RMS Atrium

RMS Atrium (Formerly CCMA Atria) offers once-a-week Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Programs (Atrium) for children from ages 3 to 12.

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

Currently, we have atrium sessions for Primary (Level I), Elementary (Level II and III) on Tuesday mornings and Tuesday afternoons.

Tuesday morning sessions are a full 3-hour Montessori work cycle, a favorite among home educators.

The Elementary Level II/III includes First Holy Communion Sacramental Preparation with a two-year enrollment minimum.

All of our Catechists are certified and formed in the CGS Method by recognized and certified formation leaders by The United States Association of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.

Our atrium program is developmentally-based (as opposed to grade level-based or solely aged-based). RMS 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 admin@rmsmail.org.

INFORMATION FOR 2023-24 ATRIA SESSIONS

2023-2024 Atrium Calendar

2023-2024 Atrium Handbook

Toddler
(Parent-Child)

  • Thursdays 9:15-11:15 am

  • Ages 16 months - 36 months

  • 24-25 - Two 10 week sessions aligning with Atrium Calendar

  • $225 (10 weeks)

ELEMENTARY - LEVEL II/III
(TUESDAY MORNING)

  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 12:05 pm

  • Mid-September through mid-May

  • Ages 6 - 12 years

  • $800*

ELEMENTARY - LEVEL II/III (TUESDAY AFTERNOON)

  • Tuesday 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm

  • Mid-September through mid-May

  • Ages 6 - 12 years

  • $550*

PRIMARY - LEVEL I
(TUESDAY MORNING)

  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 12:05 pm

  • Mid-September through mid-May

  • Ages 3 - 6+ years

  • $800*

PRIMARY - LEVEL I
(TUESDAY AFTERNOON)

  • Tuesday 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm

  • Mid-September through mid-May

  • Ages 3 - 6+ years

  • $550*

PRIMARY - LEVEL I
(Thursday MORNING)

  • Thursday 9:00 am - 12:05 pm

  • Mid-September through mid-May

  • Ages 3 - 6+ years

  • $800*

*All programs have a $25 Supply Fee.

SIBLING DISCOUNTS

  • 2nd child 10%

  • 3rd child 15%

  • 4th child 30%