Catechetical Theme 2022-2023:
"This is my body given for you."
- Luke 22:19

Are you interested in teaching in the
Good Shepherd Program?
Please contact DRE, Jennifer Wicks. Our parish priest has generously
offered to pay for your Certification  Training tuition costs.

Do you need Service Hours?
The Religious Education Office
has opportunities available for
you to serve your parish!
Call (361) 643-3548 today.
They'd love to have YOUR help : )
assisting with special and simple
in office or at-home projects!

“Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them;
for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.”  Matthew 19:14

What is Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS)?

CGS is a Montessori Method of religious education where the relationship between the child and God is nurtured.  It differs from traditional education in that there is no student textbook/workbook.  All lessons come from either Scripture or Liturgy.  Catechists attend formation courses to learn how to prepare the environment, make materials and give presentations.  Catechists also learn about sensitive periods for learning and characteristics in developmental stages. Visit cgsusa.org to learn more.

What is an atrium?

The atrium is the prepared environment where the lessons take place.  It is a place of prayer.  The materials are child sized and lesson specific.  They are designed to aid the child’s relationship with God and help them learn more about the Catholic faith.  The materials are made by hand by our catechists and parishioners for the children.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel has one atrium:  Level 1 (ages 4-6). 

What lessons will my child receive?

The first week, all children will have an introduction to the atrium with a review of grace and courtesy and the prayer table.  The youngest children will focus on practical life lessons/controlled movement exercises for several weeks – which will help them take care of the atrium and prepare them for future lessons.  

We invite you to come inside and look around.  In fact, we welcome your participation and involvement!  To be with the child in the atrium is a great gift, one that we are thankful for each week.

More Info
CGS is led by a certified catechist on Sundays from 9:45am-10:45am.  Children not currently enrolled in religious education may enroll for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.  Due to the child/catechist ratio, we will have a maximum number of children that are able to register. Registration is on a first come basis.  Children who are ages 4-6, potty-trained and pass program readiness can participate. For further questions and info, please contact our DRE at (361) 643-3548.

Don’t miss this amazing spiritual and educational opportunity for your child!

Certified CGS Catechist, Mrs. Alyssa Thomas
CGS Catechist Asst., Ms. Catherine Thomas
CGS Catechist Asst., Ms. Claire Thomas
CGS Catechist Asst., Mr. Edward Thomas


* Sincere thank you to our faithful volunteers, that since the start of bringing CGS
to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, have contributed their time, talents and funds to
supporting and building our Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program & Atrium...
Kat Heffley & Family, The Hyland Family, Rick and Paula Smith,
Janie Gonzales and of course, the Thomas Family