FALL 2026

Grace Space: Observation to Contemplation
Part 1: Beholding Mystery

  • Begins Monday, October 12th with 4 weeks of content
  • 1 Zoom call Monday, November 9th, 8pm to 9pm Eastern
  • Author: Paula Rush
  • For parents of children ages 3-9
  • Weekly prayer video
  • Weekly observation tasks
  • Weekly activities with children
  • Weekly discussion boards
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    Pricing

    This course is offered at a sliding scale. The actual cost of the class is $50. If that price isn't accessible for you right now, email cct@cctheo.org and we'll send you a different rate, no explanation needed.

    Why sliding scale?

    We want this course to be available to everyone who'd like to take it, not just those who can pay the full rate. The $50 price reflects the actual cost of offering this course. If a lower rate would make it possible for you right now, please choose it without a second thought. When some of us pay the full rate, it helps make room for those who can't right now. It's a small way of taking care of each other.

    What's included?

    • Engaged Facilitator
    • Supportive Cohort
    • Achievable, Interesting Tasks
    • Further reading and resource suggestions

    Why should I care about observation?

    Observing our children helps us draw closer to the mystery of who they are. We more deeply treasure life as gift. We glean insight about our children's innate relationship with God. Prolonged observation becomes prayer.

    What is Contemplation?

    Contemplation is looking at life with God as our companion and guide. The practice of observation helps us slow down enough to tune into God's rhythm or frequency. As we approach the mystery of our children, we also grow closer to the mystery of ourselves and who we are before God.
    Meet the FACILITATOR

    Paula Rush

    Paula Rush is mother to five grown children. Since 2006, she has been a catechist with the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, accompanying children as they grow in and explore faith. She also forms adults as catechists for 3–6-year-old children. In 2025, Paula completed a Master of Pastoral Studies at the Aquinas Institute of Theology. She writes weekly Gospel reflections for children and records them on her podcast called “The Better Part.” She enjoys all sorts of games, especially chess, at which she is not terribly proficient. Paula lives with her husband in Waterloo, ON and works as a chaplain at a Catholic high school. 
    Patrick Jones - Course author