History of CGS
Italy, 1954
A Biblical scholar meets a Montessori educator
In 1954, Sofia Cavaletti, a Catholic academic, was asked a favour by her friend to offer Bible study to a group of 7-year-olds. As a Biblical scholar with a doctorate in Hebrew studies, Sofia was not sure how best to share the Good News with the children. A mutual friend introduced her to, Gianna Gobbi, a Montessori educator. Without realising it, their first collaborative efforts in serving these children would lead to their life’s work.
For more than 50 years of working with children in a space later called an atrium, they closely observed and patiently documented children’s responses to the presentations they offered. Depending on the children’s response, a work was either retained, revised, or discarded. Some works literally took decades of experimentation to come to its current form.
The work and knowledge Sofia and Gianna have gained has now been distilled into today’s Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.
Word spreads around the globe
The work of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd has now reached over 65 countries and continues to grow. In 2006, the Catechesis came to Singapore under the mentorship of Anne del Sorte and Mary Hare of the Australian association. Today, there are fifteen atria in Singapore parishes, and a number of Formation Leaders have committed to sharing the work across Asia.
And CGS is now in the Philippines
Atria in the Philippines started in schools with the first one opening at PAREF Woodrose School. This was followed by an atrium in Assumption Convent School, San Lorenzo.
In 2018, Our Lady of Guadalupe Atrium, opened in a private house in Paranaque. The first parish-based atrium will be opening in Santuario de San Antonio in 2026.
