The first Mass. A pivotal moment. It echoes even now within these walls. Good Shepherd Catholic Church. A cornerstone of faith planted in 1965. Imagine Bishop John J Russell’s vision. He saw the burgeoning Fairfax County needing a spiritual haven. He established this very church. It started humbly in Mount Vernon High School. Over 900 families formed the initial flock. Their first Mass was celebrated on May 30 1965.
Good Shepherd Catholic Church was more than just bricks and mortar. It was a response to a growing community. Father Joseph F Schwartz the first pastor guided this burgeoning congregation. They initially used a multi-purpose building. It featured 980 green folding chairs. A temporary altar was set up. Bishop Russell dedicated this makeshift sanctuary in June 17 1967.
The story of Good Shepherd Catholic Church is a tapestry woven with dedication. Father William P Connelly and Father Thomas J Quinlan continued the work. Father Quinlan began planning for a permanent church. This involved extensive fundraising. The church’s International Festival began during his tenure. A testament to the diverse community. It celebrates various cultures to this day.
The church building itself is a testament to perseverance. The cornerstone was laid long ago. Many pastors labored for its construction. Finally on October 21 1984 Bishop John R Keating dedicated the church. This was nineteen years after the parish was founded. The original multi-purpose building became part of the new Community Center. This opened in January 1991. It includes a kitchen nursery youth center and six classrooms.
Good Shepherd Catholic Church. A place of worship and community. Pastors like Father Gerard Creedon Father George Griffin Father Chuck McCoart and Father Tom Ferguson have all shaped its identity. The church’s outreach expanded. It helped the poor and underprivileged locally nationally and internationally. The stained-glass windows the September 11th memorial the priest’s residence. All bear witness to its growth and devotion. Even now a new chapel and meeting spaces are being built. This reflects Good Shepherd’s commitment to serving its ever-growing congregation of over 3500 families. Good Shepherd Catholic Church continues to thrive. It offers Mass in English and Spanish. It stands as a symbol of faith hope and unwavering community spirit.