September 8, 2024

Dear Parish Family:

Pilgrimages are an important tradition and practice in our faith. For millennia, the People of God have journeyed to different holy places, near and far, to honor God and to grow in grace. On Saturday, November 16, 2024, Bishop Senior will lead the faithful of the Diocese of Harrisburg to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC.  It is a special opportunity to honor our Lord, Jesus, and His mother, Mary, as we come together as a Diocesan family for Mass, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, confessions, and recite the Holy Rosary in the languages of our Diocesan Church.

We will be at the largest church in North America, with it’s more than 80 chapels and oratories, 256 foot tall bell tower and impeccable grounds, and see its exquisite mosaics, including the “Christ in Majesty,” which has more than 3 million pieces of glass.  And of course, you will be able to visit the gift shop full of unique religious items. The National Shrine offers visitors the occasion for a deepening conversion, a step forward in the journey to God, with Mary as the model for that journey. This monumental church, built by the Catholics of the United States is a witness to our faith and Catholic heritage.

Good Shepherd is sponsoring a bus for the pilgrimage that will leave our parking lot at 6:30 a.m. and return no later than 6:30 p.m.  The cost is $35. If you have never been on a Father Sullivan bus trip, you don’t know what you are missing. It includes prayer, snack, games, entertainment, and door prizes. You won’t want to miss it! To reserve you spot on the bus, contact the parish office at 717.761.1167 or email jappleton@thegoodshep.org.  

Grace and peace!

Father Neil Sullivan