Level I

…and a little child will lead them Isaiah 11:6
The first half of the year in any Level I atrium is a wonderful, although sometimes challenging time. I think it can be described in two words: Growing Time, because so much growth takes place both in the children and the catechists. The new children are introduced to the atrium and the returning children take some time to readjust. The first couple weeks are spent on the basics of the atrium. We remind them that this space has been specially prepared for them and go over how we act in the atrium. We talk about the Bible and the prayer corner where they can go to be silent and talk to Jesus.

The few weeks before we enter into the Advent season are filled with presentations that help the children to understand, and therefore participate more fully in the Mass. The altar work is a favorite. The children set a model altar as it would be set for Mass and in doing so learn the names of the various articles as well as awareness and a respect for what takes place on the altar. For example the square cloth laid on the altar is called a corporal. They learn the name and also the meaning, which is even more important. It is called the corporal because corporal means body and it is on this cloth that the Body and Blood of Christ are laid.

In the season of Advent (and also in this first week after break) the children reflect on the Infancy Narratives: the Annunciation to Mary, The Visitation of Mary to Elizabeth, The Birth of Jesus and the Adoration of the Shepherds, The Adoration of the Magi and the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple. As we reflect on these scripture passages with the children, we talk about waiting for the light of Christ. How did the people feel who were waiting in darkness? What does it feel like when we are in darkness and then when the light comes? How did the people feel when the Light came, when Jesus came into the world?

In the Level one atrium, the Good Shepherd is one of the central works. It is something the children return to again and again. It really speaks to the child about the love of the Good Shepherd for His sheep, the love of Jesus for us. As I was presenting the Good Shepherd material this year I had a mixture of first, second and third year children. One of the children was particularly eager to answer the meditative questions, I found this surprising since I knew they had seen the presentation before. Rather than being bored, this child was excited to see the presentation again and seemed so joyful as I read the scripture and we meditated on it. I was in awe. These children, who are so young, understand, better than I do, the love of the Good Shepherd and they are full of joy! How often do we as adults (or young adults) meditate on this love which is total and unconditional and eternal? I am the Good Shepherd…I will lay down my life for the sheep. Jn. 10:14-15 What would life be like if we trusted in the mercy and love of our Lord, and casting all our cares upon him (Ps. 55:23) let him fill our hearts with joy. Joy that even in times of sorrow and difficulty, does not fade because it is founded in Christ. I have told you this so that my joy might be in you and your joy might be complete. Jn 15:11

It amazes me how much the children have to teach us!
…and a little child will lead them Isaiah 11:6

May the JOY of the Good Shepherd fill your hearts!

~Liz