What Was Your Response When You Heard Pope Francis Was Named TIME Magazine’s Person of the Year?

We posed the above question to members of our parish and these are the responses that we received. 

Knowing that this holy man can change the face of the Catholic Church by resetting its priorities, is very reassuring to me.  But to see that he can also inspire hope in the secular arena, and perhaps have universal impact with his grand vision rooted in Christ's message, is truly a reason for all to rejoice!  Cyndy G

I saw it first thing this morning and thought, “That’s our Papa!! Who DOESN’T love this guy?” I am so excited that Pope Francis is able to show the world the gift of joy and hope that is found in all that we believe!   Mary C

I am beyond excited to learn that Pope Francis was selected as Time Magazine's Person of the Year. My first thought upon hearing this news was that of hope! I am hopeful for our world to know that he was chosen. What a great example the Catholic Church is to the rest of the world!  Lauren

My first thought was how wonderful it feels to have The Church portrayed positively in mainstream media again because of Pope Francis. I then contacted the marketing department at the yearbook publisher I work for and made sure it would be included in our "Year in Review" magazine supplement that goes in almost all of our school's yearbooks across the nation.   Lisa L

I've been getting calls from my Protestant friends that think it's awesome.  They feel that his incredibly humble nature will continue to strengthen all Christians.  His real life examples of Peace & Love continue his daily messages to the world. Jim C

My first thought was, "Wonderful! Terrific!" My second was, "Thank God they didn't pick another person they considered - Miley Cyrus."  David H

I felt my shoulders relax, oddly enough, and thought "it's about time". I have so many friends who are non-Catholic that have said they think he's "the man" - just a truly amazing person who actually lives like Jesus wants us to live. Jacque O

His life as a Christian exemplar merited the recognition! I fear, however, it reflects how many people want him to change the principles of the staid old Church.  Lee M

Pride! Many non-Catholic friends have shared wonderful comments on his actions and efforts for all Christians.  Sharron M

Pope Francis is reenergizing the Church through his humble life style and the way he reaches out to all people.  Through his down to earth communication and joyful demeanor, he makes Christ present to all that see him.  Mark P

To read about TIME’s choice, click this link

http://poy.time.com/2013/12/11/person-of-the-year-pope-francis-the-peoples-pope/?iid=poy-main-lead

To hear Cardinal Dolan’s Response in his podcast on Catholic Radio

http://cardinaldolan.org/index.php/pope-francis-named-time-magazines-person-of-the-year/

To read Father Robert Barron’s Response

http://cardinaldolan.org/index.php/pope-francis-named-time-magazines-person-of-the-year/

Thank you....Once again Good Shepherd parishioners have come together to meet a need in our community.  Recently, GRACE, Cassata High School and St John's Baby World expressed an urgent need for outerwear. The GSCC youth attending the Sleep Out for Honduras in early November brought gently used coats and jackets in response to this request. Wow, what an outpouring of generosity from our teens! Volunteers who delivered the over 150 pieces of outerwear to the three organizations were met with tears of joy.  Outreach team members sorted through donations and Cassata High School students try on their new coats with big smiles. Thank you, Good Shepherd for your continuous generosity.

REFLECTIONS ABOUT CHRISTMAS MASS FROM OUR CHOIR DIRECTORS

The 4:00 p.m. Christmas Eve Mass provides an uplifting, youthful approach to traditional carols and contemporary songs to ring in the Birth of Christ.  It is truly a celebration!  The message for this Mass is intended for young children.  Father conducts a “dialogue” homily where he asks the young children to come and sit at the base of the altar.  He then asks for their assistance in retelling the story of Christ’s birth.  Music for Christmas Eve Mass at 4:00 p.m. will be provided by our Sunday 4’oclock choir, 4-Hymn.  Joining this choir, we welcome back our returning college students and the children’s choir. 

Christmas is about tradition and what better tradition than Christmas carols.  The Youth Orchestra , along with the 11:00 am Sunday choir, will be playing traditional Christmas carols at the 6:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Mass that will not only celebrate the birth of Christ but will hopefully stir fond memories in the hearts of the assembly.  This Mass, like 4:00 p.m. is also intended for children and includes the dialogue homily.

 At a new time this year, Good Shepherd’s 9:00 p.m. Mass will be a treat for all with music provided by our Sunday 9:00 a.m. choir and our hand bell choir.  The blend of these voices sound like angels from heaven and the bells truly ring in the Christmas spirit.  Homily and music focuses on the adults in the congregation.

 What can you expect at Midnight Mass?  Great parking and ample seating!  As you enter the sanctuary, you are warmed by the glow of the lights from the trees at the base of the altar.  When you settle in, your heart will be warmed as well when the Sunday 5:00 o’clock contemporary choir begins the traditional Christmas carols that you know by heart.

Christmas Day Mass at 10:00 a.m. is a simple, rich liturgy and celebration.  The sacred is easily felt with the traditional music provided by the cantor and accompanist.  The community’s participation rounds out this celebration

What are you thankful for?

When I reflect on things I am truly thankful for my immediate attention goes to being a wife and a mother of 4 children (one on the way). But, what I’d like to allow you all to see and be a part of is a time in my life that I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Growing up my family wasn’t a traditional family where Mom and Dad were married, worked and were at home in the evenings caring for the children. It was quite opposite. There were many times I felt discouraged by the lack of stability I saw in this make up of a family but there was an amazing alternative that was healing and what makes me who I am today.

I spent majority of my time with my grandparents and their wise souls were so enriching on every level. They took me with them in the summers to travel to Pennsylvania, Ohio, Oregon and Washington. We’d see family and the love I received from them is something I don’t take for granted now. Growing up, they put me in gymnastics, supported my cheerleading, attended most games, took me to my orthodontist appointments and lunch after before I’d head back to school.

As I headed off to college, they attended my college cheerleading, sorority events, and my Grandma would come up to have lunch with me. I could tell my grandparents anything. They were supportive, they cared for me, they loved me the way I had always wanted to be loved and supported. They financially cared for me in addition to emotionally being my strength.

They taught me faith and always had me in church on Sundays. My Mima would teach Sunday school and my Pappy taught his adult class. They were actively involved and I never questioned my place in church. I felt at home with them. They made me feel safe even in times that I questioned my safety.

During college my grandmother got mentally ill and the medications they used to treat her resulted in her passing. It’s been 7 years and I miss her terribly but am forever grateful for her and who she was and continues to be in my life. 3 months ago my Pappy had gotten ill and was admitted to the hospital. He called me on August 6th at noon to check on me and I felt it was his way to always put me first, like he always has done. It was a brief conversation but one I hold dear to my heart. I said goodbye to my Pappy for the last time and that night at midnight, he passed away. What an amazing gift God gave me through my Pappy for him to call me one last time.

My love for these two incredible people is so deep. They taught me everything I know. My Pappy showed me the type of man I should marry and how to always rely on faith. His favorite verse was Proverbs 3: 5-6….Trust in the Lord.

Reflecting this Thanksgiving on my life and the love I was given is truly humbling. They loved me so much and the feeling was mutual. One of the greatest things a parent can teach their children is a foundation of faith. Not all children are given that firm teaching and foundation but I am so thankful I was given that. My childhood was filled with laughs, beautiful Christmases at my grandparents and Thanksgivings of plenty. My memories can’t be replaced and are who I am. And for that, I am truly thankful.

Adoption

On Tuesday November 5th. Good Shepherd held its first informational meeting on adoption and foster care.   We had representatives from Catholic Charities Ft Worth and Foster in Texas. Both speakers gave great information on programs offered through these 2 agencies and the dire need to help children throughout Texas and the world. We also had 2 families tell their stories of adoption. It was a very informative and heartfelt evening. If you would like information about these programs please contact the church office and they can put you in touch with the appropriate person to answer your questions. Look for future informational meetings in the months to come.

Go Out, Go Out | spiritandsong.com

"Pope Francis is not asking us to be content with being disciples. He wants to push us further. He is asking us to becoming missionary disciples."
Go Out, Go Out | spiritandsong.com

Danke Schoen Good Shepherd

Over 500 parishioners and friends attended Good Shepherd’s Second Annual Oktoberfest.  A good time was had by all at this  family event that featured German fare, live music on two stages and fun for all ages.  The kids enjoyed creating a craft, playing games and dancing, while their parents shopped the silent auction tables, and had an adult beverage or two. 

The live entertainment featured Good Shepherd’s favorite accordionist, Don Devous and co on the main stage, and instrumentalist Mike Wasson played outside in the pavilion.                    

Our creative ministries and parishioners  provided  52 items including a Fredricksburg getaway weekend basket, handmade wreaths and jewelry, and suite tickets to a Dallas Mavericks game, just to name a few.  The many talents and gifts of our parishioners were on display at this special auction.  Over $4,000 was raised at the silent auction and the proceeds will be used to support Good Shepherd’s Outreach ministries.

Each of Good Shepherd’s hospitality ministries participated in this event and took ownership of a piece of the event.

Danke schoen to the Oktoberfest team and chairpersons

Women’s Group (Silent Auction):  Kathy G & Rochelle R, Men’s Club (Food):  David S, Women’s Group (Tickets):  Patti Z, Lisa M, Mary Z,  The Knight’s of Columbus(Beer and Promotions after Mass):  Mike B and Mike M, Wednesday Night Live (Set-up, Clean-up, Crafts): Aaron M, Maggie L, Lucy Y, Alyssa L, Elizabeth F, Louis G, Jim, Crystal, Matthew M, Michael G, Kyle G, Christian T and Paul P Archangel Mothers(Decorations): Katie B, Crystal F, and Jacque O.

Danke Schoen und Sie sehen im nachsten Jahr

(Thank you and see you next year!)

Bishop's Annual Respect Life Banquet

Good Shepherd teens attend the Fort Worth Diocese Pro Life Bishops banquet.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROSITY WITH THE BABY ITEM COLLECTION AT GSCC SUPPORTING GABRIEL ANGEL PROJECT AND HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL.

Catholics Respect Life

We are all familiar with the adage, “It is better to light one candle than to curse the darkness.”  What greater darkness can there be than the shadow cast over our country by the passage of Roe vs. Wade thirty years ago resulting in the deaths of over 56,000,000 babies.

I have known those feelings of frustration and helplessness that so many of us have experienced in regard to this issue.  I have asked myself, “What can one person do against a culture of death so prevalent in today’s society?”  The answer for me has been to join with others in prayer, in extending a helping hand to women in crisis pregnancies and in supporting each other in whatever aspect and degree of pro-life work that we feel called to do.

Here at Good Shepherd we are blessed to have a Catholics Respect Life group made up of men and women committed to promoting a culture of life.  We meet monthly (the 2^nd Tuesday at 6:45).   I invite all parishioners to join us and see what we can do together to make a difference.  Come, light a candle!   Cathy

Date Night

What an amazing ministry and so much needed in our world today!  The Marriage Enrichment “Date Night” is for all couples married from 1 month to 99 years!  We've not missed a date yet, not because of obligation, but we can't wait until the next one!  The experience of this ministry has brought my husband,  and I closer than I imagined we would be after 17 years of marriage.  The study book "Happy Together" is amazing.  We've become more sensitive to each other's needs.  Our daily morning prayers together before we get up out of bed in the morning are stronger than before.  We find each other writing little post it notes to each other or thinking of other small ways to say "I love you" since our budget is tight.  You don't have to "buy or earn" your spouse's love with material things.  The “Happy Together Date Night” is a great reminder to take time for your marriage, it's a lifelong INVESTMENT.  If you don't put time in for each other, you won't get much out of it.  Marriage Enrichment is a great thing to have on your calendar and commit to be there for each other. The upcoming Date Nights are October 4, November 8, February 14 and March 7.  See the bulletin or Good Shepherd’s website www.gscc.net for more details and to register.

"Marriage is to be held in honor among all . . ."  Hebrews 13:4

 

Evangelization Prayer

We pray for a church where no one feels alone

We pray for a church that loves

God and each other

We pray for a church that values

each person’s strengths

We pray for a church that is guided by

the Holy Spirit to rediscover itself

We pray for a church that continues to embrace the vision of Vatican II

We pray for a church that is fully engaged

We pray for a church that focuses on

love, peace, justice and compassion

We pray for a church in which

everyone is welcoming

We pray for a church that proclaims

the good news of Jesus Christ

in word and action

We pray that we will be that church!

Amen

Sharron and I have made nine major moves during our 45 years together. Happily, we have been able to sink taproots into the special ‘family’ community of Good Shepherd. Having been in the multi-line insurance business for 31 years, we have seen the family trauma when there has been little or no end-of-life planning. We have foregone burial in a National Cemetery though my ten years in the Air Force make that an option. Instead, we purchased a niche in the GSCC Columbarium having fallen in love with its unique setting. We visualize Christ on the crucifix in the main sanctuary wrapping His arms around the Community of Saints – the congregation and those inurned in the Columbarium. Moreover, when, during the Eucharistic Prayer, the Presider remembers those who have died in the peace of Christ, he will be able to look at those of us in the Columbarium. Further, Sharron and I will be remembered during services in the Marian Garden honoring the Blessed Mother. Thus, we will remain members of the Good Shepherd ‘family’ for eternity.

Good Shepherd Columbarium

Good Shepherd celebrated 10 years in our sanctuary with an Old-Fashioned Church Picnic that was so popular Father Richard says it will become an annual event! With free fried chicken, delicious sides and desserts, an opportunity for fellowship and a front row seat to view the GSCC documentary WE ARE we drew a monster crowd of over 800 people! What a blessing that we had a beautiful day and enough food for all! The hall was transformed into the Texas countryside with flying kites, hay bales and sunflowers galore! So many people made this event a success.  We encourage to watch We Are. If you have been a parishioner for 2 years or 20, you will have an emotional response to this film. If you missed the event this year, you will want to mark your calendars for next year.

 

This summer at The Pines has been such a beautiful experience.  It is such a blessing to watch the Holy Spirit reach out to each and every camper and staff member, and bestow God’s overwhelming grace on their hearts.  The heat, long hours, and lack of sleep meet no match to the spiritual satisfaction staff members receive to having the amazing opportunity to spend our summers winning souls over to God’s love.  I encourage each and every parent to allow their kids to spend a week at The Pines, so that the might have the opportunity to make great Catholic friends, have an amazing week of fun, and grow ever deeper in their faith.  Thanks and Gig ‘Em.  Johnny D. 

 

As a counselor at The Pines, you never know the exact thought process of your campers. You minister to such a wide variety of kids depending on what cabin you are put in for the week. I will never forget the experience of being with the youngest group, 7-8 year olds. I had one of the toughest, yet sweetest campers; her name is Vivien. Throughout the whole week I never knew if she was having a good time regardless of how hard I tried, but on Saturday morning when her parents came to pick her up she cried into my shirt saying how much she didn’t want to leave and how much she LOVED The Pines. The Holy Spirit works through our staff in so many different ways. Two weeks after Vivien left I received a letter in the mail saying, “I miss you so much. I’m crying right now. The Pines was the best time I’ve ever had in my whole life.” Who knew the words of an 8 year old could be so affirming. Vivien’s letter is proof that The Pines’ ministry is changing lives of our children even when they go home.

Sally

 

Good Shepherd participated in GRACE’s Feed Our Kids program as part of the Teen Service Week.   With donations from the Women’s Group, The Van Noy family, CRHP groups, the parish staff, the Rosary and Donut group and VBS families, we were able to provide and serve 120 lunches each day.  These donations made it possible to serve these children fun meals like spaghetti and meatballs, chicken nuggets and sno cones without any cost to the church!  Many thanks to all of you who supported this effort.  We look forward to next year and know that we can count on your generosity to make sure the needy children in our area receive a home cooked lunch and love and support from GSCC.

 

Men of the Rosary and Donut Group, Thank you so much for your donations for the Teen Service Week.  Your donations were used to rent a Sno Cone truck to come out to the GRACE:  Feed Our Kids program site at the end of the week.  You can just imagine the excitement on the children's faces when the truck rolled up!  This week was such a success on so many levels and it would not have run so smoothly without your help.  Thank you, again, for your generosity!

His Hands and Feet Teen Service Team

 

 What an exciting ending to such a wonderful week!  The teens were so helpful and we loved having the chance to spend the week with the kids.  I am so impressed with the way Good Shepherd came together to make it all happen……from the Men of R&D, Women’s Group, various CRHP groups, several single families, the parish staff and the huge donation from VBS, along with the service from our devoted teen volunteers!  This was truly a community at work!  So proud to be just a small part of it all!  Your generosity brought much joy!!!  Blessings to you all!

Dog Days of Summer: Heating up for CRHP

Matthew 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

 

As the heat has increased, so has my love for CHRIST! Being a member of Christ Renews His Parish has been amazing! CRHP 7 is currently preparing for the women and men of CRHP 8. Praying for these people is something we all take very seriously. Praying each man and woman be filled with the Holy Spirit and see how Christ has been and continues to work in all of our lives.

 

The experience of CRHP has been so fulfilling. It’s something you can’t get at any other type of event or service you partake in. It’s like an extension of the Eucharist for me. The Eucharist is the fuel I need to feed my body and keep going spiritually. The acts through CRHP and the focus on our individual Christian Catholic lives is what fuels me to do service for our Church and for others as a Christian witness. The women’s retreat is just 4 weeks away, and the men’s is 6 weeks away. It’s no mistake that the main color of CRHP is red! Yes, it is definitely appropriate for the heat of the summer. But it’s also so representative of our passion for Christ.

 

In the bible, it tells us to be ministers to others. Colossians 3:16 says “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.”

 

Be a witness to others. Let Christ’s light shine in you so that you may be the example God intended for us all to be. Sign up for CRHP! I can almost promise you it’ll be a decision you’ll never regret.

 

Philippians 4:8-9 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me. Then the God of peace will be with you.

Before this summer, I had never been to sleep away camp. I have to admit that at first I was a little nervous but my friends and cousins had told me great things and I was mostly excited. The Pines went beyond what they had told me. Not only were the activities fun, I made a whole cabin full of new friends and grew in my faith. The counselors were very supportive and good role models as well as hilarious and fun. I feel like I grew in my faith a lot because everyday, along with the activities, I was learning new things about my faith and experiencing my faith more deeply than ever before. Everything about my Pines experience was amazing and my only regret is not going sooner!

Hearts for Honduras - June 2013 Honduras Mission Trip

 

It is almost impossible to communicate my experience in Honduras in a mere paragraph or two, as any incredibly life changing and eye opening experience would be.  Some of my first words in the journal I kept were these... "I leave for Honduras in a few days, and I'm nowhere near 'ready' physically, spiritually, emotionally. Haha, but that's how it usually works, isn't it God?".  Although I had some idea of what the trip entailed, there was no saying what God had in store.  It was time to let go and let God.

Immediately upon arrival there were many differences noted in culture, but we all embraced it.  Throughout the trip we were able to do one of my favorite things in the world- form relationships.  Whether it was with the kids at the school, teachers, nuns, orphans, people on the street, and even other members of the mission team, we were connected in God and solidaridad (in English, solidarity) rang true.  As a mission team we were able to discuss discipleship, perseverance, thankfulness, simplicity, and taking up our crosses daily, as well as be an encouragement to one another.  I will always hold the laughs, cries, joys, fears, and love of these people in my heart.  -Bethany

By the grace of God and all your prayers, the fourteen Good Shepherd Missioners returned from Honduras to Colleyville on June 12.

Just a few of the many highlights of the trip included:

·         The annual Science Fair featuring some very ingenious student projects.  A number of the projects focused on environmental improvement which was very impressive.

·         Meeting with two scholarship recipients, who proudly shared that they are at the top of their sophomore classes. One is at the Agricultural University in Catacamas and the other is at the University of Tegucigalpa. The success of these two people speaks volumes as to the work that  has been accomplished.

·         Spending time in the classroom with both the bilingual students in Kindergarten thru third grade and the high school students.  It was wonderful to interact with these enthusiastic young people.

The trade school not only provides invaluable education but also a vital alternative to the gang and street life that awaits many youth in Honduras. -Bob

VBS - Where Kids Stand Strong for God

What an amazing week of Vacation Bible School!

Check out more picture from the week!

Let the Children Come to Me

What a wonderful year it has been with Little Lambs. I remember bringing our son, Adrian to Little Lambs for the first time 2 years ago. A lot of excitement and anticipation as our little 2 year old began this great adventure. Reflecting on the last 2 years of this program is truly gratifying. I am so grateful for the way this program has allowed our family to grow, and most importantly, the incredible foundation of faith it has provided for our sweet Adrian.

This year in Little Lambs, I’ve noticed tremendous growth for our son. Aside from numbers, letters, listening, and physical growth, Adrian’s faith has grown in numbers. I credit it partly to the involvement of his preschool. At Little Lambs, they provide a time for religion where the children are learning about Jesus and what He does in our daily lives. Adrian spent time in the church, in the chapel and with the clergy of the church. One of the sweetest sounds would be as we drove home and to hear his little voice singing songs about God that he learned that day. Hearing “I am growing up in God’s house” always brought a warmth to my heart. I knew he was where he needed to be. 

Reflecting on this last year, I feel it was such an honor to really watch my child grow up in God’s house. To see God’s beauty in this little boy and among all the children is something that I don’t take for granted. This year seemed to actually go by even faster than the year before. At the end of each year, there is always a ceremony with awards and the very anticipated ME books. Adrian’s awards this year was the “Zookeeper Award.” Yes, he loves creepy critters, snakes, lizards, geckos, crocodiles…you name it! Little Lambs has a “sweet” gecko named Gordon which I’ve somehow agreed to take care of for 3 weeks this summer in lieu of my creepy crawler jitters. I’ve put that aside for Adrian’s love of them.

In addition to the end of the year program, the children’s yearly ME books are handed out and I love nothing more than to receive these treasured books. These are the reflections from the entire year accompanied with artwork, facts, and pictures of your child. What a treasure! I now have two of these books and hold these dear to my heart.

Little Lambs has not only allowed Adrian to grow, but myself as well. I have learned to trust and to see that our little boy is doing a great job at his school. He now loves to go there and see his friends. Every day we would leave school, I would ask him to tell me one thing about his day and it became a routine for us as we’d head home. He would tell me about his buddies, or if someone was sick, or if they prayed for someone. He truly is turning into a socially, beautiful little boy.

Last night as I finished up Adrian’s bedtime story and laid him down, we snuggled and I heard his sweet voice whisper in my ear…”Mommy, can we pray now?” What a warmth that brings me. To hear your sweet son ask to pray and then conclude with Jesus Loves Me tells me that we have definitely done something right with him. And I truly believe that Little Lambs has attributed to this. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to such wonderful teachers, mentors, and friends for taking such great care of our sweet boy and building a foundation of faith.

Congratulations Graduates!

Holy Trinity 8th Grade graduating class of 2013

God of our beginnings,

We thank you for the gifts of these graduates;

their excitement, their awesome wonder and curiosity,

their open speech and encouraging words.

Their contributions have blessed and challenged us,

and we have become a richer

and more diverse community because of them.

As they step forward into the world that awaits,

comfort their fears with the full knowledge of your divine presence.

Strengthen their resolve to walk in the footsteps of Jesus

as modern-day disciples in a world that needs their spirit.

Guide their feet as they move through life,

protecting them from the pitfalls of darkness

while they help to lead future generations

into the warmth and promise of your light.

We ask this blessing upon each of them,

AMEN!

Good Shepherd Graduating Seniors

Getting confirmed was a big deal for me. I have been wanting to fully commit myself to my Catholic faith for quite a few years now, and I was thrilled that the time had finally come. Though the process was tedious and time-consuming, it made me stronger in my faith and only made me want to get closer to God. While completing the hours of formation, service, and other requirements, I made new friends and unforgettable memories. The amazing retreat brought me even closer, and when the day came, I couldn't have been more ready! Now a confirmed Catholic, I am excited to continue with WNL and as a Reader and hopefully get involved with some new ministries!

Evening in the Marian Garden

There are moments in your life that will be forever imprinted in your memory.  This past Thursday night for our evening to honor our Blessed Mother Mary was one of them for me.  First as the chair for this event, I was amazed by the overwhelming response from our Women’s Group to assist with this event.  The evening started out with a beautiful songs led by various singers and musicians to the precious procession of little angels from our parish to Crown Mary.   We followed into the Rosary led by Daryl, then led in International, proceeded by the children of our parish, sung beautifully from Barbara & Mike and finally led by a teen, Erin.  It was just so peaceful…  Thank you to so many ladies who helped pull this event together!  A special thank you to Frankie and Kathleen who decorated Mary in the chapel as though she was positioned on a cloud with the sky under her.  Also a big thank you to Kim for sharing the reflection on Mary and who headed up decorating the narthex for our reception.  It was an evening to remember forever! 

 

Good Shepherd's Children's Choir Easter Outreach

 

The children made Easter cards for the neighboring nursing home. 

Easter Basket and Book Donation

One of the many things that Good Shepherd exists for is to reach out to others in a caring and compassionate manner.  And we reinforce this constantly.  An example is our Easter Basket donations to GRACE and the Community Enrichment Center.  This week Lisa G, Bill H, Vern and Bob E delivered Easter Baskets to GRACE and to the Community Enrichment Center.  During Holy Week, Vern, Bob and Darline delivered additional baskets received to GRACE.  All these donations gave the children supported by these organizations a much happier Easter.

 

Also, Bob and Deb will be delivering all the books that have been donated to St. George Parochial School in Ft. Worth.  (St. George is our Great-Grandmother Parish).  This annual donation of books is always greatly appreciated by the staff and students at St. George.

We are blessed to belong to such a generous parish.  To quote Winston Churchill: “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”

During the week of April 1, the Good Shepherd Mission Council held a Recycling Program in conjunction with the Women's Group Garage Sale.  The Mission Council has worked with an organization that takes in unwanted electronics and other items and processes the materials to ensure that the items don't wind up in places that are bad for the environment.  Kathy spearheaded the publicity for this event and members of the Mission Council were at the Tinker House from 8 am to 5 pm every day to receive the recyclable items and accept donations that will go to support the Trade School in Honduras. 

The results were amazing - Several rooms of the Tinker House were completely filled up with recyclable items.  In addition, the recycling organization was able to go to people's homes and pick up big screen t-v's and other items.  And, as always, Good Shepherd parishioners were generous with their donations that will help improve the quality of life in Honduras.  Thanks to everyone for their outstanding support.  Our intention is to do this event every year in conjunction with the Women's Group Garage Sales.

Christ's Unconditional Love

Holy week has always been my favorite time of the church liturgical year. My own personal memories, growing up a cradle Catholic, of attending the chrism Mass (blessing of the Holy oils to be used throughout the church year), Holy Thursday (the Mass of the Last Supper), Good Friday’s Liturgy of the Word and as a family we always attended Easter Vigil. Holy week and the Easter Triddum hold in my mind and heart, the very basis and truths of the foundations of my Catholic faith. I mainly attended these days with my grandfather through my growing up years. He passed away last summer. So this Holy week, took on a more meaningful time for myself and brought to me a new sense of peace.

The beginning of Holy week starts on the sixth Sunday of Lent with Palm Sunday. This is when we commemorate Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem. We find in the bible the account of Jesus leaving Jerusalem and returns Monday. He spent time with Gentiles in the Temple, and on Wednesday left for the Mount of Olives. Spy Wednesday is an old and uncommon name for the Wednesday of Holy Week, which commemorates Judas' agreement to betray Jesus.

The beginning of the Easter Triddum starts with Holy Thursday. Here Jesus foretold the apostles the events of the next several days, including His impending death. Jesus returned to Jerusalem on Thursday, to share the Last Supper with His apostles. Also known as the name "Maundy Thursday" and is derived from Jesus "mandate" to love one another as he loves us. This day celebrates the institution of the sacraments of Holy Eucharist and Ordination. Good Friday a day of fast and the Church commemorate Jesus' crucifixion and death. Customs include Veneration of the Cross, communion from the reserved Maundy Thursday Mass, and the reading of the Passion. Jesus was crucified at Calvary on Friday, outside the gates of Jerusalem.  Holy Saturday is a day for prayer and meditation on the tomb of Christ.  The Easter Vigil (Saturday evening) and Easter Sunday celebrations are the Celebration of Christ’s Resurrection! The Easter Triddum is ended with evening prayer on Easter Sunday evening.

I started my holy week on Palm Sunday in a very small parish in Napa Valley, California, St. Thomas Aquinas, as I was away visiting with friends. (A Mass of about 75 people.) A Dominican priest played the organ and the parish diocesan priest gave a very spirit filled homily. His main message was about the passion of Christ and how we are all called to love unconditionally as Christ did. He also asked his congregation, that even if you could not make Holy Thursday Mass or Good Friday Liturgy of the word, to stop at that time of the day to pray in union with everyone who was at church, to pray with the universal church. I thought that was a very real way to reach out to the community who may have had work or family obligations, to find a way to bring everyone together these days.  It was privileged to spend Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday at Good Shepherd last week. (Thank you to my mom and her husband who were in town to help my husband and me with our 5 children!) Holy Thursday was a beautiful celebration of the washing of the feet and Christ’s Last supper. I took in the many faces of our community as families, children and strangers washed each other’s feet. No one could deny the face of Christ, so very present in the faces of all God’s people who were there. The procession after communion of the Holy Eucharist to the chapel was also a very moving time.  The true presence, of our Lord in the Holy Eucharist, was with us as we prayed through the night into Good Friday. The power and the presence of Christ for us on Good Friday, the pivotal moment in our faith, of the ultimate sacrifice of unconditional love, for us through Christ’s crucifixion.  The beautiful meaning of Christ’s love was so eloquently spoken to us by Fr. Jonathan. I embraced the Good Friday’s tradition of Veneration of the cross, in the presence again of all God’s people in our loving community. Seeing the cross being carried by those of our community, just as when Simon helped Christ carry the cross. We all carry our own crosses and the church is here to love us and help us carry our crosses. A very powerful representation of who we are as church! Easter Sunday brought for me the great joy of Christ’s Resurrection! Again the resounding theme of Christ’s unconditional love and His promise to us He would return!

Each year, I am amazed again and again, of how Christ shows Himself to me through this beautiful week long celebration. Holy week brought for me yet again a deeper love for Christ in our holy Catholic church through the witness of Christ’s love through all the people in our church. I am so grateful to have a great sense of peace in knowing that we are all given to choose freely His unconditional love, that only Jesus can show us through His ultimate sacrifice of death and Resurrection. That is what I strive to live for every day of my life…to know unconditional the love through Jesus’ death and resurrection on the cross and live that out through my Catholic faith.

Alleluia, Jesus is risen, risen indeed! Happy Easter!