All Atrium catechists are required to attend 100 hours of formation in each level before leading an Atrium. The 100 hours provide the foundation for their continuing study of Scripture and the liturgy, learning how to observe the child, and personal prayer. In addition to the catechist, each Atrium also has one or more assistants who play an invaluable role in enabling the Atrium to function smoothly and in assuring that each child flourishes. No special training is required to become an Atrium assistant; each catechist provides brief training to his or her assistant(s). Any parent, grandparent, high school student, or other parishioner who is interested in assisting in an Atrium is invited to further pursue their interest.

The Atrium at St. Joseph's Rectory meets for 1.5 hours on multiple days throughout the week from October through May. Children will be placed in a weekly Atrium session with a catechist, assistant, and a small group of other children. While the date and number of sessions depend on catechist availability year to year, sessions are typically offered on Sunday afternoons 12 - 1:30 PM, multiple weekdays from 4:30 - 6 PM, and one weekday from 5:30 - 7 PM.

For more information about volunteering, please email Kay Perdue Meadows at kay.perdue@gmail.com, Grace Klise at grace.klise@yale.edu, or email us at faithformation@newhavencatholic.org.