Last Sunday November 24 we celebrated our monthly worship with a Catholic Mass officiated by Father Jim Schutte of St. Leo the Great Catholic Church. The house was warmed with around 50 beloved friends from our community including the special presence of a former guest, her new baby, and members of her family. We were led in song by volunteers from Poco a Poco of Bellarmine Chapel and the talents of our own live-in volunteers Elizabeth and Rachel. The Mass reflected the celebration of Christ the King Sunday reminding us through Scripture and Father Jim’s words of Jesus’ role as Shepherd, the One who seeks each individual and encourages works of mercy and hospitality amongst His flock. The Mass possessed the cadence of other previous Mass celebrations at Lydia’s House yet all of us here recognize that we hold this Mass with a particular sense of gratitude and joy as we witnessed the blessing of our former guest’s one month old baby girl. The child’s designated Godmothers- Mary Ellen, Elizabeth, Meridith, and former intern Taffany- each took their turn to speak words of love and blessing over the life of this small yet growing child. The reminder of our Good Shepherd was apt for this celebration as these women play the role of shepherd to the baby and her mother. We are likewise reminded of the role of shepherd as our former guest begins this journey of motherhood, loving and leading her child. We consider it joy to be able to come alongside her in this journey.