Shepherd's Heart 11/14/25
For many, this time of year is filled with joy and anticipation. We gather with loved ones, carry out our favorite traditions, and enjoy the festiveness of the season. We have expectations of warmth, family, and laughter. But sometimes, the reality is quieter or harder. For some, feelings of loss, loneliness, or longing arise.
In these moments, we can cling to truth: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). This verse invites us to remember and believe that even though darkness, hardship, and sorrow are real, they do not have the final word. At Good Shepherd, we want you to know that wherever you find yourself this season, you are not alone. There are ways to get care and support in the weeks ahead.
Hope for the Holidays
We know that our hope is not tied to perfect circumstances, but is found in a perfect Savior who meets us with compassion, healing, and peace. Visit the HOPE table this Sunday for more information, helpful resources, and an encouraging gift to take home for yourself and a friend.
Blue Christmas Service
You are invited to our annual Blue Christmas service on Dec 21 at 3pm. This gentle, reflective service is for those carrying a heavy heart or any form of sorrow during what is often portrayed as a “merry and bright” season. Whether you are facing grief, loss, broken relationships, addiction, illness, or just the quiet ache of missing someone, this service is for you. Together, we will find peace and comfort in God’s presence.
Our message is simple: you do not have to pretend, you do not have to “be okay.” I believe deeply that community matters in this season, and I encourage you to connect — join a life group, come to Community Nights, or reach out to let us know how we can walk beside you. The Good Shepherd walks with each of us, and we are called to do the same for one another. My prayer is that the One whose light shines in the darkness would draw near to you and to our church family in new ways this season.
Blessings,
Pastor Pamela Palmer
In these moments, we can cling to truth: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). This verse invites us to remember and believe that even though darkness, hardship, and sorrow are real, they do not have the final word. At Good Shepherd, we want you to know that wherever you find yourself this season, you are not alone. There are ways to get care and support in the weeks ahead.
Hope for the Holidays
We know that our hope is not tied to perfect circumstances, but is found in a perfect Savior who meets us with compassion, healing, and peace. Visit the HOPE table this Sunday for more information, helpful resources, and an encouraging gift to take home for yourself and a friend.
Blue Christmas Service
You are invited to our annual Blue Christmas service on Dec 21 at 3pm. This gentle, reflective service is for those carrying a heavy heart or any form of sorrow during what is often portrayed as a “merry and bright” season. Whether you are facing grief, loss, broken relationships, addiction, illness, or just the quiet ache of missing someone, this service is for you. Together, we will find peace and comfort in God’s presence.
Our message is simple: you do not have to pretend, you do not have to “be okay.” I believe deeply that community matters in this season, and I encourage you to connect — join a life group, come to Community Nights, or reach out to let us know how we can walk beside you. The Good Shepherd walks with each of us, and we are called to do the same for one another. My prayer is that the One whose light shines in the darkness would draw near to you and to our church family in new ways this season.
Blessings,
Pastor Pamela Palmer