Shepherd's Heart 1/23/26
Good Shepherd Family,
On Wednesday the 28th, we’re hosting our next Good Shepherd Summit, and I would love for you to be there.
At 5:30 PM, we’ll open things up and invite you to take a look inside the renovations of our chapel—there’s been a lot of exciting progress. At 6:00 PM, we’ll gather in the Sanctuary for a word from Pastor Tara Beth, and ministry breakouts will begin at 6:30 PM.
I want to take a moment to highlight three reasons these gatherings matter—and why I’m grateful for your participation in this moment in the life of our church.
At 5:30 PM, we’ll open things up and invite you to take a look inside the renovations of our chapel—there’s been a lot of exciting progress. At 6:00 PM, we’ll gather in the Sanctuary for a word from Pastor Tara Beth, and ministry breakouts will begin at 6:30 PM.
I want to take a moment to highlight three reasons these gatherings matter—and why I’m grateful for your participation in this moment in the life of our church.
1. Connection & Celebration Matter
It may sound obvious, but I value gathering together because I believe that when Jesus promised “life to the full” in John 10:10, part of that promise includes spending time together in person. Every Sunday, we celebrate together, and that matters deeply. But if you’re anything like me, Sundays can be full and fast-paced, making it difficult to slow down and connect, especially with someone new.
Some of the most meaningful moments my family has experienced at Good Shepherd came through getting connected to a Life Group. What began as a simple Sunday afternoon gathering with other young families has grown into friendships that are now central to our lives. Every time I’m with that group, I’m reminded of the blessing that comes through genuine connection.
I know not everyone reading this has found “their people” at Good Shepherd yet. If that’s you, the Summit is a great place to start. I also recognize that many of you are deeply connected, but may feel siloed within a specific ministry area. The Summit creates space to reconnect across the church and to remember why we committed to serving in the first place.
Some of the most meaningful moments my family has experienced at Good Shepherd came through getting connected to a Life Group. What began as a simple Sunday afternoon gathering with other young families has grown into friendships that are now central to our lives. Every time I’m with that group, I’m reminded of the blessing that comes through genuine connection.
I know not everyone reading this has found “their people” at Good Shepherd yet. If that’s you, the Summit is a great place to start. I also recognize that many of you are deeply connected, but may feel siloed within a specific ministry area. The Summit creates space to reconnect across the church and to remember why we committed to serving in the first place.
2. We Lead with Compassion and Creativity
Shortly after I started on staff, I began sharing an office with Ryan Hammer. Don’t tell him I said this—but he’s one of the most creative leaders I’ve ever worked alongside. He represents something I see again and again in the leaders of our church: thoughtful creativity paired with deep care for people.
In a world where leadership can often lack compassion, I believe compassion is one of Good Shepherd’s greatest strengths. Anyone can belong here, and that’s made possible through the posture and heart of our leaders.
There’s a lot of suffering in the world, and like me, you may wonder what you can do about it. One of the most impactful responses is to serve locally, and on the 28th, we’ll offer several clear pathways to help you do just that, whether you’re not currently serving or are simply looking for a new way to engage. On the 28th, breakouts will be led by the below teams.
Chances are, one or more of these teams already connects with you. I encourage you to attend the breakout that makes the most sense for where you’re serving, or where you’d like to explore next. We’ll ensure no one misses important information from teams they’re actively part of, and we’ll offer clear next steps for those looking to get involved.
In a world where leadership can often lack compassion, I believe compassion is one of Good Shepherd’s greatest strengths. Anyone can belong here, and that’s made possible through the posture and heart of our leaders.
There’s a lot of suffering in the world, and like me, you may wonder what you can do about it. One of the most impactful responses is to serve locally, and on the 28th, we’ll offer several clear pathways to help you do just that, whether you’re not currently serving or are simply looking for a new way to engage. On the 28th, breakouts will be led by the below teams.
- GS Kids
- Good Shepherd Students
- Disability Ministry
- First Impressions & Cafe
- Adult & Care Ministry
- Worship Team
- Missions
Chances are, one or more of these teams already connects with you. I encourage you to attend the breakout that makes the most sense for where you’re serving, or where you’d like to explore next. We’ll ensure no one misses important information from teams they’re actively part of, and we’ll offer clear next steps for those looking to get involved.
3. There's Always a Way to Make an Impact
I wanted to offer a few specific invitations if you're looking for a new place (or your first place) to serve.
Start with Our Mission Partners
If you’re not sure where to begin, this breakout will highlight the ways Good Shepherd regularly serves our community through trusted mission partners. You’ll leave with a clearer picture of how to make a local impact. If you have any questions in advance, reach out to Jeannine Allen.
Partner with the Next Generation – Buddy Break
If you’re drawn to serving children and families, consider Buddy Break, the monthly respite care event for families impacted by disability. This is some of the most meaningful work we do. No expertise is required, and the training is manageable. You may be exactly the person a family needs. To learn more, sign up HERE or reach out to Ian Zamora.
Love Your Neighbor – Meals Team
If you enjoy making a meal (or coordinating one) for someone going through a hard season, the Meals Team is a beautiful way to serve. This simple act can make a profound difference for families welcoming a new baby, recovering from surgery, or navigating loss. For more information, reach out to Pastor Pamela.
Serve While You Worship – Communion Team
If your schedule feels full, there are ways to serve during Sunday worship. Serving Communion allows you to help others experience the sacrament of communion without adding another commitment to your calendar. To sign up, contact Chris McKenzie.
Lead with Hospitality – Cornerstone Café
We’ve seen great momentum in the Cornerstone Café, and we’re ready to grow. No experience required—Carol will train you. Our hope is that everyone who walks through the doors at 1310 Shepherd Drive experiences warmth, compassion, and belonging. If that resonates with you, reach out to Carol Green.
Start with Our Mission Partners
If you’re not sure where to begin, this breakout will highlight the ways Good Shepherd regularly serves our community through trusted mission partners. You’ll leave with a clearer picture of how to make a local impact. If you have any questions in advance, reach out to Jeannine Allen.
Partner with the Next Generation – Buddy Break
If you’re drawn to serving children and families, consider Buddy Break, the monthly respite care event for families impacted by disability. This is some of the most meaningful work we do. No expertise is required, and the training is manageable. You may be exactly the person a family needs. To learn more, sign up HERE or reach out to Ian Zamora.
Love Your Neighbor – Meals Team
If you enjoy making a meal (or coordinating one) for someone going through a hard season, the Meals Team is a beautiful way to serve. This simple act can make a profound difference for families welcoming a new baby, recovering from surgery, or navigating loss. For more information, reach out to Pastor Pamela.
Serve While You Worship – Communion Team
If your schedule feels full, there are ways to serve during Sunday worship. Serving Communion allows you to help others experience the sacrament of communion without adding another commitment to your calendar. To sign up, contact Chris McKenzie.
Lead with Hospitality – Cornerstone Café
We’ve seen great momentum in the Cornerstone Café, and we’re ready to grow. No experience required—Carol will train you. Our hope is that everyone who walks through the doors at 1310 Shepherd Drive experiences warmth, compassion, and belonging. If that resonates with you, reach out to Carol Green.
I believe 2026 will be a profound year of impact for our church. I'm grateful for your partnership, and your participation in how God is using Good Shepherd. It's a joy and a privilege to walk alongside you!
Ross Cochran - Communications Executive Director