Basics

What should I expect on my first visit?

When you arrive for worship you will be warmly welcomed by a member of our Welcome Team. Then you will be taken to an usher who will give you a bulletin and help you find a seat. Either of these members will be happy to answer any questions you may have before and after the service.

What are the services like?

Worship services at Good Shepherd range from traditional to contemporary. Our 8 AM service is from Rite I, the traditional order of the service in the Episcopal Church. This service is entirely spoken, more contemplative, and focuses predominantly on corporate prayer. Our 10:15 AM service comes from Rite II. This is the more modern version of the Episcopal liturgy. This service features a blend of traditional hymns and contemporary worship anthems.

How will I know what to do?

Episcopal liturgy might be an adjustment for people who are new to it, but we’re here to help. In the Episcopal Church, all of our worship is taken from The Book of Common Prayer. There are BCPs in every pew in church, along with The Hymnal 1982. Your worship bulletin will contain the entire service and direct you to the page and hymn numbers. Please feel free to ask our clergy if you have questions.

Can I take communion? How does it work?

All baptized Christians of any denomination or tradition are welcome to receive Holy Communion at Good Shepherd, children included! When your pew is released by the usher, walk forward to the altar. You will be directed to come forward to receive the elements. To receive the bread, place your right hand over your left, palms up, so that the priest may put a portion of bread in your palm. If you are going to drink from the chalice, you may consume the bread immediately. When drinking, it is helpful if you place your hand on the bottom of the chalice and help the chalice bearer guide it to your mouth. If you do not wish to drink from the chalice, the chalice bearer will intinct (dip) your bread in the wine. If you do not wish to receive wine at all, simply consume your bread, cross your arms over your chest, and return to your seat.

Do I need to become a member to participate?

Nope! You are welcome at everything. However, as you grow into our community we encourage you to think and pray about becoming a member. Watch the schedule for "What it means to be an Episcopalian" classes or speak with one of the clergy if you are interested in starting the membership process right away. If you come from another Episcopal church, we are happy to transfer your membership to our parish!

Is there a dress code?

Not at all. Some parishioners may choose to dress up for holidays, but ultimately, whatever you wear, you are welcome!

Am I required to give money?

Absolutely not. Some find that as they move into a deeper relationship with God and become more involved in ministry, giving becomes a very natural step in their Christian lives. We welcome you to discern that at your own pace, and in what increments are wise for your budget. If you find this is something you would like to begin, you can give at any time here.

What do I call the clergy? Pastor? Priest? Reverend? I’m so confused!

There are three orders of clergy in the Episcopal Church: deacons, priests, and bishops. Many address deacons as Deacon, followed by their first name. At Good Shepherd, some parishioners use "Father" to address male priests and "Mother" to address female priests. The best way to know how to address the clergy here is to ask them. (They're both really nice! We promise!)

Can I meet with a priest?

Please do! All clergy are listed on this website with their contact information. Our rector, Mthr. Natalie Van Kirk, and vice rector, Fthr. Fred Schmidt, are available by appointment. Please contact the office to schedule one today!

Navigation

How do I get there?

We are located on the eastern side of Wilson Pike/252, between Concord Road and Crockett Road.

Where do I park?

We have two parking lots: an upper lot to the right, and a lower lot to the left. The upper lot features guest-specific space just for you. From there you may walk to the north entrance where an usher will be ready to greet you!

Is the church handicap accessible?

Yes. Our upper parking lot has designated handicap parking with easy access to the church building. The building itself is one floor.