Catechesis of the Good Shepherd uses a Montessori approach to the religious formation of children.  The atrium contains simple, yet beautiful materials that children use to help them absorb the most essential proclamation of the Christian faith.  It is a sensory rich experience for children that gives them the opportunity to grow in their love and knowledge of God.  The materials are attractively displayed, designed to foster independence, and invite the children to explore and deepen their experience of the presentation at their own rhythm.  The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd seeks to be an experience of life and an education in faith, through the celebration of an encounter with the Father, in listening to Jesus the one Teacher, and in obedience to the Spirit."  --Catechesis of the Good Shepherd  

Level 1:  Faith formation class for 4 and 5 year olds with age appropriate, hands-on activities about the Mass, the life of Jesus, and the traditions of the church.  St. Joseph offers Level 1 classes in both the parish setting and in the school setting.  Classes for St. Joseph School are held for the Kindergarten and for the 4 year old Preschool.  Classes in the parish setting are offered through Building the Domestic Church program.  Children may be dual enrolled in both the school and Building the Domestic Church.
 
Registration Requirements for Parish classes:

• Children must be enrolled with their parents in the Building the Domestic Church program.
• Children must be 4 years of age by September 1 of the current year.
• Children may not be entering first grade in the current year.
• Children must be toilet trained, able to care for themselves, and able to follow simple directions.  Children needing assistance with personal care may attend with a parent or adult guardian.

• Sunday Morning during the Building the Domestic Church program.
• Between the 8:15 AM and 11:00 AM Masses

Location: The Atrium is in the St. Joseph
school building, primary wing.  Entrance is from
the Rahrig Center doors (#2).  The Atrium is the
first room on the left when entering the primary
wing from the Rahrig Center.  Visits to the Atrium
are by appointment only.  Please contact the
Faith Formation Office.