Hello Good Shepherd,

I don't often send out a flock note myself, but I want to take a moment to send out a further invitation to participate in the Called and Gifted program.

This summer we have had many "lighter" opportunities. We offered our “summer conversation” series on the topic of hope, and in August we are having a series of fun, low-commitment activities. Nothing too heavy and nothing that requires much work.

In the autumn, we want to “dig in” a little deeper. Among the opportunities that we will offer at Good Shepherd is the “Called and Gifted” program offered by the Sienna Institute (and supported through the Archdiocese). In this series of workshops, we will seek to discern our own powerful spiritual gifts and how we have been uniquely called by God to live and love more fully.  As a result, we can build up the Kingdom, in our homes, neighborhoods, workplaces and communities. It is exciting to recognize our own gifts and experience the joy that comes from embracing them more fully!

I am asking you to seriously consider making time in your schedule to attend the Called and Gifted sessions that will be held here at Good Shepherd this fall. I know that it is a time commitment, but I strongly believe that it will be worth your time.

To learn more about Called and Gifted, there will be very short informational sessions (about 15 minutes) after the Masses this weekend, August 21st and 22nd.  The program itself happens over the course of 3 workshops. There are two options for the first session: Monday, August 30th or Tuesday, August 31st from 6:30-8:30pm. Then the following workshops will be on Saturday, September 11th and Saturday, October 2nd from 8:30-12pm.  See more information and sign up now on our website: gsshawnee.org/called-gifted. A self-study option is also available for those who are not able to come to the in-person sessions. 

I am quite excited about this program. Please consider attending. Please consider inviting your friends. It is an amazing opportunity.  

Many blessings,

Fr. Kent