Parish-based program uses technology to help nurture modern flock

Published: 2007-01-04

HOLBROOK, N.Y. (CNS) -- At the Church of the Good Shepherd in Holbrook, members of the WebShepherds use technology to look out for the spiritual needs of the parish flock by maintaining a comprehensive parish Web site, providing free e-mail accounts to parishioners, and teaching them how to better use their computers and accessories. This parish ministry was the brainchild of Nick Hernandez, the parish webmaster, who started it in March 2000 "as a way to provide more information about our parish." The primary job of the WebShepherds is to build and maintain the parish Web site. Seven active members usually meet once a month to develop new ideas for the parish Web site as well as brainstorm about other ways to help the parish. The parish Web site features the weekly bulletin and calendar of events, pages devoted to the different parish ministries, photos from different parish events, and links to liturgical, prayer and social justice resources.

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