Commemorative Journal: The Gift of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Book excerpt: Since Sofia Cavalletti and Gianna Gobbi founded the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) in Rome seventy years ago, they approached children’s catechesis with a focus on Scripture and liturgy, and solidly based their approach on the Montessori principles of education. CGS is a gift and legacy that Sofia and Gianna have bestowed on generations of adults and children around the world who have fallen in love with Jesus, the Good Shepherd. In recognition of seventy years of CGS and of forty years as a national association, CGSUSA has compiled the commemorative journal The Gift of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. The heart of this journal comprises a collection of previously unpublished excerpts from Sofia’s personal correspondence with translator Patricia Coulter, covering various reflections on life and on the nature of the Good Shepherd Catechesis itself. Also included are Coulter’s observations of Gianna's work with children in Rome. CGS members and catechists will appreciate Sofia and Gianna’s long and deep experience of living the Catechesis joyfully and fruitfully with adults and children alike.