Welcome to The Sheepfold, the informative quarterly newsletter published by the Department of Religious Education at St. Athanasius Orthodox Church in Goleta, California. Published since 2005, The Sheepfold is offered to inform participating families of the work taking place in the atria, and to share the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd with others interested in the spiritual formation of children. We have been pleased to be able to offer our publication online, free of charge, since 2010.

A prominent theme in our work is the relationship revealed in John 10, that of the Good Shepherd with His sheep. As we reflect on His loving care, we recall that the Good Shepherd is present with us in a most particular way when we gather for Eucharist. Thus, the Church is shown to be the sheepfold of God here on earth, as we await the verdant green pastures and still waters of the Sheepfold above. May God inspire you and fill you with love, hope, and joy as we share our experiences of listening to the Good Shepherd together with the children.

There will be a pause in publication following the Winter 2011 edition.  Please check www.facebook.com/seraphimabutler for updates.  To receive a hard copy of future issues, please email editor Seraphima Butler: seraphima@stathanasius.org.