Welcome Visitors!

Thank you for visiting our web site. We hope that you find it helpful and informative. Whether you are new to the Raleigh area or are a long-time resident, we invite you to come and worship with us.

The Episcopal Church visitors' center has answers to many frequently asked questions about the Episcopal church. You may also want to see our page on What to Expect during a service, and the Glossary to understand the Episcopal 'language'. Please consider completing an on-line visitor's card.

The Worship Services

In your pew, you will find two books for use during services. The Episcopal church follows the red Book of Common Prayer for the order and content of its services. Hymns are found the blue Hymnal.

All baptized Christians are invited to receive Holy Communion. Those who do not receive communion are invited to the altar rail for a blessing. Please cross you arms over your chest when you come to the altar rail to receive a blessing.

When you visit at Good Shepherd, you will be our respected and welcome guest. You will not be singled out in an embarrassing way, nor asked to stand before the congregation nor to come forward. You will worship God with us.

Joining the Church

We at Good Shepherd consider it a privilege to meet with people and welcome them into the Good Shepherd Family. If you are a confirmed Episcopalian, you may request a Canonical Letter of Transfer from your former parish to the Church of the Good Shepherd. Call the church office and we will send the request for you.

If you are not an Episcopalian and wish to become one, you must be confirmed in the Episcopal Church. Prior confirmation by a Roman Catholic or Orthodox bishop is recognized, and such persons are received by the bishop into the Episcopal Church. Please call the church office for class times for inquirers and for confirmation preparation.