2012 Centennial Year III 2012 – FORGING hOPE “God loved the world so much that He gave His only Son.” A God who loves us so much cannot but inspire us to hope. Heavenly Father, help us then to forge hope as we continue to embrace the challenges of this third millennium.  Jesus, Good Shepherd, help us to become instruments of hope in a world fast losing hope. As Gospel women, help us to live out St. Paul’s message of hope: The Lord is very near. There is no need to worry. But if there is anything you need, pray for it… Asking God with prayer and thanksgiving. (Phil. 4:5-6) As we weave hope into our Centennial Celebrations together with our lay mission partners, let us beg the God of hope for such peace and joy  in our faith that in the power of the Holy Spirit we may truly overflow in hope for the sake of our people and our nation. Amen. (Download Prayer)

2012 Centennial Schedule

Regional Celebrations July 31, 2011 SBC Batangas September 8, 2011 NCR November 21, 2011 Cebu January 6, 2012 Baguio February 12, 2012 Cavite March 19, 2012 Bicol April 14, 2012 Mindanao June 8, 2012 Isabela June 24, 2012 Shepherd's Crook will be  brought to Quezon City October 4, 2012 Centennial Celebration

Simbang Gabi, a beautiful tradition to prepare for Christmas, starts December 16

Filipinos in various parts of the country and certain parishes and chaplaincies in the world began “Simbang Gabi” last December 16 as preparation for Christmas.  

Also called “Misa de Gallo”, as most Masses are celebrated as early as 4 in the morning, when the cock crows at dawn. Tradition has it that farmers would go to the novena of Masses early in the morning and proceed to the fields to work.

In recent years, Simbang Gabi are also celebrated in parishes in the evening.

At the Good Shepherd Convent, the Simbang Gabi held on December 16 was held at 4:30 in the morning. Presided by Fr. Tony de Castro SJ, the dawn Mass was attended by Good Shepherd Sisters, staff, neighbors, friends and the girls in the residences. In his homily, Fr. De Castro stressed on the beautiful tradition of nine-day dawn Masses as preparation for Christmas that is unique to Filipinos.

At the end of the Eucharistic celebration, those present enjoyed breakfast together in front of the Good Shepherd Chapel.

Schedule of Masses at the Good Shepherd Convent

December 24, Midnight Mass: 10:00 p.m.,  Presiders: Fr. Nonong Pili / Fr. Froilan

December 25, Christmas Mass: 10:30 a.m., Presider: Fr. Eric Eusebio SJ

December 26, 7:00 a.m.

December 27-31, 6:30 a.m.