We are currently taking registrations for Fall 2023 for children ages 3-6.
Sessions will be held after school on Wednesdays
(session times to be determined based on number of registrations).
The first session will be on Wednesday September 20, 2023.
For information please contact the The Parish Religious Ed office at 609-641-7043.
For information, contact: Diane Keenan: diane@setonabsecon.org
The level I atrium is designed for children aged 3-6 years old. Every material placed in the room is carefully chosen with the aim to help children enjoy their relationship with God.
Three-dimensional wood representations are used to depict biblical scenes and items are used to represent those found in Baptism or at the Eucharist.
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is an experience rooted in both scripture and liturgy. It takes place in a specially prepared room known as the atrium.
The role of the catechist is to protect and nurture the relationship that exists between God and the child, allowing the Holy Spirit to be the teacher.
Once presented, materials can be freely chosen and worked with by the child, allowing the child to meditate upon the mysteries of our faith. The presentations focus on three main concepts. These are “The mystery of the Kingdom of God”, “The mystery of relationship with God” and “The mystery of life and death”.
All information given to the children is presented in a concrete, but age-appropriate way. All presentations are accompanied by carefully prepared materials that the children are able to work with independently.
In time, each child will have laid the groundwork for a strong, deep and personal faith, and discovered a loving relationship with Jesus, the Good Shepherd.
The children practice exercises that help them to have control of both their body and mind. They practice walking on a line and around a rug, helping them to move with care. They practice using tongs, scissors and pouring things to develop control of their hands and teach them to focus on a task. They also practice taking moments of silence, which is essential in allowing each of us to hear the voice of God.
As the child grasps the concept of each presentation, he is then able to take time to reflect and meditate upon what he has learned. It is natural for the child to ask questions and the atrium is still set up in such a way that he will be able, through the Holy Spirit; to find the answers he is seeking.
For more information about how the Good Shepherd Atrium benefits our children and our parish, or how you can get involved: contact Diane Keenan, Director of Religious Education. 609-641-7043 or diane@setonabsecon.org