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A Message From the Pastor

Dear People of Good Shepherd Parish,
A new pastor will be assigned to the parish in June.

I have been assigned additional duties as an Auxiliary bishop with the Diocese of Rockville Centre.

I will conclude my service as Pastor at the Church of the Good Shepherd at Holbrook, NY in June.

I will continue as the Episcopal Vicar for the Eastern Vicariate.

My new office will relocate to the St. Pius X Residence located at the Cenacle in Ronkonkoma , NY.

Thank you for the honor to have served here over the last 3 years. I will be back at future times to visit as the vicar.

Many blessings on you and the parish family, In Christ,
Bishop Robert J. Coyle 
​

Chapter 11 Filing

Information regarding the deadlines for filing proofs of claim in the Diocese’s chapter 11 case and the forms to use can be found by clicking on the following link to the Diocese’s bankruptcy website and scrolling down the page: https://dm.epiq11.com/drvc

 

Easter Letter From Bishop Barres

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, 

The Lord is truly risen, Alleluia! Around the world and across Long Island, we proclaim this marvelous truth. Good news is ours. Sin and death have been vanquished. Christ has conquered. God is victorious! 

In light of the suffering and death of the past year, how blessed we are to behold again the Mystery of the Resurrection. These months have been dark and bleak. They have been long and challenging. Yet, as we encounter Easter 2021, we are reminded that God has the final word. Indeed, Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it (John 1:5). This Light, Jesus Christ, illumines our path. He gives hope. As the Fathers of the Second Vatican Council said: 

Through Christ and in Christ, the riddles of sorrow and death grow meaningful. Apart from His Gospel, they overwhelm us. Christ has risen, destroying death by His death; He has lavished life upon us so that...we can cry out in the Spirit: Abba, Father.' 

With significant challenges facing us still on Long Island and across the globe, with darkness still afoot, perhaps the joy of Easter is difficult to embrace. Our hearts maybe like those of the disciples who went on Easter dawn to anoint the Lord's body. At the strange sight of an empty tomb and an apparently absent Jesus, instead of experiencing immediate joy, they were confused and distressed. Only in seeing the Lord face to face did they come to embrace His rising from the dead. 

Like Mary Magdalene and the other disciples, we need to see Christ alive among us. We need to see the Resurrection in our midst. So, this Easter, let us ask, "Where is Christ alive?" 

Christ is alive in the countless frontline workers, civil servants, and medical professionals who have served so faithfully and so heroically this past year. Their sacrificial love and Good Samaritan-willingness to help neighbors in need radiate the Lord Jesus! 

Christ is alive in the catechumens who have received the Sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation at the Easter Vigil. Their reception of the Sacraments reminds us of the power of our own Baptism — where each of us has died with Christ and risen with Him to new life. 

Above all, Christ is alive in His risen and glorified presence in the Eucharist and in the transforming power of His Body and Blood that we receive in the celebration of the Mass. Christ is alive, and therefore the Church is alive. The Eucharist is the source of this life — and its power has become perhaps more evident than ever, after months of separation from the weekly and daily celebration of the Mass. Together, we recall the disciples' recognition of Jesus following the Resurrection at Emmaus in the opening of the Scriptures and the breaking of the Bread. We are grateful for the many ways in which our parishes and schools have continued to foster creatively this Emmaus experience on Long Island, both in-person and virtually. May we continue to recognize the Sunday Eucharist as the source from which the life of the Resurrected Christ bursts forth into the world. 

At his Sunday Angelus on January 3, 2021, Pope Francis beautifully reminded us of Christ's continued presence in our midst: 

"I like to think that when the Lord prays to the Father for us, he does not merely speak: he shows him the wounds of the flesh, he shows him the wounds he suffered for us. This is Jesus: with his flesh he is the intercessor, he wanted to bear even the signs of suffering. Jesus, with his flesh, is before the Father. Indeed, the Gospel says that He came to dwell among us. He did not come to visit us, and then leave; He came to dwell with us, to stay with us."' 

May we continue to encounter the presence of Jesus Christ who dwells in and through His Church. May we continue to experience signs of His Resurrection even amidst the challenges and crosses we embrace, and may this encounter continue to fill our hearts, so that our voices can confidently cry out: The Lord is truly risen! Alleluia! 

Sincerely in Christ,
Most Reverend John O. Barres
Bishop of Rockville Centre

Mass Intentions

Sunday - April 18
​7:00 a.m.  People of Good Shepherd Parish  8:30 a.m. Young Soon Kim 10:00 a.m. Mass Guild Members 12 Noon Philomena Pierro 5:00 p.m Italia Fischetti

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Monday - April 19
​​​​​​​​​9:00 a.m. Franklin Vlaun

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Tuesday - April 20
​​​​9:00 a.m. Adolfo Manalo

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Wednesday - April 21
​​​​9:00 a.m. Joseph Montemurro​

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Thursday - April 22
​​​9:00 a.m. Julia Urgola Persik  

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Friday -  April 23
9:00 a.m. Ed & Margaret Tappin

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Saturday - April 24
9:00 a.m. Matthew Blake, Jr.   5:00 p.m. Matthew Blake, Jr.   

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Mass Guild Members
April 18, 2021

In Memory of:
Grace Franzi      Richard J. Cama      Jaime P. Pesongco      Michael Frustaci      Joseph Olivo

Intentions of:
Gene Colangelo      Fr. Jerry D.      Jim Sexton & Marge 
​

Gifts of Bread and Wine

In Memory of:
In Thanksgiving

Donated by:
Isabelle Williams​
If you would like to make a Gift of Bread and Wine, please contact the parish office at (631)588-7689

Sanctuary Lamp

The Sanctuary Lamp, which burns near the Tabernacle in our Daily Chapel, is the reminder of the Lord's Presence in the Most Holy Eucharist.

The Lamp will burn this week:
In Memory of: 
Jaime & Faustina Pesongco
​
Donated by:
Michael & Maria Smith

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Easter Flowers

 

Reading and Saints of the Week

Due to COVID-19, video reflections may not be available on any given day.

Monday

Saint Teresa of Los Andes





Listen to Monday's Reading

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Reading 1
Acts 4:23-31
After their release Peter and John went back to their own people
and reported what the chief priests and elders had told them.
And when they heard it,
they raised their voices to God with one accord
and said, "Sovereign Lord, maker of heaven and earth
and the sea and all that is in them,
you said by the Holy Spirit
through the mouth of our father David, your servant:

Why did the Gentiles rage
and the peoples entertain folly?
The kings of the earth took their stand
and the princes gathered together
against the Lord and against his anointed.

Indeed they gathered in this city
against your holy servant Jesus whom you anointed,
Herod and Pontius Pilate,
together with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel,
to do what your hand and your will
had long ago planned to take place.
And now, Lord, take note of their threats,
and enable your servants to speak your word
with all boldness, as you stretch forth your hand to heal,
and signs and wonders are done
through the name of your holy servant Jesus."
As they prayed, the place where they were gathered shook,
and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit
and continued to speak the word of God with boldness.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalms 2:1-3, 4-7A, 7B-9
R. (see 11d) Blessed are all who take refuge in the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Why do the nations rage
and the peoples utter folly?
The kings of the earth rise up,
and the princes conspire together
against the LORD and against his anointed:
"Let us break their fetters
and cast their bonds from us!"
R. Blessed are all who take refuge in the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
He who is throned in heaven laughs;
the LORD derides them.
Then in anger he speaks to them;
he terrifies them in his wrath:
"I myself have set up my king
on Zion, my holy mountain."
I will proclaim the decree of the LORD.
R. Blessed are all who take refuge in the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
The LORD said to me, "You are my Son;
this day I have begotten you.
Ask of me and I will give you
the nations for an inheritance
and the ends of the earth for your possession.
You shall rule them with an iron rod;
you shall shatter them like an earthen dish."
R. Blessed are all who take refuge in the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Alleluia
Colossians 3:1
R.Alleluia, alleluia
If then you were raised with Christ,
seek what is above,
where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.
R.Alleluia, alleluia

Gospel
John 3:1-8
Reading 1
There was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews.
He came to Jesus at night and said to him,
"Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God,
for no one can do these signs that you are doing
unless God is with him."
Jesus answered and said to him,
"Amen, amen, I say to you,
unless one is born from above, he cannot see the Kingdom of God."
Nicodemus said to him,
"How can a man once grown old be born again?
Surely he cannot reenter his mother's womb and be born again, can he?"
Jesus answered,
"Amen, amen, I say to you,
unless one is born of water and Spirit
he cannot enter the Kingdom of God.
What is born of flesh is flesh
and what is born of spirit is spirit.
Do not be amazed that I told you,
'You must be born from above.'
The wind blows where it wills,
and you can hear the sound it makes,
but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes;
so it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit."

Tuesday

Saint Martin I





Listen to Tuesday's Reading

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Reading 1
Acts 4:32-37
The community of believers was of one heart and mind,
and no one claimed that any of his possessions was his own,
but they had everything in common.
With great power the Apostles bore witness
to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus,
and great favor was accorded them all.
There was no needy person among them,
for those who owned property or houses would sell them,
bring the proceeds of the sale,
and put them at the feet of the Apostles,
and they were distributed to each according to need.

Thus Joseph, also named by the Apostles Barnabas
(which is translated Ason of encouragement"),
a Levite, a Cypriot by birth,
sold a piece of property that he owned,
then brought the money and put it at the feet of the Apostles.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalms 93:1AB, 1CD-2, 5
R.(1a) The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.
or:
R. Alleluia.
The LORD is king, in splendor robed;
robed is the LORD and girt about with strength.
R. The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.
or:
R. Alleluia.
And he has made the world firm,
not to be moved.
Your throne stands firm from of old;
from everlasting you are, O LORD.
R. The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Your decrees are worthy of trust indeed:
holiness befits your house,
O LORD, for length of days.
R. The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Alleluia
John 3:14-15
R.Alleluia, alleluia
The Son of Man must be lifted up,
so that everyone who believes in him
may have eternal life.
R.Alleluia, alleluia

Gospel
John 3:7B-15
Jesus said to Nicodemus:
"'You must be born from above.'
The wind blows where it wills, and you can hear the sound it makes,
but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes;
so it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit."
Nicodemus answered and said to him,
'How can this happen?"
Jesus answered and said to him,
"You are the teacher of Israel and you do not understand this?
Amen, amen, I say to you,
we speak of what we know and we testify to what we have seen,
but you people do not accept our testimony.
If I tell you about earthly things and you do not believe,
how will you believe if I tell you about heavenly things?
No one has gone up to heaven
except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man.
And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert,
so must the Son of Man be lifted up,
so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life."

Wednesday

Blessed Peter Gonzalez





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Reading 1
Acts 5:17-26
The high priest rose up and all his companions,
that is, the party of the Sadducees,
and, filled with jealousy,
laid hands upon the Apostles and put them in the public jail.
But during the night, the angel of the Lord opened the doors of the prison,
led them out, and said,
"Go and take your place in the temple area,
and tell the people everything about this life."
When they heard this,
they went to the temple early in the morning and taught.
When the high priest and his companions arrived,
they convened the Sanhedrin,
the full senate of the children of Israel,
and sent to the jail to have them brought in.
But the court officers who went did not find them in the prison,
so they came back and reported,
"We found the jail securely locked
and the guards stationed outside the doors,
but when we opened them, we found no one inside."
When the captain of the temple guard and the chief priests heard this report,
they were at a loss about them,
as to what this would come to.
Then someone came in and reported to them,
"The men whom you put in prison are in the temple area
and are teaching the people."
Then the captain and the court officers went and brought them,
but without force,
because they were afraid of being stoned by the people.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalms 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9
R.(7a) The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
or:
R. Alleluia.
I will bless the LORD at all times;
his praise shall be ever in my mouth.
Let my soul glory in the LORD;
the lowly will hear me and be glad.
R.The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Glorify the LORD with me,
let us together extol his name.
I sought the LORD, and he answered me
and delivered me from all my fears.
R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Look to him that you may be radiant with joy,
and your faces may not blush with shame.
When the poor one called out, the LORD heard,
and from all his distress he saved him.
R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
or:
R. Alleluia.
The angel of the LORD encamps
around those who fear him, and delivers them.
Taste and see how good the LORD is;
blessed the man who takes refuge in him.
R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Alleluia
John 3:16
R.Alleluia, alleluia
God so love the world that he gave his only-begotten Son,
so that everyone who believes in him might have eternal life.
R.Alleluia, alleluia

Gospel
John 3:16-21
God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son,
so that everyone who believes in him might not perish
but might have eternal life.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world,
but that the world might be saved through him.
Whoever believes in him will not be condemned,
but whoever does not believe has already been condemned,
because he has not believed in the name of the only-begotten Son of God.
And this is the verdict,
that the light came into the world,
but people preferred darkness to light,
because their works were evil.
For everyone who does wicked things hates the light
and does not come toward the light,
so that his works might not be exposed.
But whoever lives the truth comes to the light,
so that his works may be clearly seen as done in God.

Thursday

Blessed Caesar de Bus





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Reading 1
Acts 5:27-33
When the court officers had brought the Apostles in
and made them stand before the Sanhedrin,
the high priest questioned them,
"We gave you strict orders did we not,
to stop teaching in that name.
Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching
and want to bring this man's blood upon us."
But Peter and the Apostles said in reply,
"We must obey God rather than men.
The God of our ancestors raised Jesus,
though you had him killed by hanging him on a tree.
God exalted him at his right hand as leader and savior
to grant Israel repentance and forgiveness of sins.
We are witnesses of these things,
as is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey him."

When they heard this,
they became infuriated and wanted to put them to death.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalms 34:2 AND 9, 17-18 19-20
R.(7a) The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
or:
R. Alleluia.
I will bless the LORD at all times;
his praise shall be ever in my mouth.
Taste and see how good the LORD is;
blessed the man who takes refuge in him.
R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
or:
R. Alleluia.
The LORD confronts the evildoers,
to destroy remembrance of them from the earth.
When the just cry out, the LORD hears them,
and from all their distress he rescues them.
R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
or:
R. Alleluia.
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted;
and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.
Many are the troubles of the just man,
but out of them all the LORD delivers him.
R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Alleluia
John 20:29
R.Alleluia, alleluia
You believe in me, Thomas, because you have seen me, says the Lord;
blessed are those who have not seen, but still believe!
R.Alleluia, alleluia

Gospel
John 3:31-36
The one who comes from above is above all.
The one who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of earthly things.
But the one who comes from heaven is above all.
He testifies to what he has seen and heard,
but no one accepts his testimony.
Whoever does accept his testimony certifies that God is trustworthy.
For the one whom God sent speaks the words of God.
He does not ration his gift of the Spirit.
The Father loves the Son and has given everything over to him.
Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life,
but whoever disobeys the Son will not see life,
but the wrath of God remains upon him.

Friday

Saint Bernadette Soubirous



Listen to Friday's Reading

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Reading 1
Acts 5:34-42
A Pharisee in the Sanhedrin named Gamaliel,
a teacher of the law, respected by all the people,
stood up, ordered the Apostles to be put outside for a short time,
and said to the Sanhedrin, “Fellow children of Israel,
be careful what you are about to do to these men.
Some time ago, Theudas appeared, claiming to be someone important,
and about four hundred men joined him, but he was killed,
and all those who were loyal to him
were disbanded and came to nothing.
After him came Judas the Galilean at the time of the census.
He also drew people after him,
but he too perished and all who were loyal to him were scattered.
So now I tell you,
have nothing to do with these men, and let them go.
For if this endeavor or this activity is of human origin,
it will destroy itself.
But if it comes from God, you will not be able to destroy them;
you may even find yourselves fighting against God.”
They were persuaded by him.
After recalling the Apostles, they had them flogged,
ordered them to stop speaking in the name of Jesus,
and dismissed them.
So they left the presence of the Sanhedrin,
rejoicing that they had been found worthy
to suffer dishonor for the sake of the name.
And all day long, both at the temple and in their homes,
they did not stop teaching and proclaiming the Christ, Jesus.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalms 27:1,4, 13-14
R. (see 4abc) One thing I seek: to dwell in the house of the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
The LORD is my light and my salvation;
whom should I fear?
The LORD is my life’s refuge;
of whom should I be afraid?
R. One thing I seek: to dwell in the house of the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
One thing I ask of the LORD
this I seek:
To dwell in the house of the LORD
all the days of my life,
That I may gaze on the loveliness of the LORD
and contemplate his temple.
R. One thing I seek: to dwell in the house of the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
I believe that I shall see the bounty of the LORD
in the land of the living.
Wait for the LORD with courage;
be stouthearted, and wait for the LORD.
R. One thing I seek: to dwell in the house of the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Alleluia
Matthew 4:4B
R.Alleluia, alleluia
One does not live on bread alone,
but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.
R.Alleluia, alleluia

Gospel
John 6:1-15
Jesus went across the Sea of Galilee.
A large crowd followed him,
because they saw the signs he was performing on the sick.
Jesus went up on the mountain,
and there he sat down with his disciples.
The Jewish feast of Passover was near.
When Jesus raised his eyes and saw that a large crowd was coming to him,
he said to Philip, “Where can we buy enough food for them to eat?”
He said this to test him,
because he himself knew what he was going to do.
Philip answered him,
“Two hundred days’ wages worth of food would not be enough
for each of them to have a little.”
One of his disciples,
Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter, said to him,
“There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish;
but what good are these for so many?”
Jesus said, “Have the people recline.”
Now there was a great deal of grass in that place.
So the men reclined, about five thousand in number.
Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks,
and distributed them to those who were reclining,
and also as much of the fish as they wanted.
When they had had their fill, he said to his disciples,
“Gather the fragments left over,
so that nothing will be wasted.”
So they collected them,
and filled twelve wicker baskets with fragments
from the five barley loaves that had been more than they could eat.
When the people saw the sign he had done, they said,
“This is truly the Prophet, the one who is to come into the world.”
Since Jesus knew that they were going to come and carry him off
to make him king,
he withdrew again to the mountain alone.

Saturday

Saint Benedict Joseph Labre





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Reading 1
Acts 6:1-7
As the number of disciples continued to grow,
the Hellenists complained against the Hebrews
because their widows
were being neglected in the daily distribution.
So the Twelve called together the community of the disciples and said,
"It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at table.
Brothers, select from among you seven reputable men,
filled with the Spirit and wisdom,
whom we shall appoint to this task,
whereas we shall devote ourselves to prayer
and to the ministry of the word."
The proposal was acceptable to the whole community,
so they chose Stephen, a man filled with faith and the Holy Spirit,
also Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas,
and Nicholas of Antioch, a convert to Judaism.
They presented these men to the Apostles
who prayed and laid hands on them.
The word of God continued to spread,
and the number of the disciples in Jerusalem increased greatly;
even a large group of priests were becoming obedient to the faith.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalms 33:1-2, 4-5, 18-19
R.(22) Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Exult, you just, in the LORD;
praise from the upright is fitting.
Give thanks to the LORD on the harp;
with the ten-stringed lyre chant his praises.
R. Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Upright is the word of the LORD,
and all his works are trustworthy.
He loves justice and right;
of the kindness of the LORD the earth is full.
R. Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.
or:
R. Alleluia.
See, the eyes of the LORD are upon those who fear him,
upon those who hope for his kindness,
To deliver them from death
and preserve them in spite of famine.
R. Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Alleluia
R.Alleluia, alleluia
Christ is risen, who made all things;
he has shown mercy on all people.
R.Alleluia, alleluia

Gospel
John 6:16-21
When it was evening, the disciples of Jesus went down to the sea,
embarked in a boat, and went across the sea to Capernaum.
It had already grown dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them.
The sea was stirred up because a strong wind was blowing.
When they had rowed about three or four miles,
they saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat,
and they began to be afraid.
But he said to them, "It is I. Do not be afraid."
They wanted to take him into the boat,
but the boat immediately arrived at the shore
to which they were heading.

Sunday

Blessed James Oldo





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Reading 1
Acts 3:13-15, 17-19
Peter said to the people:
"The God of Abraham,
the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob,
the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus,
whom you handed over and denied in Pilate's presence
when he had decided to release him.
You denied the Holy and Righteous One
and asked that a murderer be released to you.
The author of life you put to death,
but God raised him from the dead; of this we are witnesses.
Now I know, brothers,
that you acted out of ignorance, just as your leaders did;
but God has thus brought to fulfillment
what he had announced beforehand
through the mouth of all the prophets,
that his Christ would suffer.
Repent, therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be wiped away."

Responsorial Psalm
Psalms 4:2, 4, 7-8, 9
R. (7a) Lord, let your face shine on us.
or:
R. Alleluia.
When I call, answer me, O my just God,
you who relieve me when I am in distress;
have pity on me, and hear my prayer!
R. Lord, let your face shine on us.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Know that the LORD does wonders for his faithful one;
the LORD will hear me when I call upon him.
R. Lord, let your face shine on us.
or:
R. Alleluia.
O LORD, let the light of your countenance shine upon us!
You put gladness into my heart.
R. Lord, let your face shine on us.
or:
R. Alleluia.
As soon as I lie down, I fall peacefully asleep,
for you alone, O LORD,
bring security to my dwelling.
R. Lord, let your face shine on us.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Reading 2
1 John 2:1-5A
My children, I am writing this to you
so that you may not commit sin.
But if anyone does sin, we have an Advocate with the Father,
Jesus Christ the righteous one.
He is expiation for our sins,
and not for our sins only but for those of the whole world.
The way we may be sure that we know him is to keep
his commandments.
Those who say, "I know him," but do not keep his commandments
are liars, and the truth is not in them.
But whoever keeps his word,
the love of God is truly perfected in him.

Alleluia
Luke 24:32
R.Alleluia, alleluia
Lord Jesus, open the Scriptures to us;
make our hearts burn while you speak to us.
R.Alleluia, alleluia

Gospel
Luke 24:35-48
The two disciples recounted what had taken place on the way,
and how Jesus was made known to them
in the breaking of bread.

While they were still speaking about this,
he stood in their midst and said to them,
"Peace be with you."
But they were startled and terrified
and thought that they were seeing a ghost.
Then he said to them, "Why are you troubled?
And why do questions arise in your hearts?
Look at my hands and my feet, that it is I myself.
Touch me and see, because a ghost does not have flesh and bones
as you can see I have."
And as he said this,
he showed them his hands and his feet.
While they were still incredulous for joy and were amazed,
he asked them, "Have you anything here to eat?"
They gave him a piece of baked fish;
he took it and ate it in front of them.

He said to them,
"These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you,
that everything written about me in the law of Moses
and in the prophets and psalms must be fulfilled."
Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures.
And he said to them,
"Thus it is written that the Christ would suffer
and rise from the dead on the third day
and that repentance, for the forgiveness of sins,
would be preached in his name
to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem.
You are witnesses of these things."

 

Faith Formation

Online Resources

 

Formed

St. Francis De Sales: The Character of a Christian
In this four-part series, Dr. Ben Akers and Dr. Christopher O. Blum sit down to discuss St. Francis de Sales, his best known work The Introduction to the Devout Life, and the character of a christian revealed through his life's witness and writings. We hope you enjoy this new series on an incredible counter-reformation saint who truly is a gift of God to the universal Church and from whom we can learn much today.
Watch>>

Joseph of Nazareth: The Story of the Man Closest to Christ
The first feature film ever on the story of St. Joseph, who was a carpenter, the husband of Mary, and the foster father of Jesus Christ. Scripture tells us that St. Joseph was a "just man" and that God gave him the most daunting task ever asked of a man–to be the husband of the woman who would give birth to the Messiah and the father and protector of this Holy Family. He would be the man closest to Christ.
Watch Movie>>

To sign up on Formed, click here.

How To Draw Young People Back to the Church
Why do so many young people drift away from God and the Church, and how can we help them return? This is a pressing question for all Catholics, but especially for parents who are brokenhearted about their own sons or daughters who have become unaffiliated.
​Watch Video>>

The Chosen: Season 1
The Chosen is the first-ever-multi-season TV show about the life of Jesus. Created outside of the Hollywood system, The Chosen allows us to see Him through the eyes of those who knew him. No matter where you are at in your journey with Jesus Christ, this TV show is for you. Season 1 is now available on YouTube.
Watch Season 1>>

 

What Good Shepherd Means to Me

Celebrating our Jubilee year ​

As we celebrate our Jubilee Year, we invite you to share with us what Good Shepherd means to you. Please email a very short statement to the main office goodshepherdstaf@aol.com and it will go online in our e-bulletin in the coming weeks and months. Thank you. 

February 21, 2021

My memories of 50 years At Good Shepherd Church
By: Judy Schellberg
In November 1969, my husband, Robert, and I and two small daughters moved to “close-in Hobrook”, as houses in Holbrook were advertised at that time. In June, 1970, I saw a picture in the newspaper of a new church beginning in Holbrook. The parish did not have a name at that time and the pastor Fr. Ron Barry and associate Fr. Jack Moore said that the parishioners should have a say in the naming of the parish because the people were the church. As we know now, Good Shepherd was the name chosen.
​
Over those early years Fr. Barry held classes on how to develop a well formed conscience and Sisters Dorothy Fowler and Barbara St. Peter taught the Basic Course in order to encourage people to become catechists. These classes helped me to grow into my adult faith, during this post Vatican II time. I think, we then all came to understand the concept that the people were the church.

About that time too, Good Shepherd became one of the first three churches on Long Island to model the vision of Catholic Charities of serving the needs of the people at the parish level and Parish Outreach was started. In 1990, I became the part-time secretary in the Outreach Office working with Deacon Joseph Gioglio, who was the coordinator, and many wonderful volunteers, Gene Colangelo included. I saw first hand the support and involvement in the Outreach from Fr. Tom, the priests, sisters and staff at the time and wonderful parishioners always willing to help where there was a need. It was not only about giving food but what were the underlying causes of the need for food, the injustices and unfairness that needed advocating about. It was as Joe Gioglio said – “Parish Outreach is a living expression of the Gospel message”.

In the fall of 1997 the diocese introduced the idea of parish assistance at the time of the death of a Parishioner and the Ministry of Consolation was started under Connie Hornick and support of Joe Gioglio, through the Parish Outreach. Sadly, Joe Gioglio died that fall at 46 from a heart attack. The Consolation Ministry, with many dedicated ministers through the years, has continued, especially with the leadership of Noranne Hill who headed the ministry for many year and died in 2016. Deacon John Newhall has always been there to offer his guidance to the ministry.

We have been blessed with many good pastors over these years and at this time we are especially remembering Fr. Tom, who led us out of a dark place and reminded us, once again, that the building is not the church, the people are.
​
Over the fifty years of my memories are some very wonderful and memorable times and some very sad and distressful times but what always came through are the blessings God has given us at Good Shepherd through the priests, the sisters, the deacons, the staff and always from our close parish family and it is my hope that this parish spirit will continue to grow for many generations to come. 

December 20, 2020
By Barbara Paeth

I am a Newbe of sorts to Good Shepherd - here 9 1/2 years. From Day One in Good Shepherd -it was like I found a second home - the people, the priests and the staff -accepted and loved, especially the Senior Group headed by Rosemarie Vilim.

November 29, 2020
By Julie DeCollibus

My husband Vinny and I moved to Holbrook in July of 1977 and joined the Good Shepherd parish. From the first time we attended Mass, we felt we belonged to a new “family” of worship. I remember Father would allow the little ones to sit on the steps of the altar as they would color or play with their toys. Since then, I have been blessed with many memories both happy and sad. Our family “survived the fire” and joined the campaign to rebuild our church. My husband and I were privileged to attend the dedication of the new church. My daughter was baptized at Good Shepherd. Both our children received First Holy Communion while we were congregating in “the factory,” and they both were confirmed at our parish. I taught religious education for many years. In 2001, my parents moved from Nassau County and became parishioners. They also loved the parish and were especially fond of Monsignor Tom Spadaro. Monsignor Jerry Ringenback said the funeral masses for both my mom and my husband.

Family and Friends who have joined me in worship at our church have always commented about our wonderful parish and the true sense of community and strong faith exhibited by the people. My ties to Good Shepherd continue to grow as my daughter and son-in-law are now members of our parish. My grandson, Dylan was baptized here, and received his First Holy Communion in our church this past August. As I am now a part of the Consolation Ministry, I continue to meet new friends and work with such wonderful and devoted people.

These memories make me cherish my 43 years as a member of Good Shepherd! 

September 28, 2020
By Diane McClernon  

Ever since my husband and I moved to Holbrook, we have been parishioners of Good Shepherd. Our 3 children made their sacraments here. We even renewed our wedding vows here on our 20th and 30th anniversaries. One thing that separates this parish apart from others is feeling welcomed in.

Over the years there have been changes in priests and pastors as well as to some aspects of the building. But what has not changed is the welcoming atmosphere. Whether it’s by joining a ministry, volunteering for one of the many events taking place or being at mass every week, you feel like you belong here.

Without a doubt, worshipping at Good Shepherd has strengthened our faith life. So when people ask me what my parish is, I smile and proudly reply, “Good Shepherd.” 

September 20, 2020

As an active and long-time parishioner I can say without hesitation Good Shepherd changed my life. Over the past 40 years I have been privileged to support this parish with my time, talent and treasure. Good Shepherd is not just a beautiful building - this community is very special and one that continues to be a source of faith, hope and love to me, my family and countless others who pass through our doors............Jim Marino 

July 24, 2020

On June 24, 1970, Father Barry and Father Moore arrived in Holbrook. They had a meeting in a parking lot at MacArthur Airport. They lived at The Cenacle. The first Mass was celebrated on June 28, 1970, outside the Civic Hall on Grundy Avenue. By August 1970, people had set up a large tent on the south side of the Civic Hall and Mass was held under the tent. In the winter parishioners moved back into the Civic Hall for Mass. There were Masses in the tent, the firehouse, the Greenbelt Recreation Center, the Cenacle and in parishioners' homes. Daily Mass was in the Cenacle Chapel. 

At this time, on August 1, 1970, Tom and I were married and moved to our first apartment in Hillcrest Village on Broadway Avenue. We became members of Good Shepherd and have been in the Parish for 50 years! Over these years we have formed lifelong friendships through our involvement in parish activities. 

What does Good Shepherd mean to us? Tom says Community, and for me Good Shepherd means Family!! We have participated in the life of Good Shepherd, our Community, our Family, in many ways over these 50 years. 

My involvement began as a helper in the pre-school with Sister Dorothy Fowler and Sister Barbara St. Peter in the mid-70s. In 1978, I was invited to become a Eucharistic Minister and have been one for 42 years. I coordinated the Eucharistic Ministers in the pre-computer days and remember making up the schedule randomly by putting names in a shoebox and picking them one at a time. That was when we served at whatever Mass we were given, not a specific Mass as we do today. I was asked to distribute Communion at Brookhaven Hospital and to bring Communion to the sick and homebound. I had a very special friendship with one homebound parishioner for 20 years until she was called home to God. 
Earlier I had been invited to serve on the Liturgy Committee and eventually to head the Committee. Mary Ann Uzzo invited me to be on the CORE of Parish Outreach. When the Genesis II program began, I served as a facilitator, then in 1987 learned all about Small Church Communities and became a Pastoral Facilitator of a Small Church Community for over thirty years. 

Tom spent 14 years as a referee for Good Shepherd's Hockey League and as a coach for two years too. When asked to become a part of the Fellowship Activities Committee, together Tom and I taught Country Line dancing from 1997 to 2011. Each of those 14 years we taught free line dance lessons at Good Shepherd in the summers culminating with an annual fundraiser dance. We also taught Country Line dance lessons at several Family Day gatherings during those years. 

As Father Tom was approaching retirement, I chaired the History Committee and wrote the History of Good Shepherd from its beginnings in the 1930s (when people in the area were dreaming of creating a parish in Holbrook) to 2013, the year Father Tom retired. 

This history book can still be found online for purchase from Amazon.com (all proceeds go to Good Shepherd Parish). 

There is no other parish than Good Shepherd where we would want to belong! 

Tom & Terry Sexon

July 19, 2020

In September of 1988 we moved into Holbrook, and from the first time attending Sunday Mass, I knew Good Shepherd was a very special place.
 
Although my full time position at Stony Brook University kept me from becoming actively involved , I have been a faithful participant for over 32 years.

Several years ago, we downsized and moved to Medford , but Good Shepherd will always be my parish because of how Msgr. Tom, Msgr. Jerry and now Bishop Coyle have made it a place where we are all family. I look forward to many more years praying and worshiping at Good Shepherd.
Theresa La Rocca Meyer

July 12, 2020
My Dear Friends:
Today during these hard times, especially for our churches, I would like to share my story of how I became a part of the Church of the Good Shepherd family. I can’t tell you the exact time or date but I know that it was over 20 years ago because our children were in their teens and the parish we were attending was cold and often left us feeling empty, our children were bored and Den and I were not spiritually filled by liturgies and homilies. In short, we were looking for something more. Den & I both grew up Catholic and have always been involved in some ministry in the Catholic church, so we decided to “go shopping” for a new Catholic church.

At the time we lived in Sayville, so we went north on Broadway Avenue and found ourselves at Good Shepherd. We were greeted at the door with the open arms and hugs of Msgr. Tom Spadaro, and Fr. Bob who we knew from Dennis’ Youth Ministry days in Sayville and many smiling faces who welcomed us to the church. We prayed with these welcoming people, many of whom we still see as we walk up the path from the parking lot to the church and in the Narthex. We listened for four Sundays to Fr. Paul, Fr. Bob, Fr. Tom and finally Fr. Charlie and were inspired once again by their homilies. We felt deep in our hearts and souls that we were “home”, but most of all we were touched by the sense of community and genuine care of the people who make a church a church. We knew God lived there because there was Love and where there is Love there is God.

We invited Fr. Tom to dinner at our house and explained why we wanted to join Good Shepherd, even though we were not in the catchment area of the parish. There our fellowship began, and it did not take us long to get involved in parish ministries. Den & I became involved in Pre Cana, a ministry we had been involved in for over 35 years now. Fr. Tom and Sister Ellen invited us to host a Parish Retreat and what I first though meant hospitality evolved into us directing Parish Retreats and training team members. Fr. Jerry Ringenback and Deacon John invited us to cook several meals for special occasions and decorate Fellowship Hall for large celebrations.

Personally, I am a Eucharistic Minister who brings communion to the homebound. This ministry is a blessing in my life and a great source of grace to be able to bring Jesus and the love of this community to those who cannot get to the church because of sickness or age. I am currently a member of the Parish Council as well and will be stepping down from this ministry at the end of June.

Den and I have truly been blessed by this community and although we transitioning from many of our leadership roles we will always feel a strong attachment to the people of Good Shepherd because of the strength and support we have received over the years. We have and still do feel your hugs in this time of quarantine and social distancing. It has become abundantly clear to us that though we are socially distancing and not meeting you at our beautiful place of worship we will never be spiritually distanced. We are experiencing difficult times but as always. we are the Family of God and I thank you for all the hugs, the prayers and love for embracing our family in the spirit of our parish Vision Statement. God bless you all.
Your sister in Christ,
​Barbara Fretto 

July 5, 2020
Ordinary people helping each other connect life and faith every day. This was our Vision Statement for many years and it still holds true today. When I look around Good Shepherd it is not the beauty of the building that I see, it is the dedication of the people who fill the building that makes my heart beat stronger.

The different ministries that work tirelessly fill it with their time, talent and treasure. Decorating our church inside and out with ceaseless energy, filling it with song and ministering to our people socially and reverently. As I watch our parishioners walk to the front door, even in the worst weather, a smile comes to their face; I’m home. Someone welcomes them and they find the people they have missed the past week. All the people that work together to celebrate the Good News and the good times also comfort each other in the difficult times as we worship our Lord together. 

This brings some sanity in our troubled world. After more than 46 years I still look forward to being in the loving embrace of our community of Good Shepherd, every day.--Jack Wrightson 

June 28, 2020
Where to begin? With Father Tom? Because for me, there is no Good Shepherd without him. What about that special feeling you get as soon as you walk in the door. Perhaps it’s the countless number of homilies heard over the years that have touched your heart. It could be the open invitation for all of us, no matter who you are, to come to the Holy Table to receive the Body and Blood of Christ. Or maybe, it’s just the people here at Good Shepherd. The ordinary people in the pews. The smile “Hello”. The simple handshake. “Peace Be With You”. You may not know the names, but you know the faces and they all mean something to you. I guess it can all be summed up with one word, “love”. That is what Good Shepherd means to me, a place of unconditional love. --Donna Lovaglio 

Sound System Upgrade

Jim Marino wrote an article about our recent sound system upgrade and submitted it to Church Production Magazine - a nationally syndicated magazine focused on the latest audio-visual technology for worship spaces. They published it! The link is available on the parish website as well.
Church Production Article Link:
Read Article>>​

 

Jubilee Dinner Postponed

Due to current COVID-19 circumstances, our June 24, 2020 Jubilee Dinner has been postponed. Many thanks to all who have volunteered to assist in its' planning. Another date will be selected and we will joyously celebrate at that time!

 

 

Our office is reaching out to you or anyone you know in our area that is in need of assistance for food, temporary financial help, counseling, advice or referrals, or is sick, homebound, lonely, and hurting.  If in need of our services, please call our office at 585-4544. All information taken is treated privately and confidentially except where disclosure is made at your request or with your permission.

Senior Group

Senior Group We hope you all had a safe and Happy Easter. This month we celebrate special days for Ernie T. 4/10, Jane O. 4/11, Carmella R. 4/13, Anthony S. 4/20, Teresa K. 4/27 and Jean C. 4/27. Happy Birthday to all.

We will begin meeting on Tuesday mornings May 4th, still staying within state guidelines. Masks must be worn and we won't be able to play games or be able to use the kitchen so please bring your own drinks and snacks. Looking forward to seeing everyone.

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The Peanut Butter and Jelly Gang

The PB&J Gang will not be meeting until further notice. Please hold all donations. Thank you!

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Friendship Garden

We gather at the church from 9:30 am until noon.
There are some rules that MUST be followed.....
1. Masks are mandatory.
2. Social Distancing will be enforced.
3. We will have NO kitchen privileges. You may bring your own food and/or drink, but will not have access to the kitchen.

As always, we look forward to seeing many “old friends” and being introduced to “new friends”.

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Food Pantry

If you need assistance with the food pantry, please call the outreach office at 631-585-4544.

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At the Movies With Donna

Honest Thief
Yahoo! Movies are back! After months of waiting and waiting, Liam Neeson’s entertaining action thriller was a nice warm welcome. Trying to cut a deal with the FBI, a bank robber agrees to turn himself in along with 9 million dollars of stolen money in exchange for a reduced sentence. Unfortunately, after being set up for murder, he must go on the run and try to clear his name. You might think that this is just another of Neeson’s tough-over- the- top characters of late, but it’s not. The main reason he wants to surrender is because he has fallen in love and hopes to start a new life. Nicely directed and co-written by Mark Williams (with Steve All-rich). Good performances by Neeson, Kate Walsh and Jeffrey Donovan. It was nice to see a head- over -heels romance between two characters over the age of 50. 

The War with Grandpa 
A recently widowed retiree must move in with his daughter and her family. By doing so, he takes over his grandson’s bedroom, which leads to this film’s crazy antics. Silly, funny and, at times, ridiculous humor, there are no surprises here. There are, however, some very special moments that lift up the story, like why Grandpa keeps a gallon jar filled with marbles on the dresser in his room. Robert De Niro leads the all-star cast consisting of Oakes Fegley, Uma Thurman, Christopher Walken, Cheech Marin and Jane Seymour. This movie is not going to win any awards and if you can put aside the childish pranks, and accept it for what it is – maybe, just maybe, you can sit back and relax with a good laugh, which we all can use right around now. 

Fatima 
After months of watching the previews week after week and anxiously waiting for its release date, “Fatima” was released right at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Knowing I would never be able to see it in the theater, I searched and searched and finally found it on demand cable TV. This fact-based drama tells the story of the three Portuguese children who receive multiple visits from the Virgin Mary in 1917. Told in flashbacks through an interview of the oldest of the children, Lucia, who is now a Carmelite Sister, this wonderful screenplay written by Marco Pontecorvo, Barbara Nicolosi and Valerio D’Annunzio is beautifully filmed. The entire production is first rate, expertly directed by Pontecorvo, exceptional cinematography by Vincenzo Carpineta, with top performances by a superb cast which includes Sonia Braga, Harvey Keitel, Goran Visnjic, Lucia Moniz, and Stephanie Gil, who portrays the young Lucia. The strong convictions of these three children, who were condemned by their church, community leaders and even their family members, is as remarkable now as it was in 1917. The message of the Lady of the Rosary is still needed today as it was then, pray. “I believe, I have hope, I love God.” 

Let Him Go 
In 1963, after the sudden death of their son, a retired sheriff and his wife leave their Montana ranch in search of their grandson. This drama about loss and grief plays out in be- tween moments of tragedy and violence. It starts off slowly with lovely and tender moments and eventually grows into a surprisingly terrifying thriller. Well-written and directed by Thomas Bezucha (adapted from the novel written by Larry Watson) with moving cinematography by Guy Godfree. This story never loses sight of its two main characters, perfectly played by Kevin Costner and Diane Lane. Their chemistry is extraordinary and their bond needs no words. Poignant. Heartbreaking. Family. Love. You can never let him go. 

 

Community News

Retrouvaille Weekend
You Can Save Your Marriage

Do you feel alone? Are you frustrated or angry with each other? Do you argue or have you just stopped talking to each other? Does talking about it only make it worse?

Retrouvaille helps couples through difficult times in their marriages. This program has helped thousands of couples worldwide experiencing ALL TYPES of marital difficulties.

For confidential information about the Retrouvaille program, or to register for the upcoming weekend that begins on Friday, May 14, 2021, please call 1-800-470-2230 and you will be connected directly and confidentially to a couple from Long Island/Metro Retrouvaille who can help.

Location:
Immaculate Conception, Huntington, NY
440 West Neck Road Huntington,
NY 11743

We Welcome

We welcome to our faith community those Children to be Baptized in April 2021

Hailey Veraldi
Margaret Murphy
Indiana S. Murphy
Vincino A. Fasulo
Emma Nicole Condos
Brayden Zangara
Mason Alexander Corso
Zachary R. Percoco
Evan Hernandez
Dylan K. Murphy
Ariella Marie Benedetti
Eileen Bridgetann O’Connor 

We Remember

May the good Lord bless all the faithful departed. May their souls rest in peace. ​​

Evelyn Ann Natale
Jacqueline Gazalete
Amelia Fazzino
Jaime Pesongco 

Pray for the Sick

Pray for our Military