Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (Christian Education 3-12 years)
Jesus said, "I am the Good Shepherd...the Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep...I know My sheep and they know Me, just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father." John 10. The Level 1 atrium is a specially prepared environment for young children ages 3-6 where they learn to know and love the Good Shepherd by praying, listening to Bible presentations, and working with related materials.
The Level 2 atrium is a place where the 7-12 year old child learns about abiding in God's love. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15. Using Bible passages, the liturgy, and specific materials made for this age level, the middle elementary child learns how to abide in Christ and grow as a child of God.
The atrium is a bridge which helps young children experience more fully the life of the Church through Holy Scripture and the liturgy of the Church utilizing the educational principles of Maria Montessori. Young children have a great capacity to experience God in Christ and Catechists (teachers) journey with the children as co-learners filled with the wonder of God's love.