A Good Shepherd

One of the exciting things about my trip here to Arizona is my introduction to the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.

St. Anne Parish in Gilbert, AZ is quite active in the Catechesis, and I spent a good deal of time with the children and was really impressed. I am VERY impressed. To hear 3 and 4 year olds talking about the gestures of the Mass was inspirational. The catechists were so devoted to them and to the program. Mary and Dee were a delight to watch as they worked with the children.

This is an exceptional parish. The last two mornings I heard confessions for an hour and a half after the morning Mass. There was also another priest from the parish hearing confessions. It was incredible to see that long line forming after the morning Mass. They are doing some wonderful things here.

The parish is huge, nearly 8000 families. It was daunting to preach on Sundays with 1300 in attendance. There was nearly 700 the first night of the mission. The response was truly heartening, and the children's response was incredible.

I am having lunch with a young man tomorrow. I am of the opinion that there is a definite vocation happening here.

Just got off the phone with my provincial and vice-provincial. An announcement about my new assignment may be made on the third weekend in Lent. Pray that I may imitate the good shepherd.

Happy Foundation Day to the ASC sisters. March Forth.

posted by Fr. Jeffrey Keyes, C.PP.S. on 11:08 PM link

. . .