmanuel School of Mission in Rome, Italy. Her work includes serving both as a Toddler Directress and a Toddler Catechist for the weekly sessions at Renaissance Montessori School. Since being introduced to the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2012, she has received CGS formation in Levels I, II, III, and Infant-Toddler, and has the opportunity to work with children at all levels. Additionally, she is recognized as a Level 1 Formation Leader. A particularly meaningful moment in her ministry was when she and her team brought the first CGS Formation Course to Indonesia in its native language. Currently, Cecilia serves as a Catechist and Atrium Program Director at Renaissance Montessori School in Nokesville, VA, also a Level II Catechist at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Parish Church in Colonial Beach, VA. Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline: Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita Episode 142 – Adults as Potential Obstacles in Development with Pilar Bewley Purchase the book Discovery of the Child to learn more. The Prepared Environment: Making Materials with Don Martin (The Catechist's Husband) and Lynda Catalano Tuesday, August 26, 2025 7:00 - 8:30 pm EDT Join Don Martin, CGSUSA Vendor, The Catechist's Husband, and Lynda Catalano, CGSUSA Formation Leader, who will share her wisdom and passion for making the materials by hand. Don and Lynda's sessions will be followed by time for questions. All those present will be registered for a drawing for an atrium material from the Catechist's Husband. Mark your calendars for this SPECIAL EVENT. Registration information will come in July. This is a free Zoom Session BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! Th6d:Tf3a,“For you are a people sacred to the Lord, your God, who has chosen you from al the nations on the face of the earth to be a people peculiarly his own.” Deuteronomy 14:2 Characteristic #31 “Every atrium avails itself of the help of a priest who is attentive to the children, particularly to their religious capacities, celebrates Eucharist and sacrament of reconciliation with them, and works in harmony with the spirit of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. “32 Points of Reflection of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Fr Joseph joins us on the podcast to share about how he became involved in CGS and how it has affected his view of children’s spirituality and his vocation as a priest. He also shares a few tips on how to get your own priests and deacons involved in CGS. Fr. Joseph Lustig is a priest of the Diocese of Boise, Idaho and a native of Cottonwood, Idaho. He has completed formation in and assisted with CGS levels one and two. He has been a parish priest for six years and currently is completing a Licentiate in Canon Law from Saint Paul University in Ottawa, Canada, where he also serves a local parish in its atrium. If you have any questions or want to reach out, you can contact him at fr.lustig@icloud.com. Books You May Be Interested In: Preaching With Children The Religious Potential of the Child Episodes from other Priests: Episode 29 – CGS and Christian Unity with Bishop Talley Episode 32 – A Priest in the Atrium Episode 85 – CGS and Accompaniment with Fr Boniface Hicks Episode 125 – A Priest in CGS with Fr Kevin Douglas Episode 138 – CGS and Ignatius Spirituality with Fr Joseph Hill BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd6e:T1424,

“For you are a people sacred to the Lord, your God, who has chosen you from al the nations on the face of the earth to be a people peculiarly his own.” Deuteronomy 14:2

Characteristic #31 “Every atrium avails itself of the help of a priest who is attentive to the children, particularly to their religious capacities, celebrates Eucharist and sacrament of reconciliation with them, and works in harmony with the spirit of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. “32 Points of Reflection of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Fr Joseph joins us on the podcast to share about how he became involved in CGS and how it has affected his view of children’s spirituality and his vocation as a priest. He also shares a few tips on how to get your own priests and deacons involved in CGS.

Fr. Joseph Lustig is a priest of the Diocese of Boise, Idaho and a native of Cottonwood, Idaho. He has completed formation in and assisted with CGS levels one and two. He has been a parish priest for six years and currently is completing a Licentiate in Canon Law from Saint Paul University in Ottawa, Canada, where he also serves a local parish in its atrium. If you have any questions or want to reach out, you can contact him at fr.lustig@icloud.com.

Books You May Be Interested In:

Preaching With Children

Episode 29 – CGS and Christian Unity with Bishop Talley

Episodes from other Priests:

Episode 32 – A Priest in the Atrium

Episode 85 – CGS and Accompaniment with Fr Boniface Hicks

Episode 125 – A Priest in CGS with Fr Kevin Douglas

Episode 138 – CGS and Ignatius Spirituality with Fr Joseph Hill

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

6f:T14eb,

“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?” Matthew 7:3-5

"Every useless help is an obstacle to the child's development." Maria Montessori

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Pilar joins us back on the podcast to explore way that adults unintentionally can become obstacles in a child’s development, what this does to a child, and how we can avoid offering useless help.

Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline:

Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia

Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita

Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child

Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child

Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni

Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita

Purchase the book Discovery of the Child to learn more.

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

70:Te7e,“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?” Matthew 7:3-5 "Every useless help is an obstacle to the child's development." Maria Montessori Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Pilar joins us back on the podcast to explore way that adults unintentionally can become obstacles in a child’s development, what this does to a child, and how we can avoid offering useless help. Pilar Bewley is an AMI-certified guide for Primary and Elementary levels and a Positive Discipline facilitator. After spending over a decade teaching in Montessori classrooms, Pilar began homeschooling her children in 2019. Her passion for making Montessori education accessible inspired her to create Mainly Montessori, where she mentors parents who choose to homeschool using Montessori principles. Connect with Pilar on Instagram at @mainly.montessori.homeschool or visit her website at www.mainlymontessori.com. Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline: Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita Purchase the book Discovery of the Child to learn more. BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd71:T158b,

“A tranquil mind gives life to the body” Proverbs 14:30a NAB

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Sister Maria Teresita and Claire Paglia join us back on the podcast to continue to explore tools to help us in the atrium and in our lives establish freedom and discipline. We explore the Montessori concept of Normalization so that we can be further equip to have true freedom and responsibility with children.

Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline:

Episode 4 – Normalization with Gabriela Perez

Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia

Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita

Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child

Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

72:Tfb4,“A tranquil mind gives life to the body” Proverbs 14:30a NAB Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Sister Maria Teresita and Claire Paglia join us back on the podcast to continue to explore tools to help us in the atrium and in our lives establish freedom and discipline. We explore the Montessori concept of Normalization so that we can be further equip to have true freedom and responsibility with children. Sister Maria Teresita is a Dominican Sister of St. Cecilia. She currently serves as an upper-elementary guide at St. Philip Learning Center, a Catholic Montessori homeschool enrichment program in Franklin, TN, a catechist for Levels 2 and 3 in a parish setting, and a formation leader for CGS Levels 1 and 2. Sister holds an AMI diploma at the Elementary level, a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies (Aquinas College, Nashville), and a M.A. in Montessori Education (Loyola University, Maryland). She has enjoyed nearly 20 years serving children as a classroom teacher in both conventional and Montessori settings and 14 years as a catechist of the Good Shepherd in all three atria levels. Sister began her Montessori journey as a child in a Montessori school where she developed a deep love for learning. She is a convert to the Catholic faith and delights in every opportunity to “listen to God with children.” Claire Paglia is a child of the atrium. As an adult, she is an AMI-trained guide who has been in the primary environment for 12 years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in education with a concentration in Montessori from Loyola University, Maryland. She worked for a year as a course assistant for the primary training center. In 2012, she received her Level I formation and has been a catechist at her church in varying capacities since then. She enjoys spending time with her family and particularly enjoys preparing Montessori-friendly spaces at home for her three children. Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline: Episode 4 – Normalization with Gabriela Perez Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old.73:T13d2,

"When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?’ He said to him, ‘Yes, Lord you know that I love you.’ He said to him, ‘Feed my lambs.’ ” John 21:15

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Mary Mirrione joins us on the podcast to ponder the scripture from John 21 with Peter and Jesus. We sit with this scripture in light of the Easter season we have just entered and the many gifts it has to offer us.

Mary Mirrione began working with CGS in 1992. She and a team of catechists and parents built atria at St Anne’s in Gilbert, Arizona for their 1800 children. She has been a formation leader since 1997 serving as such at home and abroad. She also works with Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity throughout the United States and around the world. Mary served on the Board for CGSUSA and is a graduate of the first cohort at Aquinas Institute of Theology to receive a Masters in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She is a faculty member of Kino Catechetical Institute in the Diocese of Phoenix. Since 2010, she serves as the National Director for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.

Growing Seeds

Become a Growing Seed Donor HERE

Items from the Store You May be Interested In:

Purchase the Religious Potential of the Child HERE

Nurturing the Whole Child

Podcast Episodes about Easter:

Episode 11 – Were Not Our Hearts Burning Within Us

Episode 61 – The Roots of the Easter Season and the Eucharist

Episode 84 – The Family in Easter

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

74:Tef1,"When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?’ He said to him, ‘Yes, Lord you know that I love you.’ He said to him, ‘Feed my lambs.’ ” John 21:15 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Mary Mirrione joins us on the podcast to ponder the scripture from John 21 with Peter and Jesus. We sit with this scripture in light of the Easter season we have just entered and the many gifts it has to offer us. Mary Mirrione began working with CGS in 1992. She and a team of catechists and parents built atria at St Anne’s in Gilbert, Arizona for their 1800 children. She has been a formation leader since 1997 serving as such at home and abroad. She also works with Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity throughout the United States and around the world. Mary served on the Board for CGSUSA and is a graduate of the first cohort at Aquinas Institute of Theology to receive a Masters in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She is a faculty member of Kino Catechetical Institute in the Diocese of Phoenix. Since 2010, she serves as the National Director for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Growing Seeds Become a Growing Seed Donor HERE Items from the Store You May be Interested In: Purchase the Religious Potential of the Child HERE Nurturing the Whole Child Podcast Episodes about Easter: Episode 11 – Were Not Our Hearts Burning Within Us Episode 61 – The Roots of the Easter Season and the Eucharist Episode 84 – The Family in Easter BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd75:T15d6,

"I can do anything through Him that strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Cathy Johanni joins us back on the podcast to share her experience, wisdom and strategies about what you can try when you feel like you are failing.

Growing Seeds

Become a Growing Seed Donor HERE

32 Characteristics of CGS otherwise called the 32 Points of Reflection

Items from the Store You May be Interested In:

Purchase the Religious Potential of the Child HERE

Nurturing the Whole Child

Podcast Episodes With Cathy:

Episode 54 – Human Needs and Tendencies

Episode 67 - Anthropological Catechesis

Episode 124 - The Work of the Second Plane Child

Podcast Episodes about Freedom and Responsibility

Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline

Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility

Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child

Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

76:Tf9c,"I can do anything through Him that strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Cathy Johanni joins us back on the podcast to share her experience, wisdom and strategies about what you can try when you feel like you are failing. Cathy Johanni lives in Columbus, Ohio where she has enjoyed accompanying children on their spiritual journeys for more than two decades. She is recognized as a formation leader in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at levels I, II, and III. She has been involved in Montessori education for a decade, working with children ages 5-14. A member of the editorial committee for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Annual Journal. Cathy has authored articles and contributed to The Roman Missal Third Edition and the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd: Changes to Materials . She holds a Bachelor’s degree in cultural anthropology from Princeton University, a Master’s degree from The Ohio State University and Montessori Elementary certificates. Married for 31 years, she is the mother of five. Growing Seeds Become a Growing Seed Donor HERE 32 Characteristics of CGS otherwise called the 32 Points of Reflection Items from the Store You May be Interested In: Purchase the Religious Potential of the Child HERE Nurturing the Whole Child Podcast Episodes With Cathy: Episode 54 – Human Needs and Tendencies Episode 67 - Anthropological Catechesis Episode 124 - The Work of the Second Plane Child Podcast Episodes about Freedom and Responsibility Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd77:T1e7d,

"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me." John 10:27

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Fr Joseph shares with us about how he got involved in The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and a few of the parallels he sees between CGS and Ignatian Spirituality.

Fr. Joseph Hill, SJ was born in Phoenix, AZ, raised in a Catholic family with his three brothers. At nine years old his family moved to England, where he attended Catholic schools and then the University of Oxford, earning a BA in theology in 2003. In 2004 he entered the Jesuit seminary in south Louisiana. Taking religious vows after two years, he was sent to study philosophy at Fordham University in New York, graduating with an MA in 2009. He then spent three years teaching theology at Jesuit High School, New Orleans. In 2012 he was sent to study theology at FAJE in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, earning a MA in 2014. Then he returned to Boston, earning a MEd at Boston College in 2015. He was ordained a Catholic priest on June 13th, 2015. For one year he worked at Parroquia San Ignacio in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and served as chaplain of Academia San Ignacio parish elementary school. It was in Puerto Rico that he became familiar with the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. With the help of two excellent catechists and the school leaders, they implemented CGS Level I in the school. In August 2016 he moved to St. Louis, where he taught and worked in campus ministry at St. Louis University High School. During this time Fr. Hill, SJ completed a Doctor of Education degree from Vanderbilt University. Since July, 2021 he has lived in Tampa, FL, working as a Province vocation promoter.

Growing Seeds

Become a Growing Seed Donor HERE

Growing Seed Donor Form. Access will also be granted to all existing recurring donors as of January 15, 2025. The recordings will be available through June 30, 2026.

Be sure to click the checkbox: “Show my support by making this a monthly donation.”

In 2024, The United States Association of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd began celebrating 40 years of being an association of catechists who listen to God with children in the United States and around the world.

In honor of our 40 years of remaining with children, we are launching a new sustainable giving program at CGSUSA: Growing Seeds.

As part of Growing Seeds, your regular, automatic gift is simple and convenient, allowing you to spread your philanthropy over time. It also provides CGSUSA with a more predictable source of income so we can focus on sustaining and supporting the religious life of children and those who serve them.

For a minimum gift amount of $15 per month ($180 per year), you will automatically be recognized as a CGSUSA Growing Seeds donor, giving you one year of access to the recordings from Between Memory and Hope: 40th Anniversary Celebration as our way of thanking you for your generosity. Please be sure you are logged in to your CGSUSA Membership account and complete the online giving form.

Access to the video recordings is available to Growing Seeds donors until June 2026, at which point we’ll have a new gift for you. For less than $5 per week, you will be able to access all the video and audio recordings from the Between Memory and Hope plenary sessions and workshops, including the full recording of Fr. Joseph Hill’s presentation, “CGS and Ignatian Spirituality,” as well as “The Metaphysical Child: To Live and Move and Have Their Being,” “Observations Serving Toddlers in the Atrium,” and “Memories of Sofia and Gianna with the Children.” These presentations would make wonderful topics for catechist retreat days, parent education sessions, and other continuing education for those who serve children.

Thank you for joining us in sustaining CGSUSA with a recurring gift.

Items from the Store You May be Interested In:

Purchase the Religious Potential of the Child HERE

Preaching with Children

Podcast Episodes With Priests:

Episode 29 – CGS and Christian Unity with Bishop Talley

Episode 32 – A Priest in the Atrium

Episode 125. A Priest in CGS with Fr Kevin Douglas

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

78:Tfa3,"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me." John 10:27 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Fr Joseph shares with us about how he got involved in The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and a few of the parallels he sees between CGS and Ignatian Spirituality. Fr. Joseph Hill, SJ was born in Phoenix, AZ, raised in a Catholic family with his three brothers. At nine years old his family moved to England, where he attended Catholic schools and then the University of Oxford, earning a BA in theology in 2003. In 2004 he entered the Jesuit seminary in south Louisiana. Taking religious vows after two years, he was sent to study philosophy at Fordham University in New York, graduating with an MA in 2009. He then spent three years teaching theology at Jesuit High School, New Orleans. In 2012 he was sent to study theology at FAJE in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, earning a MA in 2014. Then he returned to Boston, earning a MEd at Boston College in 2015. He was ordained a Catholic priest on June 13th, 2015. For one year he worked at Parroquia San Ignacio in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and served as chaplain of Academia San Ignacio parish elementary school. It was in Puerto Rico that he became familiar with the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. With the help of two excellent catechists and the school leaders, they implemented CGS Level I in the school. In August 2016 he moved to St. Louis, where he taught and worked in campus ministry at St. Louis University High School. During this time Fr. Hill, SJ completed a Doctor of Education degree from Vanderbilt University. Since July, 2021 he has lived in Tampa, FL, working as a Province vocation promoter. Growing Seeds Become a Growing Seed Donor HERE Growing Seed Donor Form. Access will also be granted to all existing recurring donors as of January 15, 2025. The recordings will be available through June 30, 2026. Be sure to click the checkbox: “Show my support by making this a monthly donation.” In 2024, The United States Association of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd began celebrating 40 years of being an association of catechists who listen to God with children in the United States and around the world. In honor of our 40 years of remaining with children, we are launching a new sustainable giving program at CGSUSA: Growing Seeds. As part of Growing Seeds, your regular, automatic gift is simple and convenient, allowing you to spread your philanthropy over time. It also provides CGSUSA with a more predictable source of income so we can focus on sustaining and supporting the religious life of children and those who serve them. For a minimum gift amount of $15 per month ($180 per year), you will automatically be recognized as a CGSUSA Growing Seeds donor, giving you one year of access to the recordings from Between Memory and Hope: 40th Anniversary Celebration as our way of thanking you for your generosity. Please be sure you are logged in to your CGSUSA Membership account and complete the online giving form. Access to the video recordings is available to Growing Seeds donors until June 2026, at which point we’ll have a new gift for you. For less than $5 per week, you will be able to access all the video and audio recordings from the Between Memory and Hope plenary sessions and workshops, including the full recording of Fr. Joseph Hill’s presentation, “CGS and Ignatian Spirituality,” as well as “The Metaphysical Child: To Live and Move and Have Their Being,” “Observations Serving Toddlers in the Atrium,” and “Memories of Sofia and Gianna with the Children.” These presentations would make wonderful topics for catechist retreat days, parent education sessions, and other continuing education for those who serve children. Thank you for joining us in sustaining CGSUSA with a recurring gift. Items from the Store You May be Interested In: Purchase the Religious Potential of the Child HERE Preaching with Children Podcast E79:T156c,

“Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit.” John 12:24

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Jo joins us on the podcast to ponder Lent as gift which is a different way of looking at Lent for most of us. Through the lens of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd she helps us look at Lent with new eyes.

Jo Thornley Cox has been in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd since 2001. She is certified in all three levels and is a formation leader recognized by the U.S. Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in Levels I and II. She is grateful to have worked on formation teams in Missouri, Kansas, North Dakota, Texas, Nebraska, Minnesota, and Ottawa, Canada. A graduate of St. Mary-of-the-Woods College near Terre Haute, Ind., she also earned a primary certificate from the American Montessori Society. Among other positions, she worked as a Montessori directress in a Catholic school in Duluth, Minn., and a parish director of traditional religious education in Kansas City, Mo., before discovering CGS. As a charter member of the SonFlower Region of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, she served on its board many years. She is co-director of CGS at St. Gabriel the Archangel Parish/School in Kansas City, offering CGS in all three levels. This is the sixth iteration of her atria and hopefully the last! Jo and her husband, Jody, have three children and a granddaughter.

CGS Lent Resources for Families

San Damiano Crucifix Parent Page

Items from the Store You May be Interested In:

Episode 31- Even Now- a Lenten Reflection

Paschal Candle Set

Podcast Episodes About Lent:

Episode 58- Examination of Conscience

Episode 83- Merciful Parenting

Episode 83- The Family in Lent

Episode 110- Learning to Love

Episode 136- CGS Lent in the Home

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

7a:Tfa2,“Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit.” John 12:24 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Jo joins us on the podcast to ponder Lent as gift which is a different way of looking at Lent for most of us. Through the lens of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd she helps us look at Lent with new eyes. Jo Thornley Cox has been in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd since 2001. She is certified in all three levels and is a formation leader recognized by the U.S. Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in Levels I and II. She is grateful to have worked on formation teams in Missouri, Kansas, North Dakota, Texas, Nebraska, Minnesota, and Ottawa, Canada. A graduate of St. Mary-of-the-Woods College near Terre Haute, Ind., she also earned a primary certificate from the American Montessori Society. Among other positions, she worked as a Montessori directress in a Catholic school in Duluth, Minn., and a parish director of traditional religious education in Kansas City, Mo., before discovering CGS. As a charter member of the SonFlower Region of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, she served on its board many years. She is co-director of CGS at St. Gabriel the Archangel Parish/School in Kansas City, offering CGS in all three levels. This is the sixth iteration of her atria and hopefully the last! Jo and her husband, Jody, have three children and a granddaughter. CGS Lent Resources for Families San Damiano Crucifix Parent Page Items from the Store You May be Interested In: To Dance with God Paschal Candle Set Podcast Episodes About Lent: Episode 31- Even Now- a Lenten Reflection Episode 58- Examination of Conscience Episode 83- Merciful Parenting Episode 83- The Family in Lent Episode 110- Learning to Love Episode 136- CGS Lent in the Home BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catech7b:T14ac,

“Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit.” John 12:24

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Mary Heinrich joins us on the podcast to discuss how we live into the Lent season in the atrium and how that can be extended into the spiritual life of the domestic church in the home.

Mary Heinrich is the Membership Coordinator for The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Prior to joining the staff, Mary served on the CGSUSA Board of Trustees for seven years. Mary has also served as a Director of Faith Formation in the Catholic Church for twenty-nine years, as well as a consultant and editor for religious education publishers. She earned a bachelor’s degree in religious studies from Mount Mercy College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and a master’s degree in Pastoral Studies in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri. Her husband, Kurt is a permanent deacon in the Diocese of Des Moines and teaches theology at the local Catholic high school, is a Level One catechist, and enjoys making materials for the atrium. Their daughter, Clare, is the elementary faith formation coordinator at her Church, working in the Level One and Level Two atria. When not immersed in CGS, Mary enjoys reading, art and spending time with her family.

CGS Lent Resources for Families

San Damiano Crucifix Parent Page

Items from the Store You May be Interested In:

Episode 31- Even Now- a Lenten Reflection

Paschal Candle Set

Podcast Episodes with Mary Heinrich:

Episode 103- Friendship of Catechists

Episode 128- CGS Advent in the Home

Podcast Episodes About Lent:

Episode 83- The Family in Lent

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

7c:Tf8d,“Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit.” John 12:24 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Mary Heinrich joins us on the podcast to discuss how we live into the Lent season in the atrium and how that can be extended into the spiritual life of the domestic church in the home. Mary Heinrich is the Membership Coordinator for The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Prior to joining the staff, Mary served on the CGSUSA Board of Trustees for seven years. Mary has also served as a Director of Faith Formation in the Catholic Church for twenty-nine years, as well as a consultant and editor for religious education publishers. She earned a bachelor’s degree in religious studies from Mount Mercy College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and a master’s degree in Pastoral Studies in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri. Her husband, Kurt is a permanent deacon in the Diocese of Des Moines and teaches theology at the local Catholic high school, is a Level One catechist, and enjoys making materials for the atrium. Their daughter, Clare, is the elementary faith formation coordinator at her Church, working in the Level One and Level Two atria. When not immersed in CGS, Mary enjoys reading, art and spending time with her family. CGS Lent Resources for Families San Damiano Crucifix Parent Page Items from the Store You May be Interested In: To Dance with God Paschal Candle Set Podcast Episodes with Mary Heinrich: Episode 31- Even Now- a Lenten Reflection Episode 103- Friendship of Catechists Episode 128- CGS Advent in the Home Podcast Episodes About Lent: Episode 83- The Family in Lent BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd7d:T1a4e,

“God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline. II Timothy 1:7

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Today we continue season 5 of the podcast with our series on Freedom and Responsibility. Pilar and Anna help us dive into what freedom and responsibility look like for the second plane child, the 6 to 12 year old and how our work specifically in CGS can aid a child’s development in freedom and responsibility.

Books you may be interested in:

Nurturing the Whole Child by Gianna Gobbi

Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom

The Discovery of the Child

Carolyn Kohlhaas’s blog The Wanderings of Sheep in the Atrium:

Freedom and Limits Series:

Freedom within Limits

"Can" and "May"

Belonging

Staying on the Path

The Collective Interest

A Place of Work

Additional Limits

True Freedom

Podcast Episodes you might be interested in:

Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia

Episode 41 – The Elementary Aged Child with Anna Hurdle

Episode 49 – Four Planes of Development with Claire Paglia

Episode 115 – CGS in the Episcopal Church with Anna Hurdle and Donna Turner

Episode 122- Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child with Lynne Worthington and Anna Hurdle

Episode 123- Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART TWO with Lynne Worthinton and Anna Hurdle

Episode 124- The Work of the Second Plane Child with Cathy Johanni and Anna Hurdle

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

7e:Tfab,“God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline. II Timothy 1:7 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Today we continue season 5 of the podcast with our series on Freedom and Responsibility. Pilar and Anna help us dive into what freedom and responsibility look like for the second plane child, the 6 to 12 year old and how our work specifically in CGS can aid a child’s development in freedom and responsibility. Pilar Bewley is an AMI-certified guide for Primary and Elementary levels and a Positive Discipline facilitator. After spending over a decade teaching in Montessori classrooms, Pilar began homeschooling her children in 2019. Her passion for making Montessori education accessible inspired her to create Mainly Montessori, where she mentors parents who choose to homeschool using Montessori principles. Connect with Pilar on Instagram at @mainly.montessori.homeschool or visit her website at www.mainlymontessori.com. Anna Hurdle is a catechist and formation leader at levels I, II and III. She is a retired elementary Montessori guide and coordinator of CGS at her parish in Charlotte, NC. Anna serves the National Association through the Episcopal Committee and the Formation Advisory Council. Books you may be interested in: Nurturing the Whole Child by Gianna Gobbi Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom The Discovery of the Child Carolyn Kohlhaas’s blog The Wanderings of Sheep in the Atrium: Freedom and Limits Series: Freedom within Limits "Can" and "May" Belonging Staying on the Path The Collective Interest A Place of Work Additional Limits True Freedom Podcast Episodes you might be interested in: Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia Episode 41 – The Elementary Aged Child with Anna Hurdle Episode 49 – Four Planes of Development with Claire Paglia Episode 115 – CGS in the Episcopal Church with Anna Hurdle and Donna Turner Episode 122- Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child with Lynne Worthington and Anna Hurdle Episode 123- Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART TWO with Lynne Worthinton and Anna Hurdle Episode 124- The Work of the Second Plane Child with Cathy Johanni and Anna Hurdle BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held7f:T1adc,

“For freedom Christ set us free; so stand firm and do not submit again to the yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Today we continue season 5 of the podcast with our series on Freedom and Responsibility. Cecilia and Claire help us dive into what freedom and responsibility look like for the first plane child, the 0-6 year old.

Books you may be interested in:

Nurturing the Whole Child by Gianna Gobbi

Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom

The Discovery of the Child

Carolyn Kohlhaas’s blog The Wanderings of Sheep in the Atrium:

Freedom and Limits Series:

Freedom within Limits

"Can" and "May"

Belonging

Staying on the Path

The Collective Interest

A Place of Work

Additional Limits

True Freedom

Podcast Episodes you might be interested in:

Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia

Episode 49 – Four Planes of Development with Claire Paglia

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

80:Tfa3,“For freedom Christ set us free; so stand firm and do not submit again to the yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Today we continue season 5 of the podcast with our series on Freedom and Responsibility. Cecilia and Claire help us dive into what freedom and responsibility look like for the first plane child, the 0-6 year old. Cecilia Drabbant holds an Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) diploma in Assistant to Infancy (0-3), as well as an AMI certificate in Montessori Core Principles. She also holds an Architecture Engineering degree from Universitas Katolik Parahyangan, Bandung, Indonesia, and completed her formation in evangelization from Emmanuel School of Mission in Rome, Italy. Her work includes serving both as a Toddler Directress and a Toddler Catechist for the weekly sessions at Renaissance Montessori School. Since being introduced to the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2012, she has received CGS formation in Levels I, II, III, and Infant-Toddler, and has the opportunity to work with children at all levels. Additionally, she is recognized as a Level 1 Formation Leader. A particularly meaningful moment in her ministry was when she and her team brought the first CGS Formation Course to Indonesia in its native language. Currently, Cecilia serves as a Catechist and Atrium Program Director at Renaissance Montessori School in Nokesville, VA, also a Level II Catechist at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Parish Church in Colonial Beach, VA. Claire Paglia is a child of the atrium. As an adult, she is an AMI-trained guide who has been in the primary environment for 12 years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in education with a concentration in Montessori from Loyola University, Maryland. She worked for a year as a course assistant for the primary training center. In 2012, she received her Level I formation and has been a catechist at her church in varying capacities since then. She enjoys spending time with her family and particularly enjoys preparing Montessori-friendly spaces at home for her three children. Books you may be interested in: Nurturing the Whole Child by Gianna Gobbi Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom The Discovery of the Child Carolyn Kohlhaas’s blog The Wanderings of Sheep in the Atrium: Freedom and Limits Series: Freedom within Limits "Can" and "May" Belonging Staying on the Path The Collective Interest A Place of Work Additional Limits True Freedom Podcast Episodes you might be interested in: Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia Episode 49 – Four Planes of Development with Claire Paglia BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life o81:T1375,

“For freedom Christ set us free; so stand firm and do not submit again to the yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

Today we begin SEASON FIVE of the podcast! We are excited to kick off season five with a series on Freedom and Responsibility with Sister Maria Terestia Rodkey talking to us about what this means and how we as adults can live into it better with the children among us.

Books you may be interested in:

Nurturing the Whole Child by Gianna Gobbi

Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom

The Discovery of the Child

Podcast Episodes you might be interested in:

Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia

Episode 49 – Four Planes of Development with Claire Paglia

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

82:Tf16,“For freedom Christ set us free; so stand firm and do not submit again to the yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! Today we begin SEASON FIVE of the podcast! We are excited to kick off season five with a series on Freedom and Responsibility with Sister Maria Terestia Rodkey talking to us about what this means and how we as adults can live into it better with the children among us. Sister Maria Teresita is a Dominican Sister of St. Cecilia. She currently serves as an upper-elementary guide at St. Philip Learning Center, a Catholic Montessori homeschool enrichment program in Franklin, TN, a catechist for Levels 2 and 3 in a parish setting, and a formation leader for CGS Levels 1 and 2. Sister holds an AMI diploma at the Elementary level, a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies (Aquinas College, Nashville), and a M.A. in Montessori Education (Loyola University, Maryland). She has enjoyed nearly 20 years serving children as a classroom teacher in both conventional and Montessori settings and 14 years as a catechist of the Good Shepherd in all three atria levels. Sister began her Montessori journey as a child in a Montessori school where she developed a deep love for learning. She is a convert to the Catholic faith and delights in every opportunity to “listen to God with children.” Books you may be interested in: Nurturing the Whole Child by Gianna Gobbi Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom The Discovery of the Child Podcast Episodes you might be interested in: Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia Episode 49 – Four Planes of Development with Claire Paglia BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram- cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd83:T1f6c,

"Hear, O heavens, and listen, O earth,

for the LORD speaks:

Sons have I raised and reared,

but they have rebelled against me.

An ox knows its owner,

and an ass,* its master’s manger;

But Israel does not know,

my people has not understood.” Isaiah 1:2-3

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

CGSUSA Parent Pages HERE

"The events of Christ’s infancy appear rather difficult due to the misuse that is generally made of them by often telling them (with many diminutives!) as if they were beautiful fables. The fact is that the infancy narratives, especially in Luke, are a type of “theological tapestry” - if it is possible to call them so- whereby the evangelist stresses the grandeur of the mystery he is announcing through a variety of techniques.” The Religious Potential of the Child, pg. 76

Marty O’Bryan joins us on the podcast to ponder how deep the scriptures during this season of Christmas are and the beautiful theological tapestry that weaves them all together throughout the whole Bible are.

Marty O’Bryan began her formation in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd with Sofia Cavalletti in 1983 and has been a catechists since 1985. She conducts adult formations at Levels I, II and III throughout the United States. A retired speech and language pathologist, Marty holds a Master of Arts degree in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis on the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from Aquinas Institute of Theology. Currently, she works with children in Level I, II, and III atria in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix.

Scripture Verses to Read in Advent and Christmas Seasons:

Annunciation- Luke 1:26-38

Visitation- Luke 1:39-56

Birth of Jesus and Adoration of the Shepherds- Luke 2:1-20

Presentation of Jesus in the Temple- Luke 2: 21-33, 36-39

Adoration of the Magi- Matthew 2:1-12

Flight into Egypt- Matthew 2:13-23

Books you may be interested in:

Ways to Nurture the Relationship with God

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: From Creation to Parousia

Books from Fr Raymond Brown:

The Birth of the Messiah

A Coming Christ in Advent

An Adult Christ as Christmas

Episodes with Marty-

Episode 15- Chapter One of Joyful Journey

Episode 95- CGS Characteristics #21 and 25 with Lynne Worthington and Marty O’Bryan

Episode 100 – Art as Prayer Response

Episode 114- Characteristic #27

Podcast Episodes about Advent and Christmas:

Episode 27- Mystery of the Incarnation with Karen Maxwell

Episode 79- Chapter 6 of The Religious Potential of the Child

Episode 104- Annunciation and the Incarnation with Sofia Cavalletti

Episode 128 CGS Advent in the Home with Mary Heinrich

Episode 129- The Family in Advent with Gertrud Muller Nelson

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

84:Tfa9,"Hear, O heavens, and listen, O earth, for the LORD speaks: Sons have I raised and reared, but they have rebelled against me. An ox knows its owner, and an ass,* its master’s manger; But Israel does not know, my people has not understood.” Isaiah 1:2-3 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! CGSUSA Parent Pages HERE "The events of Christ’s infancy appear rather difficult due to the misuse that is generally made of them by often telling them (with many diminutives!) as if they were beautiful fables. The fact is that the infancy narratives, especially in Luke, are a type of “theological tapestry” - if it is possible to call them so- whereby the evangelist stresses the grandeur of the mystery he is announcing through a variety of techniques.” The Religious Potential of the Child, pg. 76 Marty O’Bryan joins us on the podcast to ponder how deep the scriptures during this season of Christmas are and the beautiful theological tapestry that weaves them all together throughout the whole Bible are. Marty O’Bryan began her formation in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd with Sofia Cavalletti in 1983 and has been a catechists since 1985. She conducts adult formations at Levels I, II and III throughout the United States. A retired speech and language pathologist, Marty holds a Master of Arts degree in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis on the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from Aquinas Institute of Theology. Currently, she works with children in Level I, II, and III atria in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix. Scripture Verses to Read in Advent and Christmas Seasons: Annunciation- Luke 1:26-38 Visitation- Luke 1:39-56 Birth of Jesus and Adoration of the Shepherds- Luke 2:1-20 Presentation of Jesus in the Temple- Luke 2: 21-33, 36-39 Adoration of the Magi- Matthew 2:1-12 Flight into Egypt- Matthew 2:13-23 Little Gospel Booklets- Infancy Narratives Books you may be interested in: The Religious Potential of the Child Ways to Nurture the Relationship with God History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: From Creation to Parousia Books from Fr Raymond Brown: The Birth of the Messiah A Coming Christ in Advent An Adult Christ as Christmas Episodes with Marty- Episode 15- Chapter One of Joyful Journey Episode 95- CGS Characteristics #21 and 25 with Lynne Worthington and Marty O’Bryan Episode 100 – Art as Prayer Response Episode 114- Characteristic #27 Podcast Episodes about Advent and Christmas: Episode 27- Mystery of the Incarnation with Karen Maxwell Episode 79- Chapter 6 of The Religious Potential of the Child Episode 104- Annunciation and the Incarnation with Sofia Cavalletti Episode 128 CGS Advent in the Home with Mary Heinrich Episode 129- The Family in Advent with Gertrud Muller Nelson BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete wit85:T1afd,

"A voice of one crying out in the desert; Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.” Luke 3:4

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

CGSUSA Parent Pages HERE

Advent for Families

Episode 104- Incarnation and Annunciation

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: From Creation to Parousia

Mindy and Claudia help us live into the seasons of Advent and Christmas by exploring what Sofia Cavalletti taught us about Sacred History, most especially Incarnation.

Mindy Longwell has been a catechist, director and formation leader for over 25 years. Mindy has worked in many different settings, including giving formation in the holy land. If asked what her favorite part of being involved in CGS is she would tell you, it is being able to hear the sweet voice of the good shepherd through the child.

Claudia Margarita Schmitt lived in many different countries throughout her life. She has discovered over time that her roots are first in her Roman Catholic faith and also in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Everywhere she goes she recognizes the same language being used to discover the mystery of God. As an international formation leader for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She constantly has this experience of finding her roots. She has been a catechist for 33 years and a formation leader for 32. She lived for 8 years in Rome studying and working with Gianna Gobbi and Sofia Cavalletti. She describes this time as precious and that they taught her many things but first to be humble.

Read the Article Learning to Love HERE

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: From Creation to Parousia

Books you may be interested in:

Episodes with Claudia-

Episode 112- Pedagogy of the Child and God- Fr Mongillo with Claudia Margarita Schmitt

Episode 78- A Glimpse of Gianna Gobbi with Claudia Margarita Schmitt

Episode 58 – Examination of Conscience with Claudia Margarita Schmitt

Episode 18 – Chapter 4: Sources of Nourishment with Claudia Margarita Schmitt

Podcast Episodes about Advent and Christmas:

Episode 27- Mystery of the Incarnation with Karen Maxwell

Episode 104- Annunciation and the Incarnation with Sofia Cavalletti

Episode 128 CGS Advent in the Home with Mary Heinrich

Episode 129- The Gamily in Advent with Gertrud Muller Nelson

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

86:Tfa1,"A voice of one crying out in the desert; Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.” Luke 3:4 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! CGSUSA Parent Pages HERE Advent for Families Episode 104- Incarnation and Annunciation History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: From Creation to Parousia Mindy and Claudia help us live into the seasons of Advent and Christmas by exploring what Sofia Cavalletti taught us about Sacred History, most especially Incarnation. Mindy Longwell has been a catechist, director and formation leader for over 25 years. Mindy has worked in many different settings, including giving formation in the holy land. If asked what her favorite part of being involved in CGS is she would tell you, it is being able to hear the sweet voice of the good shepherd through the child. Claudia Margarita Schmitt lived in many different countries throughout her life. She has discovered over time that her roots are first in her Roman Catholic faith and also in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Everywhere she goes she recognizes the same language being used to discover the mystery of God. As an international formation leader for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She constantly has this experience of finding her roots. She has been a catechist for 33 years and a formation leader for 32. She lived for 8 years in Rome studying and working with Gianna Gobbi and Sofia Cavalletti. She describes this time as precious and that they taught her many things but first to be humble. Read the Article Learning to Love HERE CGS Advent Resources for Families Little Gospel Booklets- Infancy Narratives Advent Fling Wide the Doors Calendar Advent Candles Advent Wreath Set Expectant Mary Statue Books you may be interested in: History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: From Creation to Parousia Episodes with Claudia- Episode 112- Pedagogy of the Child and God- Fr Mongillo with Claudia Margarita Schmitt Episode 78- A Glimpse of Gianna Gobbi with Claudia Margarita Schmitt Episode 58 – Examination of Conscience with Claudia Margarita Schmitt Episode 18 – Chapter 4: Sources of Nourishment with Claudia Margarita Schmitt Podcast Episodes about Advent and Christmas: Episode 27- Mystery of the Incarnation with Karen Maxwell Episode 104- Annunciation and the Incarnation with Sofia Cavalletti Episode 128 CGS Advent in the Home with Mary Heinrich Episode 129- The Gamily in Advent with Gertrud Muller Nelson BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child87:T1a98,

"A voice of one crying out in the desert; Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.” Luke 3:4

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

CGSUSA Parent Pages HERE

Advent for Families

Mindy and Claudia help us live into the seasons of Advent and Christmas by exploring what Sofia Cavalletti taught us about Sacred History, most especially Incarnation.

Read the Article Learning to Love HERE

BOOKS TO READ-

To Dance With God by Gertrud Mueller Nelson

History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: From Creation to Parousia

Books you may be interested in:

Episodes with Claudia-

Episode 112- Pedagogy of the Child and God- Fr Mongillo with Claudia Margarita Schmitt

Episode 78- A Glimpse of Gianna Gobbi with Claudia Margarita Schmitt

Episode 58 – Examination of Conscience with Claudia Margarita Schmitt

Episode 18 – Chapter 4: Sources of Nourishment with Claudia Margarita Schmitt

Podcast Episodes about Advent and Christmas:

Episode 27- Mystery of the Incarnation with Karen Maxwell

Episode 104- Annunciation and the Incarnation with Sofia Cavalletti

Episode 128 CGS Advent in the Home with Mary Heinrich

Episode 129- The Gamily in Advent with Gertrud Muller Nelson

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

88:Tf9e,"A voice of one crying out in the desert; Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.” Luke 3:4 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! CGSUSA Parent Pages HERE Advent for Families Mindy and Claudia help us live into the seasons of Advent and Christmas by exploring what Sofia Cavalletti taught us about Sacred History, most especially Incarnation. Mindy Longwell has been a catechist, director and formation leader for over 25 years. Mindy has worked in many different settings, including giving formation in the holy land. If asked what her favorite part of being involved in CGS is she would tell you, it is being able to hear the sweet voice of the good shepherd through the child. Claudia Margarita Schmitt lived in many different countries throughout her life. She has discovered over time that her roots are first in her Roman Catholic faith and also in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Everywhere she goes she recognizes the same language being used to discover the mystery of God. As an international formation leader for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She constantly has this experience of finding her roots. She has been a catechist for 33 years and a formation leader for 32. She lived for 8 years in Rome studying and working with Gianna Gobbi and Sofia Cavalletti. She describes this time as precious and that they taught her many things but first to be humble. Read the Article Learning to Love HERE BOOKS TO READ- To Dance With God by Gertrud Mueller Nelson CGS Advent Resources for Families Little Gospel Booklets- Infancy Narratives Advent Fling Wide the Doors Calendar Advent Candles Advent Wreath Set Expectant Mary Statue Books you may be interested in: History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: From Creation to Parousia Episodes with Claudia- Episode 112- Pedagogy of the Child and God- Fr Mongillo with Claudia Margarita Schmitt Episode 78- A Glimpse of Gianna Gobbi with Claudia Margarita Schmitt Episode 58 – Examination of Conscience with Claudia Margarita Schmitt Episode 18 – Chapter 4: Sources of Nourishment with Claudia Margarita Schmitt Podcast Episodes about Advent and Christmas: Episode 27- Mystery of the Incarnation with Karen Maxwell Episode 104- Annunciation and the Incarnation with Sofia Cavalletti Episode 128 CGS Advent in the Home with Mary Heinrich Episode 129- The Gamily in Advent with Gertrud Muller Nelson BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information.89:T17d8,

"A voice of one crying out in the desert; Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.” Luke 3:4

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

CGSUSA Parent Pages HERE

Virtual Songbook: Songs of the Atrium HERE

Gertrud Mueller Nelson joins us on the podcast to lift up many possibilities for families on how to live into the season of Advent in your homes, your domestic churches. Many of her ideas can be found in her book To Dance with God.

Born in Germany in a German family and raised in Minnesota, Gertrud is an artist and writer whose work springs up here and there in clip art and essays. She also designs silver jewelry, makes stained glass windows, paper and wood sculptures and teaches, giving workshops and lectures internationally. The Jungian understanding and interpretation of Fairy Tales is another of her passions and a subject of one of her books: Here All Dwell Free.

She helped build up the first Montessori school in the US and saw the beginnings of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd coming to us in 1959. She is Montessori trained and studied at the Jung Institute in Zurich, and is known for her multiple books, especially “To Dance with God.” She cares passionately about the importance of living the liturgical cycle of the year with its richness of ceremony and ritual which bonds families in the mysteries of our faith and builds community in parish life.

BOOKS TO READ-

To Dance With God by Gertrud Mueller Nelson

Books you may be interested in:

Episode 83- The Family in Lent

Podcast Episodes with Gertrud:

Episode 84- The Family in Easter

Other Podcast Episodes You Might Be Interested In:

Episode 27- Mystery of the Incarnation with Karen Maxwell

Episode 104- Annunciation and the Incarnation with Sofia Cavalletti

Episode 128 CGS Advent in the Home with Mary Heinrich

Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.

Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.

Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.

Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.

Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.

Catechist Prayers and prayer services

and so much more!

Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!

AUDIOBOOK:

Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!

Find out more about CGS:

Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”

Instagram- cgsusa

Twitter- @cgsusa

Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA

YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd

8a:Tf99,"A voice of one crying out in the desert; Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.” Luke 3:4 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! CGSUSA Parent Pages HERE Virtual Songbook: Songs of the Atrium HERE Gertrud Mueller Nelson joins us on the podcast to lift up many possibilities for families on how to live into the season of Advent in your homes, your domestic churches. Many of her ideas can be found in her book To Dance with God. Born in Germany in a German family and raised in Minnesota, Gertrud is an artist and writer whose work springs up here and there in clip art and essays. She also designs silver jewelry, makes stained glass windows, paper and wood sculptures and teaches, giving workshops and lectures internationally. The Jungian understanding and interpretation of Fairy Tales is another of her passions and a subject of one of her books: Here All Dwell Free. She helped build up the first Montessori school in the US and saw the beginnings of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd coming to us in 1959. She is Montessori trained and studied at the Jung Institute in Zurich, and is known for her multiple books, especially “To Dance with God.” She cares passionately about the importance of living the liturgical cycle of the year with its richness of ceremony and ritual which bonds families in the mysteries of our faith and builds community in parish life. BOOKS TO READ- To Dance With God by Gertrud Mueller Nelson CGS Advent Resources for Families Little Gospel Booklets- Infancy Narratives Advent Fling Wide the Doors Calendar Advent Candles Advent Wreath Set Expectant Mary Statue Books you may be interested in: To Dance with God Podcast Episodes with Gertrud: Episode 83- The Family in Lent Episode 84- The Family in Easter Other Podcast Episodes You Might Be Interested In: Episode 27- Mystery of the Incarnation with Karen Maxwell Episode 104- Annunciation and the Incarnation with Sofia Cavalletti Episode 128 CGS Advent in the Home with Mary Heinrich BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook. Find out more about CGS: Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Follow8b:Tfac,"A voice of one crying out in the desert; Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.” Luke 3:4 Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE! CGSUSA Parent Pages HERE Virtual Songbook: Songs of the Atrium HERE Mary Heinrich joins us on the podcast to discuss how we live into the Advent season in the atrium and how that can be extended into the spiritual life of the domestic church in the home. Mary is the Membership Coordinator for The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Prior to joining the staff, Mary served on the CGSUSA Board of Trustees for seven years. Mary has also served as a Director of Faith Formation in the Catholic Church for twenty-nine years, as well as a consultant and editor for religious education publishers. She earned a bachelor’s degree in religious studies from Mount Mercy College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and a master’s degree in Pastoral Studies in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri. Her husband, Kurt is a permanent deacon in the Diocese of Des Moines and teaches theology at the local Catholic high school, is a Level One catechist, and enjoys making materials for the atrium. Their daughter, Clare, is the elementary faith formation coordinator at her Church, working in the Level One and Level Two atria. When not immersed in CGS, Mary enjoys reading, art and spending time with her family. Correction about Sunday Readings for Advent: Year C – First Sunday of Advent references the Shoot of Jesse Year C – Second Sunday of Advent – references the Prophecy of the Valleys and Mountains Year C – Fourth Sunday of Advent – The Prophecy of the Birthplace of the Messiah, The Visitation of Mary to Elizabeth CGS Advent Resources for Families Little Gospel Booklets- Infancy Narratives Advent Fling Wide the Doors Calendar Advent Candles Advent Wreath Set Expectant Mary Statue Books you may be interested in: To Dance with God Podcast Episodes with Mary Heinrich: Episode 31- Even Now- a Lenten Reflection Episode 103- Friendship of Catechists Other Podcast Episodes You Might Be Interested In: Episode 27- Mystery of the Incarnation with Karen Maxwell Episode 104- Annunciation and the Incarnation with Sofia Cavalletti BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month: Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website. Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website. Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts. Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points. Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent. Catechist Prayers and prayer services and so much more! Click Here to create your Organizational Membership! AUDIOBOOK: Audiobook – Now Available on Audible CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz! The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available8c:T17cd,

"A voice of one crying out in the desert; Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.” Luke 3:4

Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!

CGSUSA Parent Pages HERE

Virtual Songbook: Songs of the Atrium HERE

Mary Heinrich joins us on the podcast to discuss how we live into the Advent season in the atrium and how that can be extended into the spiritual life of the domestic church in the home.

Mary is the Membership Coordinator for The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Prior to joining the staff, Mary served on the CGSUSA Board of Trustees for seven years. Mary has also served as a Director of Faith Formation in the Catholic Church for twenty-nine years, as well as a consultant and editor for religious education publishers. She earned a bachelor’s degree in religious studies from Mount Mercy College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and a master’s degree in Pastoral Studies in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri. Her husband, Kurt is a permanent deacon in the Diocese of Des Moines and teaches theology at the local Catholic high school, is a Level One catechist, and enjoys making materials for the atrium. Their daughter, Clare, is the elementary faith formation coordinator at her Church, working in the Level One and Level Two atria. When not immersed in CGS, Mary enjoys reading, art and spending time with her family.

Correction about Sunday Readings for Advent:

Year C – First Sunday of Advent references the Shoot of Jesse Year C – Second Sunday of Advent – references the Prophecy of the Valleys and Mountains Year C – Fourth Sunday of Advent – The Prophecy of the Birthplace of the Messiah, The Visitation of Mary to Elizabeth

Books you may be interested in: