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, OCTOBER 24th

Top Of Mind

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

Stewardship

Our personal response to God's generosity in the way we share our resources of time, talent, and money. Stewardship reflects our commitment to making God's love known through the realities of human life and our use of all that God has given us. It is also our service to God's world and our care of creation. Parish members are encouraged to make an annual stewardship pledge. This pledge represents their specific Christian commitment to “work, pray, and give for the spread of the kingdom of God” (BCP, p. 856).

Join Us This Commitment Sunday!

During our worship services on Sunday, we will bring forward our pledge cards for a new year of ministry in 2025 and celebrate God's abundance in our midst with a celebratory lunch of church-made Brunswick Stew upstairs in Shepherd's Hall. Our pledge goal for 2025 is $750,000 and our two key priorities are providing funding for an Associate Rector for Children's Spirituality and increased support for music staffing and programming needs.

2025 pledge cards were mailed earlier this week. You will also find pledge cards in the church pews, in the Parish Life Center, and online. And, of course, you may pledge via Realm.

Can You Help?

Yes, I Can!

PLEASE CLICK HERE to sign up (or use a hardcopy form available in the lobby of the Parish Life Center) to offer your time and talents to help with one of these key ministries.

One of the greatest gifts about being part of our parish is the number of times we hear each week, "How can I help?" As we reflect on how God is inviting each of us to give in 2025, there are three particular areas in which we're inviting you to get involved this coming year.

Children's Ministries (especially on Sundays from 9 to 10 AM)
Buildings and Grounds (from handy people skills to reviewing agreements with contractors)
Parish-wide Fellowship Events (such as Rally Day and our Shepherd's Lunches for seniors)

Each of these areas is essential to our life and health as a parish, and each of them is bigger than one or two people. Thank you for considering and praying over how you can get involved, form new friendships in the process, and make a lasting impact on our corporate life together in 2025. Questions? Please contact Rev. Imogen

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 October we are experiencing music, stories, and art as we explore The Saints of the Church.

Adult Formation (2 Offerings)

Jesus, Marie Kondo, and the Spiritual Art of Saving the World

Led by Rev. Imogen

Where: Ennis Suite
Come join the final session in this compelling, month-long series facilitated by Rev. Imogen. This Sunday's topic: Freed for Abundance: How do we give voice and action to a God-given life that is abundant for all?

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

Brunswick STEWardship Lunch & Fellowship

2 PM

CROP Walk

Good Shepherd is participating in the Greater Triangle Area CROP Hunger Walk on Sunday, October 27th. Come join us!

What is the CROP Hunger Walk? It’s an interfaith event that raises funds to fight hunger locally and globally. Started in 1969 by Church World Service (CWS), it now includes walkers of all ages in over 500 communities across the U.S. Last year, the Triangle/Wake County walk was ranked 12th in size nationwide!

When: Sunday, October 27th at 2 PM
Where: First Baptist Church, right across the street!
Who: All ages are welcome!
Distances: 3.1 miles or a 1-mile route, perfect for families.

Can’t or don’t want to walk? You can still join in! Help assemble 200-300 hygiene kits for families in shelters, impacted by disasters, or in need.

To register or donate:

CLICK HERE or scan the QR codes on posters around the church.
Registered walkers are asked to help raise money by both donating and recruiting sponsors that can also donate using these same links. Donations can also be made via checks pay to the order of CWS, or even cash.

No one should go hungry. This is a fun, easy way for you to make a real difference with your family, church, and community—both here and around the world. If you have questions, please contact Leslie Gilbert or Dan Harris. We can’t wait to see you on October 27th!

A Note about Livestreaming

As you know, our Sunday 10:15 worship services + weddings + funerals + other special services are livestreamed by dedicated volunteers, including Ed Sharp, Craig DeShong, Sam DeShong, Jacob Ferguson, and Noom Baggett.

Over the past three weeks there have been some livestream quality issues, specifically jitteriness in both the image and the audio. The team is well aware of (and frustrated by) the issue and is working doggedly with networking and livestream experts to identify and address the cause. There are non-jittery versions of the services that are in the process of being uploaded to our YouTube channel and will be available for viewing. Thank you for your patience as the team focuses to identify and resolve the livestream issues.

Heartfelt thanks to the Livestream Team for its ministry to the parish and beyond!

Deadline for Submissions: Monday, October 28th

All Saints' Day Observance

We will be observing All Saints' Day on Sunday, November 3rd. If you would like to add the name of a recently deceased loved one to be included in the necrology, PLEASE CLICK HERE or contact the Parish Office (919.831.2000) Monday-Thursday, 9 AM - 5 PM. Monday, October 28th is the deadline for submitting names. If you would like to add more than one loved one, please use a separate form for each name. Thank you!

Save the Date, October 31st

Men's FELLOWship Lunch

Enjoy lunch with Good Shepherd men at High Park Grill, 625 East Whitaker Mill Road, at noon for good food and company. No agenda, just a chance to connect. Everyone pays for their own meal. Hosted by Jack Boyne, John Boyne, Dan Harris, Brooks Malone, and Ed Sharp.

Please RSVP to Esther Hall by October 30th. Thank you!

Please RSVP by October 31st

All Souls’ Day Retreat - November 2nd, 9:30 AM - 12 Noon

Join the Rev. Hershey Mallette Stephens for a mini-retreat designed to remember the life and gifts of the loved ones who have gone before us. This mini-retreat will also be a safe place for those grieving to investigate what God is saying in the midst of transition and grief. We will gather together to tell stories, rest in the memory and love of family and friends who have gone to live with God in light, and of course we will pray. Through art, music, journaling, and stories we will joyfully remember those who once walked this journey with us and be bolstered by the Spirit to continue our own walks of faith. Please RSVP by Thursday, October 31st by CLICKING HERE.

PS--Nursery care will be available! Please indicate on the RSVP form if you need nursery care to participate in the retreat.

Newcomers Class and Reception during November

Rev. Justin will host a series of Newcomers Classes after the 10:15 worship service on November 3, 10, and 17. These informal sessions will 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. A Newcomers Reception will also be held at the home of John and Karen Boyne Saturday, November 9th, 4-6 PM. Contact: Rev. Justin

Thursday, November 7th

Philadelphia 11 Film

On Thursday, November 7th, The Church of the Good Shepherd will host a screening of “The Philadelphia Eleven.” This award-winning documentary marks 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 evening will begin at 6 PM with a catered reception in Shepherd’s Hall. An opportunity for reflection and conversation will follow the screening. Contact: Rev. Justin

To register PLEASE CLICK HERE

EYC Winter Warmth Drive

The Episcopal Youth Community is now accepting donations for their annual Winter Warmth Drive. Your donations of winter hats, gloves, scarves, socks, chapstick, and small packages of tissues will be distributed to Shepherd’s Table guests on Veteran’s Day. Collection bins are currently located in the Parish Life Center lobby through Sunday, November 10th. Our youth thank you for your support!

Join the Pew Crew!

Needed: a few good folks to help tidy the church pews and pew racks each week in preparation for Sunday worship services. The task is easy and doesn't require much time--and perhaps the best thing is...timing is flexible! Can you help? Please contact David Baggett. Thank you!

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
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 Saints of the Church

October 6-27

The Names for Jesus

November 3-17

Episcopal Youth Community

Looking Ahead...

2024

Oct. 25 - Youth Room Open House (7-10pm)
Nov. 3 - EYC (5:30-7:30pm)
Nov. 10 - EYC Winter Warmth Drive Planning (5:30-7:30pm)
Nov. 11 - Winter Warmth Drive (timing TBA)
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

Can You Help with the Meal Train?

Calling All Foodies!

Do you love to cook? Do you have a signature dish (the best chili, chicken soup, pot roast)?

We are looking to expand our email list of CGS chefs for the meal trains we offer through Pastoral Care. When a household is in need of meals, you’ll get a note from our sainted Nan Boyne with a Sign-Up Genius link. Take a look at the dates and details, sign yourself up for a slot, and it’s easy as that.

Can’t cook but want to help? Can cook but can’t deliver food? With God all things are possible - talk to Nan (919.271.3601), and we can figure out how to make the most of your gifts and availability. Thank you!

Needed! Sunday Fellowship Hosts for Fall

Can you provide snacks for after the 10:15 service this fall? We’re currently looking for hosts for October 13, 20 and 27. 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
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: $242,100.25 (increase from last week: $25.00)
Pledge Payments and Gifts Received: $171,385.10 (increase from last week: $645.00)

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; Mitchell Lawrence; 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;

Pastor Fouad Antoun and the parishioners of the National Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Marjayoun, S. Lebanon; Stephen McCann; Bob Kirchgessner;

Jermel Jamison; Terry Lefort; Lorraine Pierson; Mike Newton-Ward;

Amy Proseus; Betty Lynn Yersin; The Dietz Family; The Moore Family;

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

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

especially those impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

We pray for Christian Howard and Nya Smith who are to be married on Saturday.

In the diocesan cycle of prayer, we pray for Penick Village, Thompson Child & Family Focus, and Episcopal Farmworker Ministry.

In the Anglican cycle of prayer, we pray for The Scottish Episcopal Church

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.