Friends in Faith: Joan Sheppard

Mary’s fiat, her yes to God’s request that she serve as the earthly mother of his Son, inspires and challenges us all. But God’s requests for us to be open to His plan continue today, and one of the most spiritually obedient, confident people I know is Joan Sheppard.

For more than a decade, Joan’s been working for parishes in my diocese. She’s now director of faith formation at Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Alexandria, Virginia, and not long ago received a master in science in church management from Villanova.

When God invited Joan into parish service, she had a successful, long-term career going in contracts and finance with a federal government contractor. Her surrender to the Lord inspires me as I contemplate some nudges at my own soul.

Which of your friends inspires you?

By Melanie

Melanie Rigney is the author of Radical Saints: 21 Women for the 21st Century and other Catholic books. She is a contributor to Living Faith and other Catholic blogs. She lives in Arlington, Virginia. Melanie also owns Editor for You, a publishing consultancy that since 2003 has helped hundreds of writers, publishers, and agents.

2 comments

  1. You inspire me Melanie. I remember meeting you on your Cursillo Weekend and thinking….”this woman has so much energy and magnetism and will be a great leader.” So true…still is. I pray for your discernment and for just the right nudge from the Holy Spirit. Thank you for being There.

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