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February 2009 | | Monday, February 2, 2009 "Catholic Schools Celebrate Service" was the theme of Catholic Schools Week, January 25th - 31st. Read on to see how we celebrated at Good Shepherd...
The February news begins with a recap of Catholic Schools Week 2009, as Good Shepherd celebrated "Service" through a variety of events and activities.
Sunday, January 25th - Our students, staff, parents and priests made our Sunday Masses a real celebration of Good Shepherd Catholic School! Many thanks to our parishoners for supporting us through the second collection for Catholic Education. What a sweet way to "Celebrate Service!" Monday, January 26th - We had an amazing morning with over 30 guests from our community joining us for assembly and breakfast. One guest commented that "Even without the uniforms, you can tell the Good Shepherd students - they wear what they learn." Mr. Gessner led the assembly, and Fr. Pat addressed our students and guests with thoughts about Catholic education, and Good Shepherd. Many of our guests stayed after assembly to talk with our 7th and 8th grade students about their roles in the community, and how they support people who are most in need. This discussion was part of a project in which our older students are involved called "Lift Every Voice," which is funded through a grant from the Sisters of Mercy. Thanks to the volunteers, students and parents, who prepared the sumptous feast, set up tables and chairs, and helped to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all!
 8th graders provide snow removal "service" after the big storm Tuesday, January 27th - It was all about our students today! They had a casual day, enjoyed a student-led morning assembly, and were honored for their own individual gifts and talents throughout the day. At lunchtime, everyone enjoyed a beautiful and delicious cake prepared by Mrs. Sherry Sylvain - many thanks! We ended the day with a surprise "Praise" Pep-Rally, led by our special guest, Fr. Schnobrich. Mrs. Edmondson and Mrs. Woods accompanied as well, as students praised the Lord with song, dance and special blessings. Amen!  Students were up and singing at the "Pep & Praise" Rally! Wednesday, January 28th - Our focus today was on service to our nation, and we began with a patriotic-themed Mass to which we welcomed local service men and women, and veterans. The Mass included patriotic music, a memorable homily delivered by Deacon Mayo, and a special blessing for the service men and veterans who joined us. Students looked sharp in their red, white and blue, and the Kindergartner's "thank you" cookies were especially appreciated.
Many thanks to Deacon Mayo, also to Deacon Ray, Father Pat and Father Schnobrich, all of whom joined in celebrating this special Mass.
Thursday, January 29th - Many thanks to Deacon Bruce and Mrs. Eileen Burk who joined us for morning assembly and offered students and staff a very enjoyable and truly enlightening talk about vocations. They shared the many vocations to which each and both of them have been called, and encouraged us all to listen for the voice of God calling us to do His work in this world.  Deacon Bruce & Mrs. Eileen Burk talked with students and staff about vocations. Classes made cards for our priests and Vermont seminarians, and offered special prayers for vocations throughout the day.
Friday, January 30th - This was a day to "serve those who serve." Teachers had a casual day, and many students taught lessons (and probably learned a lot while they were at it!) in various classes.  Staff members enjoy a peaceful, elegant luncheon SO MANY THANKS to the parent volunteers who put on a spectacular luncheon for the staff! The food & beverages, atmosphere, and "down time" together for teachers was such a gift. Thanks also for providing the coverage necessary for all of us to enjoy it.  "Team Teacher" was ready to face off at the big game... Even after a very satisfying meal, the staff managed to win a well-played match of floor hockey over the 8th graders, ending in a close score of 4 - 3. Thanks to all who participated, made signs, painted faces, and to Joe Fox, our guest referee for the "main event."  Good Shepherd is full of "good sports" as evidenced by high-fives and smiles from both teams. We've celebrated so much this week as we've served each other, bringing special joy to each day. For more photos of the week's events, please check out the slide show on the "About Us" page.
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