Reflections on Week 2

Sam Krumbholz

The children came to us a little more confident and eager to begin Day 2 in the Atrium.  The catechists were a little more confident as well!  The joy of beginning our time together with song sets the tone for beautiful experiences to happen.  We began with the verse,  BE STILL AND KNOW I AM GOD  (Psalm 46:10)   We were still for a little while and then off on a beautiful walk around the atrium to refresh the children as to the work to come.  We learned how to carry and unroll a mat where our materials will be placed as we work.  They were introduced to the "Green Light" shelf full of puzzles, bead stringing, and blocks.  These are introductory materials they can use as we gather 2-3 children aside to present more practical life materials.   These materials will be more challenging as the child is ready for them.  This short day in the atrium ends all too soon as we gathered around the prayer table again.  We thanked Jesus for coming to us, for our families, and for whatever they are thinking about.  We are eager for Day 3, a full day in the atrium!  We will have more wonder, more joy, and more time with Jesus.

Thank you parents and grandparents for the gift of your child as we assist them in this beautiful work of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.

Jennifer Francois

Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”   John 8:12

We read this verse from our beautiful Bible at the prayer table today.  And after a moment of reflection, the children, some as young as 3 years old, were presented with the question,

 "What did you hear?"  

But in the atrium we are not looking for answers.  We are inviting the child to listen and ponder. 

pon·der

ˈpändər/

verb

1. think about (something) carefully, especially before making a decision or reaching a conclusion.  

   synonyms:

   think about, contemplate, consider, review, reflect on, mull over, meditate on

   
   

How often do we as adults ponder the questions that pop up in our lives?  So often we rush to find the best solution or conclusion without thinking carefully about the situation, or even taking the issue to prayer, asking God:  "Help me to hear you".  What a beautiful reminder to all of us to take the time to contemplate and pray about the situations that arise that might initially seem to be "all under control"  or the answer seems so obvious to us.  Perhaps God is asking us to ponder a more meaningful response.  The children will learn to ponder many things this year in the atrium as we move the the themes of the liturgical year. There is so much to look forward to!

I would be remiss not to mention that some of the children had very touching responses to the question "What did you hear?"   

     - "Jesus is the light of the world"

     - "Jesus is the light"

     - "Jesus is not afraid of the dark"

     - "I heard Jesus say he loves me"

We should all be so blessed to spend time like this and hear that Jesus loves us.