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Where we explore the spirituality of Christian children through the method of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Episodes
Wednesday Sep 10, 2025
Wednesday Sep 10, 2025
“Train the young in the way they should go; even when old, they will not swerve from it.” Proverbs 22:6
“In the absence of a faith environment where the child may live, of which he feels himself a part and in which he feels himself almost held, we risk cultivating hothouse flowers in the atrium, which are incapable of enduring the severity of the external climate. On the other hand, without a place where the child can come in touch with the religious reality in a way and at a rhythm suitable to children, there is the danger the child will pass by great things without ever being able to grasp, interiorize, and make these realities his own. The initiation of a child into Christian life is not a work that can be fulfilled by the catechist alone, nor by the parents alone, It is the whole Christian community that proclaims Christ, and the child must enter into contact with the entire Christian community. The catechist’s work – valuable as it is- must be sustained and confirmed by a community that lives what the catechist proclaims.” Sofia Cavalletti, The Religious Potential of the Child page 30-31
Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!
Hannah Marconeri shares with us idea on how to get parents involved in the CGS program as an aid to the CGS program but also for their own personal spiritual growth as well as to aid in the prayer life of their domestic churches.
Hannah Marconeri began her journey with The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2011 and currently serves as a catechist and Director of Discipleship at St. Robert Bellarmine in Flushing, MI. She works with families in the Catholic school and in the parish setting. She is a Level One and Two Formation Leader and has a masters degree in Pastoral Studies and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (MAPS-CGS) from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, MO.
Episode 74 – Spiritual Preparation of the Adult
Episode 98 - Welcoming the Children
Episode 122 - Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART ONE
Episode 123 - Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART TWO
Episode 124 - The Work of the Second Plane Child
A List of Podcast Episodes for Parents
The Good Shepherd and the Child: A Joyful Journey
BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month:
- Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.
- Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.
- Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.
- Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.
- Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.
- Catechist Prayers and prayer services
- and so much more!
Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!
AUDIOBOOK:
Audiobook – Now Available on Audible
CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!
The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.
Find out more about CGS:
Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Follow us on Social Media-
Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”
Instagram- cgsusa
Twitter- @cgsusa
Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA
YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd
Wednesday Aug 27, 2025
Wednesday Aug 27, 2025
“The Lord said to Abram: Go forth from your land, your relatives, and from your father’s house to a land that I will show you.” Genesis 12:1
Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!
There is a new MAPS-CGS Cohort through Aquinas Institute in St Louis starting in January and applications are currently open to join! Carolyn Wright joins us to tell us a little about the program, who should prayerfully consider if this is the direction God is calling you, what are the logistics of the program, and so much more!
Carolyn Wright, MDiv., DMin serves on the faculty of Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri. She teaches in the areas of ministerial formation and Christian spirituality. Carolyn directs the Master of Arts in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (MAPS-CGS) degree program, the Theological Field Education program, and the Graduate Certificate in Spiritual Direction program at Aquinas. Carolyn has been a longtime advocate for CGS since she completed Level I (2010) and Level II (2011) formations. She recently completed Level III formation (2025). Carolyn is available to talk further about the MAPS-CGS degree program at Aquinas (wright@ai.edu | 314-256-8879)
Episode 74 – Spiritual Preparation of the Adult
Episode 98 - Welcoming the Children
Episode 122 - Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART ONE
Episode 123 - Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART TWO
Episode 124 - The Work of the Second Plane Child
MAPS-CGS Master’s Degree Brochure
REGISTER FOR MAPS CGS Virtual Information Session and Lecture Series
BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month:
- Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.
- Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.
- Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.
- Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.
- Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.
- Catechist Prayers and prayer services
- and so much more!
Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!
AUDIOBOOK:
Audiobook – Now Available on Audible
CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!
The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.
Find out more about CGS:
Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Follow us on Social Media-
Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”
Instagram- cgsusa
Twitter- @cgsusa
Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA
YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd
Wednesday Aug 13, 2025
Wednesday Aug 13, 2025
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” ~ Proverbs 2:6
“3. The atrium is a community in which children and adults live together a religious experience that facilitates participation in the wider community of the family, the church, and other social spheres. • The atrium is a place of prayer, in which work and study spontaneously become meditation, contemplation, and prayer. • The atrium is a place in which the only Teacher is Christ; both children and adults place themselves in a listening stance before his Word and seek to penetrate the mystery of the liturgical celebration.” - 32 Points of Reflection of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!
Beate and Ann discuss the variety of meanings and the importance of de-schooling as it pertains to our work in catechesis.
Ann Garrido has been a catechist of the Good Shepherd since 1996. She currently serves as a Level One catechist at her parish while she also serves as a formation leader for the US Association at all three levels. Ann is an Associate Professor at Aquinas Institute of Theology, a graduate school of theology and ministry in the Dominican tradition. She is the author of multiple works, including her newest book Redeeming Power about the healthy and holy exercise of leadership. Ann Garrido’s website HERE
Beate Buescher is a wife, mother, Omi, and catechist who began her journey with Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2003. Her educational background is in early childhood education and she is passionate about faith, learning, nature and positive parenting. When she walked into her first formation course, she felt that she had finally found her tribe! Beate is currently listening to God alongside Level 1 and 3 children and is certified in all levels of CGS, including Infant/Toddler. She is a recognized Level 1 Formation Leader.
EPISODE 72- Characteristic of the Good Shepherd Catechesis
Read the article Characteristics of the Good Shepherd Catechesis by Sofia Cavalletti
2014 Consiglio Report: De-Schooling
Books by Ann Garrido
ANN’S NEW BOOK – REDEEMING POWER
A Year with Sofia Cavalletti by Ann Garrido
Podcast Episodes with Ann Garrido
Episode 19 – Typology with Ann Garrido
Episode 53 – The Birth and Infancy of Jesus with Ann Garrido
Episode 59 – Preaching with Children with Ann Garrido
Episode 68 – The CGS Heritage – Eugenio Zolli with Ann Garrido
Episode 111. About Justice, A Meditation by Fr Mongillo with Ann Garrido
Episode 127 – Redeeming Administration with Ann Garrido
The Prepared Environment: Making Materials
with Don Martin (The Catechist's Husband) and Lynda Catalano
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
7:00 - 8:30 pm EDT
Join Don Martin, CGSUSA Vendor, The Catechist's Husband, and Lynda Catalano, CGSUSA Formation Leader, who will share her wisdom and passion for making the materials by hand. Don and Lynda's sessions will be followed by time for questions. All those present will be registered for a drawing for an atrium material from the Catechist's Husband.
Mark your calendars for this SPECIAL EVENT.
This is a free Zoom Session
BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month:
- Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.
- Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.
- Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.
- Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.
- Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.
- Catechist Prayers and prayer services
- and so much more!
Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!
AUDIOBOOK:
Audiobook – Now Available on Audible
CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!
The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.
Find out more about CGS:
Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Follow us on Social Media-
Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”
Instagram- cgsusa
Twitter- @cgsusa
Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA
YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd
Wednesday Jul 30, 2025
Wednesday Jul 30, 2025
"For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control.” 2 Timothy 1:7
"We must remember that the phenomenon of internal discipline is something which. Must be achieved, not something pre-existent. Our function is that of guides upon the road of discipline.” - Maria Montessori, The Call of Education
Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!
Sister Maria Teresita joins us again on the podcast to explore the development of the will in children and how we can aid and hinder this development. She also speaks to us about what Montessori called the levels of Obedience.
Sister Maria Teresita is a Dominican Sister of St. Cecilia. She currently serves as an upper-elementary guide at St. Philip Learning Center, a Catholic Montessori homeschool enrichment program in Franklin, TN, a catechist for Levels 2 and 3 in a parish setting, and a formation leader for CGS Levels 1 and 2. Sister holds an AMI diploma at the Elementary level, a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies (Aquinas College, Nashville), and a M.A. in Montessori Education (Loyola University, Maryland). She has enjoyed nearly 20 years serving children as a classroom teacher in both conventional and Montessori settings and 14 years as a catechist of the Good Shepherd in all three atria levels. Sister began her Montessori journey as a child in a Montessori school where she developed a deep love for learning. She is a convert to the Catholic faith and delights in every opportunity to “listen to God with children.”
Spontaneous Activity in Education by Maria Montessori
The Four Planes of Development Booklet
Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline:
Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia
Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita
Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child
Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child
Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni
Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita
Episode 142 – Adults as Potential Obstacles in Development with Pilar Bewley
The Prepared Environment: Making Materials
with Don Martin (The Catechist's Husband) and Lynda Catalano
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
7:00 - 8:30 pm EDT
Join Don Martin, CGSUSA Vendor, The Catechist's Husband, and Lynda Catalano, CGSUSA Formation Leader, who will share her wisdom and passion for making the materials by hand. Don and Lynda's sessions will be followed by time for questions. All those present will be registered for a drawing for an atrium material from the Catechist's Husband.
Mark your calendars for this SPECIAL EVENT.
Registration information will come in July.
This is a free Zoom Session
BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month:
- Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.
- Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.
- Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.
- Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.
- Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.
- Catechist Prayers and prayer services
- and so much more!
Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!
AUDIOBOOK:
Audiobook – Now Available on Audible
CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!
The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.
Find out more about CGS:
Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Follow us on Social Media-
Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”
Instagram- cgsusa
Twitter- @cgsusa
Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA
YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd
Wednesday Jul 16, 2025
Wednesday Jul 16, 2025
"For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control.” 2 Timothy 1:7
“The child’s development follows a path of successive stages of independence and our knowledge of this must guide us in our behavior towards him. We have to help the child to act, will, and think for himself. This is the art of serving the spirit. An art which can be practiced to perfection only when working among children.” Maria Montessori, The Absorbent Mind
Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!
Claire Paglia and Cathy Johanni join us to discuss four tools that can be used in your atrium and in your home: modeling, scaffolding, isolation of difficulty and purposeful work.
Claire Paglia is a child of the atrium. As an adult, she is an AMI-trained guide who has been in the primary environment for 12 years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in education with a concentration in Montessori from Loyola University, Maryland. She worked for a year as a course assistant for the primary training center. In 2012, she received her Level I formation and has been a catechist at her church in varying capacities since then. She enjoys spending time with her family and particularly enjoys preparing Montessori-friendly spaces at home for her three children. @_athomewithmontessori_
Cathy Johanni lives in Columbus, Ohio where she has enjoyed accompanying children on their spiritual journeys for more than two decades. She is recognized as a formation leader in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at levels I, II, and III. She has been involved in Montessori education for a decade, working with children ages 5-14. A member of the editorial committee for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Annual Journal. Cathy has authored articles and contributed to The Roman Missal Third Edition and the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd: Changes to Materials . She holds a Bachelor’s degree in cultural anthropology from Princeton University, a Master’s degree from The Ohio State University and Montessori Elementary certificates. Married for 31 years, she is the mother of five.
Five Reasons to Stop Saying “Good Job” by Alfie Kohn
Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline:
Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia
Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita
Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child
Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child
Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni
Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita
Episode 142 – Adults as Potential Obstacles in Development with Pilar Bewley
The Prepared Environment: Making Materials
with Don Martin (The Catechist's Husband) and Lynda Catalano
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
7:00 - 8:30 pm EDT
Join Don Martin, CGSUSA Vendor, The Catechist's Husband, and Lynda Catalano, CGSUSA Formation Leader, who will share her wisdom and passion for making the materials by hand. Don and Lynda's sessions will be followed by time for questions. All those present will be registered for a drawing for an atrium material from the Catechist's Husband.
Mark your calendars for this SPECIAL EVENT.
Registration information will come in July.
This is a free Zoom Session
BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month:
- Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.
- Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.
- Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.
- Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.
- Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.
- Catechist Prayers and prayer services
- and so much more!
Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!
AUDIOBOOK:
Audiobook – Now Available on Audible
CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!
The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.
Find out more about CGS:
Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Follow us on Social Media-
Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”
Instagram- cgsusa
Twitter- @cgsusa
Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA
YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd
Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
“Let the children come to me and hinder them not, for of such is the Kingdom of God” Matthew 19:14
"A creature can be led astray by something that is in itself quite small. It is something that creeps in unnoticed under the guise of love and assistance but which is actually due to blindness of an adult whose unconscious egoism can have a truly diabolical influence upon a child. And yet children are constantly being born anew, bearing within themselves unspoiled the plan according to which they should normally develop." Maria Montessori
Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!
Maggie speaks to us about Montessori’s philosophy of Psychic Deviations, how they come about, different types of deviations as well as how they can be healed through Normalization and work.
Maggie Radzik has been working in Montessori for over 35 years and has been a Level I formation leader for more than 10 years. She has served both the Montessori classroom and the atrium at all levels, Toddlers through Adolescents. She is a certified Montessorian at all levels as well. I am currently the Director of Our Lady of Guadalupe Family Life Center in Ave Maria, FL
Read Maggie’s Article “The First-Plane Child and Obstacles to Normalization” Online Here
Five Reasons to Stop Saying “Good Job” by Alfie Kohn
Maria Montessori Speaks to Parents
Secret of Childhood by Maria Montessori
Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline:
Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia
Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita
Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child
Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child
Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni
Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita
Episode 142 – Adults as Potential Obstacles in Development with Pilar Bewley
Purchase the book Discovery of the Child to learn more.
The Prepared Environment: Making Materials
with Don Martin (The Catechist's Husband) and Lynda Catalano
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
7:00 - 8:30 pm EDT
Join Don Martin, CGSUSA Vendor, The Catechist's Husband, and Lynda Catalano, CGSUSA Formation Leader, who will share her wisdom and passion for making the materials by hand. Don and Lynda's sessions will be followed by time for questions. All those present will be registered for a drawing for an atrium material from the Catechist's Husband.
Mark your calendars for this SPECIAL EVENT.
Registration information will come in July.
This is a free Zoom Session
BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month:
- Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.
- Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.
- Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.
- Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.
- Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.
- Catechist Prayers and prayer services
- and so much more!
Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!
AUDIOBOOK:
Audiobook – Now Available on Audible
CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!
The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.
Find out more about CGS:
Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Follow us on Social Media-
Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”
Instagram- cgsusa
Twitter- @cgsusa
Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA
YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd
Wednesday Jun 18, 2025
Wednesday Jun 18, 2025
“For freedom Christ set us free; so stand firm and do not submit again to the yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1
"Every useless help is an obstacle to the child's development." Maria Montessori
Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!
Cecilia joins us on the podcast again to help us explore how to foster Independence in the 0-3 year-old. How we as the adult can help this growth in the child rather than be an obstacle.
Cecilia Drabbant holds an Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) diploma in Assistant to Infancy (0-3), as well as an AMI certificate in Montessori Core Principles. She also holds an Architecture Engineering degree from Universitas Katolik Parahyangan, Bandung, Indonesia, and completed her formation in evangelization from Emmanuel School of Mission in Rome, Italy. Her work includes serving both as a Toddler Directress and a Toddler Catechist for the weekly sessions at Renaissance Montessori School. Since being introduced to the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2012, she has received CGS formation in Levels I, II, III, and Infant-Toddler, and has the opportunity to work with children at all levels. Additionally, she is recognized as a Level 1 Formation Leader. A particularly meaningful moment in her ministry was when she and her team brought the first CGS Formation Course to Indonesia in its native language.
Currently, Cecilia serves as a Catechist and Atrium Program Director at Renaissance Montessori School in Nokesville, VA, also a Level II Catechist at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Parish Church in Colonial Beach, VA.
Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline:
Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia
Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita
Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child
Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child
Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni
Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita
Episode 142 – Adults as Potential Obstacles in Development with Pilar Bewley
Purchase the book Discovery of the Child to learn more.
The Prepared Environment: Making Materials
with Don Martin (The Catechist's Husband) and Lynda Catalano
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
7:00 - 8:30 pm EDT
Join Don Martin, CGSUSA Vendor, The Catechist's Husband, and Lynda Catalano, CGSUSA Formation Leader, who will share her wisdom and passion for making the materials by hand. Don and Lynda's sessions will be followed by time for questions. All those present will be registered for a drawing for an atrium material from the Catechist's Husband.
Mark your calendars for this SPECIAL EVENT.
Registration information will come in July.
This is a free Zoom Session
BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month:
- Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.
- Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.
- Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.
- Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.
- Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.
- Catechist Prayers and prayer services
- and so much more!
Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!
AUDIOBOOK:
Audiobook – Now Available on Audible
CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!
The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.
Find out more about CGS:
Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Follow us on Social Media-
Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”
Instagram- cgsusa
Twitter- @cgsusa
Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA
YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd
Wednesday Jun 04, 2025
Wednesday Jun 04, 2025
“For you are a people sacred to the Lord, your God, who has chosen you from al the nations on the face of the earth to be a people peculiarly his own.” Deuteronomy 14:2
Characteristic #31 “Every atrium avails itself of the help of a priest who is attentive to the children, particularly to their religious capacities, celebrates Eucharist and sacrament of reconciliation with them, and works in harmony with the spirit of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. “32 Points of Reflection of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”
Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!
Fr Joseph joins us on the podcast to share about how he became involved in CGS and how it has affected his view of children’s spirituality and his vocation as a priest. He also shares a few tips on how to get your own priests and deacons involved in CGS.
Fr. Joseph Lustig is a priest of the Diocese of Boise, Idaho and a native of Cottonwood, Idaho. He has completed formation in and assisted with CGS levels one and two. He has been a parish priest for six years and currently is completing a Licentiate in Canon Law from Saint Paul University in Ottawa, Canada, where he also serves a local parish in its atrium. If you have any questions or want to reach out, you can contact him at fr.lustig@icloud.com.
Books You May Be Interested In:
The Religious Potential of the Child
Episodes from other Priests:
Episode 29 – CGS and Christian Unity with Bishop Talley
Episode 32 – A Priest in the Atrium
Episode 85 – CGS and Accompaniment with Fr Boniface Hicks
Episode 125 – A Priest in CGS with Fr Kevin Douglas
Episode 138 – CGS and Ignatius Spirituality with Fr Joseph Hill
BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month:
- Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.
- Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.
- Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.
- Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.
- Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.
- Catechist Prayers and prayer services
- and so much more!
Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!
AUDIOBOOK:
Audiobook – Now Available on Audible
CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!
The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.
Find out more about CGS:
Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Follow us on Social Media-
Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”
Instagram- cgsusa
Twitter- @cgsusa
Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA
YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd
Wednesday May 21, 2025
Wednesday May 21, 2025
“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?” Matthew 7:3-5
"Every useless help is an obstacle to the child's development." Maria Montessori
Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!
Pilar joins us back on the podcast to explore way that adults unintentionally can become obstacles in a child’s development, what this does to a child, and how we can avoid offering useless help.
Pilar Bewley is an AMI-certified guide for Primary and Elementary levels and a Positive Discipline facilitator. After spending over a decade teaching in Montessori classrooms, Pilar began homeschooling her children in 2019. Her passion for making Montessori education accessible inspired her to create Mainly Montessori, where she mentors parents who choose to homeschool using Montessori principles. Connect with Pilar on Instagram at @mainly.montessori.homeschool or visit her website at www.mainlymontessori.com.
Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline:
Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia
Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita
Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child
Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child
Episode 139 – What to Try When it Seems to be Failing? With Cathy Johanni
Episode 141 – Normalization with Claire Paglia and Sr Maria Teresita
Purchase the book Discovery of the Child to learn more.
BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month:
- Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.
- Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.
- Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.
- Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.
- Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.
- Catechist Prayers and prayer services
- and so much more!
Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!
AUDIOBOOK:
Audiobook – Now Available on Audible
CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!
The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.
Find out more about CGS:
Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Follow us on Social Media-
Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”
Instagram- cgsusa
Twitter- @cgsusa
Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA
YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd
Wednesday May 07, 2025
Wednesday May 07, 2025
“A tranquil mind gives life to the body” Proverbs 14:30a NAB
Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!
Sister Maria Teresita and Claire Paglia join us back on the podcast to continue to explore tools to help us in the atrium and in our lives establish freedom and discipline. We explore the Montessori concept of Normalization so that we can be further equip to have true freedom and responsibility with children.
Sister Maria Teresita is a Dominican Sister of St. Cecilia. She currently serves as an upper-elementary guide at St. Philip Learning Center, a Catholic Montessori homeschool enrichment program in Franklin, TN, a catechist for Levels 2 and 3 in a parish setting, and a formation leader for CGS Levels 1 and 2. Sister holds an AMI diploma at the Elementary level, a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies (Aquinas College, Nashville), and a M.A. in Montessori Education (Loyola University, Maryland). She has enjoyed nearly 20 years serving children as a classroom teacher in both conventional and Montessori settings and 14 years as a catechist of the Good Shepherd in all three atria levels. Sister began her Montessori journey as a child in a Montessori school where she developed a deep love for learning. She is a convert to the Catholic faith and delights in every opportunity to “listen to God with children.”
Claire Paglia is a child of the atrium. As an adult, she is an AMI-trained guide who has been in the primary environment for 12 years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in education with a concentration in Montessori from Loyola University, Maryland. She worked for a year as a course assistant for the primary training center. In 2012, she received her Level I formation and has been a catechist at her church in varying capacities since then. She enjoys spending time with her family and particularly enjoys preparing Montessori-friendly spaces at home for her three children.
Episodes to help you further explore Freedom and Discipline:
Episode 4 – Normalization with Gabriela Perez
Episode 30 – Freedom and Discipline with Claire Paglia
Episode 133 – Freedom and Responsibility with Sr Mary Teresita
Episode 134 – Freedom and Responsibility for the First Plane Child
Episode 135 – Freedom and Responsibility for the Second Plane Child
BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER! Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month:
- Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.
- Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.
- Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.
- Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.
- Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.
- Catechist Prayers and prayer services
- and so much more!
Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!
AUDIOBOOK:
Audiobook – Now Available on Audible
CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!
The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child’s spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.
Find out more about CGS:
Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Follow us on Social Media-
Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”
Instagram- cgsusa
Twitter- @cgsusa
Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA
YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd