CGS Stories

Stories of our life at Good Shepherd.

Sharing This Sacred Time

From The Rev. Miriam Saxon 

One of my favorite spiritual writers is Frederick Buechner.  In his short essay on holiness Buechner defines a holy place as a place which, for reasons known only to God, "God uses for sending God's love to the world."  I often think of this description while sitting in our sanctuary, especially when there participating in our bi-monthly Evensong service.

Our new Evensong service has been in place for nearly three months, and we now have a core of parishioners who love this simple and deeply spiritual service and try to regularly attend.  Several of those attending have shared that they also enjoy the social gathering after the service because they have made new friends there.  So I want to encourage more parishioners to join us at this 5:00pm service on the 2nd and 4th Sunday evenings of each month.  The church is beautiful and soothing as we sit in silence in the glow of candlelight surrounding the altar.  The prayers we are using are in the Celtic tradition, with much material from the innovative New Zealand prayer book.  The songs we sing are simple tunes, some of which are in the gentle Taize tradition, and offer a time for singers or non-singers simply to listen to lovely music. 

Now that we have begun our journey through Lent, I want to encourage each of you to consider attending one of these times for prayer and quiet reflection as you start a new week.  I know I have appreciated the opportunity to be still and quiet, in the presence of The Holy, and I look forward to sharing this sacred time with you.

Published: 
February 18, 2010

The Rector's Ramblings...Feb. 11, 2010

The Rev. Dr. Robert C. Sawyer 

On February 17th we will enter the Season of Lent once again.  At 7 am, Noon, and 7 pm we will hear the powerful ancient invitation.  "I invite you, in the name of the Church, to the observance of a holy Lent..." (BCP p. 265)  We will also receive the Imposition of Ashes with the sign of the cross as a symbol of our mortality.  "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return." (BCP p. 265)  These actions, the invitation to Lent and the Imposition of Ashes are both powerful symbols that call us to make a commitment to continue on the great pilgrimage of faith throughout this life with a sense of peace and assurance. 

The Season of Lent seems to have two different meanings.  There are those who see Lent as a rather drawn out period that must be gotten through.  They see it just as a time when we are asked to give up things we like because we are told it will make us better persons.  It is almost as if giving up things is a law that we must follow.  Whatever we do, let's just hurry up and get through this so we can celebrate Easter.

Then there are those of us who believe there is nothing negative about the Season of Lent.  I am among those who see Lent as a wonderful point in time in the life of the Church.  Giving up things can be a positive experience when this is done in such a way that we are striving to have a deeper relationship with our Lord and with our brothers and sisters in the Church. 

Taking on something can also be a positive way of living into Lent.  While there are many activities we can take on, let me suggest two.  First, make a commitment to make weekly worship a part of your pilgrimage walk.  Weekly corporate worship is vital to our Christian life.  The Christian faith is to be lived out in community.  Second, take on the daily reading of scripture.  I am going to read through John because I believe it really puts me in touch with Jesus in a special way. 

I pray that you will join us on Ash Wednesday so that we might enter the Season of Lent together.

Published: 
February 11, 2010

The Rector's Ramblings...February 4, 2010

The Rev. Dr. Robert C. SawyerThe Rev. Dr. Robert C. SawyerAs we approach the end of the Epiphany Season, I ask each of you to begin to spend time in reflection upon one of the promises we make in the Baptismal Covenant.  This promise is, "...to seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself." (BCP p. 305)  In making this promise we come face to face with the reality of life and ministry in the Church. Simply put, we are called to be servants of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Now I realize this is a hard thing for us to do.  I think the main reason it is hard is because we are normal human beings who put our own needs and desires first.  In this way we tend to act just like the disciples toward the end of Jesus' earthly ministry.  There is a story in the twenty-second Chapter of Luke that took place at the Last Supper that illustrates this point.

Even in the midst of the Last Supper, this most intimate and powerful moment, we hear, "A dispute arose among them (the disciples) as to which one of them was to be regarded as the greatest." (Lk 22:24)  There is something very human in this scene.  I imagine the disciples were still on a high from the triumphal entry of Palm Sunday, and they probably expected greater things to occur.  It was almost as if they were in the midst of sibling rivalry. 

Three years of being together, three years of ministry, three years of teaching and all the disciples can worry about is who is the greatest.  Jesus may have felt like throwing up his hands in exasperation, but he did not.  He gave the disciples a new commandment.  "The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them...But not so with you; rather the greatest among you must become like he youngest and the leader like one who serves...I am among you as one who serves." (Lk 22:25-27)

Jesus' words, "I am among you as one who serves," are words that we truly need to keep in our hearts for they stand as a beacon of light for us by which we can come to see that our relationship with Jesus is the number one priority for our lives and not our own needs and desires.  It is through this relationship that we are able to not only love the person that God had made us to be but also, as Bishop Curry once put it, allow the Jesus who is in us to experience the Jesus who is in others.

Published: 
February 5, 2010

The Rector's Ramblings...January 21, 2010

The Rev. Dr. Robert C. Sawyer, Rector 

As I began to write this edition of the "Rector's Ramblings" I realized I now stand at the beginning of the fifteenth year I have had the privilege of serving as your Rector.  When I arrived on January 21, 1996 I encountered a parish with a large number of young children who were full of energy and excited to be a part of this parish.  I can still remember being at fellowship activities in the old parish hall that doubled as the Shepherd's Table Soup Kitchen on weekdays and watching the children at play while the adults shared time with each other.  Even though we had no outdoor play sets the kids always seemed to be able to use the railings at the back of the parish hall as their own gymnastic set.  Their activities and antics always brought a smile to my face. 

Over the years I watched this group of outstanding young children grow and participate in the life of the church as members of Sunday School, the Acolyte Program, the Youth Choir, and the EYC Program.  Then, almost suddenly, they were young adults and I have begun to officiate at their weddings and even baptize their children. A generation had gone by in the blink of an eye.

Last Sunday, I talked with some of our new young children and their parents as part of our Grapes and Grains Program where our children learn about Communion.  Here I found myself face to face with a wonderful new group of children who were just as excited to be here as the generation of children who had come before them.  What a blessing it is to be a part of a parish where children are a vital part of our life together.

Jesus told the disciples to bring the little children to him and when the children came he blessed them.  How wonderful it is one of our special ministries at Good Shepherd is to provide a place for children to learn of the love of Jesus for them and to be blessed by that love.  Let us always live into this ministry for in doing so Good Shepherd will continue to grow and thrive throughout the years.

Dr. Sawyer leads the Grapes & Grains Class January 17, 2010Dr. Sawyer leads the Grapes & Grains Class January 17, 2010 

Published: 
January 21, 2010

The Rector's Ramblings...November 19, 2009

For me, one of the truly special outreach programs that we have at The Church of the Good Shepherd is the St. Nicholas Tree.  It is special because it is mainly focused on children.  I look forward each year to taking a couple of stars off the tree and buying presents that will help to put a smile on the face of a young child that I may never know.  The joy that is felt by that child is the same joy that I feel in being able to give beyond my own family. 

God has blessed us and by that blessing we are each called to have a generous heart.  If you are able to participate this year, I hope you will join with you brothers and sisters in taking stars from the tree starting this Sunday, November 22, after the 8 AM  and 10:30 AM Eucharists.

Some of you, who have truly generous hearts, may not be able to participate this year in the buying of presents due to the economic situation you may be in at this time.  However, you can still respond to the tugging on your generous heart by making a commitment to pray for those who are represented by the starts on the St. Nicholas Tree.  Through your prayers you are giving a special gift from the heart.

Published: 
November 19, 2009

A Word from the Senior Warden

Julie LoweJulie LoweWe Love to Tell the Story... Over the past several weeks, you have read and heard the stories of your fellow parishioners here at Good Shepherd about why they are blessed to be part of this spiritual family.  And you have been asked to make a commitment to the mission and ministry of Good Shepherd for 2010 by making a financial pledge to church operations.  I hope and pray that you feel as much a part of the Good Shepherd family as the people who have presented these heartfelt messages and will show that commitment by pledging to Annual Giving in 2010.

As of today, pledges have been received from 147 parishioners for a total of $483,951.  Our goal for 2010 is a 10% increase in annual giving over this year which would equate to pledge commitments from 252 members for a total of about $725,000.  We are truly blessed to have received 25 new pledges so far, and 67 people have pledged to increase their giving next year.  If you are one of those who haven't yet submitted their commitment letter, now is the time.  It is your best guess of what you plan to give in the coming 12 months.  It can be adjusted up or down if need be.  No pledge is too small (or too large!)  We have parishioners who commit to give $1 per week on up to those who pledge well into five figures for the year.  The amount you pledge is between you and God, but that you pledge is a statement of your faith and discipleship.  Your clergy and lay leadership have all made their commitments, increasing their pledges for next year if possible.  But we need everyone's help.  The only way we can effectively plan for the mission and ministry of Good Shepherd is to have some idea of what revenues to expect next year.  Things are probably going to continue to be tight next year, and we want to be able to manage our resources responsibly and effectively.

Thank you to everyone who has already made a commitment for 2010.  And thank you to everyone else who is going to do that now.

Faithfully,

Julie S. Lowe, Senior Warden

Published: 
November 11, 2009

Associate Rector's Reflections: Evensong

O Lord God Almighty, as you have taught us to call the evening, the morning, and the noonday one day; and have made the sun to know its going down: Dispel the darkness of our hearts, that by your brightness we may know you to be the true God and eternal light, living and reigning for ever and ever.  Amen. - "Prayer for Light," Order of Worship for the Evening, THE BOOK OF COMMON PRAYER, p. 110)

Dear Friends and Fellow Disciples,

Some of you may know that a group of Good Shepherd members, staff, and clergy have been working in a focused way on developing a Sunday evening worship service at Good Shepherd. We are very excited that we are nearing the date when Good Shepherd will celebrate our first service. Our Rector has mentioned this evening service at our announcement time and in other places. This service,which will take place every other Sunday beginning with November 22, is taking shape as an "Evensong" service, based on the Order for Worship for the Evening which is found in the Prayer Book beginning on page 109. This service is also known as "Vespers." In this act of worship we bring some of the most ancient rhythms and patterns of Christian worship into our contemporary experience. We experience the passage from darkness to light -a template for the experience of Christian transformation and resurrection faith- as we transform a dimmed church into a place of warm radiance, as we light candle after candle at the beginning of the service. We sing a hymn in praise to the Light of Christ, such as Hymn 25 in our 1982 Hymnal, "O Gracious Light, Lord Jesus Christ," a paraphrase of the ancient Christian evening canticle, Phos Hilaron ("O Gracious Light"), set to a wonderfully sing-able canon, The Eighth Tune by Thomas Tallis. The service continues with Psalms, a Lesson or Lessons from Scripture; a meditation by the clergy or some other person, or reading from some other Christian spiritual writing (optional); one of the classic evening canticles, the Magnificat ("My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord...") or Nunc Dimmitis (Lord, you now have set you servant free, to go in peace...); prayers of intercession; a hymn; and a blessing and dismissal. Meaningful periods of silence are also a significant part of this service.

Published: 
November 5, 2009

Rector's Ramblings: October 22, 2009

From The Rev. Dr. Robert C. Sawyer with input from Darylene Netzer, Parish Administrator 

Most parents remember trying to teach their young child to say "thank you". How often can you remember saying "now, what do you say"?  We want to teach this child that to speak with gratitude is courteous and pleasant.  The instruction to give thanks appears thirty five times in Scripture. As we develop into adults, the harder concept of thankfulness is thanksgiving, a word of action

Our stewardship theme this year is "We Love to Tell the Story". We would like to share several "stories" that were "told"  this past week.  When one of our parishioners was contacted and asked if his family could give a little more, the response was "double my pledge and you will have it by the end of the week".  One of our older members, residing in assisted living, called to ask the balance of her pledge for 2009. Upon hearing the balance, she replied "I will send it all this week".  She then added that she had received her "pledge letter" and wanted her pledge for 2010 to be $150.00....a 10% increase! Another powerful story of thankfulness is when one of our young mothers dropped by last week to inquire as to her family's pledge balance. After being given the balance, she was ask if her family could do a little more.  She wrote her check for $500.00 more than the pledge balance and added that they would try to do more before the end of the year.

In his letter to the Colossians, Paul encouraged the church to let the peace of Christ rule in their hearts. I believe that living with a thankful heart is a large part of that process. As your rector, my heart is full of thanksgiving for all those who give so generously of their time, talent and treasures. Their generosity allows us to continue to tell the story at this time, in this place and throughout our community.

Published: 
October 22, 2009

A Word from the Warden...October 15, 2009

The "Season" of Stewardship is with us once again.  I know you have enjoyed the videos of parishioners telling their stories. There will continue to be new ones in the coming weeks.  Our church family has vividly expressed how blessed they are to be here.  I believe these people are the outward expression of what it means to be good stewards in this parish. You will soon be receiving a letter from your Rector and Wardens.  It is our request to you for financial support through annual giving. Please prayerfully consider this opportunity to support your church in the coming year.

On Sunday, I addressed the congregation about our financial need in 2009.  While we are very grateful to everyone who has contributed and supported Good Shepherd this year, the weak economy has had a real impact on our annual giving.  The staff and vestry have done their best to manage costs without cutting the quality of our programs, and will continue to do so, but that doesn't appear to be enough.

So we'd like to ask for your help.  We are asking everyone in the church to try to contribute at least 10% more than they either pledged for 2009 or planned to contribute this year. If you would also consider increasing your pledge for 2010 by the same amount, it would put us in good stead.  Your wardens and vestry do not take this request lightly and will join with you in trying to do their part.  I know for some of you this is asking a lot, but I know you will consider how much Good Shepherd means to you and your family. Can we count on you to continue to tell the story of the Church of The Good Shepherd at this time and in this place as we have for the past one hundred thirty five years?

Faithfully,

Julie Lowe, Senior Warden

Published: 
October 13, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings...October 8, 2009

Glenn McDonald, in his work, The Disciple Making Church, makes the following statement: "In a healthy church we must regularly affirm that every individual is called to be a servant, not just a spectator of church life" (p. 45).  At this particular time in the life of our parish as we approach our stewardship campaign, I find this to be a truly relevant statement for each of us.  For the mission and ministry of The Church of the Good Shepherd to be fulfilled all of us have to be willing to be active participants in that mission and ministry.

This starts with a true commitment to make attendance at our Sunday worship a priority for you.  It is through our worship experience that we are both nurtured in our relationship with Jesus and empowered for ministry.  It is out of worship that those called to leadership in the congregation emerge.  Anyone who does not attend worship on a regular basis cannot really be considered a leader.

Second, we need to willingly offer the gifts that we have, our time, talent and treasure to the mission and ministry that has been entrusted to us.  Without the offering of our gifts the programs of our church would at best be diminished and at worst disappear all together.  There is nothing sadder than a beautiful old church standing idle.

Finally, each of us needs to make a commitment to share the story of the Good News of God in Christ that we have each found in this place.  If you believe in the mission and ministry of The Church of the Good Shepherd, then you should want your friends to be a part of all that goes on in this place.

Have you found true life in this place?  I know I have.  Will you join with me in bringing others so that they too might find this same sense of life? 

Published: 
October 8, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings...October 1, 2009

The Rev. Dr. Robert C. Sawyer 

During the past week I have been reading some material concerning ways in which churches can continue to expand their mission, ministry, and outreach even in the midst of lean economic times.  One of the ways that has helped a number of churches is the development of partnerships with others.  These partnerships could be made up of other churches or even other community agencies.  The two key elements in the development of partnerships are 1) we are able to reach out to more of those in need and 2) the people of the different groups involved are able to build relationships, share gifts, and learn from each other.  On a spiritual level, more people will learn how we, as Episcopalians, live into our relationship with Jesus Christ.  I encourage each of you to begin to think of ways that we might develop partnerships in our community.

By the way, we already have at least three partnerships in place here at Good Shepherd.  First, there is our relationship with the Shepherd's Table Soup Kitchen.  Not only do we provide a home for them, we also contribute financially, and a number of our parishioners work with volunteers from across the Triangle to feed those in need.  We also have a partnership with Habitat for Humanity as a number of the group that I think of as the Shepherd's Builders, lead by James Deal, help to build homes for those in need.  They will begin another project next Saturday, October 10.

The third partnership was developed by Donna Gundrum, our Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry.  Our Youth Group and the Youth of Grace Church, an Episcopal Mission in Clayton, have joined together for a number of activities.  Last Sunday about forty youth and adults from these two churches joined with Margaret Park's Migrant Ministry Group to provide a meal and some social time for the farm workers in the Benson Area.  It was a joy for me to be with them.  I believe that all of us have grown in our faith through the experience that we have had with our brothers and sisters.

As I finish this "Rector's Ramblings" I am beginning to understand how much life there is in our wonderful old parish.  There is a new feeling of excitement emerging as people are being empowered in their faith walk to go out into the world in the name of Jesus.  There is a place for everyone.  Come and join us at Good Shepherd and you will find a place where "God Happens."

Published: 
October 1, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings...September 24, 2009

Many of you may have already seen the information that the Diocese of North Carolina has put out about H1N1.  I found it to be helpful and presented in a calm and rational manner, and it called us to simply use some good old common sense such as staying home if you are feeling sick.  At this point we are able to continue to do things in the normal liturgical practice of the Episcopal Church for the passing of the peace and the administration of the bread and wine.

With that being said let me share a couple of thoughts with you.  If you feel better at this time in not shaking hands at the Peace, you can simply exchange the greeting with those around you.  When coming forward for communion you can receive by intinction, which is dipping the wafer into the chalice yourself or having the celebrant do that for you.  You also receive the full benefit of communion if you only receive in one kind, which means receiving only the wafer.

For those who desire to use them, we will provide large pump bottles of hand sanitizer in the Narthex, the East and West   Transepts, and in the Sacristy.   Hospitals have been doing this type of precautionary thing for some time, and we thought that it might be helpful for all attending worship at Good Shepherd.

Published: 
September 24, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings...September 17, 2009

 

Rally day was a great and joyful occasion this year.  There was a wonderful amount of energy and excitement as children and parents met with teachers and got a taste of this year's programs.  Then later in the day a large group of our younger children and their parents, after enjoying a tasty lunch provided by Fyl Thompson, Meriwether Walker and May Sherrod, took a bus trip to Rising Meadows Farm and got some hands on experience for the theme for this year, "We are the sheep of his pasture."

The new worship schedule is also off to a great start.  The 10:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist was very well attended and participation was enthusiastic to say the least.  The announcement time gave everyone an opportunity to hear to hear just the tip of the iceberg about all the activities that take place at Good Shepherd.

There was one announcement that truly stood out for me because it brought forth two responses.  Donna Gundrum, our Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries, introduced by name the twelve youth who had committed to our Fall Confirmation Class and stated that there was a volunteer adult mentor for each of them. The first response to this announcement was applause on the part of the congregation showing their support for the youth and their mentors.  The second response came the next morning when Donna informed me that seven more youth had committed to the Confirmation Class and that there was a mentor for each of them as well. We are blessed to have so many adults who are willing to volunteer their time to be a part of the lives of our youth in the Confirmation process. This is a great sign for the life of our parish.

The excitement continues this week with Adult Rally Day and the Ministry Fair.  You will have the opportunity to learn something about all of the ministries that are funded by our tithes and offerings.  You will also learn about the outstanding Adult Education/Formation offerings that Father Bill has put together for this year.  I sure am glad that Good Shepherd takes Adult Christian Education/Formation seriously.  Our parish is a model for those who seek to understand the life long commitment to learning as we walk the pilgrimage of faith together.

Published: 
September 17, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings...September 10, 2009

This morning I found myself listening to a Country Western song by Darryl Worley that was called, "Have You Forgotten?"  The chorus contained the words, "Have you forgotten how it felt that day to see your homeland under fire and her people blown away?  Have you forgotten when those towers fell..."  I know these are difficult words to hear but with the eighth anniversary of 9/11 falling on tomorrow I believe they are appropriate to remind us of an event that we must not forget.   It was an event that truly changed the way we live our lives and one where most of us can remember where we were when we first heard the news of the planes hitting the towers of the World Trade Center.

While all States have been affected by the events of that day, our own State of North Carolina has seen a large number of men and women in our armed forces sent into Harm's Way to defend the freedoms that we hold so dear.  This includes Marines and Sailors from Camp Lejeune, Soldiers from Fort Bragg, Air Force Members from Pope and Seymour Johnson, and members of the North Carolina National Guard, just to name a few.  We even have members of our own Parish deployed at this time.

With this in mind, I am asking each of you to take a moment tomorrow to pray for our Country and for those in our military so far from home, and for their families who watch and wait.  If you have your prayer book at home, you can use the prayer on top of page 823, "For those in the Armed Forces of our Country."   Let us surround our country with prayer and let us never forget those who willingly pay the ultimate price for freedom.

Published: 
September 10, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings--September 3, 2009

The Rev. Dr. Robert C. Sawyer

Many of us still look at the Labor Day Weekend as the end of the summer season. Although here in North Carolina our schools have already started, in many states children go back to school on the day after Labor Day. Some old southern traditions are remembered at this time. Children no longer go barefoot, women put away the white shoes, and men hang up the seersucker suits until next year. Even in the Episcopal Church, Labor Day marks a time of transition when churches prepare to start up what many of us simply refer to as the "program year."

There is a wonderful hymn of the Church that speaks to us of the change that is taking place in the life of parishes and missions across our Church. It is known as "Come, Labor on." Its first verse reads, "Come, labor on. Who dares stand idle on the harvest plain, while all around us waves the golden grain? And to each servant does the master say, 'Go work today.'" (Hymn 541) As Rally Day approaches, I hope all of you have had a wonderful summer, and I encourage you to be active in both worship, as we move to 8am and 10:30am services on September 13, and Christian Education and Formation, meeting at 9:15am.

Published: 
September 3, 2009

Associate Rector’s Reflections

What then, brothers and sisters? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification. - 1 Corinthians 14:26

I recently was saddened to read of the death of one my favorite seminary professors at Sewanee, the Rev. Dr. Marion J Hatchett. Marion, who was in retirement, had been the long-time professor of Liturgics (the study of worship and rites) at Sewanee, and he was one of the main reasons I chose Sewanee as the place to prepare for ordination. Marion was one of the principal shapers of the liturgical life of the Episcopal Church over the last 40 or so years. He was instrumental in the revisions which resulted in the current Book of Common Prayer (1979) and the Hymnal 1982. He was passionately concerned that the over-riding concern of those planning and leading liturgy was that the congregation be edified, or "built up" in the Christian faith through the weekly and daily experience of participating in the liturgy of the Church - an experience where Sunday to Sunday and daily, the worshipping People of God grow more deeply into their Baptismal calling, and integrate more thoroughly faith, worship, and daily life. Last year, Marion was honored by the General Theological Seminary in New York, where he did his doctoral dissertation, as Alumnus of the Year. In his acceptance address, Marion spoke words of wisdom that continue to edify the Episcopal Church beyond the hour of his death:

Published: 
August 27, 2009

In Step with...The Rev. Miriam Saxon

I am pleased to be offered this time and space to focus our attention upon our gifted parish intern, Joslyn Schaefer.  If you have not yet had a chance to meet Joslyn, please try to talk with her.  She is already proving to be a true blessing to us here at Church of the Good Shepherd.  Her past experiences and her current employment as a social worker with Latino families in Durham can teach us many new ways of viewing our work as servants in this broken world.  I especially am looking forward to her educational series on Henri Nouwen's book, The Road to Daybreak, and his time living in a L'Arche community, one of several communities where the able-bodied and those who are not able-bodied live , work and pray together.  In addition, Joslyn is applying her considerable talents to the planning of the Sunday afternoon service we hope to initiate later this fall, as well as assisting Donna Gundrum with the youth confirmation classes.

As most of you know, Joslyn is at the discernment stage of the official diocesan ordination process.  This is a crucial formative time, and I so well remember how much I appreciated all that members of this parish, as well as Bob, Bill, Dale (Harmon) and Meta (Ellington), taught me during my similar internship time here at Good Shepherd.  Thus I hope all of us will do whatever we can to enrich Joslyn's time here with us, between now and Epiphany.  I know she will also teach us many things.  So I am grateful to the Commission on Ministry and Bishop Curry for assigning Joslyn to us.  Keep up the good work, Joslyn!

Published: 
August 20, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings...August 13, 2009

From The Rev. Dr. Robert C. Sawyer 

During this summer, I have had meetings with our Clergy, Wardens, the Director of Music Ministry, the Director of Children's Ministry, the Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, and our Support Staff concerning our Sunday schedule and how to make the best use of all of our gifts and talents for ministry at this particular time in the life of our parish as well as providing us with an opportunity for growth in the future.  These thoughtful discussions have helped me make a decision about our worship life that involves a change in the schedule for what we do on Sunday.  While I realize that change is sometimes difficult for Episcopalians, I believe this change will bring a new sense of vibrancy to Good Shepherd.

I presented this new schedule to the Vestry at our meeting this past Monday evening and received their enthusiastic support.  Therefore, on Sunday, September 13, Rally Day, our Sunday Schedule will be as follows:

                                                8:00 AM - Holy Eucharist (Rite I)

                                                8:45 AM - 9:15 AM -- Coffee Fellowship

                                                9:15 AM- 10:15 AM - Christian Education

                                                10:15 AM-- 10:25 AM - Last Cup of Coffee Fellowship

                                                10:30 AM- 11:30 AM - Holy Eucharist

This schedule provides us with a full hour each week for Christian Education and more opportunity for some fellowship time for people to get to know each other.  At our 10:30 AM Holy Eucharist we will use both Rite I and Rite II.  Since Rite I is more penitential, we will use it during the seasons of Advent and Lent.  Rite II will be used at other times during the Church Year.

Also, we are in the process of looking toward the development of a third worship opportunity that might possibly be held around the 5 PM hour on Sunday afternoons (being held at least two Sundays per month to start).  At this time we are working to determine both the need for this type of Eucharistic Offering as well as the vision that we have for it, i.e., just who it is we are trying to reach with this offering and just what liturgical style would be offered.

I hope you plan to join us for this new and exciting time in our life together.

Published: 
August 12, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings... August 6, 2009

When I was at Virginia Seminary I had the privilege of taking both a theology course and a liturgics course from the Rev. Dr. Charles Price, who at that time was one of the great teachers in the Episcopal Church.  Dr. Price also co-authored one of the books in the old "Church's Teaching Series" called Liturgy for Living.  In this book he discussed the importance of symbols for the Christian Faith.  One type of symbol he called a communicating symbol.  He described it by stating, "A communicating symbol not only stands for the reality it represents, but transmits that reality, and indeed is that reality." (p.36)  Today, August 6, 2009, we celebrate the Feast of the Transfiguration, one of the key communicating symbols of our faith.

St. Luke, in the ninth chapter of his Gospel account, tells us that Jesus took some of his closest disciples up to a mountain to pray.  And while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became dazzling white.  Suddenly they saw two men, Moses and Elijah, talking to him.  In this event the disciples experience the reality of who this Jesus of Nazareth was.  There stood before them their transfigured Lord talking with Moses and Elijah, the symbols of the Law and the prophets.  In Jesus of Nazareth, the Glory of God is revealed to the world.

In the Transfiguration, we who are members of the Church of the Good Shepherd encounter a communicating symbol by which we experience Jesus as the fulfillment of all that had been promised in the Law and the Prophets.  And through this experience and the acceptance of its reality, we come to know that we are not only to follow Jesus but to also listen to his words found in Holy Scripture and allow them to transform our hearts.

I pray that your hearts will be transformed this day and that all of our lives may be lived as a manifestation of the eternal love that has come into the world in Jesus.

Published: 
August 6, 2009

Our Missionary in Belize: Father Juan Marentes

Father Juan Marentes and his wife, Isabel, have moved from their work in Peru and have been called to serve in Belize. Father Marentes will be the Priest-in-Charge of St. Andrew's Parish Church in San Ignacio and will work with St. Barnabas' and St. Hilda's Mission Churches. Father Marentes and Isabel will be helping expand the ministry of the church to the growing Hispanic population of Belize. Belize is officially an English speaking country, but Spanish is spoken by 50% of the population. Most people speak creole, Garifuna or Mayan. The average Belizean speaks at least two languages. Please keep Father Juan Marentes and Isabel in your prayers as they begin a new and challenging ministry.  Good Shepherd helps supports Father Marentes through the South American Missionary Society (SAMS).  He can best be reached through SAMS, PO Box 399, Ambridge, PA 15003.

Published: 
August 6, 2009

Our Missionary in Belize: Father Juan Marentez

Father Juan Marentes and his wife, Isabel, have moved from their work in Peru and been called to serve in Belize. Father Marentes will be the Priest-in-Charge of St. Andrew's Parish Church in San Ignacio and will work with St. Barnabas' and St. Hilda's Mission Churches. Father Marentes and Isabel will be helping expand the ministry of the church to the growing Hispanic population of Belize. Belize is officially an English speaking country, but Spanish is spoken by 50% of the population. Most people speak creole, Garifuna or Mayan. The average Belizean speaks at least two languages. Please keep Father Juan Marentes and Isabel in your prayers as they begin a new and challenging ministry.  Good Shepherd helps supports Father Marentes through the South American Missionary Society (SAMS).  He can best be reached through SAMS, PO Box 399, Ambridge, PA 15003.

Published: 
August 5, 2009

The Associate Rector's Reflections...July 30, 2009

From The Rev. William D. Bennett, Jr. 

Over the next several Sundays, our Gospel readings for the Eucharist will enter what we might call a series of "Bread Sunday" sayings of Jesus. That is, we will be hearing readings from the sixth chapter of the Gospel according to John where Jesus says such things as "I am the bread of life," "I am the true bread which comes down from heaven," and "the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh." Actually, the "Bread Sundays" begin at the beginning of chapter six of John, when we hear of the miracle of the multiplication of the "five barley loaves" (and two small fish) to feed the 5000. Jesus makes it clear that this miracle was not about reacting to a human predicatment (a lot of physically hungry people) when he says later in the chapter, when the crowds look for him afterwards: "Very truly, I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Do not work for the food that perishies, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you." Jesus knows and cares about our physical needs and urges, but he knows that we are much more than a collection of our impulses and instincts for survival. Jesus offers us the fullness of life by inviting us into the fullness of his life. We experience this in the Eucharist, where we join the brokeness and incompleteness of our lives to his own perfect offering of himself, and through him, our lives become bread for the world. We sometimes may not grasp that, in the Eucharist, we are invited into both an astounding intimacy with Jesus and to share in his radical generosity, which is expressed in his "bread of life" sayings. We can bring the wonderful intimacy and generosity of the Eucharistic life into our homes, workplaces, schools, and in the "always and everywheres" of our lives, each day, even in the experience of sitting down for a shared meal with families, partners, and friends.

Published: 
July 30, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings...July 23, 2009

In St. Paul's Second Letter to Timothy, we encounter what we today would describe as the words of encouragement and instruction from an elder priest to a younger priest.  Some of the words are rather direct, such as, "Have nothing to do with stupid and senseless controversies; you know that they breed quarrels." (2:23)  Paul knew that there were far more important issues to be concerned with than with these matters that do nothing to build up the Church.  I find it amazing that these words are just as relevant for a priest in the life of the Church today as they were in the life of the early church.

Published: 
July 23, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings...July 16, 2009

Early this morning we began having tree work done in our back yard.  Some of the work consisted of pruning sections of very large trees that surround our home.  I stood and watched as a couple of the workmen, using spiked boots, climbed high into the canopy of leaves, tied themselves securely to the limbs, and began their intricate work.  I thought to myself, "those guys are gifted at what they do," and "I do not think that I could do what they do."

Now while some people may think what these workmen were doing is a skill and not a gift, their actions did cause me to think about spiritual gifts in the Church. I began to realize once again two important things for us as Christians to keep in mind about gifts.  First, all of us have different gifts.  Second, all of our gifts are important and need to be offered for the building up of the Church.  No matter how insignificant you might think a gift is, when it is offered it becomes a manifestation of Christ's love for all of creation.  Sometimes what we perceive as being small or minor can have large or major influence in bringing another into a relationship with Jesus.

Sit down this week and read some of Paul's wonderful passages concerning gifts found in First Corinthians 12 - 14.  I pray that each of us will begin to come to an understanding of the gifts that we have and how we can offer those gifts to the Glory of God and the building up of the Church of the Good Shepherd.

Published: 
July 16, 2009

A Word from the Warden

From Julie Lowe, Sr. Warden 

"...We will serve thee faithfully."

This closing line from a recent anthem has been stuck in my head for the past week.  I finally stopped to think about what it was really saying to me, and then, after hearing Bob's sermon on discipleship, another line of that song came to me:  "That by caring, helping, giving, we may true disciples be."  That pretty much sums up what we are called to do and be at the Church of the Good Shepherd:  faithful servants of the Lord and disciples spreading His Gospel in our community and world.  Hmm, Discipleship sounds a little bit like Stewardship.

Published: 
July 9, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings...July 2, 2009

I hope that you will all join us for worship at 10 AM this Sunday when we have our Annual Celebration of our Country.  As always there will be wonderful music, the celebration of the Holy Eucharist and a time of fellowship on the lawn following the worship.  From Monday to Thursday of this week I have had the privilege of offering the invocation at the North Carolina House of Representatives.  Each of those prayers has been concerned with those powerful "unalienable rights" of "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" found in the Declaration of Independence. 

As we prepare to celebrate the 233rd birthday of our country let us offer prayers of thanksgiving for these rights and remember those signers of the Declaration of Independence, including William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, and John Penn of North Carolina, who willingly risked all that they had to make these rights available to all. Let us pledge ourselves never to take them for granted.  May our lives be a manifestation of the true meaning of liberty that calls us to reach out in love and concern for others.

Published: 
July 2, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings...June 25, 2009

Fr. Bennett mentioned last Sunday that the clergy will be leading a discussion on General Convention in Shepherd's Hall following the 8am Eucharist on June 28 and July 5.  You will find more information about this program in this edition of our E-newsletter.  Let me share a couple of thoughts with you from a personal perspective.  General Convention which meets every third year is the primary decision making body for The Episcopal Church.  Within the framework of its bicameral structure (House of Bishops and House of Deputies) all sorts of resolutions having to do with the mission and ministry of the Episcopal Church will be discussed. Some resolutions have to do with everyday matters, others are financial, and some may even be controversial, but they are all of importance for us within this part of the Anglican Communion.

While we are represented in the Diocese of North Carolina by our Bishops and our four Clergy and Four Lay delegates, all of us in the local congregations need to make a commitment to have a ministry of support for General Convention.  That ministry of support is prayer. I ask each of you to join with me in praying daily for our representatives and for General Convention itself. 

There are two prayers found on page 818 of The Book of Common Prayer that you might find helpful in getting started.  These are the prayers "For a Church Convention or Meeting" and "For the Unity of the Church."  Let us all surround General Convention with a great chorus of prayer.

Published: 
June 25, 2009

Associate Rector’s Reflections...June 18, 2009

There shall be a General Convention of this Church, consisting of the House of Bishops and the House of Deputies, which Houses shall sit and deliberate separately; and in all deliberations freedom of debate shall be allowed. Either House may originate and propose legislation, and all acts of the Convention shall be adopted and be authenticated by both Houses. - Canon 1.1.1, CONSTITUTION AND CANONS OF THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH

This summer, the triennial General Convention of the Episcopal Church will meet in Anaheim, CA, July 8-17. The ECUSA General Convention website states: "The General Convention is the governing body of The Episcopal Church (TEC) that meets every three years. The Convention is a bicameral legislature that includes the House of Deputies and the House of Bishops. The work at Convention is carried out by deputies and bishops representing each diocese. During its triennial meeting deputies and bishops consider a wide range of important matters facing the Church."  It has become customary over the years to designate a theme for each General Convention, and this year's theme is Ubuntu, a concept that emerges out of the African cultural and anthropological experience, and has been given a Christian interpretation by, among others, Nobel Peace Prize-winning Anglican Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Archbishop Tutu has said (in different times and places) of Ubuntu:

One of the sayings in our country is Ubuntu - the essence of being human. Ubuntu speaks particularly about the fact that you can't exist as a human being in isolation. It speaks about our interconnectedness. You can't be human all by yourself, and when you have this quality - Ubuntu - you are known for your generosity... "Ubuntu is a concept that we have in our Bantu languages at home. Ubuntu is the essence of being a person. It means that we are people through other people. We cannot be fully human alone. We are made for interdependence, we are made for family. When you have ubuntu, you embrace others. You are generous, compassionate... If the world had more ubuntu, we would not have war. We would not have this huge gap between the rich and the poor. You are rich so that you can make up what is lacking for others. You are powerful so that you can help the weak, just as a mother or father helps their children. This is God's dream..." A person with Ubuntu is open and available to others, affirming of others, does not feel threatened that others are able and good, for he or she has a proper self-assurance that comes from knowing that he or she belongs in a greater whole and is diminished when others are humiliated or diminished, when others are tortured or oppressed...We think of ourselves far too frequently as just individuals, separated from one another, whereas you are connected and what you do affects the whole world. When you do well, it spreads out; it is for the whole of humanity.

Published: 
June 17, 2009

You're Invited: Migrant Ministry's Fifth Growing Season Begins

As our Migrant Farmworker Ministry begins its fifth year, we look forward to spending time with our friends at the migrant camp.  On the fourth Sunday evenings of the summer, we will gather at the camp to share meals and fellowship, and at least one Saturday night a month, we will watch movies under the stars.  As always, EVERYONE is invited to participate in this ministry!

Migrant Ministry Events Schedule -- We will again visit the camp with pot-luck suppers on the fourth Sundays, June through September, leaving the church at 5:00pm to arrive at the camp around 5:30pm.  In early October, we hope to once again bring the men to church, this year for the 9:00am service, followed by brunch in Shepherd's Hall.  If you would like to participate in our new "outdoor movie series" at the camp (dates to be determined), please sign up for email updates and announcements.

June 28 - Camp Visit

July 26 - Camp Visit

August 23 - Camp Visit

September 20 - Episcopal Farmworker Fall Festival in Newton Grove

September 27 - Camp Visit

Please help by contributing much-needed items for our friends in the camp(s)...

Published: 
June 16, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings...June 11, 2009

According to the calendar in The Book of Common Prayer, The Season after Pentecost begins with Trinity Sunday.  However, for most of us, it truly begins with the Sunday after Trinity when the Liturgical Colors are changed to green.  With that change we find ourselves a part of the great teaching season of the Church Year or simply what some call the "Long Green Season."

There are two things I want you to keep in mind as The Church of the Good Shepherd, which is all of us, moves through the months of summer and early fall that make up this part of the Church Year.  The first is to keep your focus upon God. The second is to be open to discipleship. I was reminded of these two things as I gazed upon two pieces of art that adorn the western wall of my office.  They were created by two women whom I deeply admire.

Published: 
June 10, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings...June 4, 2009

From The Rev. Dr. Robert C. Sawyer 

There is a wonderful prayer found on page 832 of The Book of Common Prayer, which has its basis in one of the verses of Psalm 46.  The title of this prayer is "For Quiet Confidence" and it concludes with the words, "By the might of thy Spirit lift us, we pray thee, to thy presence, where we may be still and know that thou art God; through Jesus Christ our Lord."  We say this prayer from time to time at our Men's Bible Study on Wednesday mornings and many of us have found it to have deep meaning for our daily lives.

            I believe that this is a prayer that should be on the lips of each of us as part of our daily devotions.  In this hectic world in which we live there are times when we need to pull back and just experience the reality of God's love for us.  Each of us could probably say that there are places where we can truly live into the words of this prayer.  For me, being on the Outer Banks sitting on a dock at sunset is one of those places.  I can say that there are times at the beach that I have truly felt close to God, when I simply find myself sitting and glorying in the beauty of God's creation.  In moments like these I come to know that I am loved simply for who I am and that is a child of God.

Published: 
June 4, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings...May 28, 2009

With the passing of Memorial Day, the summer season is upon us.  For many of us this is the time when we think in terms of vacations and times of recreation and renewal for the body and soul.  In our fast paced society all of us are in need of these times in order to keep things in the proper perspective.  There is a prayer in The Book of Common Prayer that reminds us of this fact.  It is a prayer that I use a lot.  O God of peace, who hast taught us that in returning and rest we shall be saved, in quietness and in confidence shall be our strength: By the might of thy Spirit lift us, we pray thee, to thy presence, where we may be still and know that thou art God...(p. 832)

Published: 
May 28, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings...May 21

While the Gospel is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow the way we communicate it both orally and in writing to the world around us must be done so in the way that we interact with each other in each generation in order for it to be relevant.  This means that our styles and forms of communication will always be subject to change.  And so it is today as a change is made with the first edition of the new "E - Shepherd's Staff," our on-line newsletter.  This change is being done to better enable us to communicate the message of the Gospel as well as the activities of the life of our parish in both a timely and relevant manner. 

Published: 
May 21, 2009

A Heartfelt Thanks to Our Sunday School Teachers

from Janet Gilliam, Director of Children's Ministries

Bible JeopardyBible JeopardyEarlier this year, the Church of the Good Shepherd lost a great lady--Susan Stoker. Susan had been a parishioner at Good Shepherd for some 96 years, and her parents were here long before that. Most importantly, she was a warm, loving woman of deep and authentic faith. She was an inspiration, and I am still grieving her loss. She never had children of her own, yet she seemed genuinely charmed by little folks. I caught her many times grinning as she poured over bulletin boards of photographs featuring our children. She occasionally made financial contributions to Children's Ministries.

On no less than four occasions, she told me exactly the same story. "Janet, when I was a little girl, mama and daddy made me go to Sunday school ever single Sunday and ..." Okay, this is the part where your mind races ahead and you think she's going to say, "And that is what made me the woman of great faith that you see before you today." But instead, she says, "And I hated it, because it was BORING!" I was always shocked each time she said it, but then she would add, "But the children at this church are always running off to class laughing and playing. They seem to have so much fun, and I wish I could be a little child in Sunday school again too."

This, of course, was a compliment, but I'd like to explain why she was right. Our Sunday school teachers are the reason Susan Stoker was right. I can come up with support ideas, but the magic recipe for Sunday school is commitment, dedication, creativity, love of children, and a personal experience of Jesus Christ. There are not a lot of people that you can say all that about. In our classrooms I have seen prayer trees and candles, grape vines with children's faces and thumb print pictures, valentines and Christmas cards for shut ins and our soup kitchen guests. I have seen older parishioners share their faith with younger folk. I have seen kids and adults mesmerized in our Grapes and Grains class. I know where the world's best chocolate brownies are made. I have seen killer jeopardy games, and you have not seen hysterically cute until you have seen an enitre class of kindergarteners in turkey head dress in preparation for Thanksgiving! Our Sunday school teachers are magicians who can make all of that and more happen! When you see them, please thank the 2008-2009 Sunday school teaching staff at the Church of the Good Shepherd.

Published: 
May 20, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings...May 24

Red Carpet NightRed Carpet NightOne of the great blessings I have had as your Rector is the opportunity for the last thirteen years of watching many outstanding children go through our children’s and youth ministry programs.  The experience they have had in both of these programs and the love that has been bestowed upon them by their parents has enabled them to grow and mature into young adults who will one day be leaders in our church and in the world.  The more I am around our children, the better I feel about the future.

Published: 
May 20, 2009

The United Thank Offering Spring Ingathering

It's not too early to start thinking about the coming Spring Ingathering of the United Thank Offering.  Everyone is invited to participate. This offering is a practice in our life in Christ that begins with daily prayers and gifts of thanks. These gifts of thanksgiving from each individual are combined with all the others in the Episcopal Church and given as grants for projects throughout the Anglican Communion. These grants continue to support and strengthen the mission and ministry of the Church throughout the world. Boxes, similar to mite boxes, are provided for those who like to drop in coins and recite the things that they are thankful for each day. These boxes can be found in the Narthex and in the Duncan-Giersch Center (in the bookcase opposite the Nursery). Through the UTO you are participating in a missionary effort that began in 1889 and continues today to encourage men, women and children to share their thankfulness with others. UTO Offering Envelopes will be available in the church on May 24. If you collect coins in an UTO box, please place a check for the amount collected in the offering plate rather than your box of coins. For more information contact Meriwether Walker, UTO Coordinator.

Published: 
April 24, 2009

Campus Ministry Supports Faith Life Away from Home

ECM 2009: (click on image to enlarge)ECM 2009: (click on image to enlarge)The Episcopal Campus Ministry-Raleigh (Cheshire House) serves area college students from NCSU, Meredith and Peace colleges and is celebrating its 50th anniversary.  Cheshire House is a safe and hospitable place for students to gather and worship in the Episcopal tradition, and provides a spiritual home for Raleigh college students who are too far from their home church.  Students who grew up in the Episcopal Church participate, as do those who are looking for a church. Many times those students find one at the Cheshire House and join the Episcopal Church. After graduating, most students continue in the Episcopal Church, becoming Sunday school teachers, Vestry members, deacons, priests, and bishops.

Published: 
April 24, 2009

Urgent Need for Medical Professionals!

Urban Ministries' Open Door Clinic is in dire need of volunteers to serve Wake County's growing population of unemployed and uninsured. The Church of the Good Shepherd has supported Urban Ministries since its inception. In the past several years, the Outreach Committee has especially focused our support on the healthcare arm of the organization, which we feel is an invaluable asset to our community. If you are a healthcare professional, please consider giving a few hours of your time to this worthy cause. Also, please share this request with your family, friends and neighbors who live and work in Wake County.  See details below.

Dear Friends of Urban Ministries:  Urban Ministries or Wake County is seeking medical professionals to volunteer in its Open Door Clinic. If you are a physician, nurse, lab technician, or pharmacist and are interested in serving the poor and uninsured in Wake County, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at (919) 256-2169 or email for more information. Website: www.urbanmin.org.

Published: 
April 24, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings, April 26th

Every so often I am awakened in the early hours of the morning by my dogs who have decided that it is time for them to get up and head outside for a few minutes.  One day last week was one of those times.  When I let them out the clock was sitting at 3 a.m.  I picked up my Bible and decided to read over Paul's two letters to Timothy.  These are words that we today would call a letter from an older priest to a younger one and should be read from time to time by all of us who are ordained.  I also think that they are powerful words for all of us in the church to read during the Great Fifty Days of Easter for they speak of how each of us should live the Christian life.

Published: 
April 22, 2009

THE RECTOR’S RAMBLINGS...EASTER DAY

"For this is the Passover of the Lord, in which, by hearing his Word and celebrating his Sacraments, we share in his victory over death." (BCP, p.285)

                 These words offered at 7:00 am on Easter Day mark the conclusion of the Invitation in the Great Vigil of Easter and come immediately after the lighting of the fire from which the Paschal Candle will be lighted.  A prayer is then said and the Paschal Candle is lighted and begins its movement into the darkened church as the Exsultet is sung. A small flicker of flame, symbolic of the light of the Risen Christ in the world, it is our reminder that the darkness had not overcome the true light that has come into the world.

Published: 
April 9, 2009

THE RECTOR’S RAMBLINGS...Palm Sunday

"All glory, laud, and honor to thee, Redeemer, King! To whom the lips of children made sweet hosannas ring." (Hymn 154)

The words above are from the refrain of one of the most beloved hymns of the Church.  In most, if not all, Episcopal churches in our country, congregations will be singing this hymn as the processional for Palm Sunday.  By singing this hymn we in our own way do two things.  First, we become a part of the great triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem.  A number of years ago when I was studying in Jerusalem, some of us in our group followed the traditional path down the Mount of Olives toward the old city of Jerusalem while singing this hymn.  I can only imagine what this walk would have been like for the disciples, but for me it was a powerful experience for I came to understand in a new way that we can truly come to experience the presence of our Lord in the ordinary events of our daily living.  It was going down the Mount of Olives on a warm, sunny day in May 1979 that my life was touched anew by the sounds of that great Messianic acclamation that has resounded across the ages, "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.  Hosanna in the highest."  Each time I participate in the Palm Sunday Liturgy I remember this scene.

Second, in singing this hymn, we mark the beginning of Holy Week.  On Palm Sunday we experience the full range of emotions associated with this week as we move in our worship experience from the cries of hosanna to those of "crucify him" in the reading of the Passion Narrative.  During the week we hear the lessons surrounding the events of Holy Week as we celebrate the Holy Eucharist at noon on Monday through Thursday.  Then at 7 pm on Maundy Thursday we experience the power of the Last Supper and the Stripping of the Church at the end of our worship.  On Good Friday, each of us in our own ways will stand in the shadow of the cross through the Good Friday Liturgy.  As somber as our worship is on this day, I believe that Good Friday is a day when all Christians need to be at Church for we truly need to understand both the depth of human sin and the depth of God's love for all humanity.

I encourage you to join with your brothers and sisters at Good Shepherd and walk with us along the path from the Triumphal entry into Jerusalem to the Cross on Good Friday

Published: 
March 25, 2009

The Flower Shuttle

The Flower Shuttle is comprised of a group of volunteers who meet at the Moravian Church to make flower arrangements that are distributed to nursing homes and other groups. Our own Shepherd's Table is a recipient of small arrangements for each table in the dinning room, so that the clients will have a bright spot in their day. The flowers are donated, mostly from weddings and corporate parties. Unfortunately, the Flower Shuttle is in need of our help, as some recipients are not returning the containers so new vases are having to be purchased.  Check under the kitchen sink, the garage, or wherever you might have put those old bud vases or small vases you no longer need (even coffee mugs can be used)!  If you find that you can part with any of your collection, please bring them to church on Sunday and leave them in the Duncan-Giersch Center's main lobby, and we'll see that they get to the Flower Shuttle.  For more information on this wonderful ministry visit www.theflowershuttle.com.

Published: 
March 11, 2009

The Rector's Ramblings...

Now that we have entered into the Season of Lent, I am sure that most of us have started living into our Lenten Discipline.  For many of us, that means giving up something that has meaning for us.  Some give up alcohol, others give up special foods or desserts.  Still others give up things that we might not consider.  While coaching high school football years ago, I am sure that I had at least one player who thought about giving up homework for Lent.  While this may have seemed a noble sacrifice on his part, it really did not fit the criteria for why one gives up something for Lent, which is to deepen our relationship with our Lord.

If you are still thinking about what to do for Lent in 2009, let me make a suggestion as to how you might take your relationship with Jesus to a deeper level.  You can make a commitment to do two things during Lent.  First, Read the Bible daily.  Let God's Word proclaimed in Scripture touch your heart as you reflect upon it.  For example read Genesis, Exodus, and John during the next few weeks.  The first two books put you in touch with the early history of the Israelites starting with creation and going through God's saving action in the lives of the people as they are led by Moses from their bondage in Egypt.  As you read these books, you will truly come to experience the fact that, "Our God is an Awesome God."

The third book, The Gospel According to John, is my favorite book of the Bible.  In it we move from the majestic words of the prologue to the signs or miracles of Jesus and from there to his betrayal, death, and resurrection and finally to the magnificent three-fold reconciliation of Peter.  All of us, as Episcopalians, need to spend time allowing the words of this gospel account to transform our lives.

Published: 
March 11, 2009

The Associate Rector's Reflections: March 1

"O God, from my youth thou has taught me, and I still proclaim thy wondrous deeds. So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, till I proclaim thy might to all generations to come." Psalm 71:17ff"

Wisdom has built her house, she has set up her seven pillars..." Proverbs 9:1

Susan Stoker, who until her death last week was the oldest active member of our congregation, was someone who seemed to me to look forward to the future with as much hopeful expectancy, as she looked to the past with wise and discerning remembrance. And above all, she was fully present to the present. Her life, not only in its length (95+ years), but also in its depth, in its true wisdom, and in a deep spirituality that never lost touch with her reason, is a gift of God to her friends, family, Church, community, and world and a sign of how extravagantly generous God is. I personally considered her friendship and companionship on the pilgrim journey of faith in Christ to be both a gift of God that went beyond “churchy” fellowship, and pointed to the possibilities of what authentic Christian community can be.

Published: 
February 25, 2009

Good Shepherd Children Prepare for Lent

Lent is a season of penitence and discipline.  It calls us to reexamine our lives, reevaluate our behavior, and to return to God.  In Children's Ministries, we make every effort to "train up" our children, so that they are learning that God simply wants us to quiet ourselves in a troubled world, so that He can direct us to be His hands, His feet, and His words.  We are to comfort, to serve, and to heal.

Published: 
February 25, 2009

Good Shepherd Children Understand That Love Is an Action Verb!

On January 15, 2009, a very moving photo was published in the Life section of the News and Observer. A nine year-old girl and her mother are featured standing in line at the Shepherd's Table Soup Kitchen. The girl is bundled in a coat with the hood up; on the wall next to her, someone has scrawled, "Love One Another." The mother is quoted as saying, "We didn't ask to live like this. It's especially tough right now." The expression on the child's face reveals complete bewilderment, and it is gut wrenching. She, and her younger sister, are two of several children who are eating their lunch under the roof of the Church of the Good Shepherd.

Enter in-God's mercy!!! The photo appeared in the paper on Thursday, Good Shepherd children (and their parents) had a collection the next Sunday, and by Tuesday, a child's backpack and a baby's diaper bag were ready for distribution to this homeless family. The backpack was crammed with pencils, markers, paper, notebooks, story books, tape, glue, toothpaste, toothbrushes, hair brushes, combs, hair products, hand sanitizer, soap, socks, gloves, a hat, tissues and a small toy. There was even a gift certificate for McDonald's! The diaper bag was crammed with diapers, wipes, baby toiletries, a sipper cup, food, a snow suit, blanket, and small toys. The bags were discretely delivered by the soup kitchen director within the week. All this has happened because love is an action verb here in Children's Ministries. The response that is seen is one of compassion. It is Christ's own love that enables our families to respond swiftly and passionately. So much so, that a backpack ministry has already begun with the excess donations! Three more backpacks have been placed in the soup kitchen awaiting future needy children. If you would care to contribute items or make a cash contribution to this ongoing ministry, please contact Janet Gilliam (831-2003 or ). Join us in acting out what it means to love one another.

Published: 
February 6, 2009

A Word from the Warden

It's hard to believe we are already well into a new year, but your 2009 Vestry is already hard at work.  After a Saturday retreat in mid-January to get to know one another and refresh ourselves spiritually, we met for our first regular monthly meeting and approved a budget for 2009.  I have summarized the budget below after adjusting for the costs of the Capital Campaign incurred in 2008.

                                              2009 Budget             2008 Actual

Pledges                                      690,000                   703,000

General Offerings                        125,000                   118,000

Other Income                             112,000                   105,000

TOTAL REVENUES                         927,000                   926,000

Worship, Music, Pastoral Care       331,000                   312,000

Outreach                                    149,000                   147,000

Programs & Fellowship                 105,000                   109,000

Administration                            170,000                   186,000

Building & Grounds                      172,000                   182,000

TOTAL EXPENSES                         927,000                   936,000

As you can see, we are showing essentially flat revenues for 2009 resulting in the need to reduce expenditures in the coming year.   Our pledges in hand for 2009 total just over $658,258, so we have a way to go if we expect to meet this budget.  The Vestry has committed to working to increase revenue in the coming months to meet our operating needs.  This means encouraging more parishioner contributions, as well as looking at other sources of revenue. The Vestry is also looking for ways to reduce expenses.  To balance the budget, we had to reduce funding for a number of programs; did not provide any increases in compensation for clergy or staff; and reduced expenses such as property maintenance and grounds care.  Even this may not be enough, so we are looking at everything.  Our office and program staffs have been diligent in helping to keep costs down while working hard not to diminish the quality of the programs here at Good Shepherd.  I sincerely appreciate their efforts. We did not cut funding for Outreach in 2009; however, we will be taking a closer look at where those dollars are going this year, particularly as we continue to look for more ways to utilize our facilities for Outreach.

So what can parishioners do to help?  If you haven't made a pledge to the operating budget, I once again strongly encourage you to consider doing so.  I realize that many people are worried about their finances and are thus reluctant to make a commitment to the church.  But a pledge is not a legally binding agreement:  it is your estimate of what you think you can contribute.  If circumstances change, a pledge can be changed. If you have made a pledge, please do your best to stay current with your contributions. If you give in one or several lump sums during the year, please don't wait until the fourth quarter to make your gift.  Your church can use those funds all throughout the year. This will truly be the year when your time and talents will also be in great demand at Good Shepherd.  If you have time and can offer the church your skills or expertise in some area that would be of use to us, please let us know.  You can always contact me or any member of the Vestry with an offer to help.

As your Senior Warden, I sometimes feel that I am the one who is always out there asking for money for the church.  Believe me, it's not my favorite activity!  But I love this church, and I think it's my responsibility to let you know what's happening.  These are challenging times economically, and churches are feeling the pinch just like everyone else.  I hope that you will not forget what Good Shepherd means to you and your family.

Faithfully, Julie S. Lowe, Senior Warden

Published: 
February 6, 2009

St. Francis Needlework Guild: 2008 Was Great!

The St. Francis Needlework Guild was named for the patron saint of needleworkers. A quote from the first chapter of 2 Corinthians expresses the goal of this group: "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God."

Published: 
January 14, 2009

Winter Blood Drive

The Church of the Good Shepherd 2009 winter blood drive is scheduled for Sunday, January 25, in Shepherd's Hall from 7:30 AM to    12:30 PM. This time of year often brings shortages for the Red Cross, which supplies blood for hospitals and needy recipients across the region. This year is no exception. The great news is that we have a convenient way for you to donate while at Sunday services. Since we began having biannual drives, our congregation has been responsible for collecting 225 much needed units of blood. With your help, and contributions from our neighbors from First Presbyterian Church, we'll be able to add 60 or more units to that total this month.

Published: 
January 14, 2009

Thank You from Al-Anon Group to CGS

Since April of this year, Good Shepherd has been privileged to provide space for a dedicated Al-Anon Group which meets each Friday at noon in the parlor of the Parish Life Center. Below is a note of appreciation from the group leader.

This is a note of appreciation for the use of your space for our Al-Anon Meeting. We appreciate the happy voice that always greets us as we ask to be buzzed in. Attendance is relatively small but has been growing to as many as 10-12 people.

Published: 
November 30, 2008

From Larry Seiger

Published: 
November 30, 2008

More Thoughts on Generous Giving

By Julie Lowe

A parishioner pulled me aside on Sunday to talk about stewardship. This person was surprised that only about 30% of our congregation pledge. It was a theme echoed during the Vestry Candidate Forum in response to a question about our church and these tough economic times. It is a fair question and one we struggle with even in good times.

Published: 
November 30, 2008

From Chris Decker

Fifteen years ago I arrived at Good Shepherd with Meredith, my future wife, who grew up attending Good Shepherd. Growing up in rural Pennsylvania I always attended a church of no more than 50 people where ‘everyone knew your name’. I walked into Good Shepherd and immediately passed judgment thinking ‘this is another big stuffy church where no one knows your name’. I kept that chip on my shoulder for a number of years attending church more to appease Meredith than to develop relationships and grow spiritually.

Published: 
November 16, 2008

From Natalie Valchar

Mike and Natalie Valchar live with their 3 children, Katie, Grace and Joseph, in Wake Forest and have been members of Good Shepherd for 2 years.

Published: 
November 16, 2008

From Janet Gilliam

The Church of the Good Shepherd
November 6, 2008

Dear Friends,

Published: 
November 16, 2008

Nursery Dedicated on All Saints' Sunday

Dr. Sawyer and Janet GilliamDr. Sawyer and Janet GilliamOur celebration of All Saints' Day on Sunday, November 2, was made even more special with the honoring of our own saint among us, Janet Gilliam.  Bob Sawyer presented Janet with a plaque and informed her that the Nursery in the Parish Life Center will hereafter be named The Janet Gilliam Nursery.  But what many people did not appreciate was the effort that went on behind the scenes to make this possible.

Some months ago, a group of parents was looking for a way to honor Janet. With the Center Campaign just kicking off, it seemed like a good idea to raise enough money to name a room for her in the Parish Life Center.  The Nursery was chosen and the drive to raise $100,000 began.  A letter from parishioners, Kim Andreaus, Meredith Decker, Marsha East and Anna Howard, was sent to all nursery and Sunday School parents asking for pledges and with strict instructions to keep this a secret.

In the end, over $130,000 was collectively pledged, and, even more amazingly, we managed to keep it a secret from Janet!  Anyone who saw her reaction on Sunday can attest to that.  Thank you to everyone who contributed to this effort.  And especially thanks to Janet for all she does for this parish family.

Published: 
November 14, 2008

From Ed Sharp

For those of you that know our family, you are aware of the emotional (and spiritual) roller coaster we have been riding the past 12 months. We've been through several lows and associated highs and the Good Shepherd family has helped us through it all. More on that later.

Published: 
November 2, 2008

Bless This Companion Link

The Rev. Dr. Robert C. Sawyer gave Carol Moleko of the Diocese of Botswana a tour of Good Shepherd and shared some of its history.The Rev. Dr. Robert C. Sawyer gave Carol Moleko of the Diocese of Botswana a tour of Good Shepherd and shared some of its history.Item number five in the companion diocese contract between the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina and the Anglican Diocese of Botswana states, "We will establish congregational connections between parishes in Botswana and convocations in North Carolina."

Published: 
November 2, 2008

From Jamey & Helen Bass

We've been with Good Shepherd for the last 5 years since we moved to the area, but we only started to really get involved over the last year. So, it was a little bit of a surprise when we were asked to write about what the church has meant to us, but it has been such a wonderful place for our family that it was pretty easy.

Published: 
November 2, 2008

Thoughts on the Blessing of Animals

The Rev. Miriam Saxon

(View a collection of photos from the pet blessing in our galleries)

What fun it was to mark the commemoration of St. Francis of Assisi's life and ministry with our annual blessing of our pets! This was my first opportunity as a priest to participate in an animal blessing, and it was a holy way to honor the love that our pets provide us. I have often said that my first dog, Lucy (a black lab), taught me the true meaning of God's unconditional love for us. No matter how often I ignored Lucy or fussed at her for some doggy error, she immediately forgave me for any meanness and always greeted me as if I was the most important person in the universe.

Published: 
October 31, 2008

Radical Welcome: Practicing Jesus' Hospitality

November 2 - November 23 with Lisa Towle
NOTE: Nov. 2 class will be at 9am

"The Episcopal Church welcomes you." Just about every church wants to be known as the friendly church, the hospitable church. The real challenge is to become more than a slogan; it is to be a community of faith that is radically welcoming while it celebrates the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This is the premise of the book "Radical Welcome" by The Rev. Stephanie Spellers, an Episcopal priest. Over the course of five weeks, we'll explore this book and get down to the root-level, the Jesus-level, in order to answer some key questions: "What does it mean to offer a radical welcome?" "Just how do we become God's radically welcoming people?" "Are we ready for the transformation and relationship God seeks in us and with us?" (Copies of the book will be available for purchase at the first class.)

Published: 
October 29, 2008

Farewell Migrant Ministry Gathering in Raleigh

CHANGE OF PLANS: The farmworkers at our adopted camp were sent back to Mexico ahead of schedule. In lieu of the farewell brunch, there will be a coffee hour in Shepherd's Hall between the 9:00am and 11:15am services. This will be an informal time for the congregations of both services to visit with each other over coffee and muffins while the children attend their regularly scheduled classes. The following Adult Formation Classes will also meet: The Battle Bible Class, the Newcomers' Class and the "Your Money and Your Life" Class.

Published: 
October 5, 2008

Getting to Know Botswana

[The Diocese of Botswana and the Diocese of North Carolina are now companion dioceses. In the coming weeks, information about what this means, about the Anglican Diocese of Botswana and the country itself will be shared with the people of the Church of the Good Shepherd by Lisa Towle, a parishioner of CGS as well as a member of the North Carolina-Botswana Companion Link Committee.]

Published: 
October 5, 2008

Angels Among Us!

There are angels among us, and you might never guess who some of them are! Do they have wings and gowns? Do they fly? Do they play harps and wear halos? Not necessarily. Here's the secret: they're members of children's Sunday school!!!

Published: 
October 5, 2008

Help Us Help Others Through Community Outreach

The Community Outreach Ministry of Good Shepherd is being tested by a great influx of those who are in financial need due to loss of jobs and growing concern about the economy. All of the agencies in Wake County are overwhelmed with requests for assistance, and the need is growing. We need your help in seeing that those who meet our ministry's criteria are seen in a timely manner. Our program is set up to serve Raleigh residents only who need financial help with rent or utilities. Most are trying to avoid eviction or having their utilities turned off.

Published: 
September 21, 2008

Rally Day Kickoff! September 7, 2008

Good Shepherd children returned to Sunday school this past week with joy and excitement! On Rally Day, they met new teachers, found new classrooms, put together a craft item, and shared a snack. They were also introduced to this year’s theme. Jesus said, “I am the vine, you are the branches.” He goes on to expand that idea by pointing out that if we live in Him, we will bear great fruit and that without Him, we have no life source and thus, no fruit. This is the same long narrative where Jesus goes on to instruct us to be His disciples, keep His commandments, abide in His love, take His joy, and to love one another as he has loved us. He promotes us from servants to friends. Wow! What a wonderful lesson, both powerful and meaningful, for children to focus on as the theme of children’s Sunday school for the 2008-2009 school year!

Published: 
September 21, 2008

The CGS Shred-It Event

Saturday, September 27
10am-noon, in the parking lot

Approximately 10 million Americans are victims of identity theft each year. Yes, that’s right—10 million! You cannot entirely control whether or not you will become a victim, but there are certain things you can do to minimize the risks. Some things that should be shredded are the following:

Published: 
September 21, 2008

Wake County Habitat for Humanity

In February of this year, The Church of the Good Shepherd helped three needy families in Mexico realize their dreams of home ownership through Habitat for Humanity International. Now we have the opportunity to do the same in our own community. Habitat for Humanity of Wake County is offering CGS the chance to participate in the “Apostles Build” program. This initiative brings 12 or more churches together to help build a new home for a deserving family. This collaborative approach provides an opportunity for fellowship with other Christians and also reduces the sponsorship rate for each participating congregation.

Published: 
August 10, 2008

The Altar Guild Invites Your Participation!

The Church of the Good Shepherd Altar Guild is looking for new members, and this is an open invitation to anyone (women and men) who would like to take part in this wonderful ministry. The time commitment is relatively small, but the fun and fellowship are great!

The Altar Guild is divided into 4 teams, each is responsible for just one week a month. Weekly assignments rotate forward on an annual basis. The total time obligation per month is only about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

Published: 
August 10, 2008

Care and Discernment Groups

This is a reminder that in October I plan to introduce a new means of bringing us together as servants of Christ and members of Church of the Good Shepherd. I plan to start offering listening groups, which I call Care and Discernment Groups, since the purpose is to offer spiritual care to others as we individually and collectively discern God’s work in our lives. These groups of six or seven participants will meet once a week, for the number of weeks that match the number of participants. The group’s goal is simply to listen to each other’s stories to hear where God might be at work in each participant’s life. The sessions will be tightly structured and filled with prayer and periods of silence, as we prayerfully listen to one another. Each week one member of the group will tell a story about something going on in their lives as they struggle to hear God at work in their life. As I said in my sermon on August 10th, most of us are not trained to be good listeners. My dream is that these groups will teach us to be better listeners. Hopefully, improving our interpersonal listening skills will also make us better at hearing God when God is speaking to us. Plus there is great power in being truly listened to, without any attempt, by those listening, to fix or counsel or guide the storyteller.

Published: 
August 10, 2008