What is Catechesis of the Good Shepherd?
- Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a Montessori-based program to help children grow in their Faith.
- The Atrium is a place of work and prayer, designed to help the whole person develop—physically, mentally, and spiritually.
- The students encounter Christ through God’s Word, as well as through the many materials in the Atrium, which are rooted in Scripture, Tradition, and the Liturgy.
A Year in the Atrium
- Students will be living the Liturgy of the Church in their lessons throughout the year, which helps them better to enter into and participate in the life of the Church.
- Students will note the changes in Liturgical Season, which we always mark with a procession to celebrate!
The Atrium is a Special Place
- The Atrium is a place of prayer and encounter with God.
- The mood in the Atrium is one of serene industry; it is quiet so that the children are able to “listen for God’s voice” in their work.
- Students are expected to be quiet and respectful during their time in the Atrium because it is a prayerful space.
Homeschool Atrium
- The St. Rita Homeschool Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Atrium Program takes place on Wednesday afternoons in two 90-minute sessions between the hours of 12:30pm and 4:30pm. We offer both Level I (3-6 year olds) and Level II (1st-3rd Grade). Sessions usually begin the first Wednesday in September and run through the last Wednesday in May.
Registration for the 2025-2026 academic year is currently closed. Please contact Miss Elizabeth Vail at 703-836-1640 (ext 11) or evail.strita@gmail.com for more information, or if you would like to be placed on the list to receive a registration form when registration opens for the 2026-2027 academic year.