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With the blessing and enthusiastic endorsement and encouragement of Vladyka Michael, Rector of St. Tikhon’s Seminary, and Fr. Steven Voytovich, our Dean, a week-long intensive training for instructors in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Christian Education Program was held at the Seminary from May 30 through June 5, 2017. Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a terrific, experientially-oriented, Montessori-based, hands-on program that begins with 3 to 6 year olds. Further training is required for the subsequent two “units” – the 6 to 9 year olds, and the 9 to 12 year olds. Originally developed Sofia Cavaletti and Gianna Gobbi in the Roman Catholic Church some 35 years ago, it has been thoroughly adapted for the use of Orthodox parishes during the last ten years, and it is being used by a growing number of Orthodox parishes across the US.
The recognized formation leader for this year’s training program was Mrs. Shelley Finkler, from Anchorage, Alaska. Organized with intensive efforts by the whole St. Tikhon’s Community, and led by Dr. Mary Ford of our Community, there were 15 participants, including a number of wives of students who have just graduated, in the hope and expectation that they will institute this program in their new parishes. Also included were two of our first-year students.
With St. Anna’s Atrium already permanently set in place in one of the old classrooms in the Seminary building, we all are greatly looking forward to this outstanding Christian Education program being put into action in the coming Fall.
Many thanks to everyone who helped to organize this event, and to all who attended.
