The Good Shepherd and the Child

“Where is the newborn King of the Jews? We saw his star and have come to do him homage.” Matthew 2:2   Ann Garrido joins us on the podcast again today to discuss the deeper meanings that can be found in the Infancy Narratives that help us answer the question “Who are you Jesus?”   Ann Garrido is associate professor of homiletics at Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, MO and founding director of the school’s Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies program with an emphasis on the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (MAPS-CGS).  She has served as a catechist with children ages 3-12 since 1996. Ann is also a formation leader with the U.S Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd for twenty-one years and a member of the association’s formation committee.  She is the author of eight books, including Mustard Seed Preaching (LTP, 2003) and A Year with Sofia Cavalletti (LTP, 2017).   More information about Ann Garrido’s new book Preaching with Children HERE Resources (all available through CGSUSA Bookstore) Ways to Nurture Your Relationship with God  –  Chapter 1 History of the Kingdom of God: From Creation to Parousia – Chapter 41-45   Additional Resources Raymond Brown, The Birth of the Messiah: A Commentary on the Infancy Narratives in Matthew and Luke (Doubleday, 1979) Jean Danielou, The Infancy Narratives (Herder & Herder, 1968) Garrido, Ann. A Year with Sofia Cavalletti (Chicago: LTP, 2018) - CGSUSA Bookstore Garrido, Ann. Let's Talk about Truth (ND: Ave Maria Press, 2020)   Ann Garrido’s personal website: https://anngarrido.com/   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   

“I praise you, because I am wonderfully made; wonderful are your works! My very self you know.” Psalm 139:14   Today we are continuing our season 2 journey of exploring all things Montessori  as a way to understand the underpinnings and influence Maria Montessori’s discoveries of the child had on the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd by diving into her philosophy of Practical Life.   Sherry Mock joins us again on the podcast to dive into Practical Life in which she has worked with extensively.  She lives in Texas with her husband.  She has been trained as a Montessori guide and in all three levels of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.  She is a wife, mother, grandmother, Godmother, Bible teacher, and church and community volunteer.     Books about Montessori or her work available through the CGSUSA bookstore: In the 2021 Journal, we seek to offer a rich study and deeper understanding of Montessori’s work, which is so integral to CGS. NURTURING THE WHOLE CHILD BY GIANNA GOBBI COMMEMORATIVE JOURNAL: GIANNA GOBBI 1919-2002 MONTESSORI: ON RELIGIOUS EDUCATION THE CHILD IN THE CHURCH (SOFTCOVER) SILENCE IN THE SHADOW OF SPEECH   Previous episodes about Montessori and her work: Episode 4 on Normalization Episode 28 Montessori’s Epiphany Episode 30 on Freedom and Discipline Through their joy, their wonder and awe, their capacity for love and prayer, and their radical simplicity, the children offer adults a glimpse into what it means to fall in love with God. This has been the work of CGSUSA for almost 40 years now: to advocate for the child’s joy. Each year, CGSUSA provides catechist formation, publishes new books for continued study and contemplation, and continues to support catechists and religious leaders across the nation and the world in helping children find their own path to God’s love.  We humbly ask for your continued help and support in this effort, please give to our Annual Appeal.  Please donate so the work may continue.   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   

“Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; make music to our God on the harp.” -Psalm 147:7   “Prayer is first of all, listening to God. It is the particular key which opens up the mystery of God’s relationship with God’s creature; it is a key which belongs to God but which God gives to all God’s creatures regardless of denomination, class, or race; it is a key which is indeed, all people pray in differing forms, according to the culture and religious expressions of their own countries. As Christians we pray through the mediation of Jesus Christ.  Our prayer is both a preparation and a vehicle for arriving at the greatest prayer of thanksgiving: the Eucharist.” Gianna Gobbi, Listening to God with Children   In the atrium, everything we do is prayer: the work, the silence, the songs, the artwork, the freedom, and the discipline. The children’s prayer has special qualities to it that are wonderful models to us on how to pray. The three- to six-year-old child prays almost exclusively with praise and thanksgiving. What perfect examples they are to us, especially this week as we celebrate Thanksgiving in America, to open our eyes to the abundance of gifts and to truly be thankful, like the child is thankful.    Diane Olsen joins u on the podcast again to discuss how children pray, how we can foster their prayer, and how they are examples to us in how to pray.    Diane Olsen has been involved in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd since 1990. She has received all formation levels and was recognized as a formation leader in 2002. She is actively involved leading catechist formation around the country and was recognized She is co-director of CGS at Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, Kansas. Diane has a philosophy and math degree from St. John’s College in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies-Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from the Aquinas Institute of Theology, St. Louis, Missouri. She is a wife, mother, and grandmother.   Listen to another episode with Diane Olsen. Purchase the book Listening to God with Children ( Now available as Nurturing the Whole Child) from the CGSUSA online store.  You will also find Advent items to help celebrate the season as a family.  When you shop with us, you help further the work to support catechists, parents, and others in the Church and beyond, as they grow in their understanding of the religious potential of children. We are committed to providing resources and services int the living out of our mission to support catechists, parents, and others in the Church and beyond, as they grow in their understanding of the religious potential of children. Even while we see a decrease in income (loss of course registration fees, book sales, new memberships, and the sales of resources and materials from Shepherd’s Closet.) The Light of Our Good Shepherd sustains us in these times. May you feel inspired to help others to rejoice in His Sustaining Light please, Donate today.   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   

“There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens.”  Ecclesiastes 3:1   Today we are continuing our season 2 journey of exploring all things Montessori  as a way to understand the underpinnings and influence Maria Montessori’s discoveries of the child had on the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd by diving into her philosophy of Sensitive Periods.   Celine Mitchell joins us again today to dive into this subject. Although Celine recently retired as Director of CGS at her parish, she continues to be involved as catechist at St. Ambrose Academy where she also is a primary Montessori teacher. Celine is a recognized formation leader in Levels I and II. She assisted numerous parishes in starting CGS in western Pennsylvania and internationally and in her “retirement” continues to do consulting for those wanting to begin Catholic Montessori. She has led formation courses in Poland and for the Missionaries of Charity in Latvia, Brazil, Haiti, Puerto Rico, and San Francisco. Celine and her husband Bob (also a CGS catechist) have 3 grown children and 7 grandchildren and live at Good Shepherd House of Prayer.     Books about Montessori or her work available through the CGSUSA bookstore: In the 2021 Journal, we seek to offer a rich study and deeper understanding of Montessori’s work, which is so integral to CGS. NURTURING THE WHOLE CHILD BY GIANNA GOBBI COMMEMORATIVE JOURNAL: GIANNA GOBBI 1919-2002 MONTESSORI: ON RELIGIOUS EDUCATION THE CHILD IN THE CHURCH (SOFTCOVER) SILENCE IN THE SHADOW OF SPEECH   Previous episodes about Montessori and her work: Episode 4 on Normalization Episode 28 Montessori’s Epiphany Episode 30 on Freedom and Discipline Through their joy, their wonder and awe, their capacity for love and prayer, and their radical simplicity, the children offer adults a glimpse into what it means to fall in love with God. This has been the work of CGSUSA for almost 40 years now: to advocate for the child’s joy. Each year, CGSUSA provides catechist formation, publishes new books for continued study and contemplation, and continues to support catechists and religious leaders across the nation and the world in helping children find their own path to God’s love.  We humbly ask for your continued help and support in this effort, please give to our Annual Appeal.  Please donate so the work may continue.     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 

“He called a child over, placed it in their midst, and said, ‘Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.”  Matthew 18:4   Today we are continuing our season 2 journey of exploring all things Montessori by diving into her philosophy on the four planes of development.  What are they? Why are they important for us to understand as we work with the Good Shepherd and the child?   Claire Paglia joins us again today to dive into this subject. 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.    Books about Montessori or her work available through the CGSUSA bookstore: In the 2021 Journal, we seek to offer a rich study and deeper understanding of Montessori’s work, which is so integral to CGS. NURTURING THE WHOLE CHILD BY GIANNA GOBBI COMMEMORATIVE JOURNAL: GIANNA GOBBI 1919-2002 MONTESSORI: ON RELIGIOUS EDUCATION THE CHILD IN THE CHURCH (SOFTCOVER) SILENCE IN THE SHADOW OF SPEECH   Previous episodes about Montessori and her work: Episode 4 on Normalization Episode 28 Montessori’s Epiphany Episode 30 on Freedom and Discipline Through their joy, their wonder and awe, their capacity for love and prayer, and their radical simplicity, the children offer adults a glimpse into what it means to fall in love with God. This has been the work of CGSUSA for almost 40 years now: to advocate for the child’s joy. Each year, CGSUSA provides catechist formation, publishes new books for continued study and contemplation, and continues to support catechists and religious leaders across the nation and the world in helping children find their own path to God’s love.  We humbly ask for your continued help and support in this effort, please give to our Annual Appeal.  Please donate so the work may continue.     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   

"Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me."  Matthew 18:5   Welcome back friends to the GS and the child podcast!  We are excited to begin season 2 with a series on all things Montessori! To start this season off we are going to explore the history of Maria Montessori and her work!  A good episode to go back to is Episode 28 on Montessori’s Epiphany with Sherry Mock.  But today we are going to look at the whole timeline of Montessori’s life and work, but episode 28 takes one moment of that timeline, Jan 6, 1907, and goes into the beautiful details from that day.  So, after you listen to today’s episode, go check out episodes 28.    Carol began as a Montessori Guide after receiving her diploma at the 38th Indian Montessori Training Course in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India in 1974. The very next year, Sofia Cavalletti participated in an International AMI Conference in St. Paul, MN. After the conference, 30 of the primary Montessori guides, took the first course given in the U.S. They covered all three levels and studied for 5 weeks. Later, she competed two degrees in Human Development, both her B.A. and M.A., the latter from St. Mary’s University. The first atrium in Minnesota began because her two children, who were adopted from the Missionaries of Charity in India, turned 5 and 3 years old. The atrium began in 1982 at the Church of St. Frances Cabrini, Minneapolis, MN.   In 2006, Carol received the Diploma from the Assistants to Infancy training at the Opera Nazionale Montessori in Rome, Italy. She was able to work with Silvana Montanaro and visit the Rome Atrium often. In the late 1980’s she began work as a Formation Leader and has given CGS catechist formation in all three levels over the last 30 years.   Another joyful ‘grace’ was yet to come when she was invited to work with the Missionaries of Charity, beginning in 2009 in Kenya. A complete circle, from the adoption of her children to serving the sisters, a golden thread, sewn by the Holy Spirit. In addition to Formation Courses in the U.S., Carol has worked with the sisters in Uzbekistan, Sri Lanka, Trinidad, and Rwanda.   Sources for learning more about Maria Montessori’s life: Association Montessori Internationale, Amsterdam Montessori Organizations and Archival Libraries American Montessori Society, New York City   Books by Maria Montessori: The Secret of Childhood The Child and Society A New World and Education   Books about Montessori or her work available through the CGSUSA bookstore: In the 2021 Journal, we seek to offer a rich study and deeper understanding of Montessori's work, which is so integral to CGS. NURTURING THE WHOLE CHILD BY GIANNA GOBBI COMMEMORATIVE JOURNAL: GIANNA GOBBI 1919-2002 MONTESSORI: ON RELIGIOUS EDUCATION THE CHILD IN THE CHURCH (SOFTCOVER) SILENCE IN THE SHADOW OF SPEECH   Previous episodes about Montessori and her work: Episode 4 on Normalization Episode 28 Montessori’s Epiphany Episode 30 on Freedom and Discipline Through their joy, their wonder and awe, their capacity for love and prayer, and their radical simplicity, the children offer adults a glimpse into what it means to fall in love with God. This has been the work of CGSUSA for almost 40 years now: to advocate for the child’s joy. Each year, CGSUSA provides catechist formation, publishes new books for continued study and contemplation, and continues to support catechists and religious leaders across the nation and the world in helping children find their own path to God’s love.  We humbly ask for your continued help and support in this effort, please give to our Annual Appeal.  Please donate so the work may continue.     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 

“Whatever you do, do from the heart, as for the Lord and not for others.” – Colossians 3:23 NAB   Does the idea of making materials for the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd atrium intimidate you?  Do you find material making to be spiritually uplifting or seemingly impossible?  Why is the catechist requested to make the materials with his/her own hands? How can this become a tool for spiritual growth?   Lynda Catalano shares with us her wisdom and passion for making the materials by hand.  She encourages us to go beyond what we THINK are our artistic capabilities. Lynda shares with us her journey in making materials for the children’s use in the atrium. She offers practical tips along with looking at how through making CGS materials catechists can re-discover the value of being essential and she does this by inviting us to embark on a deeply spiritual Lenten journey while making the City of Jerusalem.   Come join us and be inspired to pick up a paint brush or try your hand at a scroll saw and most importantly, to find spiritual value in the work of YOUR hands and the gift materials are to the work of the children in the atrium.   Lynda Catalano has been a catechist at Trinity Church in Fillmore, California for 30 years.  She works weekly in the atrium with groups of 3 to 6-year-olds, 6 to 9-year-olds, and 9 to 12-year-olds.   She has led Levels I, II and III catechist formation throughout the United States and internationally including serving on national formation teams. Lynda is bi-lingual in Spanish and has also offered catechist formation in Spanish.  She is a member of the Formation Leader Discernment Committee and served on teams for the Formation Leader Training Courses for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.  Lynda is retired from teaching kindergarten and first graders in a public school. She has four adult children and three beautiful grandchildren.   Find The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd 32 Points of Reflection     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     

“A tranquil mind gives life to the body” Proverbs 14:30a NAB   What is the Montessori philosophy of “normalization?” What does it look like? Does it look the same in each child? How can we foster normalization?   Normalization fosters peace and joy in the child.  It allows the child to enter into a deeper spiritual prayer time. As adults we have a unique role to create the optimal environment and freedom that will allow a child to enter into normalization. We are capable of fostering or obstructing this process.  We must not allow the uncomfortableness of boredom or struggle to obstruct the child’s natural potential to enter deeply into meaningful work on their own.   Gabriela Perez is a Montessori guide in the Northeast Georgia Mountains.  She is the director of Little Way School which is a Catholic Montessori School that serves children of all financial abilities and backgrounds.  She has been involved as a Montessori guide and as a catechist for The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd for over 12 years. She is AMI certified at the primary level and formed in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in level 1.    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 

"All your children shall be taught by the Lord; great shall be the peace of your children." Isaiah 54:13 NAB Diane Olsen shares with us the importance of the environment for the absorbent mind of the child.  We explore the role that the environment has in spiritual formation and the place of the adult in that environment.  Our discussion is on the first two chapters of Gianna Gobbi’s book Listening to God with Children. (Listening to God with Children has now been reprinted as the book Nurturing the Whole Child and can be purchased HERE) Diane helps us appreciate the importance of a simple and purposeful environment for children. How does the physical environment of a room aid a child’s spiritual growth and development?  A space that is simple and essential has the ability to create peace in the child whereas a busy or embellished environment can be distracting and unsettling to a child.  Diane lifts up the adult’s role as the one to prepare the space for the child but the adult must also prepare internally to meet the child where he or she is, leaving all expectations and pride behind. The adult must remember that the Holy Spirit is the true teacher in the atrium. Diane Olsen has been involved in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd since 1990. She has received all formation levels and was recognized as a formation leader in 2002.  She is actively involved leading catechist formation around the country and was recognized She is co-director of CGS at Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, Kan. Diane has a philosophy and math degree from St. John’s College in Santa Fe, N.M., and a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies-Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from the Aquinas Institute of Theology, St. Louis, Mo. She is a wife, mother, and grandmother. 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   

“Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children,* you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.”  Matthew 18:3 NAB   Does the child already have a connection with God?  How can we, as adults, foster it?  Why does an encounter with God create a peace and joy in the child and what does this look like?  What about the children who have a hard time finding that peace and joy?  What is a Metaphysical child?   Rebekah Rojcewicz explores with us the spiritual depth of the child that is discussed in the first chapter of The Religious Potential of the Child by Sofia Cavalletti.  In this episode she helps us have a deeper understanding and respect for the hidden riches of the child.  She lifts up the place of the adult as co-learner so that we can allow the true teacher, the Holy Spirit, to encounter the child.    You can purchase the NEW third edition of The Religious Potential of the Child today!     Rebekah is a catechist and formation leader in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd having completed her training in 1981 in Rome with its founders, Dr. Sofia Cavalletti and Gianna Gobbi.  She has translated several of their books and articles from the original Italian and has written and edited various parts of the CGS core texts.  Her book: Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues…is due for publication in 2020. Rebekah is a catechist at her parish, St. Patrick Catholic Church, and for the Missionaries of Charity atrium in Memphis, Tennessee.  She serves on the formation committee of CGSUSA, as well as on the International Board for the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.   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 

Welcome to the Good Shepherd and the Child Podcast!  Where we explore the spirituality of the Christian child using the method of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. In this introductory episode Mary Mirrione, National Director of the United States Association of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, answers the question: WHAT IS The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd? Mary Mirrione began working with CGS in 1992. She and a team of catechists and parents built atria at St Anne’s in Gilbert, Arizona for their 1800 children. She has been a formation leader since 1997 serving as such at home and abroad.  She also worked with the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal in Honduras and Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity throughout the United States and around the world.  Mary served on the Board of the National Association and is a member of first cohort at Aquinas Institute to receive a Masters in Pastoral Ministry in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She serves as a faculty member of Kino Catechetical Institute in the Diocese of Phoenix.  Since 2010, she serves as the National Director for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.   We hope you will join us every other Wednesday starting January 8th, 2020 for a journey into the religious life of the child and how we as adults can foster and facilitate the children’s relationship with God.    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 

"The unfolding of your words gives light..” -Psalm 119:130a    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    Podcasts by Series  Level One Book Study  Level Two Book Study    “You will find God when you find your true self, and you find yourself when you find God.” Henri Nouwen  "The purpose of the contemplative life is the perfection of love.” St Thomas Aquinas  “Listening is so much like loving, that most people can’t tell the difference.”   Today, Autumn Domingue joins us again on the podcast to explore the contemplative method—what it is and how it fits into the history of the Church, as well as its place within the rich tradition of CGS. She also guides us through practical tools for becoming a more contemplative listener and responder.  Autumn Domingue is a spiritual director and life coach who delights in walking alongside others as they seek deeper meaning and purpose. For the past twelve years, she has supported individuals in her private practice. With over thirty years of experience as a catechist and formation leader, and as a new instructor at Aquinas Institute of Theology, Autumn is equally at home nurturing children in the atrium and guiding graduate students in their study of spirituality. Autumn’s website    Spiritual Direction 101    Thank you to all our members and our donors who have given to the 2025-26 Annual Appeal and Tina Lillig Memorial Fund. Your donations make it possible for CGSUSA to expand formation opportunities, give mission courses, invest in technology, create catechist and parent resources and publications, and offer many wonderful events that build our catechist community. All of these initiatives help us serve children with love and generosity. The revenue generated from membership fees covers about 55 percent of the cost of the benefits of membership, so philanthropy is essential to delivering excellent support to catechists, ministry leaders, families, and children. To find out more or make a gift, please visit www.cgsusa.org/donate. Thank you!    Podcast Episodes you might be interested in:    Episode 37: CGS and Spiritual Direction with Autumn Domingue  Episode 42: The Mystery of Time with Autumn Domingue  Episode 85: CGS and Accompaniment with Fr Boniface Hicks  Episode 102: Theological Reflection with Autumn Domingue  Episode 126: The Thinking Environment with Jennifer Bell  Episode 154: Holy Simplicity        The Religious Potential of the Child  CGSUSA Store      BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER          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 

"I salute you, Queen Wisdom. May the Lord safeguard you with your holy sister, pure and holy simplicity.” - St Francis of Assisi, The Praise of Virtue    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    Podcasts by Series  Level One Book Study  Level Two Book Study    Today we read Sofia Cavalletti’s 2003 journal article “Holy Simplicity,” and then Anna Hurdle joined me to discuss the beauty and wisdom found in her words.  Anna Hurdle is a catechist and formation leader at levels I, II and III. She is a retired elementary Montessori guide and coordinator of CGS at her parish in Charlotte, NC. Anna serves the National Association through the Episcopal Committee and the Formation Advisory Council.    Read the article “Holy Simplicity” HERE    Thank you to all our members and our donors who have given to the 2025-26 Annual Appeal and Tina Lillig Memorial Fund. Your donations make it possible for CGSUSA to expand formation opportunities, give mission courses, invest in technology, create catechist and parent resources and publications, and offer many wonderful events that build our catechist community. All of these initiatives help us serve children with love and generosity. The revenue generated from membership fees covers about 55 percent of the cost of the benefits of membership, so philanthropy is essential to delivering excellent support to catechists, ministry leaders, families, and children. To find out more or make a gift, please visit www.cgsusa.org/donate. Thank you!      The Religious Potential of the Child  CGSUSA Store      BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER          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 

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” – 2 Corinthians 3:17    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    Podcasts by Series  Level One Book Study  Level Two Book Study    Chip DeLorenzo, co-author of Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom, and his wife Kathleen, a Level I CGS catechist, join us to share how they became involved in both Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and Positive Discipline. They explore the connections between Positive Discipline and Montessori philosophy, and offer practical tools to help us maintain freedom and limits in our work with children in the atrium.  Chip and Kathleen DeLorenzo are longtime Montessori educators and parents of five Montessori-educated children. Chip has been teaching since 1995, is co-author of Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom, and has trained thousands of teachers and parents through his workshops and lectures. Kathleen is a certified Primary Guide who taught in Children’s House classrooms for 10 years, and is also a Level One Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Guide, bringing together Montessori education and spiritual formation for children. Together, Chip and Kathy share a passion for supporting families, educators, and children in living out the principles of Montessori both in the classroom and at home.    Purchase Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom by Jane Nelson and Chip DeLorenzo  For more information about Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom, newsletter articles, or to register for the online PDMC course please go to the link below. If you register for the course, please indicate CGS as your group affiliation.   Pdmc-montessori.org  Positivediscipline.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  Episode 142 – Adults as Potential Obstacles for Development with Pilar Bewley  Episode 145 – Psychic Deviations with Maggie Radzik  Episode 146 – Tools for Freedom and Discipline  Episode 147 – Development of the Will  Episode 152 – Positive Discipline with Pilar Bewley    The Religious Potential of the Child  CGSUSA Store      BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER          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 

“God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline. II Timothy 1:7    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    Podcasts by Series  Level One Book Study  Level Two Book Study    Pilar joins us once again to discuss Positive Discipline and share practical tools that can help us uphold both freedom and limits—whether in the atrium or at home.    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.    Purchase Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom by Jane Nelson and Chip DeLorenzo  For more information about Positive Discipline in the Montessori Classroom, newsletter articles, or to register for the online PDMC course please go to the link below. If you register for the course, please indicate CGS as your group affiliation.   Pdmc-montessori.org  Positivediscipline.com    Types of Parenting Chart       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 for Development with Pilar Bewley  Episode 145 – Psychic Deviations with Maggie Radzik  Episode 146 – Tools for Freedom and Discipline  Episode 147 – Development of the Will    The Religious Potential of the Child  CGSUSA Store      BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER        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 

“Your speech must always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.” Colossians 4:6    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    Podcasts by Series  Level One Book Study  Level Two Book Study    Stephanie and Maris dive into the huge subject of communication and how we can see it’s importance deep in our CGS roots, the value of good communication among the catechists and assistants in the atrium, as well as between different CGS church communities.    Maris Wimberly began the work of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2008 and is a Nationally Recognized Formation Leader in Levels I, II, & III. She has a BS in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Birmingham-Southern College and is a former preschool teacher. Maris is the coordinator of CGS at Our Lady of Sorrows Church and School in Homewood, AL, and a catechist in all 3 atrium levels throughout the week.  She also works with 7th and 8th graders in preparation for Confirmation.    Stephanie Diethelm has been a catechist since 1998. She completed her Level 1 training with Tina Lillig, Barbara Searle and Carol Nyberg in Chicago in 1999 and says that it changed her life.  She has been a formation leader for the National Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd since 2005. She has worked extensively with children and adults in a variety of settings and now works with children in an atrium both at Red Mountain Community School and All Saints Episcopal Church in Birmingham, AL. She also completed the Education for Ministry (EfM) Seminar course through Sewanee: University of the South School of Theology in 2019 and has been a trained mentor for EfM Groups since 2020. She resides in Birmingham, AL and has two children, Catherine (33) and Christopher (30).       Facets of Joy  The Religious Potential of the Child  CGSUSA Store        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 

“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!    Podcasts by Series  Level One Book Study  Level Two Book Study    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 96 – MAPS-CGS Degree  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  Parent Pages  Baptism as a Beginning  The Good Shepherd and the Child: A Joyful Journey    CGSUSA Store        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 

“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!    Podcasts by Series  Level One Book Study  Level Two Book Study    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 96 – MAPS-CGS Degree  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    CGSUSA Store        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 

“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!    Podcasts by Series  Level One Book Study  Level Two Book Study    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     Redeeming Administration   Redeeming Conflict   A Year with Sofia Cavalletti by Ann Garrido    Preaching with Children       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    CGSUSA Store        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 Here!  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 

"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!    Podcasts by Series  Level One Book Study  Level Two Book Study    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.”    CGSUSA Store    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