The Atrium is a place of invitation for the child to a relationship with God through an encounter with Jesus. Students come once a week to the Atrium environment to explore their spirituality. Our atrium is a part of the Montessori-based Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program (cgsusa.org). There are many hands-on materials for the children to use. These materials are created from Scriptural and traditional liturgical practices with a Christian perspective.
Children’s House Atrium
The weekly Children’s House Atrium sessions enhance the school experience. The child continues their work of practical life, nomenclature, and grace and courtesy. Children enjoy the announcement of God’s love through the person of Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd. They engage in Biblical geography and the events in the life of Jesus. Selected parables from the Bible nurture a child’s natural sense of wonder.
Lower Elementary Atrium
The weekly Lower Elementary sessions focus on Salvation History and continue the timeline work that is so much a part of their classroom experience. Children explore their own cosmic tasks. They ask, “How will I write on the blank page of the future?” Socialization is key in Lower Elementary, and the Atrium is a place where small groups work together. They organize and lead communal prayer, contemplate moral questions through Biblical parables, problem solve conflicts and share tasks.
Upper Elementary Atrium
The weekly Upper Elementary sessions offer a wide variety of work choices that promote a further understanding of Scripture and the life of Jesus. The theme of moral formation is expanded with a virtues study and moral parables. Much of the work relates to the “Plan of God”. This timeline of Salvation History expands with a look at ancient civilizations and the gifts they have given us. Children also take an in-depth look at the history of the Jewish people. These activities help to continue the Upper Elementary child’s exploration of the question, “What is the Kingdom of God and my place in it?”
Middle School
Students at the Middle School level integrate their growing spiritual curiosity and intellectual/cultural awareness by exploring the foundations of religious experience, Judeo-Christian belief and custom, as well as comparing western and eastern religious traditions. As part of the Middle School curriculum, students discuss the need for personal virtue at their stage of development, issues of environmental justice, and paths to peace. Lessons are in the form of class presentations, discussion groups and
hands-on student activities. They meet bi-weekly throughout the academic year.