October 25, 2026 • Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Dear Parish Family,
Did you know that Halloween has its roots in our Catholic faith? The word Halloween comes from All Hallows’ Eve, the evening before All Saints Day. Long before costumes, candy, and neighborhood trick-or-treating became popular, Christians observed this time as a preparation for celebrating the saints. Over the centuries, traditions of dressing in costumes and going door to door for food or treats developed, eventually giving us the Halloween customs we know today.
Here at Good Shepherd, we’re bringing the saints back into the celebration!
Next Sunday, November 1, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of All Saints, a beautiful reminder that each of us is called to holiness. And what better way to celebrate than with our parish’s Sweets with the Saints: The Ultimate Trunk or Treat Event, beginning at 4:00 p.m. in our church parking lot!
Instead of focusing on ghosts and goblins, we’re celebrating the holy men and women who inspire us to follow Christ. Through decorated trunks, sweet treats, and activities, our children will discover that the saints were real people who faced challenges, loved God, and answered His call to holiness.
But here’s where we need your help!
We need parishioners and families willing to decorate their car trunks and participate in this wonderful event. You don’t have to be an artist, a theologian, or an expert on the saints. All you need is a little creativity, a willingness to have fun, and a desire to share our Catholic faith.
Imagine a trunk dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi, surrounded by stuffed animals. Perhaps Saint Peter with fishing nets, Saint Patrick with shamrocks, or Saint Thérèse with her beautiful roses. You might even choose your own patron saint!
And don’t worry if your decorating skills are less than heavenly. The children won’t be judging your artistic abilities. They’ll simply be delighted that you are there!
Events like Sweets with the Saints are about much more than candy. They build community, strengthen friendships, and help our children discover that holiness is something joyful, exciting, and worth striving for.
Please consider hosting a trunk! Contact Maria Speca at 717-980-3621 to register. Individuals, families, and groups of parish friends are all welcome.
Of course, all our parish families are invited to bring their children to enjoy the festivities. Children must be accompanied by a parent or another adult.
Costumes for trunk-or-treaters are optional.
Let’s fill our parking lot with saints, smiles, laughter, and perhaps a little chocolate! After all, becoming a saint is serious business, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have some fun along the way.
All you holy men and women, pray for us!
Grace and peace!
Father Neil Sullivan