Welcome to the Sacred Season of Advent
We extend a warm welcome to all, both parishioners and visitors, as we embark upon the journey of Advent and prepare for the celebration of the Nativity of our Lord. We embrace you as a beloved part of our community. We invite you to join us as we observe the liturgies of this holy season, reflecting upon the miracle of Christ's birth, and rejoicing in the promise fulfilled on Christmas Day.
Special Advent Messages:
11/28: Message from the Rector || Finding Your Way Through Advent
12/2: Be a Light This Advent—Give or Volunteer for Our Neighbors in Need
Special Advent Messages:
11/28: Message from the Rector || Finding Your Way Through Advent
12/2: Be a Light This Advent—Give or Volunteer for Our Neighbors in Need
2025 Schedule:
Upcoming events:
Advent Formation Series: Making Room to Encounter Christ
Join us at 9 AM each Sunday during Advent to explore how Christ is encountered through service to others. Each week, community leaders from Good Shepherd and beyond will share stories from their own experiences and ministry as to how compassion, justice, and discipleship show up in responding to the real and often urgent needs of our neighbors. The series encourages reflection on how we, too, can serve Christ in the presence of our neighbors during this season of preparation and hope.
Join us at 9 AM each Sunday during Advent to explore how Christ is encountered through service to others. Each week, community leaders from Good Shepherd and beyond will share stories from their own experiences and ministry as to how compassion, justice, and discipleship show up in responding to the real and often urgent needs of our neighbors. The series encourages reflection on how we, too, can serve Christ in the presence of our neighbors during this season of preparation and hope.
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The St. Nicholas Tree - Nov. 23-Dec. 7
Starting on Sunday, November 23, the St. Nicholas/Angel Tree will be in the foyer of the PLC. The Episcopal Farmworkers' Ministry folks graciously made angels for the 80 children that we are providing for this year which will be hanging on the tree. Just choose an angel (or more if you wish - up to 4 per family), sign the registration book with your name and contact information under the correct angel number and start shopping! Please return all WRAPPED gifts to the church by Sunday December 7th at the latest - there are instruction sheets available for you to take as well which remind you to LABEL each gift with the child's #. If you would like to participate but do not have the time or desire to shop, donations will be accepted and used to provide gifts to angels not chosen. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Jennifer Tlusty. |
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Dec 6- Advent Quiet Day
A Quiet Day is a day set aside for prayer, listening, and honest reflection, allowing for new clarity on life and a widening connection to God. Learn more and RSVP here. |
Dec 7, The 2nd Sunday of Advent
- 8:00 am & 10:15 am – Holy Eucharist
- 4:00 pm – Advent Lessons and Carols
New for 2025! Join us for a Service of Advent Lessons and Carols in the Anglican tradition. This festive liturgy alternates scripture readings (“lessons”) telling the story of salvation with seasonal anthems and hymns (“carols”) sung by the choir and congregation. Led by diverse voices throughout our parish family, this special service invites reflection and anticipation of the coming of Christ at his Nativity. The service will be followed by a reception in Shepherd's Hall.
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Alternative Gift Giving
Feeling like you, your family, or your friends already have too much abundance? Do you need a gift idea that transcends clutter? Here is a thoughtful solution for the season: Alternative Gift Giving (AGG)! Donating to a non-profit which upholds your loved ones’ values is a perfect way to honor, remember, or celebrate someone by making a real difference in the lives of people with very high levels of need. This year, the Outreach Committee is focused on Loving Our Neighbors, supporting proven charities with either a direct CGS connection or those dedicated to serving disadvantaged children and families. Visit our Alternative Gift Giving tables which will be set up in the Commons after both the 8:00 and 10:15 services on the first, second, and third Sundays of December:
For more information and to see the list of charities your generosity will support, or to donate online, please read our blog article: Alternative Gift Giving |
Dec 14, The 3rd Sunday of Advent (Gaudete Sunday)
- 8:00 am & 10:15 am – Holy Eucharist
- 4:00 pm – Service of Hope and Healing
This year's Service of Hope and Healing at Christmas provides a holy space of stillness and comfort for all those for whom this holiday season carries a sense of grief, loss, or heaviness. Join us for a contemplative liturgy of music, prayer, scripture, and candlelight, as together we lift up the prayers of our hearts to a God who is ever present and ever with us, whatever we may be facing.
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Dec 21, The 4th Sunday of Advent
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Dec 24, Christmas Eve
- 2:00 pm – Family Holy Eucharist
- 5:00 pm – Festival Holy Eucharist
- 9:00 pm – Holy Eucharist
Dec 25, Christmas Day (The Feast of the Nativity)
- 9:00 am – Christmas Day Holy Eucharist
Dec 28, The First Sunday after Christmas
- 8:00 - Holy Eucharist
- 10:15 am – Holy Eucharist with Christmas Lessons & Carols
We look forward to celebrating the joy of the season with you!
Parking
The Church of the Good Shepherd is conveniently located on Hillsborough Street, just one block from the North Carolina State Capitol. Here's a guide to parking options in the area:
We look forward to welcoming you!
- Handicapped Parking:
- There are handicapped parking spots directly behind the church in the small lot off of Morgan Street. A ramp from this lot provides access to the Parish Life Center.
- A few additional handicapped parking spots are located in front of the church off of Hillsborough Street, also providing access to the Parish Life Center.
- On-Street Parking:
- There is ample on-street parking available on the streets surrounding the church.
- Please note that meter fees are waived on Sundays, making this a convenient and cost-free option. During the week, meters are waived after 6:00 PM.
- 200 West Morgan Street Parking Lot:
- This parking lot is located directly across McDowell Street from the church, offering easy access. Parking is available at 200 W. Morgan Street (Former Diocesan House lot) on Sundays. Permission pending for other times.
- Municipal Lot, 201 West Morgan Street:
- This is another convenient parking lot located very close to the church.
We look forward to welcoming you!
Past Events:
Nov 30, The 1st Sunday of Advent
On Sunday, November 30 we’ll kickoff Advent! Immediately following the 10:15 worship service you’ll be able to make your Advent wreath (supplies provided), help decorate our beautiful Chrismon Tree, and enjoy fellowship and snacks.
Can You Help with the Chrismon Tree?
Immediately following the 10:15 worship service, we will be hanging ornaments on our beautiful Chrismon Tree! Lights will have already been installed. If you’re able to stay and help, please join us! It won’t take long. Contact: John and Karen Boyne
- 8:00 am & 10:15 am – Holy Eucharist
- Following 10:15 am Service – Advent Wreath Workshop
On Sunday, November 30 we’ll kickoff Advent! Immediately following the 10:15 worship service you’ll be able to make your Advent wreath (supplies provided), help decorate our beautiful Chrismon Tree, and enjoy fellowship and snacks.
Can You Help with the Chrismon Tree?
Immediately following the 10:15 worship service, we will be hanging ornaments on our beautiful Chrismon Tree! Lights will have already been installed. If you’re able to stay and help, please join us! It won’t take long. Contact: John and Karen Boyne
