Good Shepherd
    office@gs-cc.org
    703-780-4055
    • Home
    • About Us
      • Welcome
      • Vision & Mission
      • Contact us, hours, map, directions
      • Staff
      • Councils & Committees
      • Resources
      • Parish Jubilee
    • Media
      • Bulletins
      • Recordings & homilies
      • Shepherds Voice
      • Vimeo
      • YouTube
    • Sacraments
      • Baptism
      • Reconciliation
      • Eucharist
      • Confirmation
      • Marriage
      • Anointing of Sick
      • Holy Orders
      • RCIA (Become Catholic)
    • Ministries
      • Liturgy & Music >
        • Mass Intentions
      • Youth Ministry (TEENS!)
      • Social Ministry
      • Hispanic
    • Faith Formation
      • Little Lambs
      • PreK12 Faith Formation
      • Faith Formation Adults
    • Stewardship
      • Time & Talent
      • Treasure
      • Annual & Quarterly Reports
      • Volunteer Opportunities
      • Thomas J Murphy Award
    • Calendar
    • Donate
    • Español
      • Intenciones Misa
      • coronavirus_esp
      • Bienvenidos
      • Noticias y eventos
      • Sacramentos
      • Formación de Fe
      • Corresponsabilidad
      • Donaciones
      • Recursos

    The Christmas Season is Upon Us!

    11/16/2016

    0 Comments

     
    Thanksgiving is a week away and the Youth Ministry team is busy planning fun and faith-filled events for the month of December.  Mark you calendars now, we have several opportunities to Serve and also have fun! We look forward to seeing you, and encourage you to bring a friend!

    Volunteer Opportunities: December 10 and 17

    Picture
    Journey to the Manger - Saturday, December 10, 6:00 - 8:00 pm
    Volunteer for this wonderful Faith Formation event and WorkCamp Fundraiser. Help is needed with food, crafts, actors, and more! This year all food sales will fund the 2017 High School WorkCamp. Contact youthministry@gs-cc.org  

    Holiday Babysitting Camp - Saturday, December 17 from 1:00 - 4:00 pm

    Youth Ministry is teaming up with Alice's Kids giftwrapping and hosting a Holiday Babysitting Camp. Parents can drop off their school age children between the hours of 1:00 and 4:00 pm and run some last minute Christmas errands. Donations will be highly encouraged and all proceeds benefit the 2017 High School WorkCamp. Please consider volunteering.  Contact youthministry@gs-cc.org

    Winter Break Fun the Week Before Christmas

    Decorate the Basilica of the National Shrine
    December 19 (6:00 - 10:00 pm)

    Join us for this festive annual tradition as we prepare the Basilica for Christmas Mass. Meet at Good Shepherd at 4:45 and plan to arrive back by 10:00 pm. Permissions are online.


    Movie Theater Field Trip - December 20 (time TBD)
    Join us on Tuesday, December 20 to see the new Star Wars Rogue One movie at the Regal Springfield Town Center. Permissions are
    online.
    Picture
    Picture

    Franciscan Monastery Parish Pilgrimage - December 27

    Picture
    Join fellow parishioners for the 2nd Annual Parish Pilgrimage to the Franciscan Monastery in Washington, DC. Participants can choose either the 10:00 am or 11:00 am tour and Father Tom will celebrate Mass at 12:00 pm.  Participants are welcome to bring a bagged lunch and eat at 1:00 pm in a provided space. Space is limited and a RSVP is required. Contact Miguel miguel@gs-cc.org for questions and RSVP online.​

    NEW - Scouting at Good Shepherd

    If you haven't yet heard, Good Shepherd has several new and active Scouting groups. This year there are Girl Scout Daisies (K - 1st grade) meeting on Tuesdays, and Girl Scout Juniors (4 - 5 grade) and Cadets (6-8 grade) meeting on Mondays.

    We are also pleased to sponsor a new Venture Scouts group. Venture scouts is co-ed and open to high school men and women between the ages of 14 and 21. To learn more visit the new Scouting Page  or contact youthministry@gs-cc.org 

    Looking Ahead

    Picture
    There are many great events in the new year, mark your calendars now!
    ​

    January 16 - Dodgeball Tournament
    January 26 - Life is Very Good Evening of Prayer
    February 4 - Ski Trip
    February 5 - Super Bowl Party

    February 18/19 - HS Lock-In

    0 Comments

    Pilgrimage, Rally, Homeless CampOut & MORE!

    10/11/2016

    0 Comments

     

    October Events - Don't Miss Out!

    Picture
    ctober 15: Mount St. Mary's Pilgrimage
    Join fellow parishioners at Mount St. Mary's in Emmitsburg, MD. This is a full day event (approximately 8:00 am - 4:00pm). Explore the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes and celebrate Mass with Father Tom.  There is a modest fee ($5) for all participants and if you choose to take our bus the total cost is $25/pp. Please RSVP/Register online.



    October 23: High School Rally
    Join hundreds of students and gather for over eight hours of music, inspirational speakers, and Sunday Mass with Bishop Loverde. This year's key speakers are Sean Forrest (http://www.seanforrest.com/), Danny Ray (http://dannyray.tv/) & Bishop Paul Loverde. The concert includes musical acts from the Josh Blakesley Band (http://joshblakesleyband.com/).  Cost is $25/pp and includes all of the great entertainment above, a T-shirt, dinner, and snacks. Register online.

    October 29-30: Homeless CampOut, Ministry Showcase & Super Service Saturday
    The 4th Annual Homeless Awareness CampOut takes place October 29-30 during the parish's "Small Acts of Mercy" weekend.  Participants will build a cardboard shelter and sleep in it outside. Check-in begins at 2:00 pm, we will attend 5:00 pm Mass and dinner is provided at 7:30 pm. The event will conclude with a prayer breakfast at 8:00 am on 10/30.  Start forming your teams now, we have family team and non-family team options. If you don't have a team, we'll match you up. All youth must complete an online permission form.  More details are available in our pdf.  Register by October 24th!

    If you don't want to CampOut then consider volunteering at the Youth Ministry booth after Mass, helping with donuts, or participating in a service activity. Contact Miguel miguel@gs-cc.org. 

    Lock-In Recap

    We had over 15 teens participate in this past weekend's Lock-In. It was a great event! We have some fun pictures to share.

    Looking Ahead - Mark Your Calendars

    Picture
    Sunday, November 13: Human Trafficking Panel

    Saturday, November 19: Jesse Tree Event - volunteer to serve food

    Thursday, December 1: Christ House Volunteer Opportunity

    Saturday, December 17: Babysitting Fundraiser for WorkCamp


    0 Comments

    October is Jam-packed!

    9/18/2016

    0 Comments

     

    2016/2017 KickOff & Quick Connect Form

    We had a great time at KickOff on the 11th! Many MS and HS students joined us for fun, games and food. We enjoyed playing the teen-built 9-square game, bucket ball, and even participated in the KoC soccer challenge. Father Tom and Father Ramon joined us for the games and the Knights of Columbus lent more than a few helpful hands manning soccer and the grill.

    We have so many fun and faith-filled events planned for this year. Make sure you complete our Annual QuickConnect form. This online tool takes 1 minute to complete, demonstrates your interest in Youth Ministry and ensures we have your most up to date contact information

    Youth Group Meetings & Calendar Links

    Picture
    Youth Group meetings have begun this year with some great new topics and leaders. High School Youth Group will continue to meet on Sunday evenings following the 6:30 pm Mass. We will start each meeting at 7:30 pm with a meal and finish Youth Group by 9:00 pm. Come once or come every week and bring a friend!

    Middle School Youth Group continues on Thursdays from 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm. Our first meeting of the school year is on October 6.


    Subscribe to our google calendar or bookmark the link to make sure you don't miss anything. 

    October 8-9 Lock-In

    Picture
    Our first Lock-In of the year takes place on Columbus Day weekend.  Bring a sleeping bag and a snack to share. We start at 4:30 pm and will attend the 5:00 pm Mass together. We then have dinner plus games and movies throughout the night. Pickup is 7:00 am the next morning (October 9). MS students are invited for beginning hours but only HS students may sleep overnight. Complete the online permission.

    October 15 Mount St. Mary's Parish Pilgrimage

    Picture
    Join fellow parishioners for a family pilgrimage to Mount St. Mary's in Emmitsburg, MD. This is a full day event (approximately 8:00 am - 4:00pm). We will explore the gardens, take a self-guided tour of the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes and Father Tom will celebrate Mass. A staging room is available to keep our valuables and to eat if you choose to bring lunch. There is a modest fee ($5) for all participants and if you choose to take our bus the total cost is $25/pp. Please RSVP/Register online.

    October 23 High School RALLY

    Picture
    RALLY is the Arlington Diocese's largest outreach event for High School students celebrating our faith and love of the Lord! Join hundreds of students to gather for over eight hours of music, inspirational speakers, and Sunday Mass with Bishop Loverde. 46 of the 68 parishes in the Diocese of Arlington attended RALLY 2015, bringing together over 1000 teens and adult leaders!  This year's key speakers are Sean Forrest (http://www.seanforrest.com/), Danny Ray (http://dannyray.tv/) & Bishop Paul Loverde. The concert includes musical acts from the Josh Blakesley Band (http://joshblakesleyband.com/).  Cost is $25/pp and includes all of the great entertainment above, a T-shirt, dinner, and snacks. Register online.

    October 29 - 30 Homeless Awareness CampOut

    Picture
    The 4th Annual Homeless Awareness CampOut takes place October 29-30 during the parish's "Small Acts of Mercy" weekend.  Participants will build a cardboard shelter and sleep in it outside. Creedon Hall will be available for "shelter" in case the weather is too cold. Check-in begins at 2:00 pm, we will attend 5:00 pm Mass and dinner is provided at 7:30 pm. The event will conclude with a prayer breakfast at 8:00 am on 10/30.  Start forming your teams now, we have family team and non-family team options. If you don't have a team, we'll match you up. All youth must complete an online permission form.  More details are available in our pdf.  Register by October 24th!

    Volunteer Opportunities

    Picture
    Christ House Adult Coordinator/Leader Needed
    The parish is seeking a new adult coordinator to take the reigns from Michael O'Neil and help coordinate our Christ House service each month. The first Thursday of each month we prepare and serve the evening meal for residents and the community. We meet at Church at 3:30 to load up food (our menu is hot dogs, beans, pasta salad, brownies and awesome sweet tea). Clean up and return to church by 6:30 pm. We usually serve 50 to 60 people, which include men, women, children and sometimes middle schoolers. 4-5 youths are needed each time. If you are interested in taking a leadership role or just helping, contact Mike O’Neil, michaeloneil825@aol.com
    .

    October 6 & November 3 -  Next Christ House volunteer opportunities. 3:30 - 6:30 pm. Contact Miguel miguel@gs-cc.org. 

    October 2 & November 6 - Donuts after Mass.The first Sunday of each month volunteers are needed after each Mass to replenish donuts and juice. Volunteer via SignUp Genius. Contact Miguel, miguel@gs-cc.org. 

    0 Comments

    The Dog Days of Summer . . .

    8/6/2016

    0 Comments

     
    It is hard to believe that we are already well into the month of August. But, when you see all that our students and parish have done, you will realize that it is a great summer of 2016! We are always busy, with field trips (SUP, Kings Dominion, National Harbor bike ride), WorkCamps, weekly drop-in and soccer and VBS. If you haven't joined us yet, you still have a few more weeks for Faith, Fellowship and Fun!

    Middle School WorkCamp - a glimpse inside

    This year's Middle School WorkCamp is a great success. Tomorrow, August 10, marks the final day of service projects in our local community. We have a great group of high school and adult leaders and could not have performed our service projects without them.

    To get a better grasp of WHAT we actually DO during MSWC, we asked one of our adult leaders, Laura Juricic, to provide a brief recap from her site on Monday:
    "Today at the Nature reserve we learn about caring for God's creation by identifying and removing invasive species of plants. This lovely park is in the heart of Alexandria and free for anyone looking for a bit of solitude in our busy world. Our guide was knowledgeable and patient as he took us through the park pointing out native plants and creatures. We ate lunch in the science room and spent some time looking at the exhibits before heading out to see if we could beat our morning record of 27 pounds of trash and weeds--we did collecting nearly 33 pounds for a total of 60 pounds of unwanted debris in a beautiful natural setting. Our last half hour was spent honing our balance and rock skipping skills in the stream."​
    Picture
    MSWC High School Leaders 2016
    Picture
    60 lbs of trash and invasive plant species collected.
    Picture
    Some downtime.

    International Festival, September 5

    Picture
    Picture
    The International Festival is fast approaching! Join us on Monday, September 5 from 11:00 am - 5:00 pm. COme to enjoy the games, food and festivities and stay to help volunteer. There are numerous volunteer opportunities throughout the day, including Youth Ministry's 9-Square Booth. Make sure you visit the teen table to pick up your free Youth Ministry t-shirt before they are all gone.

    WorkCamp & VBS Recap

    Picture
    WOW! We have a fantastic group of teens at Good Shepherd. The Youth Ministry team is bursting with pride after a successful WorkCamp and a great week of Vacation Bible School.

    WorkCamp had a fantastic turnout of both student and adult volunteers. We enjoyed a great evening with Father Tom when he visited and joined our group discussion on Tuesday night and then said Mass on Wednesday morning. The teens decided they wanted to mix up their discussion groups each day, so we grabbed a deck of cards and broke the teens down by suits. In the end, everyone enjoyed the many different perspectives among our teens. But the week wasn't just fun and games, there was some real hard work and long hours out in the sun. We even had some teens and adults return after WorkCamp finished to help finish a challenging project.

    VBS also had a great Youth Ministry representation. Each year we have more teen volunteers and the VBS week is truly run by the teens. They lead the individual "family" groups, serve as Master of Ceremonies, help in the kitchens and man the booths in our "Egyptian" village.  The event was a huge success and the young kids truly enjoyed themselves. 

    Picture

    Youth Ministry KickOff Dinner, September 11

    All Middle and High School teens are invite to the Youth Ministry KickOff dinner on September 11 from 4:00 - 6:00 pm. Come and join us for great food and games, plus meet some of the other teens and learn about all our plans for the 2016/2017 school year. 

    2minutes2virtue

    2minutes2virtue is a weekly video series put out by The Office for Family Life geared toward Catholics who want to get the most out of the Sunday readings. A new video is sent out via email or can be seen on YouTube and ends by giving you a challenge for the week. As you take on each challenge, plan some time to reflect on your successes and all the ways you can live your Christian mission more fully! Challenge your teens to sign up here and start a conversation about the virtues today.
    0 Comments

    Field Trips & Special Events in July and August

    7/7/2016

    0 Comments

     
    We have lots of great events planned this summer. Make sure you read up on all the details and turn in your permission! If you can't make on of these special events then join us at Sunday Youth Group, Tuesday Drop-In at St. Louis, Wednesday Soccer and/or Thursday Drop-In at GSCC. Check out our calendar page for all the proper links.

    July 17 - Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

    Join us for a paddleboarding excursion. We are staying close to GS this year and will paddleboard at Pohick Bay. On July 17, attend the 9:00 am Mass and then meet afterwards for a 10:30 am departure to Pohick Bay. The cost is $24 for 2 hours or $11 for 1 hour. Make sure you wear something that can get wet as well as a bag lunch and water. We will return to GSCC by 2:30 pm. Complete the permission ASAP. 

    July 30 - Krakow in the Capital (YOUNG ADULTS ONLY)

    The Arlington and Washington, DC Diocese are teaming up to host a World Youth Day in DC. Krakow in the Capital takes place on July 30 at Catholic University. This is a full day event open to Young Adults only. Check out the website and permission for more information. 

    August 5 - Kings Dominion

    The annual Arlington Diocese trip to Kings Dominion takes place on Friday, August 5. Registration is due by July 22 and the cost is $35 per person. We will meet at GS at 7:00 am and return by 10:00 pm. Permission here.

    August 16 - Bike Ride to National Harbor

    We have a great new, summer field trip this year! Join us on Tuesday, August 16 at 9:30 am for a bike ride to National Harbor. We will bike over the Wilson Bridge and then enjoy the sand pit and boardwalk at National Harbor before returning by 12:00 pm. HELMETS are absolutely required, no exceptions. We will meet at the water fountains and bathrooms on the Mt. Vernon trail at Dykes Marsh. Permission is online.
    0 Comments

    WorkCamp is HERE!

    6/24/2016

    0 Comments

     

    Ready to Roll: WorkCamp 2016

    Picture
    Tomorrow, June 25, our teens leave for WorkCamp in Massaponax, VA. Our team has prepared for months: there have been meetings, trainings, fundraisers, and icebreakers. We can confidently state that WE ARE READY! We are ready to “renovate homes for the less fortunate, strengthen our faith and grow as a Christian community.”

    WorkCamp is a life-changing experience on many different levels. We will live in a Christian community for an entire week, celebrate Mass daily, work on homes and share our faith with one another. This encounter helps us look past our own materialistic lives and see the diverse lives of others. The week also promises new relationships with other youth and those we are serving. The ultimate result is the improvement of the homes and lives of those we serve.

    This year’s theme is “Show Know Mercy.” The theme reminds us of the importance of showing mercy for others and is a direct reflection of the papal Bull of Indiction, Misercordiae Vultus, "In short, we are called to show mercy because mercy has first been shown to us." (MV 9) This theme will be prevalent throughout our week at WorkCamp. We will live it each day as we work, we will pray and reflect on it during Mass, Reconciliation and breakout sessions and we will enjoy the knowledge of God’s mercy during our icebreakers and games. " Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy" (Mt 5:7).


    We thank our parish, friends and family for your continued support and prayers. Please continue to pray that we have a safe and fruitful week in Massaponax, VA.

    Drop-In Starts Soon

    The summer drop-in schedule begins on Tuesday, July 5 at St. Louis School from 6:00 - 8:00 pm.

    W
    ednesday is our first soccer night, from 6:00 - 8:00 pm at Woodley Hills Elementary. All other July soccer nights will be held at Mount Vernon High School. An August location is TBD.


    Mark your calendars and join us every week this summer (Sunday 7:30 - 9:00, and Tuesday/ Wednesday/ Thursday from 6:00 - 8:00 pm), or as often as you can!

    Summer Field Trips

    July 17 - StandUp Paddleboarding (SUP) at Pohick Bay from 10:15 am - 2:30 pm. Signup online. 

    August 5 - Kings Dominion Trip. Meet at GS at 7 am, attend Mass in Fredericksburg at 9am and return to GS by 10:00 pm. Online permission in July.

    Date TBD - Hike Old Rag in late August. Details are still being settled.

    Mount St. Mary's Parish Pilgrimage

    On October 15, Good Shepherd invites all parishioners to attend a pilgrimage to Mount St. Mary’s in Emmitsburg, MD. To assist with planning, we have a quick survey to help determine interest and transportation preferences. Please take the online survey (1 to 2 minutes long) and help us with our preparations.

    Prayers for our Youth

    Picture
    Our Youth Ministry prayer group has been well received. We have a growing list of intentions, as well as a growing group of those who believe in the power of prayer and are dedicated to praying for our youth. This prayer ministry group is headed by Leanne Siedlarz (siedlarl@yahoo.com or 703-780-2320). Stay tuned for future issue oriented prayers, a prayer box in the youth center and more. Please contact Leanne Siedlarz if you have an intention or would like to participate.

    Volunteering

    Looking Ahead

    Teens needed for Vacation Bible School (VBS). Contact re@gs-cc.org.

    Christ House Thursday ministry needs new leadership. Please contact Mike O'Neil michaeloneil825@aol.com 
    for more details or to volunteer for the next date on July 7.

    MSYG Leadership – The youth ministry team is seking new leadership beginning in September. Please contact Miguel miguel@gs-cc.org
    ​

    MSWC High School teen volunteers. The Youth Ministry team is seeking 6 to 8 high school teens to volunteer and assist with our Middle School WorkCamp. Applications are accepted online.

    Donuts after Mass - the next date is August 7th. Donuts have been cancelled on July 3 and September 5.​
    September 5 - International Festival

    September 11 - Youth Ministry KickOff Dinner

    October 8 - 9 - High School Lock-In

    October 15 - 
    Mount St. Mary’s Pilgrimage​
    Picture
    0 Comments

    June Happenings with Youth Ministry

    6/14/2016

    0 Comments

     

    High School WorkCamp Update and Thank You

    Picture
    Thank you to our many parishioners who generously contributed to the YM collection during Masses on June 4 and 5.  If you would still like to contribute, it is not too late. You can still donate online via FaithDirect or by using your envelopes.

    Our final two students just made it off the wait list and we now have a total of 34 students going to High School WorkCamp this year. Add to that 8 adult crew leaders, 5 volunteer contractors and 8 security volunteers and Good Shepherd will have a fantastic group representing us at WorkCamp. The teens leave next week so stay tuned for more information and pictures as we send our teens on with many prayers and blessings.

    Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) July 17

    Picture
    Our ever popular SUP field trip is back. This year we are going to Pohick Bay. Join us on July 17 following the 9:00 am Mass. We will leave GS at 10:15 am and plan to return by 2:30 pm. The cost is $24 per person for 2 hours of SUP, plus a break to eat your lunch. Visit the permission for more information and to register.

    Middle School WorkCamp, HS Volunteers and Youth Group

    Picture
    Middle School Work Camp is 8/7 – 8/10. This event is open to all current 6th, 7th and 8th graders. It is a wonderful opportunity to provide service to our local community. The days run from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm. More information as well as the registration packet is available online.

    We invite current High School students to submit an application to volunteer to help the MS students during WorkCamp. This promises to be a very rewarding experience for our older teens as they help lead the MS students. The application is online.

    Middle School Youth Group is done for this school year. MSYG will meet again beginning in September. BUT we still have WorkCamp, Drop-Ins, Soccer and Field Trips planned. We hope to see you this summer!

    In case you missed it. . . our summer schedule is here!

    Picture
    From July 5 through the end of August, we invite our Middle and High School teens to participate in our weekly drop-in and soccer activities. This year’s schedule:
    • Tuesday Drop-In at St. Louis Gym: 6:00 – 8:00 pm
    • Wednesday Soccer (place TBD)
    • Thursday Drop-In at Good Shepherd: 6:00 – 8:00 pm
    We are planning lots of fun Drop-In activities. Students can expect a combination of indoor and outdoor games, use of the Youth Center and pool table, basketball in St. Louis gym, movie night and more!
    ​
    Subscribe to our google calendar so you don’t miss out on anything.

    Community News

    June 28/30: Volleyball Camp for 5th through 12th graders at Mount Vernon High School. This is an all skills camp to help develop all skill levels in the sport of volleyball through game play drills and game play itself. Rising 5th graders (boys and girls) though high school levels will enjoy learning, growing and having fun. The cost is $180 and is 12;30 pm - 5:30 pm from June 28-30. Registration is online. 

    July 30: Krakow in the Capital for Young Adults. As World Youth Day occurs in Poland, the Arlington, Baltimore and Washington Diocese have teamed up to bring WYD to Washington, DC. This day long event takes place at Catholic University and is open to all 18 years and older. Details and registration online.

    Summer Young Adults Group: Sundays 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

    Picture
    Are you in your 20s, looking for a chance to meet your Catholic peers who face the same challenges and questions that you face every day?  Join us Sunday nights after the 6:30 pm Mass, beginning June 19. Meetings will be an informal gathering with light dinner and conversation. The group will meet for six weeks, ending on July 24. Contact Jessica Rodgers, jessrodgers1190@gmail.com, to sign up and receive more information.

    Volunteer Opportunities

    Looking Ahead

    Vacation Bible School (VBS): July 25 – 29. Contact re@gs-cc.org

    Middle School WorkCamp Volunteers - see Middle School section above for details. Apply here.

    Christ House Feeding the Hungry - July 7 and August 4, contact Mike O'Neil michaeloneil825@aol.com 

    Donuts after Mass - July 3 and August 7, visit signupgenius to volunteer.​ 
    September 5: Good Shepherd’s 5k/1M Race. Save the date!
    ​

    October 15: Parish Pilgrimage to Mount St. Mary’s. Stay tuned for a survey to gauge interest and determine transportation needs. 
    Picture
    0 Comments

    Graduating Seniors, Lock-In & Looking Forward to SUMMER!

    5/30/2016

    0 Comments

     

    A Tradition of Recognizing our Graduating Seniors

    GSCCYM is pleased to continue their “Hand Print Tradition” with graduating Seniors. If you have participated in Youth Ministry over the past years and are graduating, we want YOU to come and leave your mark in our Youth Center.  Several Seniors have already completed this milestone, but it is not too late to be included. Come to Youth Group and we’ll be sure to get your hand on the wall.

    ​Successful Lock-In

    ​We had a great Lock-In over Memorial Day weekend! A big THANK YOU to everyone who participated and our adult volunteers. We have a few pictures to share with you.

    June 4th & 5th: Youth Ministry 2nd Collection, Sharing Sunday & Donuts

    Next weekend is busy for Youth Ministry. Not only is it Sharing Sunday to benefit the St. Lucy Project, but it is also time for Donuts after Mass. Please visit the SignUp Genius link so you can volunteer to help with donuts or sharing Sunday.

    In addition, this weekend is our final Youth Ministry fundraising push. We had such a successful Dinner and Auction back in April, but we still need those final dollars to help offset the cost of transportation to WorkCamp and other miscellaneous fees. Your support is never missed, please be generous.

    Summer is Here! Well . . . almost

    Picture
    ​Memorial Day usually marks the beginning of summer, while some students still have a month of school, the end is in sight and the summer barbecues have begun.

    We will once again host Drop-In twice a week. What is Drop-In? It's a fun evening in addition to the weekly Youth Group meetings. It is open to Middle and High School students and could involve something a simple as a game of pool in the youth center to a full water gun battle outside. This year we are teaming up with St. Louis Youth Ministry for double the fun! 

    We have a great team of adult leaders that have volunteered to help out this summer. They are meeting and adding some fun activities to our summer calendar.  Maybe we will have a July "snowball" fight again. In the mean time, make sure to note the following for July and August:
    • Tuesdays 6:00 - 8:00 pm: Drop-in at St. Louis Gym
    • Wednesdays 6:00 - 8:00 pm: Pickup Soccer (place TBD)
    • Thursdays 6:00 - 8:00 pm: Drop-In at Good Shepherd
    • Sunday, July 17: SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding). Stay tuned for more details in the week ahead.
    • Friday, August 5: Kings Dominion. Permission will be online in July.
    •  . . . and there will be more!

    Middle School

    ​The Middle School Youth Group team is in need of NEW leadership for Thursday meetings. The MSYG follows the Faith Formation calendar and meets Thursdays at 6:30pm. If you have a rising 7th grader or even an 8th grader, and you want to get more involved, please contact Miguel (miguel@gs-cc.org) to see how you can contribute. Every little bit helps!

    Middle School Work Camp is August 7 - 10. MSWC is a great opportunity for 7th and 8th graders to perform service in our local community. This is not an overnight WorkCamp, but rather daily opportunities within our local area. More details are on the website. High School students are encouraged to volunteer to help. Contact Miguel miguel@gs-cc.org

    Community News

    Picture
    June 2, 6:30 pm: George Mason Catholic Campus Ministry is hosting a BBQ. St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel, 4515 Roberts Rd, Fairfax.  For college students and graduating high school seniors, this is a great way to meet students from different colleges. The student center will host events Thursday nights in June and July. Visit www.gmuccm.org for more information.

    June 3, 9:30 am: Boy Scout Service Project Opportunity.  JimHickey is conducting his Eagle Scout project in our Sharing Garden. A Peace Hole, two benches and some flowers will be installed. Contact Jim to volunteer jphacademic@gmail.com 

    July 30: Krakow in the Capital for Young Adults. As World Youth Day occurs in Poland, the Arlington, Baltimore and Washington Diocese have teamed up to bring WYD to Washington, DC. This day long event takes place at Catholic University and is open to all 18 years and older. More details and registration is online.

    Volunteer Opportunities for Teens and Adults

    Picture
    • ​Vacation Bible School (VBS): July 25 – 29. It is that time of year to start planning for VBS!  Last year we had 70 teen volunteers. Training will be Saturday or Sunday before VBS depending on your role. Contact re@gs-cc.org
    • Youth Group Dinners: Help feed our teens! Visit the SignUp Genius link and find a date to provide dinner during Sunday Youth Group. 
    • Christ House, 1st Thursday 3:30 - 6:30 pm: Christ House is seeking volunteers for our monthly commitment on the 1st Thursday of the month to help feed the hungry. In addition, new adult leadership is needed to help coordinate this monthly endeavor. Contact Mike O'Neil michaeloneil825@aol.com. 
    • Donuts after Mass: The next donut hospitality is June 4/5. Visit SignUp Genius for this and future dates. 

    Looking Ahead

    Picture
    ​September 5: Good Shepherd’s 5th Annual 5k Race and 1 Mile Fun Run. Planning assistance is needed. Contact Bill DeMaso gscc.if.race@gmail.com.

    October 15: Parish Pilgrimage to Mount St. Mary’s
    0 Comments

    May Youth Groups, WorkCamp, Volunteering & more!

    5/18/2016

    0 Comments

     

    May 9 and May 22 Youth Group Meetings

    May 9: Recap of High School Youth Group Game Night
    ​We had a very successful and fun HS Youth Group meeting this past Sunday. We were pleased to welcome almost 20 students to participate in an evening of games and good food. The cupcakes were especially delicious!

    We played “Elephant Stampede” among other games and were happy to welcome a few new students to the festivities. Above is a sampling of some pictures taken that evening. 

    ​May 22: Normal YG Meeting & Senior Recognition Night 
    ​During our regular HS Youth Group meeting next Sunday, May 22, we will take time to recognize our graduating Seniors with our tradition of placing their handprint on the wall in the Youth Center. This tradition is open to any student that has participated in YG in the past and is now graduating.  This does not mean that Youth Group ends. We continue throughout the summer and we encourage return visits and continued involvement (perhaps with the Young Adult group) .

    HS WorkCamp Thank Yous & Fundraising Update

    ​THANK YOU!
    The WorkCamp Dinner & Silent Auction was a huge success with almost 200 in attendance!

    We have many people to thank: A special thank you to the team that made it all happen: Lisa Rimmington, Denise Hayden & Ed Gemperline.
    ​
    Thank you to the Knights of Columbus whose generous donation and delicious food made the night.
    ​
    And, most importantly, THANK YOU to our wonderful Parishioners who bought tickets, battled over Auction items and participated in the raffle. Without you this event would not have been a success. Thanks to our Parish support, the teens look forward to a fun and fruitful WorkCamp this summer.


    Fundraising Update
    The proceeds from the Dinner & Auction was enough to cover all our basic WorkCamp fees. We are now working on the final bits of fundraising to cover transportation and other miscellaneous costs. The 2nd collection during Masses on June 4/5 will benefit GS Youth Ministry. Please be generous!
    Picture
    Picture

    May 28/29 HS Lock-In

    All High School students are invited to join us for Lock-In on Memorial Day weekend. Bring a sleeping bag and a snack to share. We'll order pizza, play games and watch movies! Permissions are online.
    Picture

    Volunteering for Students & Adults

    Picture
    Picture
    Picture
    Picture
    ​New Christ House Leadership Needed
    As Mike O'Neil continues with his Deacon role he will need to step down from managing the Good Shepherd volunteers at Christ House. We are seeking an adult to take on this rewarding task. There is a strong infrastructure in place and it should be easy for a new adult to step in. Please contact Mike O'Neil michaeloneil825@aol.com.

    The next Christ House volunteer days are June 2 and July 7 from 3:30 - 6:30 pm.

    MS Adult Leadership Needed
    8th graders are graduating and GS is in need of new adult leaders for our Thursday Middle School Youth Group meetings. Contact Miguel miguel@gs-cc.org. 

    Adult Coordinator for Donut Sundays
    The Youth Ministry team needs an adult to assist with coordinating the monthly donuts after Mass. A strong infrastructure is in place for ordering, volunteer scheduling and initial setup, but we need 1 person to bring it all together. Contact Miguel miguel@gs-cc.org.   


    Teens: Donut Sunday and Sharing Sunday
    Spots are available to help serve donuts after Masses on June 5 and July 3. Visit the signupgenius link for more information.

    Teens are encouraged to help during Sharing Sunday the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month. Volunteers help restock the Good Shepherd kitchen and ready donations for pickup. Time commitment is usually about 1 hour. Contact Miguel miguel@gs-cc.org.

    Students Volunteering with MSWC
    Middle School WorkCamp takes place August 7 - 10. High School students are encouraged to volunteer and help with guiding the Middle School students. All service work is performed locally. Contact Miguel miguel@gs-cc.org.

    0 Comments

    All Things WorkCamp!

    4/22/2016

    0 Comments

     

    WorkCamp Dinner & Silent Auction - April 30

    Help send our high school students to WorkCamp this summer. Join us at our annual Dinner & Silent Auction on April 30 at 6:00 pm.  This weekend is your final chance to buy tickets after all Masses. Tickets for the dinner are only $5 and the raffle for the garden bench and adirondak chairs are $5 as well.

    In addition to the delicious dinner of pork loin and accompaniments, we will have entertainment from some of our very talented WorkCamp students. Our teens will sing and play music while you eat and socialize. 
    Picture

    April 30 Silent Auction Teaser

    Come to the dinner on April 30 and you will have the opportunity to bid on some great items in the Silent Auction. Here is a sample:
    • Dinner and a Movie! - set of two gift cards- $25 for Fandango and $25 for any Darden Restaurant.
    • London Bob Salon -  Time to indulge in a new hairstyle or spa treatment at a high end salon? Get this $100 gift certificate to London Bob Salon in Old Town.  
    • Teen Baked Goods - Bid on home made treats and items from our very own teens.
    • Learn to Knit/Crochet - Have you always wanted to knit or crochet that scarf? You can bid on three 1-hour sessions for either knitting or crocheting and get your skills up to speed.
    • ​Washington Capitals Tickets!
    • TMNJT Afghan - Bid on a one of a kind, homemade Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle Afghan. 
    • . . . . and more!
    Picture

    May Volunteer Opportunities

    Thursday, May 5: Feeding the Hungry at Christ House (50 West Street in Old Town off of Duke Street) 
    Every first Thursday of the month, our Youth Group goes to Christ House (a homeless shelter for men) and prepares and serves the evening meal for the residents as well as those who are hunger in their community. We are getting low on volunteers. We need 4 - 5 youths and a second adult. 
     
    Details:  Meet at church at 3:30, load up the food, ride together into Old Town, prepare and serve dinner (our menu is hot dogs, beans, pasta salad, brownies and awesome sweet tea). clean up and return to church by 6:30. We usually serve 50 to 60 people, which include men, women, children and sometimes middle schoolers.

    Benefits: Aside from service hours, we usually have almost unlimited hot dogs to feed the volunteers, and occasionally some brownies.  
     
    Questions: Please contact Mike O’Neil, 703-799-7594, michaeloneil825@aol.com

    Saturday May 7: First Holy Communion Receptions
    Please consider volunteering to serve cake and punch after one of the First Holy Communion Masses. Mass times are 10:30 am, 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm. Contact re@gs-cc.org. 

    Youth Group Open to 6th and 8th Graders beginning May 1

    Picture
    Beginning May 1 the High School and Middle School Youth Groups are opening their doors to current 8th and 6th graders. 6th graders can join MS on Thursdays at 6:30 pm and 8th graders can join HS on Sundays at 7:30 pm. 

    We hope you will join us to witness our Faith, Fellowship and Fun firsthand!
    0 Comments
    <<Previous
      Back to YM

      Author

      From your Youth Ministry Team!

      Archives

      November 2016
      October 2016
      September 2016
      August 2016
      July 2016
      June 2016
      May 2016
      April 2016
      March 2016
      February 2016
      January 2016
      December 2015
      November 2015
      October 2015
      September 2015
      August 2015
      July 2015
      June 2015
      May 2015

      Categories

      All

      RSS Feed

    Good Shepherd Catholic Church
    8710 Mount Vernon Highway Alexandria, Virginia 22309
    Phone: (703) 780-4055 / FAX:
    (703) 842-8232  
    ​Email: office@gs-cc.org
    Office Hours: M-F 9:30am - 5pm; Closed Saturday;
    Open 1st, 3rd, and 5th Sundays 8am - 4pm 
    Stay Connected!
    Facebook
    Instagram
    ​Twitter
    ​Good Shepherd App
    ​Weekly Shepherd Emails
    Picture
    Diocesean and USCCB Resources
    Diocese of Arlington Homepage
    Protecting Our Children 
    Daily Readings (USCCB)

    Picture
    Website Development by The Parish Solutions Company
    Login
    Back to top