Finding Strength Together: New Support Group for Prison Families

The incarceration of a loved one can feel like a devastating and isolating experience. Families often struggle alone to navigate the complicated criminal justice system while enduring the trauma and stigma that surrounds this difficult reality.

​At the Church of the Good Shepherd, we believe no one should have to walk this path alone. That is why we are launching the Prison Families Support Group—a vital new ministry dedicated to providing support, community, and hope for friends and family members impacted by incarceration.

A Support Group Rooted in Faith and Experience
This group is organized and led by two members of our congregation, Ann and Shep Smith. They understand that the need for support goes beyond what is often available. In their experience, many existing faith-based groups focus solely on conversion. Their vision is to offer a different approach: a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where the focus is on emotional support, practical resource sharing, and simply being present for one another.

The clergy and leadership at Good Shepherd fully support this effort, recognizing the urgent need to extend God's love and community to those facing the immense challenges of having a loved one in the justice system.

Join Our Community
This monthly support group is designed for friends and family members who are justice-impacted with a loved one who is incarcerated.

Our goal is straightforward: to break the silence and stigma surrounding incarceration by building community. Together, we seek to strengthen families, foster resilience, and encourage hope for healing and restoration.

We invite you to join us for our inaugural meeting and find a space where your experience is understood and your burden can be shared. You do not need to be a member of Good Shepherd to attend—all are welcome.

Meeting Details

• When: The group will meet monthly on the second Saturday.
• First Meeting: Saturday, October 11, at 10:00 AM
• Where: Church of the Good Shepherd, Raleigh, NC (Specific room details will be provided when you register or arrive.)

Share the Hope
If you know of anyone in your own family, neighborhood, or other congregations who might benefit from this support group, we sincerely appreciate you sharing this information. 

All necessary contact and registration information is available on the flyer below.

We look forward to meeting you and building a community defined by compassion and hope.