 Books and Bagels, February 2026: (l-r): Dennis & the Rev. Joyce Corbin Allen, Terry Sullivan, Jean Knepley, Christie Barbee, Marguerite Sullivan, Gregg Knepley, Lynn Hoke, and Debbie Moyer At the Church of the Good Shepherd, we believe that spiritual growth and meaningful relationships go hand in hand. Our Adult Fellowship Groups are a wonderful way to connect with others, share in life's journey, and deepen your faith. Whether you are a longtime member or a newcomer, we invite you to explore these opportunities to find a place where you truly belong. Learn about a few of our Adult Fellowship Groups here. Do you see something missing? Reach out if you'd like to start a new group or have your group included on the parish website listing here. Weekly & Monthly Fellowship Groups  Books and Bagels: the Parish Book Club Our parish book club, Books and Bagels, meets every Thursday at 8:30 AM at the Chanticleer Cafe and Bakery in Cary (6490 Tryon Road). We believe that great stories—both sacred and secular—can be a gateway to deep spiritual reflection. We are currently reading Becoming by Michelle Obama, exploring themes of identity, resilience, and public service over coffee and pastries. Can’t make it to Cary? If this time or location doesn't work for you, we would love to help you start a new satellite book group in your own neighborhood! Contact Jean Knepley for guidance on how to get your book club started.
 Kaffeeklatsch: Simple Community Would you enjoy some coffee, conversation, and community? Kaffeeklatsch meets every Wednesday morning from 9:00 to 10:00 AM at Cafe Carolina in the Village District. This group is built on the simple joy of being together; there is no set agenda or study guide. We gather to share the "highs and lows" of our lives and enjoy a mid-week break in a relaxed setting. Parking is free and easy at 2128 Clark Avenue. For questions, reach out to Jean Knepley.  Men’s Fellowship Lunch: Casual Connection Our Men’s Fellowship Lunches offer a consistent monthly touchpoint for the men of the parish. We meet on the second Thursday of each month at 12:00 PM at High Park Grill (625 E. Whitaker Mill Road). These lunches are known for lively conversation, local news updates, and a welcoming atmosphere where no reservation is ever required. Contact Jack Boyne (919.832.3641) for details. Our Annual Traditions Our community fellowship thrives through cherished yearly events that bridge the gap between worship and social times. These gatherings provide unique opportunities for all ages to connect, serve, and celebrate the seasons of the church together. Here are a few highlights!
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 Judi Mathis rolls the beautiful arrangements to the Nave. If you have ever paused to admire the vibrant arrangements flanking our altar, you have witnessed the quiet and creative ministry of the Flower Guild. While their work adds undeniable beauty to our worship, the story behind the flowers is one of stewardship, artistry, and pastoral care. The Flower Guild is a dedicated team of volunteers who handle more than 80 percent of our Sunday services along with receptions, funerals, and special events like ordinations. While a commercial florist arrangement can often exceed $300, the Flower Guild provides stunning seasonal displays for just $100. They are able to do this because the artistry and time are donated by the members themselves. Their materials come from everywhere including local farmers markets, grocery stores, wholesale florists, and even fresh greenery clipped from their own backyards. This resourceful approach ensures that our sacred space is filled with life and color in a way that is both sustainable and heartfelt.  Getting Started! The ministry of the Flower Guild does not end when the final hymn is sung. One of the most beautiful aspects of this group is what happens during the deconstruction phase. On Sunday afternoons or Monday mornings, volunteers break down the large altar displays and re-arrange them into smaller bouquets. These re-imagined flowers are then delivered by parish volunteers to members of our community during pastoral care visits. Most of our flower donors choose to donate their arrangements for this purpose, allowing the beauty of our Sunday worship to be carried directly into the homes and hospital rooms of those who need a reminder of our community’s love. Currently the Guild is made up of about 12 arrangers and a supporting team that handles the deconstruction and re-arranging process. You do not need to be a master florist to participate as you simply need a love for nature and a desire to serve. Whether you have a green thumb for building large arrangements or prefer the quiet task of creating small bouquets for pastoral visits, there is a seat for you in this ministry.  We set the vases on the Communion rail to make sure that they are on the “correct” side of the altar. We invite you to consider sharing your time and creativity with this essential ministry. It is a wonderful way to connect with fellow parishioners while creating something beautiful for God and our neighbors. Please contact Judi Mathis for more information on joining the Flower Guild.  The altar is ready for services. Look for photos of our beautiful altar flowers each week in the Parish News. Thank you to Peter Jezierny for sharing these lovely images! The photos here show flowers from many of our 2025 services.
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