For the religious formation of children from about ages 3 to 9, the Church of the Ascension offers Catechesis of the Good Shepherd . Catechesis is rooted in the Bible, the liturgy of the church, and the educational principles of Maria Montessori. Children gather in an "atrium," a room prepared for them, which contains simple yet beautiful materials that they use. In an atrium a child can ponder a biblical passage or a prayer from the liturgy by taking the material for that text and working with it - placing wood figures of sheep in a sheepfold of the Good Shepherd, setting sculpted apostles around a Last Supper table, or preparing a small altar with the furnishings used for the Eucharist. Older children who are able to read often copy parables from the Bible, lay in order written prayers from the rite of baptism, or label a long time line showing the history of the kingdom of God . Catechesis meets from September to June every Sunday morning between the two services, from about 9:00 to 10:00. The two atriums are located at the extreme ends of the classroom wing adjacent to the church. Enrollment is open throughout the year.

Catechesis I (3-6 year olds)

Led by Paul Anderson & Norm Boxley
Assisted by various parents

Catechesis II (6-10 year olds, including 5th grade)

Led by Cameron Cox
Assisted by various parents