A Letter to My Friends
Eighteen years ago I was asked to take over the parish of “Gut Hirt”, the second oldest parish in Zug. It turned out to be a wonderful place for a pastor. Always open-minded, they welcomed the English-speaking community of Good Shepherd’s with open arms. I began to celebrate Mass once a month in English. More and more people wanted to join our Mass and soon we grew from a small, little flock, into a very lively and active community. This demand for more was our constant motivation. After a couple of years, we began to celebrate Mass twice a month until 2015 when our bishop Felix, together with the VKKZ, recognized “Good Shepherd’s” as an official community and I became the “Chaplain of the English Speakers of the Canton of Zug. My “baby” left puberty and became an “adult”.
Letting Go
“There is an appointed time for everything and a time for every affair under the heavens” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). For me it is now the time to say goodbye, let “Good Shepherd’s” go and hand it down into new hands. I am sad to let go but on the other hand I am extremely thankful for the opportunity to have served as Pastor for people from over 62 nations, united by one language and one faith.
Saying Good-Bye
I will leave Gut Hirt and Good Shepherd’s at the end of September 2021 and I am looking forward to my long awaited retirement. Many friendships will continue but my ties will not be completely broken. You will see me occasionally as auxiliary priest. Even though my retirement is still eleven months away, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank YOU. You have made Good Shepherd’s possible and your constant encouragement and support have been a great motivation for my team and me. I would not have been able to do it alone. I am thankful for Bishop Felix’s trust in me, the Kirchgemeinde and the VKKZ who made it possible to grow with a great infrastructure.
My Gratitude
I am grateful for all the volunteers and groups carefully guided by Shannon and Gina who are always eager to help. Finally, yet most importantly, I thank Karen for her dedication and devotion to Good Shepherd’s. Without her, it would never have become what it is today.
Fr. Urs