Thoughts of a Parochial from Fr. Christian

June 17, 2026 / amk / KofC, News

I remember when I was in high school and a young adult—my Wandering Years, as I call them—I never really stood up for my faith. I attended a Catholic high school. Everyone was nominally Catholic, but we were by no means what I would consider “disciples of the Lord.” Almost everyone was Catholic, and all of our families would attend Mass on Sundays, but the faith was not my own. I never claimed it as my own. I knew God existed, and I knew Jesus truly existed, but I was not ready to give my life to Him. When I hear these words from today’s Gospel, “Everyone who acknowledges me before others I will acknowledge before my Heavenly Father. But whoever denies me before others, I will deny before my heavenly Father,” my mind immediately goes back to my Wandering Years.

There were certain moments I can distinctly remember from high school when other students made fun of the faith—the same faith that I grew up in and loved. I remember my conscience telling me that I should say something and tell them to stop. I also remember that I did not listen to my conscience. I sat there on the edge of the circle laughing, desiring to fit in. Wanting to be liked by others was much more important to me than standing up for the truth. Hearing this Gospel makes me think of those moments.

I used to look back at my old self with much disappointment, thinking, “How could I ever do such a thing?” There used to be a lot of sadness when I looked back at my younger self, but through God’s grace and gentleness I have learned to be patient with my former self. I did not know what I know now. I was a very broken young person looking for acceptance. As much as I despised my former actions and self, the Lord has helped me to see my old self as He sees me. This has led to a great deal of healing in my life. I have learned to love my younger and dumber self—not because of the sinful lifestyle I was living, but because without my faults and failings I would not be who I am today. The Lord loved me despite my sin, and He desired to save me from it.

Our Lord’s words should serve as a great warning to all of us. Our Lord desires faithfulness. Our Lord desires devotion. Our Lord desires children. Acknowledging the Lord in the midst of the world has unfortunately become a heroic virtue. I say unfortunately because we used to live in a time when whole neighborhoods were Catholic, but that is not the case anymore. As Catholics, we are becoming the minority. Acknowledging the Risen Lord in public is becoming a heroic virtue. You might be ridiculed, and you might be confronted, but it will be well worth it when the Lord acknowledges you before His Heavenly Father as one of His own.

Utilize God’s gift of Himself in the Holy Spirit and remain faithful. If you fail, as I have in the past, repent and receive mercy. Never try to justify the action, because I cannot imagine that conversation going well before the Lord. God will forgive you just as He forgave Peter. What is amazing is that Peter would not have been the same pope if he had not denied the Lord. Through His loving mercy, the Lord changed Peter’s life forever and made him into a new vessel, confident in God and not in himself. The Lord wants us to trust in Him, not ourselves, for this is the only way in which we can truly stand up for Truth, who is God.

4th of July Community Breakfast

June 17, 2026 / amk / KofC, News

Start your Fourth of July celebration with a delicious hot breakfast and great community fellowship!

The Montrose Ministerial Association, in partnership with Montrose Township, is excited to offer a FREE Community Breakfast for everyone.

July 4th
8:00–10:00 AM
Montrose Barber Park

To help us ensure there is plenty of food for everyone, we ask that you register in advance. Registration is quick and free and helps us prepare the right amount of food.

You can register on our website or through the church app. https://yourreallife.com/events

We are also looking for volunteers to help serve and make this event a success. If you are interested in volunteering, please reach out to our staff for more information.

We look forward to celebrating with you and serving our community together!

Do You Want To Be Happy?

June 12, 2026 / amk / KofC, News

Join Fr Christian in a Bible Study of the Gospel of Matthew’s Chapter 5-7: Sermon On the Mount!

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus calls His followers to live in a way that fosters justice, peace, harmony, and holiness among all people. Matthew 5-7: How to Be Happy helps us apply Christ’s teachings to our daily lives and discover true joy in our walk of faith.

Staring Monday, July 13th at 6:30 p.m.

Six (6) sessions total: 7/13 – 8/17

In the St. Robert’s Fr. Jacob’s Library

COMPLETELY FREE!

Come grow deeper in faith and discover the lasting happiness found in Christ’s teachings.

All are welcome!

To RSVP, contact the St. Robert’s parish office at: 810-659-2501

Youth Group News

May 26, 2026 / Diocesan / News, Youth

Meet Laura Sharpe & Sabrina Deloney

When Laura Sharpe, 17, was younger she didn’t really care about her grades, studying or her assignments.

“It wasn’t until I was in high school that I began to feel this competitive desire to pursue academic goals,” said the 2026 Valedictorian at New Lothrop Schools, and daughter of Chad and Regina Sharpe.

Before that desire actually became rooted in her heart, she experienced burnout, stress and anxiety.

She once encountered receiving a bad grade on a “useless assignment,” which God took and transformed her mind into seeing how all assignments ultimately mattered.

“I began realizing grades were a big part of the selection process,” she said. “I didn’t really care about titles such as valedictorian, but suddenly I became determined to pursue the goal of working harder, studying more, and putting more effort into my assignments.”

At her lowest point she remembers sitting in the bathroom and talking to God. “Why am I even trying? This all feels pointless.” She continued praying and seeking counsel from God.

“After I prayed, I remember coming out and acting like things were normal,” she said. “From then on it felt like things were falling into place for me like a puzzle. Each piece of stress went away, and was replaced by a piece that was happening in ways that were beyond me.”

For example, her former nonchalant attitude toward studying dramatically changed.

“I studied harder,” she said. “If I had free periods at school, I would use them to study. I put more effort into studying, whereas before I did nothing like that.”

Her effort ascended into earning a 4.1143 grade point average. “I somehow landed an opportunity to retake the SAT, and that was when I was locked in about pursuing this goal, and I felt God was on my side, because usually when I set goals in cross country or track, I never achieved them.” Through extra prayer and extra study – she raised her SAT score 120 points. With God’s help and her interior conversations with Him, she began achieving goals.

In addition to intentionally working on her study habits, she participated in Student Council, Quiz Bowl, After School Ag, and the National Honor Society, and FFA (Future Farmers of America).

Her active Catholic faith life at Good Shepherd Catholic Church as an altar server, lector, and youth group member served as an anchor during her senior year. “My senior year was the hardest,” she said. “I didn’t think it would be, but it was. It was truly my faith and trust in God that glued everything together – and God made it possible for me to make it through.”

She found a new peace and a holy reprieve when attending Mass. “There was a turning point where I felt such peace at Mass about everything,” she explained. “Whether or not I had extracurricular activities, sports or assignments – it didn’t matter as much because I genuinely began relying on God more than relying on myself, and that was the difference.”

She graciously offers advice to any young people or students experiencing burnout or stress about their grades.

“You need to pray,” she said. “That’s what helped me. I knew I couldn’t make it by myself. You can’t do it independently, you must ask the Holy Trinity – God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit to assist you. He will.”

Laura will study statistical and actuarial sciences at Mott Community College, and then transfer to Central Michigan University. Good Shepherd congratulates her on her beautiful academic achievements, but more importantly on her spiritual growth and deepening of her love for God.

Laura Sharpe

Sabrina Deloney, 18, and Salutatorian at Montrose High School, knows a thing or two about leadership and giving credit where it is due.

“I’d say I have really been set up to do these things because of the strong support from my parents and my Catholic faith life,” said the daughter of Aimee and Bryan Deloney, who earned a 4.136 grade point average, and will attend the University of Michigan- FLINT to study data science and actuarial mathematics.

Her confident love for the Catholic Church and Jesus give her an advantage that others lack.

“I’ve never missed Mass on the weekends,” she said. “All of my life, attending church is a (family) priority, and being involved in church is where I absorb my faith, morals, and values.”

She’s not about keeping it to herself, either. Since serving and loving others is a theme in her church and family – that naturally extends to her school life.

“My faith has made me want to do more. I get involved in clubs, activities, and organizations because it increases my ability to reach out to others, but I’d say being selfless is mainly the Christian virtue I try to embrace the most.”

Sabrina is selfless in how she spends her time. God is always first. Family, studies, responsibilities, and many organizations benefit from her presence and involvement.

For example, as president of the National Honor Society she spends time volunteering at the Eastern Michigan Food Bank, raking leaves for those in need, and operates a food distribution at Barber Park.

“It’s really humbling to serve others,” she said. “I started volunteering in elementary when I formerly attended a Catholic school and we volunteered two times per year at Catholic Charities. I began realizing I can always help others – the world is always going to need volunteers. There are others in need. I started understanding how blessed I am in my life – financially and in my family and faith — and what a privilege it is to be able to share the resources and talents God gave to me.”

Expanding her philanthropy and charity mindset took on special meaning as she entered high school. She wasn’t shy when it comes to being a leader and boldly took part in Quiz Bowl, Student Council, National Technical Honor Society, Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD), Movie Club, varsity bowling and golf, and also attends Good Shepherd Youth Group.

“Many people are afraid of what is different,” she said. “All I can do is recommend speaking out, joining groups, and the more instances you can build community, the better. I believe Church is the strongest place to have a sense of community.”

Her faith propels her to serve others.

“Being involved and dedicated has taught me to develop a strong work ethic,” she said. “I also saw how most people don’t use the time they have on earth to do as much good as they could. God only gives us so much time on earth and I decided to enjoy what God has given me, and help other people, and the earth itself. I thank God for what I have been able to achieve and know it is because of His grace I am able to do this.”

Fittingly, her heart has an endearment to the organization SAVE (Students Against the Vanishing Earth) where she takes on projects to preserve God’s creation and be a good steward of it. “I’ve planted trees, been involved in recycling, and other sustainability efforts,” she said. “Being a good student is more about being a good example. Helping the earth God created and other people ultimately helps me be the best version of myself.”

Dozens of awards, titles, and accolades surround Sabrina as she reaches the milestone of her high school graduation, but she discloses there is a little fear she is experiencing as she looks forward to a new chapter of entering college.

“There is naturally some intimidation as I shift from high school to college,” she admits. “But I know God will support me. I rely on my faith and through prayers I trust this adjustment will work out. I will make friends of good faith, and I will continue to live a faith-filled life, and hopefully spread the word about how much my faith has helped me.”

She gives credit to one more group – the youth group and the entire church community.

“During middle school I was going through a lot,” she said. “It was because of my faith, confirmation class, and eventually youth group that kept me coming back to the faith. There is a sense of community, fellowship, and support. I realized the church will always have your back. They will help you. No matter what age you are – the people at your parish will help you through anything.”

Sabrina Deloney

Please note our new meeting time: Sunday’s from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. in the Family Life Center.

Please check out the Youth Group website for other articles and events.

Theology on Tap

May 20, 2026 / amk / KofC, News

The Knights of Columbus Men’s Cor Group is presenting “Theology on Tap” on Wednesday, June 24 at 6:30 p.m. in the Knights of Columbus Hall. All men and women of the parish are invited to attend. There will be six sessions meeting on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. Hope to see you there!

Religious Ed News

May 19, 2026 / CL / News, Religious Ed

Rachel Jean Hillard, a lector and youth group member at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, and a soon-to-be senior at Montrose Hill-McCloy High School is always aware of how her Guardian Angel works on her behalf. As a believer she’s not shy in consulting her angel when it comes to asking for guidance, protection, and courage. “I know my Guardian Angel is always watching over me,” said the 17-year old daughter of Jessica Hillard, and the late Lloyd Hillard, who was named the number one high school sideline reporter by the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association last year. This year, she earned the number two title – and that is an accomplishment she credits her faith in God helping her in the area of being spontaneous, thinking on her feet, and being creative.

As a high school media broadcasting student, she is often conducting interviews. Whether she’s talking to students, staff, or athletes, she relies on her faith for assistance. “Before I interview anyone, I usually say a quick prayer. I say, Lord, help this interview go well or Lord, help this person relax and speak to me in this interview.” Recently, Rachel thanked God for help in her newest title as a first runner-up Montrose Blueberry Queen. “When I was little I looked up to the prestigious Blueberry Queens who seemed so kind, sweet, and loving. They influenced me to become better and now, being a part of the court, I hope to be someone other young girls could look up to,” she explained.

Having a role on the Montrose Blueberry Queen’s court is offering her multiple benefits. “I will get to be part of 20 parades around Michigan, meet new people, work on community building projects, and hopefully influence a new generation of young girls. In addition, there is a $1,000 scholarship earned at the end of her reign. “This will go toward my studies in the broadcasting program at Central Michigan University,” she said. As a current Mid-Michigan School of Cosmetology student she will graduate high school next year as a licensed cosmetologist and hopes to have side gigs of cutting hair or doing nails for future college dorm mates.

All of this is leading Rachel to her ultimate goal of becoming a professional sports sideline reporter for teams such as the Detroit Lions. “I had the chance to meet Daniella Bruce, an on-air announcer for Detroit sports teams, and she is amazing. She was kind enough to let me text her to ask questions – she’s like a mentor to me.”

Being an announcer in the sports world is a future goal for this energetic and motivated young woman, but her spiritual world is alive and increasingly shaping her through her service as reader of God’s Word. “God gave me the gift of creativity to express my love for all things,” she said. “Reading Holy Scripture is a form of broadcasting that is helping me to prepare for a future career. Whatever I am doing whether it is proclaiming at church, volunteering at a food drive, or being kind to young girls admiring the Queen’s Court – I know I am giving glory to God.”

Rachel will be present at many of the Montrose Blueberry Festival events in August, such as the Princess Tea Party, the Hall of Fame inductions, the parade, and a movie night held on the football field.

Good Shepherd Catholic Church congratulates this young woman on her many achievements, and thanks her for her fidelity and service as a lector during the Sunday Mass.

Religious Ed Registration Form (print and fill out)

2025-2026 Religious Education Calendar

2025-2026 Confirmation Preparation Calendar

Online Registration Form

The Good Word

April 24, 2026 / Diocesan / KofC, News

Happy Thirteenth Sunday! This upcoming week brings to a close the month of June, which the Catholic Church dedicates to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Popular devotion to our Lord’s Sacred Heart is especially tied to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, a French Visitation nun who lived during the latter half of the 1600s. Beginning in 1673 and continuing for about 18 months, Jesus appeared to Sister Margaret Mary in supernatural visions and taught her to spread devotion to his Sacred Heart, which appeared to her outside his chest, on fire and wrapped in a crown of thorns.

We have absolute riches in the lives of the saints! In obedience to her spiritual director, (now Saint) Fr. Claude de la Colombière, Sister Margaret Mary wrote the contents of her visions in a journal, which has since been translated and published as her autobiography. Fr. Claude also documented the visions himself and helped spread the devotion revealed through them. This devotion to the Sacred Heart eventually became an official feast day for the country of France in 1765, and then for the universal Church in 1856. It is always celebrated on the Friday after Corpus Christi and therefore nearly always falls in the month of June. Thus, we have the month of the Sacred Heart.

In his first revelation, Jesus said to Sister Margaret Mary, “My Divine Heart so intensely loves mankind that it can no longer contain within itself the flames of its ardent charity. It must pour itself out by this means and manifest itself to them to enrich them with its precious treasures, which contain all the graces they need to be saved from perdition.” Jesus would go on to reveal twelve divine promises for those who practiced devoted veneration to the Sacred Heart, including peace within families, blessings in earthly endeavors, and the grace of final perseverance.

I, for one, am among those pilgrims who would very much love the grace of final perseverance, because making it home to heaven is, no lie, my greatest goal. But I am so often aware of my own shortcomings, which makes me think: how much more aware must Jesus be of my poor soul? Our Lord’s Sacred Heart is a promised refuge for us. Pray for your priests and pray that God would increase our number. We pray daily for you. The flames of divine love will keep us safe in this life to the very last breath.

As it is, my last breath is not yet, nor am I planning on it for some time. Which means I have more work to do. This upcoming week marks two full years since my arrival in Genesee County. Being a pastor has been one long learning curve, and I feel like I’m still curving. But as the vision for the future unfolds, I’m anxious to keep pressing forward for fear of falling behind. This much I know: I need to grow and get stronger. I’m cognizant that much of where we need to be five, ten, fifteen, and twenty years from now depends on the decisions and habits we choose today. Lord, help us be healthy, help us grow young, and increase in us the fire of your love.

Fr. Brian

Euchre Tournament

April 24, 2026 / amk / KofC, News

There will be a Euchre Tournament on Wednesday, July 1 in the Good Shepherd Knights of Columbus Hall at 6:30 pm. Cost is $5.00 per person. All levels of experience. Bring your own snacks and beverages. Pizza is available for purchase. Friends and Family welcome!

Hope to see you there!!

*They will be held the first and third Wednesday of the month.