We are nearing Advent, and the children have settled into Atrium life. A catechist greets them at the door, asking what work they are being called to that day. It is beautiful to watch them walk in find their chosen work with confidence. They are now adept at cleaning spills, being mindful of others, and waiting if the work they've chosen is being used by someone else.
If you happen to come by, you'll probably be struck by the silence. You may see a child contemplating the gifts of Baptism with a catechist, another quietly asking an adult to light the candles at the altar, or someone meditating with the Good Shepherd materials. Other children are engaged in practical life activities - caring for a plant, washing cloths, polishing, or mixing colors.
A child may ask a question and the common response you would hear would be, "I wonder," or "What do you think?"
Not answering questions is a hard discipline, but allows for contemplation and wonder. Often the child's eventual response is so much more profound than the simple answer that was on the tip of my tongue. Sofia Cavalletti reminds us that a definition is the pin that immobilizes the butterfly :-)
If you'd like to observe, we ask that you come in quietly and sit in one of the chairs provided. Catechists are mindful that this space is a place of prayer and generally don't talk to one another during the atrium session. We're happy to chat with you outside or after the session is over.
