Joan McCarthy, Director of Education, Liverpool Diocese gives readers an insight into the Good Shepherd Mass in the Archdiocese of Liverpool
Each year shools from across the Archdiocese of Liverpool come together at the Metropolitan Cathedral for the annual Good Shepherd Mass. This joyful celebration marks the culmination of the Good Shepherd Appeal, a Lenten fundraising initiative that encourages pupils to put their faith into action by supporting those most in need. This year the Mass will take place on Thursday 25 June.
Celebrating Faith Through Service. The Good Shepherd Mass is a celebration of thanksgiving, recognising the generosity, compassion, and commitment shown by pupils throughout Lent. Through a wide range of fundraising activities, children and young people raise money to support the work of Nugent, a Catholic social care charity serving Liverpool and the surrounding region.
For over a century, Nugent has provided care and support to vulnerable children, young people, families, and adults. The funds raised through the Good Shepherd Appeal help sustain these vital services, ensuring that support continues to reach those facing difficult circumstances.
The appeal reflects a key principle of Catholic education: living out the Gospel through acts of kindness, service, and social responsibility.
Bringing School Communities Together
One of the most inspiring aspects of the Good Shepherd Mass is the coming together of hundreds of pupils, staff, and school leaders from across the archdiocese. The Cathedral is filled with a sense of joy and unity as school communities gather to celebrate their shared achievements and commitment to helping others.
Music plays an important role in the liturgy, with many celebrations featuring choirs from the Archdiocese of Liverpool’s Schools Singing Programme. Their contributions help create a vibrant and uplifting atmosphere, enhancing the prayerful nature of the occasion.
The Mass is usually celebrated by the Archbishop or senior clergy of the archdiocese, highlighting its significance within the Catholic community of Liverpool.
Annual Celebration
Traditionally held in June, the Good Shepherd Mass provides a fitting conclusion to the academic year’s fundraising efforts. Recent celebrations have taken place on:
- Wednesday 11 June 2025
- Thursday 25 June 2026
Although the exact date varies each year, the Mass remains a cherished event in the archdiocesan calendar.
Find out more here https://liverpoolmetrocathedral.org.uk/events/good-shepherd-mass/