IMTH-780: Introduction to CGS – a Liturgical and Kerygmatic Catechesis
2 credits
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a faith formation experience for children ages three to twelve years old. It is based on the belief that young children can and do experience God. Founded on the principles of Maria Montessori and Sofia Cavalletti, the catechesis is rooted in scripture and liturgy. Central to the catechesis is the atrium, a special environment created to nurture the child’s spirituality with beautiful materials that focus the child’s attention on key scripture passages or liturgical moments.
This course explores the main message of Jesus – the Kingdom God – what is it, how do we live in it, how do we celebrate it.
Part 1 of the course delves into Parables of the Kingdom of God which give us clues about the characteristics of the Kingdom, examples of how to live in the Kingdom, and our response to the invitation to live in the Kingdom thru the Parousia.
Part 2 explores Sign Language of the Liturgy, lifting up the signs, colors, gestures, prayers and sacramental elements of our liturgy and pondering their meaning while giving a taste of each CGS level.