“Many hands make light work.”

During his Archpastoral visit to Holy Cross Church in Medford, NJ, Archbishop Michael was warmly welcomed by the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd community and invited to see their newly prepared Atrium — a sacred space where children come to know and love Christ through prayer, Scripture, and hands-on liturgical materials.

This short clip, A Testament of Love, written by catechist Phyllis Pritchard and filmed by parishioner Chris Roth, captures the remarkable “Act of Love” that brought the Atrium to life. Parishioners of all ages came together with generosity and joy to transform a small room into a place of spiritual encounter.

The Story Behind the Atrium

Welcome to our sacred Atrium, “Catechesis of the Good Shepherd,” a nurturing space filled with love, where the relationship between God and the child flourishes. This small room, though humble in size, embodies the immense work of God's love.

When Holy Cross Church first decided to introduce the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program, many wondered whether such a small room could accommodate the needed materials, the catechists, and the children. By God’s grace, the community found a way.

Faced with the choice of waiting another year to prepare every item or beginning right away, they took a leap of faith — choosing to start that very September. The parish’s response was overwhelming: women lovingly painted figures, children helped craft materials, and skilled woodworkers built dioramas, altars, and cabinets. Others donated furniture, art supplies, and funds — each contribution an expression of love.

By the time the first session began, the once-empty room had become a sanctuary of learning and prayer. On Sundays, ten children and three catechists would gather there, and the Holy Spirit seemed to “expand the space” to fit all who came. The Atrium became not merely a classroom but a living icon of the Church — a place where the love of Christ dwells and grows in the hearts of His little ones.

“This Act of Love not only established a sacred ambiance but also created a place for our children to encounter the profound love of our Lord Jesus Christ. When we build with love—regardless of the size or limitations of the space—our efforts resonate, resulting in a manifestation of divine warmth and connection.”