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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 31st

Top Of Mind

From the Vestry

Announcing a Springtime Sabbatical

The Vestry is pleased to announce that our dear Rector, the Rev. Imogen Rhodenhiser, will be going on sabbatical in early 2025. This is a Diocesan requirement and a necessary part of ensuring that our clergy continue to remain renewed, refreshed and able to serve our congregation fully. Imogen will chair the Parish Annual Meeting on January 26th, 2025 and then take ten weeks of leave (two weeks per year of service) returning on April 7th. 

 

During Imogen's leave period, the Rev. Justin Gabbard's ministry will temporarily increase to full time. The Rev. Hershey Mallette Stephens will provide pastoral and sacramental support.

 

While we will miss her greatly, we fully support this opportunity for Imogen to rest and recenter and look forward to welcoming her back in time for observing Holy Week and celebrating Easter together.

Important Traffic Notice for This Sunday

Raleigh's City of Oaks Marathon will take place on Sunday, November 3rd, 7 AM - 1 PM. Road closures may impact your travel to church. For more information about road closures, please CLICK HERE.

Daylight Savings Time Ends This Weekend

Remember, clocks fall back one hour at 2 AM Sunday morning. Enjoy the extra sleep!

November Events You Don't Want to Miss!

  • All Souls’ Day Retreat

When: Saturday, November 2nd, 9:30 AM - 12 Noon

Where: Front Parlor

Join the Rev. Hershey 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. Nursery care will be available! Please indicate on the RSVP form if you need nursery care to participate in the retreat. Contact: Rev. Hershey


  • Screening of The Philadelphia Eleven

When: Thursday, November 7th from 6 PM

Where: Shepherd's Hall

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. To register PLEASE CLICK HERE . Contact: Rev. Justin


  • Newcomers Reception

When: Saturday, November 9th, 4-6 PM

Where: At the home of John and Karen Boyne

1800 Park Dr, Raleigh, 27605

Contact: Rev. Justin


  • Jim Propst Oyster Roast

When: Saturday, November 16th, 5-7:30 PM

Where: Shepherd's Hall

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. To register PLEASE CLICK HERE. Contact: Esther Hall

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: $569,891 (76% of our $750,000 pledge goal)
  • Number of pledges received: 107 (60% 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.

If you missed Commitment Sunday, here's how 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).


For more on our Commitment Sunday festivities, please see Commitment Sunday Recap under Parish Life, below.

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

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 3 - Mo. Joyce Corbin Allen presents the lawyer, priest, and activist Rev. Pauli Murray  


  • November 10 - Jonathan Stoddard presents the Ugandan Bishop and martyr Janani Luwum


  • 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 - 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

Community Lunch Sponsored by Beyond Our Doors Ministry Team


11:45 AM

Newcomers Class with Rev. Justin

Where: Front Parlor

Rev. Justin will host a series of Newcomers Classes after the 10:15 worship service beginning this Sunday, November 3rd and then continuing on November 10th and 17th. 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. Contact: Rev. Justin


5:30-7:30 PM

EYC (Episcopal Youth Community)


And There's More!


Daughters of the King to Offer Healing Prayers

During both the 8 and 10:15 worship services, Daughters of the King will be available during communion to pray with anyone desiring prayers. Daughters will be available during

  • 8 AM in the West Transept (McDowell Street)
  • 10:15 AM in the Bride's Room (small room at the back of the church, adjacent to the narthex).


Stay for Lunch & Fellowship!

Please join us this Sunday for our monthly Beyond Our Doors Community Lunch. Feel free to bring any leftover Halloween candy you have! You can drop it off on Sunday morning at the volunteer desk in the Parish Life Center. Thank you in advance! Contact: Gerard McNeill

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! 

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 OfficeThank you!

 

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

News from the Green Team 

Battery Disposal - FILL THE BUCKET

On the recent Recycling Plant Tour, many of us were surprised to learn that batteries in the TRASH or RECYCLE bin can trigger fires anywhere along their processing route. Flammable chemicals leak from batteries as they corrode.  These chemicals cause fires!!! "What do I do with 'dead' batteries?" The Green Team has placed a Battery Disposal Bucket in the Parish Life Center lobby. Thanks for your continued Creation Care efforts - important stewardship! Contacts: Carolyn Patton or James Joslin

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!

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!

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
  • Commitment Sunday Recap
  • Finance Updates
  • Vision Accomplished Updates
  • Opportunities to Serve
  • Parish Prayer List
  • News from the Diocese
  • Raleigh Youth Choir's Concert to Benefit Hurricane Helene Recovery

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. 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

Commitment Sunday Recap

Commitment Sunday was a busy day at our church and was made possible by a bevy of energetic volunteers. Please thank these fine folks when you see them. 


STEW CREW led by Frank Fee including Don Blankenship, Jack Boyne, John Boyne, Paul Fyfe, Jason Hingerton, Gerard McNeil, Harold Ramsey, Sheldon Smith, and Peter Webb.


Fellowship: Cheryl Cozzi, Bit Hardy, Dennis McKinnie, Beth and Tim O'Connell, Kitty Pruitt, Kay Stallings, Grace Sved, Michael Stokes, and Cindy Voegli.


Green Team: Beth Hahn, Lynn Hoke, and Carolyn Patton. Lynn and Carolyn did double duty and were a tremendous addition to the Fellowship group.


Room Break Down: Bill Cozzi, James Joslin, Gerard McNeil, and Logan Dreifuss.


We fed 96 members of our church family and sold 55 to-go containers of Brunswick Stew.


CROP Walk was organized by Leslie Gilbert and Dan Harris. Supporters included the Gilbert Family, Ginger and Dan Harris, Sheldon and Jenny Smith our intrepid Rector, and Brother Paul. They are closing in on reaching their $1,500 goal.


PLEASE CLICK HERE to see Commitment Sunday photos contributed by John Boyne, Dennis McKinnie, Harold Ramsey, and Rev. Imogen.

Men's FELLOWship Lunch Deemed "Pretty Dang Good"

Sixteen Good Shepherd men met today, October 31st, for lunch and fellowship at High Park Grill. The group agreed to try and meet on the 2nd Thursday of each month at the same place. The next FELLOWship lunch is planned for Thursday, November 14th at noon. Stay tuned!

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.


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: $0)
  • Pledge Payments and Gifts Received: $171,735.10 (increase from last week: $350.00)


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

Meet Our Partners

Raleigh Youth Choir Benefit Concert

Raleigh Youth Choir will hold a concert on November 14th to benefit music organizations in Western NC that lost everything as a result of Hurricane Helene. The concert will take place at Memorial Auditorium. It is hosted by the Raleigh Youth Choir and will feature singers from 20 different ensembles in the area for a total of over 600 young singers raising their voices to benefit Notes of Hope, a project of the American Music Education Network. All profits from ticket sales will be sent directly to our partner.


PLEASE CLICK HERE to purchase tickets. 

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; Jermel Jamison; Terry Lefort;

Lorraine Pierson; Mike Newton-Ward; Amy Proseus; Betty Lynn Yersin;

Rebecca Lamb; The Dietz Family; The Moore 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.


In the diocesan cycle of prayer, we pray for Galilee Ministries of East Charlotte;

Kanuga Conference, Retreat and Camp Center; and St. Mary’s School.


In the Anglican cycle of prayer, we pray for The Church of the Province of South East Asia.

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.

Thank you for Supporting the Life and Ministries of

Good Shepherd!

Submit My 2025 Online Pledge Card
Submit My 2025 Pledge Using Realm
Give Toward My Pledge
Give A One-Time Gift 
Give Toward Vision Accomplished Campaign 

Come Worship with Us!

Sunday, November 3, 2024

The Feast of All Saints

(Transferred)


8 AM Holy Eucharist, Rite I


8:30 AM - 12 Noon Nursery Care Available (infant to 4 yo)


9 AM Sunday School for Kids & Adult Formation


10:15 AM Holy Eucharist, Rite II, & Children's Chapel

In Person & Livestream Worship

Service Bulletin


11:30 AM Community Lunch & Fellowship

Sponsored by Beyond Our Doors Ministry Team


11:45 AM Newcomers Class


5:30-7:30 PM EYC (Episcopal Youth Community)

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. 

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