Church of the Good Shepherd

“Lost,” a young boy’s voice echoed across the bustling school gymnasium. It was May 30, 1965, the day the Church of the Good Shepherd held its very first Mass. Not in a grand cathedral, but right here, in Mount Vernon High School. Imagine 980 green folding chairs filling this space, a makeshift sanctuary for a fledgling community. The Church of the Good Shepherd, officially established just days before by Bishop John J. Russell, was born out of Fairfax County’s rapid growth in the early 1960s. Over 900 families joined Father Joseph F. Schwartz, the church’s first pastor, in this new spiritual home. A few years later, on June 17, 1967, a multi-purpose building was dedicated, a more permanent, yet still humble space for the growing congregation. The Church of the Good Shepherd continued to evolve. Father William P. Connelly took the helm in 1970, further developing the church’s programs. He was succeeded by Father Thomas J. Quinlan in 1971. It was during Father Quinlan’s time that the seeds of expansion were sown, both physically and culturally. Fundraising began for new facilities. The first International Festival was held, a vibrant celebration of the diverse community that the Church of the Good Shepherd embraced. The festival continues to this day, a testament to the church’s commitment to inclusivity. The church saw a succession of pastors: Father John P. Hannan, Father Thomas F. Egan, and Father Frank E. Mahler. Each contributed to the growing foundation of the church. Then, in 1979, Father Gerard Creedon became pastor. His vision, “Building Community in the Light of Christ,” resonated deeply. It fueled the long-awaited dream of a dedicated church building. Nineteen years after its humble beginnings in a high school gym, the Church of the Good Shepherd finally had its own sanctuary. Bishop John R. Keating dedicated the building on October 21, 1984. The growth continued. A Community Center, incorporating the original multi-purpose building, was dedicated in 1991. It became the heart of the parish, a place for gatherings, learning, and fellowship. Under Father Creedon’s guidance, the Church of the Good Shepherd also became known for its outreach programs, extending help to those in need, both locally and internationally. The Church of the Good Shepherd’s story is one of continuous growth and evolution. It is a story of community, faith, and service, a story that continues to be written even today.