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Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Method of Catechesis for the Diocese

The method of Catechesis chosen by Bishop John Michael for our Diocese is called the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Dr. Sophia Cavaletti, a Hebrew Scripture scholar, who resides in Rome, Italy, devised this particular method. The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is grounded in prayer and focuses on providing an environment that allows the child to enter into a deep personal relationship with God. Through the use of didactic materials and guided meditative reflections on scripture, the child is called to enter more deeply into the realities of Christ like love.

The younger child (ages 3-6), is presented particular scripture passages that focus on God's infinite and unconditional love for us. They read, pray and meditate first on the parable of the Good Shepherd and then move onto Kingdom parables, and the infancy narratives. They also learn about the gestures of the Liturgy, articles of the altar and Proskomedia table, and the Liturgical calendar.

The child from ages to 6 - 9 move into amoral phase of development, so at this time we introduce moral parables, parables of mercy and maxims (the commands of Jesus.) Through a serious of time lines we also begin to explore Salvation history and the gifts of God bestowed on humanity. The Child at 6 - 9 also begins to study the different parts of Liturgy and the Church calendar in more detail.

The child entering the ages 9 - 12 is a time traveler. They can take in and conceptualize concepts removed in space and time. At this age we introduce the child to a detailed study of Salvation history. Through the use of time lines we look at the history of different peoples in relation to Creation, Redemption and Parousia. The child is brought from a very global study of the world's response to God and lead into a personal reflection on what God's call is for them. Also at this level we find comb our study of Liturgy paying particular attention to the individual Liturgical prayers.

As you can see the commitment to the Good Shepherd Catechesis requires much work and dedication. Please support our parishes in this endeavor in whatever way you can. The fruits of this work will not benefit the children, but will impact on the parish at large. Please pray for us.

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