WHEREAS, The Good Shepherd Parish was organized in June, 1925 in response to a rapidly growing Catholic population in Southwest Philadelphia. The first priest, The Reverend Joseph A. Mahon, was known to have a rich background in parish work, and he became what the parishioners called their own "Good Shepherd;" and
WHEREAS, The Reverend Clare A. Hammill was named Pastor in 1939. He quickly earned the respect and affection of the parishioners, and working together, they oversaw the construction and dedication of a new church, rectory and convent, all completed by 1951. Under Father Hammill's guidance, a debt of $250,000 was eliminated, and the parish continued to grow in size and strength; and
WHEREAS, Today, his boundless faith and endless enthusiasm are remembered by the parishioners and their children, who still follow Father Hammill's path of confidence, meaningful involvement and the sharing of all responsibility; and
WHEREAS, The Reverend J. Thomas Heron, Pastor of the Good Shepherd Church, embodies the spirit of the parish. He has a special love for the 240 children in the school; he knows the 420 families by name, and he walks around the neighborhood to see how his flock is faring, body and soul. Father Heron is a caring and compassionate leader who inspires the congregation to live in the tradition of the parish while facing the future with hope; now therefore
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby honor and commend all the members of the Good Shepherd Parish. We congratulate you on this great 75th Anniversary celebration and thank you for your contributions to our community.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to The Reverend J. Thomas Heron as evidence of the sincere admiration, deep respect and hearty congratulations of this legislative body.
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