Activity

I recently completed the DTJN course, Introduction to Montessori Cosmic Education. In the final quiz, I made reference to several programmes of religious education for children which use a method of learning generally known as “reflective engagement.” Jennifer thought this information might be helpful to others, so I share it here.

In response to a question about the use of Cosmic Education in religious setting, Michael Duffy spoke about The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, an approach to Roman Catholic religious education rooted in the work of Maria Montessori, and extensively developed by Sofia Cavalletti.

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is still thriving in its own right, but it has also been taken in new directions by Jerome Berryman, Sonja Stewart, and others.

After studying with Sofia Cavelletti in Italy, Berryman returned to the United States and began to adapt Cavalleti’s methods for his own context (at that time the Episcopal Church). Later, he collaborated with Sonja Stewart to write Young Children and Worship, in which they applied many of the same principles to the Reformed tradition. Not long after, Berryman went on to develop Godly Play, which has become an international foundation.

Both Godly Play and Children and Worship aim to create time and space for children to explore how the stories and symbols of their faith tradition connect with their own experience. I have used both Godly Play and Children and Worship for many years and it is through these programmes that my interest in Montessori education was kindled.

My own challenge now is to figure out how to place these particular stories in the larger context of the cosmic story. I would welcome comments or suggestions from anyone who is doing this work.