Losing someone we love is one of the hardest things any of us face. The weeks and months that follow can feel long and lonely. At The Good Shepherd, we want you to know that you are not alone.
On Sunday 1st November at 7pm, we will hold our annual Memorial Service in church. It is for the families and friends of those who have died and whose funerals took place at The Good Shepherd over the past year.
This will be a quiet, gentle evening. A chance to pause, to remember, and reflect. A time to give thanks for the lives of those who are no longer with us. There will be time for reflection, for prayer, and for music, and a moment to remember each person by name.
Many people find it comforting to spend this time alongside others who understand what they are going through. You may find that a shared smile, a kind word or a cup of tea afterwards means more than you expect. You are welcome to come as you are, and to take part in whatever way feels right for you.
Would you like a loved one to be remembered? If there is someone whose name you would like included in the service, please let us know. We would be honoured to remember them with you.
All are welcome, whether or not you attended a funeral with us, and whether you come alone or with family and friends. We would love to see you there.
Join us at 11am on Sunday, 27th October to celebrate Harvest. We thank God for the harvest, the weather, and the natural world that allows food to grow. We are having a food collection for our local Foodbank, so if you are able, please bring donations to church either on or before the 26th of October. All are welcome.
Preparation for baptism and confirmation involves learning about the Christian faith, understanding the promises being made, and preparing to live out a life of discipleship.
Find out more by coming along on Wednesday evenings in September. We’ll be meeting in the vestry between 7.30 and 9.30pm. Please use the church entrance from Good Shepherd Close.
You Are Invited! Join Us for Our Summer Community BBQ
There is nothing quite like coming together as a community over good food and friendly conversation. We are excited to invite you, your family, and your neighbours to The Good Shepherd Community BBQ!
Whether you have been part of our community for years or have never stepped through our doors before, this event is for you. It is a simple, fun opportunity to connect, relax, and celebrate summer together.
What to Expect
We are firing up the grill and setting out tables for an afternoon filled with tasty food and great company. Here is a little of what we have planned for the Community BBQ:
Delicious Food: We will have plenty of classic BBQ options on the grill, including vegetarian and vegan choices so everyone can enjoy a hot meal.
Refreshing Drinks: Cold drinks for all ages, along with our usual tea and coffee.
Grab a Bargain: Jumble sale in the curch hall.
Great Company: A relaxed, welcoming space to catch up with old friends and make new ones.
Event Details
Date: 22nd August 2026
Time: 1 PM – 3 PM
Location: The Good Shepherd
Cost: Free! (Donations are welcome if you wish, but certainly not expected)
Everyone Is Welcome
Bring your family, invite a neighbour, or pop along on your own to the Community BBQ. You are guaranteed a warm welcome and a friendly seat at the table.
We cannot wait to share a wonderful afternoon with you. If you have any questions or specific dietary requirements, please feel free to reach out to us beforehand.
Thursday 14th of May is Ascension Day where we celebrate all that it means for Jesus to return to the Father. Ascencion Day also marks the beginning of a worldwide prayer movement. For the next 10 days will ask ‘Thy Kingdom Come’.
Come along to church on Thursday at 9.30am as we worship together and think about what this might mean for us. As always, on a Thursday morning the service will be followed by tea and toast together.
All our welcome at The Good Shepherd. If you’ve not visited before you can find out location here.
On Sunday, our church gathered to celebrate Ann Handslip becoming Reader Emeritus, and the morning truly felt special. Joy, gratitude, and a strong sense of togetherness filled the service, as we thanked God for Ann’s ministry and looked ahead with hope.
Worship Rooted in Thanksgiving
We began with Holy Communion, placing our celebration firmly within prayer and worship. We gave thanks for Ann’s many years of faithful service and asked God to bless her as she steps into a new season. The music lifted our spirits, with songs such as City on a Hill and Do Not Be Afraid, a hymn Ann chose herself.
God’s Presence on the Journey
The Bible readings spoke clearly into the theme of the day. Isaiah reminded us that God knows us by name and walks with us through every stage of life. The story of the Road to Emmaus encouraged us to recognise Jesus as we journey together and share bread. Helen’s short talk helped us reflect on Ann’s calling and the impact of her ministry among us.
Marking a New Chapter
One of the most powerful moments came during the Reader Emeritus liturgy. Ann laid down her Reader’s scarf, marking the end of her formal role. As we prayed for her, we also celebrated the truth that God’s call continues, even as roles and responsibilities change. The blessing spoken over Ann was full of hope, encouragement, and love.
A Church Family Celebrates Together
Warmth and joy filled the whole service, showing just how much Ann means to our church. That joy continued after worship ended. Over tea and coffee, and then a generous bring and share lunch, everyone relaxed and enjoyed time together.
People brought an amazing variety of food, and there was plenty for everyone. Around the tables, conversations flowed, stories were shared, and laughter rang out. The meal became a true picture of church family life at its best.
Giving Thanks and Looking Ahead
The day gave us so much to celebrate: Ann’s ministry, God’s faithfulness, and the strength of our church community. We thank God for all that Ann has given and pray for her as she continues to walk with God in this next chapter.
It was a joyful, memorable day that many of us will treasure for a long time.
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