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Thank you!
Thank you to all who gave us your feedback in our Communications Survey last month. We received 322 completed surveys. We value your feedback and look forward to using your suggestions in our communication growth as we move forward. Thank you for your continued support!
-The Good Shepherd Communications Team
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Office & Liturgical Schedule
Please note that our offices will be closed December 24 - January 2. Daily Mass will continue as scheduled. There will be no Adoration during this time. Reconciliation will be available on Monday, December 27 at 9:00am & Saturday, January 1 at 3:30pm.
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New Year's Eve Party Sponsored by Knights of Columbus
Friday, December 31
6:30pm - Parish Hall
New Year's Eve Dinner/Dance is a parish-wide social event sponsored by the Knights at Good Shepherd. The evening will consist of a social hour at 6:30pm followed by dinner at 7:30pm. Dinner will be catered by Patriotic Pig BBQ and will be a full course meal including dessert. Tea, beer, and wine will be provided the entire evening. During the course of the evening snacks will also be provided. At 8:30pm, the DJ will start the dance and it will last until 12:30am. At midnight, champagne will be served to celebrate the New Year. Please visit gscc.net/newyears to purchase your tickets online. Ticket sales will be after all Masses starting after Thanksgiving. Ticket prices are $75 each until December 27th, at which time ticket prices go up to $90 each unless all tickets are sold. Seating is limited to 200. A table for eight can be reserved by contacting Dannie Needham at 817-909-5429.
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Year End Contributions
All 2021 year-end contributions hand delivered to Good Shepherd MUST be received in the parish office by 5pm on Wednesday, December 22, 2021 for credit in 2021. If mailed, the postmark must be by December 31, 2021. Contributions for 2021 can also be made online via Faith Direct ( click here to sign up) through 11:59pm on Saturday, December 31, 2021 using the one-time gift option.
If you no longer wish to receive stewardship envelopes, please contact Teresa Isakson at tisakson@gscc.net or 817-421-1387 to stop your envelopes.
Tax statements will be mailed by the end of January, 2022.
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A Christmas Reflection with Fr. Mike Schmitz
Click the video to watch a special Christmas message from Fr. Mike Schmitz.
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Christmas Mass Schedule
December 24
4:00pm - Sanctuary: Youth Choir (Prelude Music starts at 3:30pm)
4:00pm - Parish Hall: Cantor & Piano (Prelude Music starts at 3:30pm)
6:30pm - Sanctuary: Modern Worship Ensemble (Prelude starts at 6:00pm)
6:30pm - Parish Hall: Cantor & Piano (Prelude starts at 6:00pm)
9:00pm - Sanctuary: Youth Orchestra and Cantor (Prelude starts at 8:30pm)
Midnight - Sanctuary: Parish Choir (Prelude begins at 11:30pm)
December 25
10:00am - Sanctuary: Cantor and Piano
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Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God
Friday, December 31 & Saturday, January 1
Why do Catholics honor Mary as Mother of God?
Simple: Jesus is the son of Mary. Jesus is God. Therefore, Mary is the Mother of God. On this holy feast day, we take a moment as we start our new year to honor our Blessed Mother, who in her “yes” to God brought our Savior into the world to redeem us. Jesus says on the cross, “Behold your Mother.” As we all jump into the frenzy of the new year and start attempting to bring our resolutions to fruition, let us call on the aid of our Mother Mary to give us the strength to draw closer to her Son every day this year. Join us for one of the following Masses to celebrate this Solemnity.
December 31
5:00pm – Music led by Parish Choir
January 1
10:00am – Music led by Modern Worship Group
For more in-depth spiritual reading and analysis on this Catholic teaching, check out Pope St. John Paul II's encyclical, Redemptoris Mater. You can read it here. |
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Sunday Reflection
December 26, 2021
Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph
“See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.” (1 John 3:1)
During this season of giving, let us remember a beautiful gift that we have received – being children of God! As God’s children, it’s in our DNA that we share and express our love for others as well. Tell your spouse, children, other family members and friends that you love them, every day! Also, pray for those people that are different than you, those that you may not like or those that go out of their way to annoy you. Your prayers may be the start of a new friendship.
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Men's R&D Catholic Conversations
Saturday, December 4 - January 29
7:00am - Church
Catholic Conversations - A new series brought to you by men’s rosary and discipleship (R & D).
Our world is fallen. Truth is obscured. Have you ever found yourself struggling to talk to a family member, coworker, or acquaintance about something going on in the world, but you don’t want to offend them? Do you feel like you’re being called to share moral truth, but don’t wanna be canceled. Come to Men’s R&D starting in December for a new series that teachers basic moral principles taught by the church and basic skills on how to engage others in conversation in a way that honors them and honors the truth. 1 Peter 3:15. It’s difficult, but not impossible. Are you up for the challenge? Watch this. |
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Singles 40+ Gathering
Thursday, December 16
7:00pm - St. Monica
Single Adults 40+ will meet on the third Thursday of every month via zoom.
For details regarding the monthly gathering or GSCC single 40+ social events, email Claudia or Kate at singleadultsfortyplus@gscc.net
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Men’s Scripture Study – Revelation: The Kingdom Yet to Come
January 11 - March 22
9:30am - Classrooms 2, 3, 4 & 5
Revelation: The Kingdom Yet to Come
An intriguing look at one of the most talked-about books in Scripture, Revelation: The Kingdom Yet to Come shows how the kingdom established by Christ in his Church is intimately connected with the kingdom of heaven.
Presenter Jeff Cavins pulls back the veil on the rich symbolism present in Revelation. Discover what the mysterious figures and images of Revelation mean and see how Revelation is more than an apocalyptic vision of the “end times”.
Explore the Church’s teaching on the second coming of Christ and the Last Judgment. Understand how God, the Divine Bridegroom, and the Church, his spotless bride, enter into a heavenly, holy, and mystical marriage every time we celebrate Mass.
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Wednesday Morning Scripture Study
January 12 - February 23
9:30 am - Rooms 2 & 3
“Follow Me”: The Challenge of Mark’s Gospel
“The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ [the Son of God].” Thus, begins the Gospel According to Mark. Unlike an historian, the evangelist does not seek to satisfy the reader’s curiosity or lack of knowledge with information; neither does he seek to entertain the reader for amusement as a novelist does. Rather, Mark announces Jesus. He confronts the reader with a person, the Messiah, in whom God is present and challenges the reader to follow this Messiah.
Join us as we study the Gospel According to Mark and reflect on the powerful message of the first written gospel.
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Women Growing in Faith – Jesus: The Way, the Truth, and the Life
January 18 - March 29
9:30am - Upper Room
Jesus: The Way, the Truth, and the Life
The marvelous treasures of the Catholic Faith – the Eucharist, Mary, the saints, and the Creed – are all centered on a single figure: Jesus Christ. Jesus is more than a historical or theological figure. He is our Savior, our Redeemer, our Lord, and our God. While many of us already know a lot about him, how well can we say we really know him?
Jesus: The Way, the Truth, and the Life is a new and fresh look at Jesus, who he is, what he is really like, what he taught, and what he did for our salvation. This encounter with Christ will inspire and empower to center your entire life on him as you come to know and love him in an ever-deeper and more intimate way.
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Prayer Shawl Ministry
Wednesday, January 5
9:30am - St. Aloysius Gonzaga
This ministry is a wonderful way to demonstrate God’s love, comfort, and mercy to people experiencing difficult times. Members meet to knit and/or crochet as a group and pray over the shawls and lap blankets. If you prefer to knit or crochet on your own and then brings shawls to our ministry to pray over, simply bring your creations to the Parish Office and complete a donation card. As well, donations of regular worsted yarn are appreciated! You do not need to be a parishioner to receive a prayer shawl or blanket.
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Feast of the Holy Family - Prayer Cards
December 26 after all Masses
The Knights of Columbus will be passing out prayer cards for the Feast of the Holy Family after all Masses on December 26th.
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March for Life Events
Please consider marching for life at one of the following events. Contact Barb with any questions.
National March for Life—1/21/2022 in Washington, D.C.
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Back to Super Casino Night XIII
Saturday, February 12, 2022
7:00pm - Good Shepherd Campus
Each February, the night before the Super Bowl, the Good Shepherd MEN’S CLUB hosts our Super Casino Night. It’s a terrific evening of food, fun, fellowship and fundraising with proceeds benefiting Catholic education and our local community neighbors in need. Over the last 5 years, thanks to the generosity of our parishioners and our local community, the event has generated over $750,000 in net contributions to help our worthy beneficiaries.
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Our Parish School: Holy Trinity Catholic School
Schedule a Tour Today!
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Financial Assistance through ChristCare
The Covid-19 pandemic is affecting everyone. Many are dealing with financial strains caused by loss of job or underemployment. For those struggling financially at this time, Parish Outreach Ministries may be able to provide some assistance through our ChristCare program. ChristCare is Good Shepherd Catholic Community’s program that works in partnership with Catholic Charities Fort Worth to provide parishioners and individuals from our surrounding communities with certain types of emergency financial assistance. You can click here to learn more about the program and see if you might qualify for assistance.
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Good Shepherd Catholic Community's Plan to Relocate the Tabernacle
Please read this letter from our pastor, Fr. Michael Higgins, regarding plans to relocate the tabernacle.
Young Adults
All parishioners ages 21-39 are invited to join Good Shepherd's Young Adults. Focusing on faith, service, and evangelization, we hope to create a community where young adults can gather together and openly discuss their faith while building lasting friendships! Learn more and see our upcoming events here.
Spiritual Adoption
Please join us in the Spiritual Adoption prayer campaign for moms and their unborn babies. Door hangers with prayer reminders are available in the church office. Our Spiritual Adoption will culminate in May with a collection of baby items such as diapers, clothing, bottles, wipes, etc. These items will be donated to pregnancy centers throughout the Fort Worth Diocese which assist mothers / families in need.
Men's Rosary & Discipleship
Good Shepherd Men: Start the weekend energized by the power of men praying the Rosary and supporting each other through true fellowship and brotherhood – all by 8:30am! Through Men's Rosary and Discipleship, parish men bring the spirit and power of Jesus to life by coming together in prayer and fellowship to share personal intentions and pray for others through the power of the Rosary, building a bond of brotherhood and developing their roles as spiritual leaders. Interested in joining Men's Rosary & Discipleship? Join us this Saturday! Want more information, first? Contact us here.
Going Through a Tough Time or Know Someone who is?
Stephen Ministers are members of Good Shepherd who have been through extensive training and provide confidential, one-to-one, Christian care to people who are experiencing a difficult time. They listen, care, encourage, pray, and provide weekly support for as long as the need persists. If someone you know is hurting, find out more about Stephen Ministry by calling the Parish Office and asking for a Stephen Minister. Our Stephen Ministers are ready to bring God’s love and care to those in need.
Attention Families with Kids Ages 5-18!
You are invited to learn more about our troops!
American Heritage Girls is a Christ-centered national scouting program for girls, that emphasizes leadership, patriotism, and community service as girls earn badges in areas of interest as diverse as Outdoor Skills, The Arts, and Science and Technology. Contact Jessica Smith at JessicaSmith.AHG@gmail.com or Click Here.
Trail Life USA is a national organization with a mission to guide courageous young men to honor God, lead with integrity, serve others and enjoy outdoor adventure. Finally, a Christ-centered character, leadership, and outdoor adventure experience for your son! Contact us to learn more about how you can join the Trail! Zach Smith TrailLifeGSCC@gmail.com or Click Here.
These Good Shepherd Catholic Community ministries will meet in person and provide a family friendly environment on Sunday evenings starting 8/22. Email us for summer social events and tell a friend!
Knights of Columbus - Join Us!
Council 15789
Good Shepherd Catholic Community
Interested in becoming a Knight at our parish? Contact John Borley, Grand Knight: 817-565-8573, email mr.john.borley@gmail.com OR Join online by clicking here.
Wedding Anniversaries
Those celebrating their 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, or 70th wedding anniversary may request a blessing by contacting the parish office. Other anniversaries will be a private blessing by arrangement with the clergy, Deacon or Priest, individually. Thank you!
Pre-Baptism Class
Parents must attend a Baptism Preparation class within 2 years prior to this baptism. Expectant parents are encouraged to attend the Baptism Class before the birth of their child. Baptism Classes are held once a month on Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. – 12 noon at the parish. When you arrive, check in at the Parish Office Reception desk for classroom assignment. For more details, please click here.
Secular Franciscans
First Sunday of each month
We invite you to consider becoming a member of the Franciscan Order. Secular Franciscans are members of the Catholic Church, men and women, married and single, living at home and following Christ more deeply through the spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi. To learn more, please come to a gathering of the Order of Franciscans Secular on the first Sunday of each month from 1:30pm to 3:30pm in the St. Maria Goretti Room the Shepherd Center at Good Shepherd Catholic Community. We invite you to come! We welcome you!
Marriage Preparation Sponsor Couple
In a relaxed and informal setting, Good Shepherd Catholic couples who have been married for at least 3 years will meet with engaged couples four times (typically completed within 1 - 2 months). Using materials provided by the Church, the married couple helps the engaged couple identify and talk about potential issues important to their marriage, and assists the engaged couple in reaching a deeper understanding of how they can live in a sacramental marriage. A Sponsor Couple simply needs to be willing to share their experiences as they discuss important issues couples are likely to encounter on their engagement and marriage journey. Bring your marriage experience and we’ll provide the necessary training! For other questions, please contact Johna Kacir at jkacir@gscc.net.
Montserrat Retreats
Montserrat Jesuit Retreat House Dallas
Are you spiritually hungry, tired, or restless? Jesus asks, “What do you want me to do for you?” Montserrat Jesuit Retreat House offers a holy space and a beautiful place by the lake to deepen your relationship with Jesus. Retreatants experience restorative peace and transformative renewal on these grounds made sacred by prayer. Come and tell Jesus what you want Him to do for you, register today for your retreat! Please contact David Brockman for more information.
Senior Emergency Relief Fund
Do you know a senior-aged parishioner on a fixed-income who occasionally cannot afford to pay monthly expenses? SERF might be able to help. Through the Good Shepherd Senior Emergency Relief Fund our parish can provide assistance to help pay for those unexpected emergencies. Visit our website by clicking here.
AmazonSmile
GSCC is now set up as a charitable organization with smile.amazon.com. AmazonSmile will donate 0.5% of the purchase price of eligible purchases, at no additional cost to you! If you’re interested in using this simple way to donate, please follow the instructions below to set up GSCC for your purchases. You will need to log into smile.amazon.com/ for us to receive these funds.
Got Life Questions?
Bring your questions and join us for Inquiry, an 11-week “no obligation” dip into the basics of Spirituality. All ages are welcome! You can jump in anytime since the standalone topics repeat every 11 weeks. We gather Monday evenings at 7pm in the St. Louis of France room (enter through the West parking lot door). If you choose, you can then continue on an in-depth journey into Catholic beliefs through our Catholic education study group which also meets Monday evenings. Click here for more details or contact Father Ronald 817-421-1387 / rmohnickey@gscc.net
Sponsor a Family through Catholic Charities
Catholic Charities partners with families for the long-term and walks alongside them on their journey to their bigger, brighter future. Can you sponsor a family ready to start this journey? A $500 gift allows Catholic Charities to sponsor one family, but no amount is too small to make a difference. Click here to sponsor a family today.
Social Justice
What do you know about the poor? Who are they? How many are of your gender, age, ethnicity? Why do so many live in poverty? What can you do? Learn More about the poor
If you perform works of charity now, what will you do for justice?
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Join the Social Justice Ministry!
- Work with us to support our Bishops’ advocacy for human life, dignity, and justice!
- Work to resolve root causes of injustice, e.g., a living wage for all!
Adoration Sign-ups
We have resumed Adoration hours. For more information please visit our page. To sign up to spend an hour with our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament, please click here.
Liturgical Schedule
Important Announcements & Resources during Coronavirus
Catholic Resources for Daily Use
Do you want to incorporate more prayer into your life? Are you interested in learning more about your Catholic faith? There are many accessible ways to begin! Here you will find available products in a variety of formats.
Stewardship
All are encouraged to mail their financial contributions directly to the parish or use the online giving resource Faith Direct - click HERE for more information..
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New OR Longtime Parishioner? Start Here! |
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GSCC exists to call each of our members, wherever they are at, to a lifestyle of discipleship that involves welcoming God’s people, encountering Jesus Christ, growing in Jesus Christ, serving God’s people, and sharing the Gospel. As we seek to live out these five characteristics of a disciple, we may find that we are a new, growing, or missionary disciple. Click here to take our Disciple Self-Discovery to see where YOU are on your journey as a disciple of Jesus. Your results will offer practical suggestions for taking the next step forward as a disciple.
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If you're new to Good Shepherd, welcome! You can also visit our "I'm New" page for an at-a-glance view of opportunities to grow in faith and connect with others. |
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