A Word from the Fold
September 2020 edition of the Shepherd’s Staff
What’s Happening at Church of the Good Shepherd?
It feels like we just got into the rhythm of summer with the hot humid days of August when suddenly we’ve turned a corner, and here we are approaching Autumn. This is my favorite time of year with its warm days and cool nights, not to mention all the fall activities like apple picking and pie baking. Of course, this is normally also the time for back to school and a return to a full schedule of church programs. But this year is quite different for all of us as many of the routines have changed due to the ongoing pandemic.
This is also a time of new beginnings at CGS. Programs will look a little different this fall but rest assured that many people have been hard at work behind the scenes preparing for this new phase of ministry.
The Regathering Committee has been mapping out a plan for holding outdoor worship services at least while the weather cooperates. Protocols have been written and are being submitted to the Diocese for approval. In order for everyone to hear the service outdoors, we need to purchase some sound equipment. A sound tech has visited the church and made a recommendation for our set-up. Approvals from the Finance Committee and the Vestry are complete, and the order is in process. We will let you know as soon as possible when all is ready for our first outdoor service.
With regard to Christian Education, Taryn Ross-Hyman has been meeting regularly throughout the summer with church school and youth leaders from across the diocese. These Zoom sessions have provided a way for folks to share ideas about how best to re-engage the children and youth in faith formation. Taryn hopes to offer several activities for the children in the coming weeks. The Church School Council met last week along with Barb Magee from Mission Outreach to brainstorm ways to continue providing opportunities for the kids to get excited about mission and help others in communities near and far.
The Vestry is undergoing a process of linking its members with the various standing committees of our parish in an effort to foster better communication and support for ministry leaders. There are a number of areas in which parishioners can be of assistance in helping to keep this a strong and vibrant parish.
So while we’ve not been together in the building at 164 Newtown Road over the last six months, there is a great deal going on by members of the church to keep things moving forward. A number of improvements have been made to the building and grounds, the most recent being the installation of phone system and internet upgrades. These developments will enable continued live streaming of our worship, even after services resume in the sanctuary.
In the meantime, I hope that you will continue to support the ministry of CGS through your participation, your financial pledge and your prayers. May God continue to bless us for service in our communities as we journey together in faith.
Blessings,
Melissa