Episcopalians are known for being deep thinkers, but at our best, we don't remain stuck in our heads. Our Christian faith inspires our loving service in the world as the Body of Christ.
The Outreach Committee of the Church of the Good Shepherd creates welcoming, generous spaces that help people and families move from vulnerability to stability. We prioritize and support ministries among those beyond our membership, both locally and worldwide, addressing immediate needs while creatively looking for deeper solutions, and collaborating with groups that are already established and experienced in these areas. We approach this work with humility, love, and discernment, respecting the dignity of every human being.
Saturday Community Meal: In conjunction with the Federal Way Community Caregiving Network, every Saturday we open up the church basement at 12:00 and provide a meal from 1:30 to 2:30 for anyone who is hungry.
Lake Grove School: In an ongoing relationship with our local elementary school, we have provided books, school supplies, and Thanksgiving baskets to children and families in our community.
Kairos Prison Ministry: At these special weekend events, Good Shepherd members bring their love for Christ into the Washington Women's Correctional Facility in Purdy. On hiatus during the quarantine.
Alcoholics Anonymous: Several AA groups, for men, women, or a mixed group, meet at Good Shepherd. Contact the office for specific meeting times. Thursday night and Saturday morning men's groups are now meeting in person again.
New Hope Center, Goma: This ministry for grieving children in the Democratic Republic of Congo was created by Good Shepherd parishioners Anita and Bruce Paden, and we help support it financially.
Good Shepherd's extensive outreach efforts have qualified us as a Jubilee Ministry Center of the Episcopal Church. In order to qualify, a congregation must:
• be connected with the Episcopal Church,
• be involved among and with poor and oppressed people wherever they are located,
• be rooted in worship,
• include several programs, including at least one human rights advocacy program, and one human service program,
• and be willing to demonstrate its operation for models, maintain “how-to” files, act as a resource center for other ministries, and be subject to review.
For more information about any of Good Shepherd's Outreach ministries, please contact Pastor Josh.