COVID or no COVID, we’re forging ahead! Many us expected that, at this time of the year in 2020, we would be finalizing our “Season of Visioning” in the Priest-in-Charge process. None of us could have expected what would ended up coming down the road in March! But, as spring transitioned into summer, we began to see a couple of things.
“Hope, Not Despair” Meetings to Resume on a Monthly Basis
How does one go about making a real difference in today’s culture; how do we get off the sidelines and become active in promoting justice, peace, and respect? This question was posed during a social media post recently that led to the creation of this group we are calling, Hope, not Despair addresses these sensitive and important issues.
Newcomers’ Gathering Scheduled for Sunday, September 13
Help Others by Donating Blood on September 19
Due to COVID, Good Shepherd will not be hosting a blood drive this year. There are still opportunities to donate, though, and the need is great during this time. If you can, please plan to donate blood at St. Thomas More Parish, not far from Good Shepherd, at 8035 S. Quebec St., on Saturday, September 19, from 7:30 to 11:30 am.
Strategies for Handling the Stress of Back to School
Returning to school under typical circumstances can be stressful; but returning to school during COVID-19 has likely brought a new level of anxiety and concern to parents, grandparents, teachers, and students. Whether your family is dealing with remote learning, in-person learning, or some combination, it’s fair to say that “school” doesn’t resemble anyone’s expectations.
St. Clare’s Ministries Update
I hope that this message finds you well! 2020 has been a hard year for so many and that extends to our unhoused neighbors who are facing more uncertainty than ever. St. Clare's has continued to provide hot meals, clothing, and toiletries in a to-go capacity from the parking lot, as we learn new ways to fulfill our mission to provide dignity to those in need while keeping our guests and volunteers safe and healthy.
A Message from the Episcopal Public Policy Network: Plan Your Vote!
Election season is upon us in the U.S., and now is the time to make sure you – and those in your community – are ready. This year, many states have updated how voters can cast their ballot with no-excuse absentee ballots, early voting, and other measures to allow Americans to vote safely in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read on for important information and tips.
Hungry Flock Looking for New Virtual Members
Hungry Flock has been around since the church began over 40 years ago. And we, as originals, are not going to let a virus stop us from "gathering." Hungry Flock is a monthly dinner gathering of friends, new and old, who want to get to know each other better. We have historically met between September and May.
Ringing Bells in CovidLand
Everyone now has an opportunity to contribute to Good Shepherd’s music program when we can re-enter our building. As many of you are probably aware, the choir will be unable to return to singing for quite some time due to the COVID 19 restrictions. However, the bell choir will return in small groups (a maximum of four ringers).
Stewardship Update: Plans for 2021
Youth Update for September
Outdoor Family Movie Night on Saturday, September 19
Men’s Group meetings in September
Financial Update
From Fr. Gary: Good Shepherd 2.0?
"As Jesus came out of the temple and was going away, his disciples came to point out to him the buildings of the temple. Then he asked them, “You see all these, do you not? Truly I tell you, not one stone will be left here upon another; all will be thrown down.”
I read these words from the Gospel of Matthew (24.1-2) early in July. And I could not help but think how much they resonated with our experience these last few months.
Will You Strive for Justice and Peace Among ALL People?
This question (in the graphic)—the last one asked as part of our Baptismal Covenant—has been weighing on me over the last several months. And it came to the fore in late June when a number of us were discussing a passage from the prophet Amos (8.1-6)*. In that passage, the prophet railed against the social injustices that characterized Israel in the eighth century BCE.
Giving Thanks With, or Without Eucharist
A major casualty of our entry into COVID-land has been our forced hiatus from communion—not only weekly, but communion to those receiving it at home. This has certainly been one of the most unsettling restrictions we’ve faced (along with our inability to meet together). A couple of things about this:
Connect with Your Faith During the Week!
As mentioned in Fr. Gary’s lead article, we’ve learned that a lot of faith-building and formation can take place away from Good Shepherd’s physical plant! And while several things were set in motion as “place-holders” until we returned, it’s clear that they can have a life of their own . . . and will need to have for some months to come.
Night Prayer Service (Compline) Now Offered Every Wednesday at 8:45 pm
August Parish Discussions to begin Sunday, August 9
After "coffee hour” in August (starting Aug 9), the Transition Team is inviting YOU to participate in discussions designed to help the Team (and parish in general) develop our vision and mission for the next several years. Part of this is a piece of the Priest-in-Charge process. But part of it, too, is in realization that life post-COVID will be quite different than what is was at the beginning of 2020.