Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Inspiring children to live and love their Catholic faith...Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a program designed to help your child develop a strong, sincere Catholic faith in which a relationship with Jesus Christ and His church feels as natural and essential as the relationships of family life. The program was developed in Italy during the 1950s by internationally known Bible scholar Sofia Cavaletti in partnership with an educator, Gianna Gobi, who trained with child development expert Maria Montessori. Based on principles of the well known Montessori Method, Catechesis of the Good Shepherd provides a nurturing environment, rich with educational symbolism and interactive opportunities for learning. 

Providing a uniquely inspiring environment...Classes take place in a specially-prepared room called the atrium, named for the entry to a basilica where, in the early Church, new Christians were prepared for Baptism. The atrium is a place that offers opportunities to listen, work, sing, pray, wonder and respond to the presence of God in both Sacred Scripture and the Sacred Tradition handed down by the Roman Catholic Church—the church founded by the Son of God.

Planting the seeds of lasting devotion...Catechesis of the Good Shepherd has proven itself time and again as the foundation for a strong and lasting faith. In fact, students who go through the program as children are far less likely than others to stop attending Mass later on in life. 

Please join us.

It is not necessary for your child to be enrolled at Padre Pio Academy to participate in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Classes are offered on Mondays at 9:00 a.m. or on Thursdays at 9:00 a.m.  The fee is $20/month for one class per week.

Our program serves the following age groups

Ages 3-6 in which your child will focus on developing a peaceful enjoyment of God’s presence.

Ages 6-9 where the focus is on inspiring action and a certain quality of behavior rooted in the enjoyment of God’s presence.

Our Catechist, Mrs. Jodi Wohletz, a trained Speech Therapist by trade, found out about the Catechesis program six years ago while working with a local parish as their Religious Education instructor.  She "fell in love" with the program and started the training.  She helped to establish an Atrium at her local parish and has worked as a Catechist for four years.  Her skills as a trained Catechist have been essential in establishing this program at Padre Pio Academy.

Call us at 913.268.3155 and let us help you give the gift of your Catholic faith to your children.

Padre Pio Academy does not discriminate against applicants or students on the basis of race, color, creed or national or ethnic origin.