CATECHESIS OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD (CGS)

We believe God and the child have a unique relationship with one another. Children need their own place to foster the growth of that relationship. The growth of this relationship is assisted by the adult, but is directed by the Spirit of God within the child.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) for children ages 3-11 offers hands-on, experiential learning intended to develop values of contemplation and enjoyment of God.

"These special needs children have amazingly loving and joyful hearts and often teach me about Jesus' love."

Hello wonderful Nativity families. I am a Level 1 CGS trained catechist here at Nativity and I currently lead a special needs atrium going on 3 years. I originally started this ministry when my now 7-year-old neurodivergent medically complex son started religious education and he required modifications to function in the atrium. Our atrium includes a wider age range of children due to the differences in developmental stages and we have also welcomed siblings to help their neurodivergent sibling adapt and grow. We still work directly with atrium materials that are hands one and bring in adaptive materials when needed. Our atrium is shorter than a traditional atrium lasting one hour, consists of a smaller number of children, has more structured time, and over time we have acquired various materials and equipment to help different learners love Jesus and know they are loved by Jesus! I try to meet the children where they are at, therefore we are constantly shaping our atrium time to serve our children. These special needs children have amazingly loving and joyful hearts and often teach me about Jesus' love. So far, we have been able to serve children with down syndrome, autism, global developmental delays, medically complex, non-verbal, and ADD. If you have questions or want to see our space please reach out to myself or Diane Irby.

God Bless,
Elizabeth Gleason, CGS@nool.us