What is Catechesis of the Good Shepherd?

Registration for faith formation for the 2025-26 is now closed

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is an approach to the religious formation of the child. It is rooted in Sacred Scripture, liturgy, and the educational philosophy and method of Maria Montessori and Sophia Cavaletti. Each week the children gather in a room prepared for them called an "Atrium." This specially-prepared space contains many materials that the children can work with and use.

First and foremost, children have a profound capacity for relationship. They give and receive love. They need love. In the Atrium, we nurture their relationship with God through the Parable of the Good Shepherd. In the Good Shepherd, the child meets One Who protects and cares for them, knows them and calls them by name, and loves them completely. Our young children are full of energy and love to and have to move! In the atrium, the child prays with his/her whole body.

In 2025-2026, we are pleased to offer 3 Atrium Levels: Level 1 Atrium (ages 3-6), Level 2 Atrium (ages 7-9, with an option for preparation for First Reconciliation and First Communion), and Level 3 Atrium (ages 9-12). The cost is $40/student (for parishioners of Sacred Heart, Battle Ground, and St. Joseph the Worker, Yacolt, St. Philip, Woodland, St. Mary of Guadalupe, Ridgefield, and St. John the Evangelist, Vancouver. For parishioners from other local churches, the cost is $50/student. If space limitations become an issue, priority will be given to parishioners of Sacred Heart (Battle Ground) and St. Joseph the Worker (Yacolt) followed by our sister parishes St. Philip (Woodland), St. Mary of Guadalupe (Ridgefield), and St. John the Evangelist (Vancouver).

For more information, please contact the parish office.

For information on First Communion and First Reconciliation click here.