Dear Parishioners,

We have celebrated another successful and life-giving Vacation Bible School. Thanks to all who worked so hard and gave so much to make it happen. What a great faith formation event for our children! God’s word is so rich—we can study it and pray with it all life long, and still only grasp a fraction of its beauty and power. I am glad we are forming our children to cherish this gift.

I had written in a previous Pastor’s Corner about the ANNUAL Stewardship Appeal, and how it differs from the CAPITAL CAMPAIGN, and had also spoken about it the weekend before Commitment Weekend, but I understand there has been some confusion about it. I must admit, I found the distinction difficult myself for years when I was an Associate Pastor (now that I’m a Pastor, I definitely know the difference!). A Capital Campaign is aimed at developing a specific project: building a new facility, retiring a debt, etc. As such, Capital Campaigns are occasional and happen as needed, inviting people to make a pledge that will last for a year or two (or three). On the other hand, an Annual Stewardship Appeal is just that, an ANNUAL commitment to share a certain portion of time, talent and treasure so that the parish can continue to develop its mission and meet the expenses that are a part of that mission. These annual appeals take place each year to allow us as stewards of God’s gifts to claim our right and responsibility to build the Kingdom of God on a day-to-day basis by sharing our blessings with the parish. The pledge we make in an annual appeal is the amount we give in the regular Sunday collection. The appeal offers a way to ritualize and formalize our stewardship, and provides a way for our Finance Committee to budget more accurately based on pledges.
I hope that helps clarify some of the confusion.

Those of you who give so generously, thank you for your faithfulness, trust and generosity. You are building the Kingdom of God both now and into the future!

Peace,

Fr. Greg


OUR MISSION STATEMENT

Good Shepherd Parish is a prayerful community of believers who joyfully proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We follow the example of our Shepherd, caring for one another and all those in need. Nourished by the Eucharist and guided by Scripture, we welcome all and share our blessings through worship, education and service.