in the community
The church of the Good shepherd in the community
Heating Assistance
In partnership with Houlton Water Company, we raise hundreds of dollars each year to be distributed to those in our community who are in need of heating assistance. If you would like to donate, there is a box at the back of the sanctuary during winter.
Addiction Support Groups
Our community is disproportionately affected by addiction, and we strongly believe that joining a community of like-minded friends is one of the most effective methods to recovery. Our church building is used to host multiple recovery groups each week, free of charge.
supporting mildred’s food pantry
Every week, parishioners bring nonperishable food items to be delivered to the ecumenical food pantry located at St Mary of the Visitation Roman Catholic Church.
Winter Clothing Drive
Maine winters are cold, cold, cold! Having good, warm winter gear is more than just being comfortable, it’s a necessity. Each winter our community collects winter close and distributes them to those that need it most.
Aroostook Agency on aging congregate meals
On Thursdays at lunchtime, you will find the tables set for the Aroostook Area Agency on Aging’s congregate meals. Volunteers, some of whom are Good Shepherd parishioners, help prepare and serve a nutritious meal to anyone over 60 who wants to come together for lunch in a social setting. The meals are free, but donations are encouraged.
Scottish Cultural Center
FREE lessons in Scottish Country Dancing are offered to ambulatory persons of all ages and ethnic backgrounds. Saint Andrew’s Day (Nov. 30) is celebrated with dance and a potluck and a traditional Burns Night Supper, with dancing, is held on Jan. 25. Lessons currently are on Sunday 3-5 pm and at noontime on Wednesdays 11-1.
Rotary Lunch and Hosting
The Houlton Rotary Club is one of the most effective service organizations in town. We are proud to partner with them to host their weekly meetings and annual auction fundraiser. Dedicated volunteers cook a delicious homemade lunch each week for the 30+ Rotary members.
developing relationship with our maliseet neighbors
Zeke Crofton-MacDonald, tribal ambassador of the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians and current president of the Wabanaki Alliance, spoke to us about the history of relations between native people and white settlers in our area. He also talked about our different perspectives of land and water stewardship. The ability to employ both of those perspectives will be helpful in mitigating climate change and ensuring a healthy environment in the region of the Wolastoq (St John) River for future generations.
