Offers children a hands-on approach to religious education, fostering a deep relationship with Jesus through interactive scripture and liturgy experiences.
Ministries

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Offers children a hands-on approach to religious education, fostering a deep relationship with Jesus through interactive scripture and liturgy experiences.
Learn More

Offers children a hands-on approach to religious education, fostering a deep relationship with Jesus through interactive scripture and liturgy experiences.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at St. John the Evangelist Church is a religious formation program for children that is based on the Montessori principles of education. This program aims to foster a close relationship between children and Jesus, the Good Shepherd, in a child-centered spiritual environment.

Purpose & Mission

The primary purpose of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is to help children develop a deep understanding and love for God and the Catholic faith through hands-on activities and contemplative teaching methods. The mission of this program is to nurture the child’s innate potential for faith and to facilitate their participation in the Church's liturgical life through an age-appropriate approach.

Activities & Services

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd offers a variety of activities centered around:

  • Liturgical Education: Teaching children about the Mass and the sacraments through interactive materials and models.
  • Biblical Storytelling: Using figures and dioramas to help children visualize and reflect on the stories of the Bible.
  • Prayer and Worship: Encouraging children to develop their prayer life and sense of worship within the specially designed "atrium," a room prepared with materials that aid religious instruction.

These activities are structured according to the age groups of the children, typically ranging from 3 to 12 years old, and are held regularly throughout the school year.

Audience & Beneficiaries

The intended audience for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd includes:

  • Children Aged 3 to 5: The program is specifically designed for young children, providing them with a foundational understanding of their faith that grows as they do.

Significance & Impact

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is significant to the parish community as it lays the groundwork for lifelong faith in young children. By engaging them in age-appropriate catechesis, the program helps to cultivate a deep-seated love and understanding of the Catholic faith, which can guide them throughout their lives. The hands-on, child-centered approach also ensures that children are active participants in their religious education, making the learning process both enjoyable and meaningful.

For parents interested in enrolling their children in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at St. John the Evangelist Church, the next step is to contact Charlotte Dickey at 850-763-1821. Charlotte can provide detailed information about the program, including registration details, class schedules, and what parents and children can expect from the sessions.

Enrolling a child in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is an investment in their spiritual growth and religious education. It offers a unique and deeply enriching way for children to grow closer to God and to understand their faith through a method that respects and enhances their natural development.

No items found.