Crownical Church of the Good Shepherd – September, 2025
Celebrating the Season of Creation gives us extra reason to give thanks for the beauty of the land and waters that surround us! In these changing times, we also contemplate the ways that our way of life has put this wonderful creation at risk and what can be done to change course. Again this year, we were able to pray together with some of our neighbors in an ecumenical service to begin the season. One focus of the service was St Francis’s Canticle of the Sun, which he wrote 800 years ago in 1225. Lynette Dobbs, of the Fraternity of Secular Franciscans, shared beautiful illustrations of the prayer that she got on a trip to Assisi. She even let us hang them up in our sanctuary for the rest of the season!
The Church of the Good Shepherd is celebrating the fact that, thanks to many generous parishioners and friends, we have a new roof on Watson Hall and the ceiling inside the hall has been repaired to look like new. We have replaced the furnace and oil tank in the rectory, so our tenants will be warm this winter. Our stair-lift chair is also back in working order. The Cluster has helped us pray our way through these projects and now we invite you to pray in thanksgiving for safe completion!
On Friday, September 19, we celebrated the life of Frannie Grant, who died earlier in September at almost 98 years old. Frannie earned the title of matriarch at Good Shepherd and took that role for many years prior to the Covid pandemic. She freely shared her wisdom and worked hard to show her love for her family, church, and community. The phrases repeated at her service were “Faith without works is dead.” and “Love one another.” Frannie exemplified a faith and love demonstrated by wisdom and good work.
We were saddened to learn of the passing of another important member of our church, Susan Pierce. Sue was known for a quiet faith and humble demeanor in both Good Shepherd and the Cluster, as she regularly attended the Zoom services. Sue served as a member of the vestry and her voice will be missed. A memorial service will be planned for sometime in the future.
We regret to report that after nine years of faithful service, Gloria Powers has informed the vestry that it is time for her to be done. We thank Gloria for all of her work keeping the parish organized and communication flowing! The vestry is now seeking the right person to take on this salaried position. Please contact Mary Beth or call the church office if you are interested.
Good Shepherd is also seeking an organist or someone who can play our keyboard to accompany hymns on Sunday morning. If anyone knows of a musician or student who would like to earn a little extra money and can help us out in this way, please let us know.
The annual Good Shepherd coat giveaway is planned for October 10 and 11. We will again offer coats and other warm winter gear to people in our community who need them. Donations of gently used or new coats, boots, hats, and mittens for kids, women, or men are welcome. Towels and blankets are also very much appreciated!