South Canaan, PA

St. Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary is once again serving as the setting for the Diocese of New York and New Jersey’s summer formation course in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS). This year's session, taking place from June 9 through June 13, brings together 25 participants from across the diocese and beyond.

Several of the participants are the wives of seminarians, continuing a growing tradition of lay and clergy families alike being formed in this beautiful approach to the spiritual life of children. The course focuses on preparing catechists to serve Level I (ages 3–6), fostering an environment where young children can grow in their relationship with God through Scripture, liturgy, and hands-on materials inspired by the Montessori method.

This formation course is part of a broader diocesan initiative to support the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd as a vital expression of our Orthodox vision of Christian education—one rooted in prayer, wonder, and reverence for the mystery of God.

We give thanks for the ongoing collaboration with St. Tikhon’s Seminary, and we pray that the fruits of this course will continue to enrich parishes and missions throughout our diocese.