"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep."
—Matthew 10:11
The CGS Approach
Join in the Wonder of the 3–6 year-old Child
The 3-6 year-old child is particularly capable of receiving and enjoying the most essential elements of our faith—the announcement of God’s love especially experienced through Jesus, the Good Shepherd, who died and is risen. Materials on the life of Jesus Christ and his teachings help to make the mystery of God concrete for the child. The heart of the catechesis for children under six revolves around the Parable of the Good Shepherd. Jesus announces that he is the Good Shepherd who calls each one by name. The sheep listen to the voice of the Shepherd and follow him.
The 3–6 year-old child enters the mystery of the Eucharist by first learning the names of the articles used on the altar and then through the most important gestures including the preparation of the chalice, the epiclesis and offering, and the sign of peace. Through the experience of seeing these gestures, presented one by one, the Mass emerges as the Sacrament of the Gift. The child becomes acquainted with the historical character of the liturgy through the events of the Last Supper, Christ’s death, and His resurrection.
We gather in the Atrium (a prepared environment) which is one of the important elements that helps the relationship between God and the child to flourish. Why is it called “Atrium”? The word “atrium” actually means “portico, or porch entrance to a large house.” The Atrium was a term given to this space by Maria Montessori. It was chosen because in the ancient church, the atrium was a gathering space between the Church Proper and the street. It was the place where the catechumens, those preparing for initiation to the Church, would receive instruction. The Atrium has a similar purpose for our children, as it is a place to help them enter into full, conscious and active participation in the liturgical and communal life of the Church.
The United States Association of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
CGS Atrium Sessions for 2025-2026
WHO
For children 3–6 years-old whose parents attend St. Michael's.
Child must be 3 years old by the start of the first session, or turning 6 years old after May 2026.
Must be toilet trained. If your child needs assistance in the bathroom, please stay on site to help them if needed.
WHEN
Sundays at 11:15 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.
September 14, 2025 – May 17, 2026
A more detailed schedule to follow, which will list feast days, holidays, etc.
WHERE
In the St. Michael’s Atrium
SICK POLICY
We ask that you keep your child home if they are feeling sick, to respect the rest of the children and their families.
COST
The yearly fee will be $40 per child
Catechists’ Contact info:
Emily Bush (541) 401-9822
Email us at cgs@stmichaelportland.org
10 spots available.
Online registration closes on August 24