Our parish has been awarded a grant from the Archdiocese of New York's Sharing God's Gifts to fund a level I formation course at our parish. We welcome adults from our parish and those from around the region interested in pursuing formation in this beautiful faith formation program.

CGS Catechists must complete over 90 hours of training in theology, child development, and the Montessori method before becoming catechists in an atrium. Many of the adults who completed this formation have reflected that it was an amazing personal learning experience for them, providing a deeper understanding of our Catholic faith and enriching their faith immeasurably.

We are currently making plans to begin our Level I formation in January 2027. It will take place monthly on Saturdays from January through October. This style of formation gives participants time to ponder and understand material before new material is added. It also provides time between sessions to make some of the necessary material for an atrium, while you are training.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a Montessori-based religious education program that nurtures the spiritual lives of children by helping them form a deep, personal relationship with God. Inspired by the teachings of Sofia Cavalletti, a Bible scholar, and Gianna Gobbi, a Montessori specialist, CGS fosters a sacred environment called the atrium—a prayerful space where children and catechists listen to God together.

Level I is the foundational course, and it is necessary to begin training with Level I, even if a participant’s future goal is to work with older children.

This course is recognized by the National Association of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, and participants have the opportunity to earn a Certificate from the National Association to become a recognized Catechist at level I.

CGS Formation Courses are appropriate for those wishing to be catechists as well as others wishing to have a deeper understanding of the spirituality of children.

The course is approximately 96 hours, and will prepare the catechist with theology, child development, and Montessori methodology to enable them to work with children in this method.

Level I is the foundation of the three CGS formation levels and focuses on the unique religious potential of the 3-6 year old child. Through Level I Formation, adults will:

• Learn the guiding principles of CGS.
• Explore the spiritual needs of young children.
• Reflect prayerfully on Biblical and liturgical themes.
• Observe and learn from the child’s spiritual insights.
• Prepare and work within the sacred space of the atrium.

This course also serves as spiritual formation for adults. The retreat-like pace—one Saturday per month—offers space for contemplation and growth.

PLEASE NOTE:

Membership in the National Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is required for access to Level I materials. Participants will gain access through the training process and receive a certificate of completion from the National Association for Level 1 formation upon completion of the training.

Adults from a variety of faith backgrounds attend CGS Formation. Sometimes they are looking to enrich their own spiritual life and sometimes they are just seeking something that is missing in their heart. 

Parents often choose to pursue training to help them in their domestic church. They want to know how to talk to their children about the faith, how to pray with them and how to answer their questions.

Sometimes adults join us because someone else suggests it. Maybe a priest, a religious sister or a deacon in their church. Maybe a friend. Or maybe they are just hearing God's small, quiet voice calling them to a deeper relationship with Him.

No matter what the reason you join us, you will be amazed at the riches you walk away with!

This course will take place at St. John the Evangelist Church, 31 East Main st., Pawling, NY during 2027 from 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM on the following schedule:

• January 23, 2027
• January 30, 2027
  
• February 13, 2017
• March 13, 2027
• April 24, 2027
• June 12, 2027
• June 26, 2027
• July 17, 2027
• August 28, 2027
• September 11, 2027
• September 25. 2027
• October 16, 2027

Throughout the course, there will be opportunities for community building through shared meal times, learning presentations, and preparing album pages...and there will always be a space for prayer.

Price for Level 1 Training: $600

Please do not let the course cost deter you from registering! Payment plans and other options are available. Please contact Karen DeGennaro to discuss payment concerns. 

Kate Jonietz is a certified Level 1 Formation Leader through the National Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She has served as the CGS Coordinator at St. Joseph Catholic Church in New Paltz, NY since 2002 and has completed all three levels of formation.

“The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd captured my spirit. My life and faith were transformed in ways I never imagined.” – Kate Jonietz