Announcements and photos to share with our parish family are always welcome!

Please email your contributions to David Baggett.

The deadline for newsletter submissions is Wednesday at 2 PM. Thank you!

Announcements may be edited for content and space.

Parish Office Hours

Monday-Thursday, 9 AM - 5 PM; Fridays by appointment

Pastoral Care Emergencies

Please call the Pastoral Care Support Line 919.831.2008.

Prayer Requests

Please CLICK HERE to submit a prayer request.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7th

Top Of Mind

Friendly Reminders

Orders for beautiful poinsettias to decorate the church for Christmas Eve are due by Monday November 18th. Please CLICK HERE to place your order; if you prefer not to place your poinsettia order online, you will find poinsettia order forms in the Parish Life Center lobby. Questions? Please contact Molly Propst or David Baggett (919.831.2018) in the Parish Office. Thank you!

Are you planning to attend the Shepherd's Lunch on Thursday, November 21st at noon? If so, please call the Parish Office (919.831.2000) or email David Baggett by Tuesday, November 19th. Thank you!

If you would like pledge envelopes for 2025, please order them by CLICKING HERE. The deadline for ordering pledge envelopes is Monday, November 25th. Thank you! If you have questions, please contact David Baggett (919.831.2018).

November Events You Don't Want to Miss!

Saturday, November 16th

Jim Propst Oyster Roast

When: Saturday, November 16th, 5-7:30 PM
Where: Shepherd's Hall
Contact: Esther Hall (919.740.5260)

You're invited to the annual Jim Propst Oyster Roast! Shrimp and hot dogs will be available too along with yummy sweets. This is a fun food & fellowship event, and everyone is welcome. Come hungry and BYOB. Registration is appreciated so we know how big an order to place.

Registration deadline is November 14th. To register PLEASE CLICK HERE.

If you have difficulty registering, please CLICK HERE to email Esther Hall and indicate the number in your party. Thank you!

Sunday, November 17th

Out & About

When: Sunday, November 17th at 6 PM
Host: Molly Propst
Where: 6230 Fountainhead Drive, Raleigh 27609
Contact: Brother Paul Henry, OSF (954.448.8931)

OUT & ABOUT is a longstanding Good Shepherd supper group affirming our LGBTQ+ families and friends. We gather at the home of a host for a potluck supper and fellowship. Bring a side dish or dessert and enjoy great food and conversation and make new friends. ALL ARE WELCOME!

If you would like to join us, please email Brother Paul Henry OSF or text him at

954.448.8931 for more details.

Thursday, November 21st

Shepherd's Lunch and Noonday Eucharist

When: Thursday, November 21st at 12 Noon
Where: Shepherd's Hall
Contact: Christie Barbee (919.345.1494)

Parish seniors are warmly invited for worship, lunch, and fellowship on Thursday, November 21st at 12 noon. Lunch will be served in Shepherd's Hall after a brief service of Holy Eucharist in the church. Parking will be available at 200 W Morgan Street (former Diocesan House lot) from 11:00 AM until 2:30 PM.

Can you make it? Great! Please let us know by Tuesday, November 19th. You may email David Baggett or call 919.831.2018 (please leave a message if no answer). Thank you!

Saturday, November 23rd

EYC's Hot Cocoa Sale

When: Saturday, November 23rd during the Raleigh Christmas Parade
Where: In front of The Church of the Good Shepherd (Hillsborough St)
Contact: Karen Boyne

Our EYC program will be carrying on their longstanding tradition of selling homemade cocoa (from the secret Bias family recipe!), coffee, Krispy Kreme donuts, and Bojangles biscuits in front of the church during the Raleigh Christmas Parade.

Sales begin around 7 AM and run through the duration of the parade. Please come support our youth while also enjoying the parade as it marches right in front of CGS! It's a wonderful tradition to watch the parade with our church community while also supporting our youth.

Tuesday, November 26th

Thanksgiving Eucharist & Pie

When: Tuesday, November 26th at 6 PM

You and your loved ones are most warmly invited to our Thanksgiving Eucharist on Tuesday, November 26th at 6 PM. Before you head out of town or do battle with the baster, join us for a brief service of gratitude and Holy Eucharist followed by pie!

Pie bakers and pie lovers will gather in the Ennis Suite immediately following the Thanksgiving Eucharist. Please email Esther Hall and let her know what kind of treat you will be bringing. Pies may be dropped off just prior to the worship service, which begins at 6 PM.

Stewardship Update

Thank you to everyone who has already pledged your financial commitment for 2025! If you haven’t yet pledged, it’s not too late. You’re invited to support the parish and our ministries by submitting your pledge just as soon as possible so that your financial support can be considered as the vestry budgets for 2025. Thank you!

To date:

Pledged: $703,325 (94% of our $750,000 pledge goal)
Number of pledges received: 146 (78% of 2024 pledges)
The deadline for submitting 2025 pledges is December 1st. All pledges received by December 1st will be counted toward the 2025 budget, which the vestry will approve by December 16th.

To submit your pledge:

Pop your pledge card in the mail to the Parish Office OR
Bring it with you to church on Sunday and place it in the alms basin OR
Take advantage of one of the quick & easy online options below:

Submit My 2025 Online Pledge Card

Submit My 2025 Pledge Using Realm

If you have any questions about submitting your pledge, please contact Parish Administrator David Baggett (919.831.2018).

Do You Need Pledge Envelopes?

If you would like pledge envelopes for 2025, please order them by CLICKING HERE. The deadline for ordering pledge envelopes is November 25th. Thank you! If you have questions, please contact David Baggett (919.831.2018)

What's Happening This Sunday

In addition to our worship services at 8 and 10:15 AM this Sunday, the following events and activities are taking place:

8:30 AM - 12 Noon

Nursery Care Available (for infant to 4 yo)

9 AM

Sunday School (for kids 4-12 yo) Contact: Rev. Hershey

During November we are experiencing music, stories, and art as we explore The Names for Jesus.

Adult Formation (2 Offerings)

Meeting Anglican Saints

Where: Ennis Suite

We look forward to expanding our horizons and encountering some inspirational figures and their presenters during this series.

November 17 - Lynn Hoke presents Scott Evans Hughes, the first woman and layperson elected President of the Standing Committee in the Diocese of North Carolina, and the first woman President of Province IV

November 24 - The Rev. Imogen Rhodenhiser presents the Rt. Rev. Barbara Harris, the first female bishop and the first African female bishop consecrated in the Episcopal Church

Adult Bible Study

Led by Debbie Moyer

Where: Room 304

The Adult Bible Sunday School class is studying the practical manual for how to live the Christian life, otherwise known as the Epistle of James. Martin Luther called James “the Epistle of Straw.” Join us this Sunday for an interesting study of this controversial book!

11:30 AM

Fellowship Time

11:45 AM

Newcomers Class with Rev. Justin

Where: Front Parlor

Contact: Rev. Justin

Today’s session is the final class in a three-part series. These informal sessions provide an introduction to the Episcopal Church, Anglican theology, and our particular pattern of worship and give newcomers an opportunity to become better acquainted with our clergy and some of our other new members. If you missed the previous sessions, don't let that stop you from attending this week!

A Beloved Tradition Returns!

Help Decorate the Church for Christmas!

Help decorate the church for Christmas with beautiful poinsettias placed in memory of loved ones or in thanksgiving for blessings. Please CLICK HERE to place your order. Orders must be received by Monday, November 18th. Proceeds go to support parish outreach activities. Questions? Please contact Molly Propst or David Baggett (919.831.2018) in the Parish Office. Thank you!

PS: If you prefer not to place your poinsettia order online, you will find poinsettia order forms in the Parish Life Center lobby.

Coming December 22nd

All-Ages Christmas Pageant

It’s nearly advent, and it will soon be time for our annual Christmas Pageant! As we did last year, the pageant will be an all-ages affair, taking place during the 10:15 service on December 22nd.

With scripts in hand, we’ll tell the story of the first Christmas, as well as a few corny Good Shepherd jokes. We want this to be a simple and joyous experience that involves the whole Good Shepherd Family. We invite folks of all ages to sign up, especially the youngest among us, but there are roles and fun for anyone, in this celebration of our community.

There’s a signup form on the bulletin board outside the nursery for anyone of any age who wants to be a sarcastic census taker, a wicked monarch, or a humble visitor to the stable where our Lord was born. For more details, contact Ian Finley (919.931.2196).

A Special Relationship between St Augustine's University, NC Episcopal Diocese and ONE Wake

ONE Wake Is Joining the Effort to Help Saint Augustine’s University

Submitted by Jeff Whittaker, 919.696.1612 (Textable)

Saint Agustine’s University and the local Episcopal histories are intertwined. The Diocese of North Carolina started SAU in 1867 to provide education for newly freed slaves. Since then, there are instances of financial help to SAU and employment of Black clergy in the Diocese that shows the constructive collaboration of our relationship. Most recently The Church of the Good Shepherd has been blessed by the Rev. Hershey Mallette Stephens who is both CGS’s Pastoral Associate for Formation and Chaplain at SAU. This is an example where CGS’s support of ONE Wake furthers the support of SAU.

SAU has a high-rate $7 million loan that is putting the University in jeopardy. Within the

last ten days, ONE Wake’s leaders have opened talks with Self-Help Credit Union to buy this loan and the local government to have Raleigh purchase or lease land from SAU for affordable housing development to help stabilize the situation. Last Thursday night, 42 ONE Wake clergy and core team leaders met to discuss the situation. The consensus from the discussion was that:

supporting SAU is consistent with ONE Wakes ongoing work to prevent the displacement of longtime residents and the loss of Black land and wealth in Southeast Raleigh.
partnering with Self-Help and the SAU Alumni Association opens the door to potential future win/win opportunities to build affordable housing on unused campus land.

What can you do? If you are not on the CGS ONE Wake email list, press here to keep up with ONE Wake.

News from the Green Team

Battery Disposal - FILL THE BUCKET

Please remember--the Green Team has placed a Battery Disposal Bucket in the Parish Life Center lobby. Please be sure to tape lithium batteries before dropping them in the bucket. Tape is provided at the bucket. Thanks for your continued Creation Care efforts - important stewardship! Contacts: Carolyn Manley or James Joslin

Responding to Hurricanes Helene and Milton

The Diocese of North Carolina is suggesting ways to consider helping with hurricane relief efforts. PLEASE CLICK HERE for more information.

And here's another opportunity to consider: North Carolina Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster is a central source for indicating volunteer and donation assistance interest.

God, we ask You to bless each and every person affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton and surround them with Your love, protection and angels. Let them know of our prayers for them and their loved ones. We give You all the praise and glory forever, Lord, and know that even in the darkest hours, You are always with us. For the love of your only Son, our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen

Keep Reading...Because There's More!

Be sure to see below for more news, including

Info about kids and youth programs and activities
Parish Life
Philadelphia Eleven
Family Promise "Thank You"
Finance Updates
Vision Accomplished Updates
Opportunities to Serve
Parish Prayer List
News from the Diocese

Please keep reading...more news follows!

A Note to Parents, Grandparents, and Caregivers of

Our Youngest Beloved

Are you receiving emails and updates about childrens activities and events? If not, be sure to CLICK HERE so we're able to be in touch. Thank you!

Let the children come together and grow in faith and friendship!

Sunday School happens each Sunday at 9 AM.

Kid’s 4-12 years old will learn about God’s promises, saints of the church,

and the many names for Jesus.

This fall through music, stories, and art we will explore:

The Names for Jesus

November 3-17

Episcopal Youth Community

Looking Ahead...

2024

Nov 16 - Youth Room Open House & Oyster Roast (6-10pm)
Nov 23 - Hot Cocoa Fundraiser (timing TBA)

2025

Feb. 14-16 - EYC Retreat at the Trinity Center

For information about the Episcopal Youth Community at The Church of the Good Shepherd, EMAIL THE REV. JUSTIN GABBARD or give him a call at 859-630-2835.

To receive text messages about upcoming EYC events, CLICK HERE to be added to the list.

Parish Life

Our altar last Sunday

photo courtesy of Peter Jezierny

Celebrating 50 Years!

On Thursday evening, November 7th, The Church of the Good Shepherd hosted a screening of The Philadelphia Eleven, an award-winning documentary marking the 50th anniversary of the July 1974 moment when eleven courageous women and three brave bishops shattered the stained-glass ceiling by ordaining the first women as priests in the Episcopal Church.

The Rev. Imogen Rhodenhiser, Good Shepherd's first woman rector, with

the Rev. Janet Watrous, the first woman priest to serve at The Church of the Good Shepherd. Joining them at the the Philadelphia Eleven screening were Rev. Janet's husband,

Bob Kochersberger (left), and the Rev. Justin Gabbard(right).

photo courtesy of Bob Kochersberger

Guests attending the Philadelphia Eleven screening experienced fellowship,

participated in discussion groups, and a enjoyed a delicious buffet dinner.

Photos courtesy of Brother Paul Henry OSF.

Family Promise

Thank You Good Shepherd!

Thank you volunteers for the sumptuous dinners you provided this past Monday evening. The three families each enjoyed a chicken dinner with fixings culminating with homemade cupcakes! The mothers and their children were very excited to receive the dinners.

This meal marked the last one that we will be doing with first Presbyterian Church with which we have been partnering for the last 15 to 20 years. Good Shepherd has provided meals for one day per week while First Presbyterian Church took care of the meals for the other six days including breakfast. Our outreach to Family Promise has been very special to our volunteers. It remains to be seen how we might show our support going forward. Thanks to you all! -- Marguerite Sullivan

Needed! Sunday Fellowship Hosts for Fall

Can you provide snacks for after the 10:15 service during November and December? Hosting is really easy and very much appreciated by everyone — and extra fun if you do it with a friend or family member! You may sign up for an open Sunday by CLICKING HERE. Please contact Grace Sved (919.247.6426) if you have questions or would like more information. Thank you!

A Culture of Care, A Culture of Love

Occasionally, life throws us curve balls, no doubt about it! Whether it's COVID, a pulled back, a sprained ankle, or a stomach bug, there are occasions when we could use a little help--maybe a friendly ear, a prayer, or a gallon of milk--none of us should feel timid to ask for some assistance from our parish family. After all, that's what families are for!

If you ever find yourself in need, please don't hesitate to contact the Parish Office (919.831.2000), Monday-Thursday, 9-5. Of course, for pastoral emergencies, please call the Pastoral Care Support Line 919.831.2008 anytime. This phone number is monitored by the clergy.

Ways to Serve

If you are looking for meaningful ways to serve the parish, please consider the ministries listed below. The contacts listed will be excited to provide more information.

Acolytes: David Roten
Altar Guild: Caryl Fuller
Beyond Our Doors: Gerard McNeill
Chalicists: Jennifer Tlusty
Flower Deliveries: Lynn Wiss
Flower Guild: Judi Mathis
Lectors: Jennifer Tlusty
Lowes Foods Pick-up: Jan Harris
Livestream: Ed Sharp
Meals on Wheels: Jan Harris
Meal Train: Nan Boyne
Music Ministry (Choirs): Dwayne Holloway
Shepherd's Table: Jan Harris
Ushers: 8 AM Will Barbee; 10:15 AM Harold Ramsey
Wedding Guild: Esther Hall

Parish Finances

PLEASE CLICK HERE for a budget report (through September 30th). Thank you for your faithful financial support of our church and our ministries.

Vision Accomplished

Pledges Made: $242,270.25 (increase from last week: $50)
Pledge Payments and Gifts Received: $175,225.10 (increase from last week: $3,250)

Thank you for your generous support of the Vision Accomplished campaign!

Meet Our Partners

Learn More about Good Shepherd's Partners

From The Diocese

Be sure to check out the latest news and information from the Diocese.

The Church of the Good Shepherd Prayer List

Roy Wright; Catherine and Bob Williams; Carolyn Owens; Janet Gilliam; Ralph Sanders;

Pete Taylor; Martha Bailey; Peggy Hawks; Ginny Byrd; Darrell Dennis; Janie Ward-Newton;

William Short; Paul Hoch; Brinley Harris; Don Caudill; Shirley Caudill; Larry Bledsoe;

Stephanie Rivers; Jane Mayhew; Janet Watrous; The students, faculty, and community of St. Augustine’s University; Amy Proseus; Betty Lynn Yersin; Rebecca Lamb; Stuart Wells;

Alan L.; Bob Kirchgessner; Josephine Placa; The Lawrence Family; The Tyson Family;

the people of Israel, Palestine, and Lebanon; the people of Ukraine and Russia;

victims of gun violence; and those affected by drought, heat, floods, and storms,

especially those impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

And we pray for those who have died, that they may have a place in your eternal kingdom, remembering especially Mitchell Lawrence and Treva Tyson.

In the diocesan cycle of prayer, we pray for Episcopal Center at Duke University;

Episcopal Campus Ministry – Raleigh;

Greensboro Colleges and Universities/St. Mary’s House.

In the Anglican cycle of prayer, we pray for The Anglican Church of Southern Africa.

The people of The Church of the Good Shepherd are eager to join you in lifting your prayers to God. Please tell us how we can pray with you by CLICKING HERE to submit a prayer request.

Prayer requests added to our public prayer list will be refreshed every month; please feel free to resubmit them if you would like them to remain on the prayer list.