CCMA Atria
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (also referred to as the Atrium) is an approach in the spiritual formation of children which is grounded in prayer, Scripture, Liturgy, and the Montessori method. At the heart of the Catechesis is the development of the religious potential of every child in a loving and lasting relationship with Jesus. The primary theme presented is that there is Someone (Christ as the Good Shepherd) Who knows each of us, calls us by name, and attends to our every need.
The word “atrium” means “portico, or porch entrance to a large house.” In the early church there was a special room called the Atrium, generally adjoining the Church, which was used for the instruction of catechumens. Maria Montessori introduced the concept and function of the Atrium into her schools as a place to be set apart for the preparation of little children for their full participation in the life of the Church.
Children gather in the Atrium one session per week. It is a place especially prepared for them which contains simple, yet beautiful, handmade materials through which they learn truths about God and His Church. Each atrium is specifically designed for the developmental needs of the children and provides the environment in which the child may develop his or her natural religious inclinations, including the ritual, spiritual, and social aspects of religious development.
About Our Program
The mission of CCMA is focused on spreading and supporting the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd nationwide. Renaissance Montessori School is and has always been rooted in our local community.
In alignment with the missions of these two organizations, beginning with registration for the 2023-2024 academic year, the weekly Atrium programs, which began two decades ago at RMS, will once again be RMS Atrium and be administrated by Renaissance Montessori School. The location and culture of these atria will remain and CCMA and RMS will together work towards a seamless transition.
Our atrium program is developmentally-based (as opposed to grade level-based or solely aged-based). CCMA and our catechists will assess the readiness to move from one level atria to another. If you have questions regarding what level your child should be enrolled, please email atrium@rmsmail.org
Information for 2023-24 Atria Sessions
We are excited to announce that the CCMA USA Atrium will now be supported as RMS Atrium. Please click link below for more information