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# Church of the Good Shepherd

The Episcopal Church on Lookout Mountain

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://gslookout.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Vestry Nominees for 2025](https://gslookout.org/vestry-nominees/) - Good Shepherd's nominees for the 2025 Vestry are Andrea Aaron, Natalie Chalverus, Peter Rawlings, and Charles Sanford . Their term would be for three years. Their nominations will be voted on at that Annual Parish Meeting on Sunday, January 26 following the 10:30 am service. Learn more about them and why they wish to join
- [Sermon - March 17, 2024](https://gslookout.org/sermon-march-17-2024/) - Jeremiah 31:31-34 The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah. It will not be like the covenant that I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of
- [Sermon - March 10, 2024](https://gslookout.org/sermon-march-10-2024/) - Ephesians 2:1-10 You were dead through the trespasses and sins in which you once lived, following the course of this world, following the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work among those who are disobedient. All of us once lived among them in the passions of our flesh,
- [Sermon - March 3, 2024](https://gslookout.org/sermon-march-3-2024/) - 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 The message about the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise,and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart.” Where is the one who is wise?
- [Sermon - February 25, 2024](https://gslookout.org/sermon-february-25-2024/) - Psalm 22:22-30 22 Praise the Lord, you that fear him; *stand in awe of him, O offspring of Israel;all you of Jacob's line, give glory. 23 For he does not despise nor abhor the poor in their poverty;neither does he hide his face from them; *but when they cry to him he hears them. 24
- [Sermon - February 18, 2024](https://gslookout.org/sermon-february-18-2024/) - Genesis 9:8-17 God said to Noah and to his sons with him, “As for me, I am establishing my covenant with you and your descendants after you, and with every living creature that is with you, the birds, the domestic animals, and every animal of the earth with you, as many as came out of
- [Sermon - Ash Wednesday 2024](https://gslookout.org/sermon-ash-wednesday-2024/) - Isaiah 58:1-12 Shout out, do not hold back!Lift up your voice like a trumpet! Announce to my people their rebellion,to the house of Jacob their sins. Yet day after day they seek meand delight to know my ways, as if they were a nation that practiced righteousnessand did not forsake the ordinance of their God;
- [Sermon - February 11, 2024](https://gslookout.org/sermon-february-11-2024/) - 2 Corinthians 4:3-6 Even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For we
- [Sermon - January 28, 2024](https://gslookout.org/sermon-january-28-2024/) - Deuteronomy 18:15-20 Moses said: The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you shall heed such a prophet. This is what you requested of the Lord your God at Horeb on the day of the assembly when you said: “If I hear the voice of
- [Sermon - February 4, 2024](https://gslookout.org/sermon-february-4-2024/) - 1 Corinthians 9:16-23 If I proclaim the gospel, this gives me no ground for boasting, for an obligation is laid on me, and woe to me if I do not proclaim the gospel! For if I do this of my own will, I have a reward; but if not of my own will, I am
- [Sermon - January 21, 2024](https://gslookout.org/sermon-january-21-2024/) - Jonah 3:1-5, 10 The word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time, saying, “Get up, go to Nineveh, that great city, and proclaim to it the message that I tell you.” So Jonah set out and went to Nineveh, according to the word of the Lord. Now Nineveh was an exceedingly large city,
- [Sermon - January 14, 2024](https://gslookout.org/sermon-january-14-2024/) - Psalm 139:1-5, 12-17 1 Lord, you have searched me out and known me; *you know my sitting down and my rising up;you discern my thoughts from afar. 2 You trace my journeys and my resting-places *and are acquainted with all my ways. 3 Indeed, there is not a word on my lips, *but you, O
- [Sermon - January 7, 2024](https://gslookout.org/sermon-january-7-2024/) - Genesis 1:1-5 In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth, the earth was a formless void and darkness covered the face of the deep, while a wind from God swept over the face of the waters. Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. And God saw that the
- [Sermon - Christmas Eve 2023 (10:30 pm)](https://gslookout.org/sermon-christmas-eve-2023-1030-pm/) - Isaiah 9:2-7 The people who walked in darknesshave seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness--on them light has shined. You have multiplied the nation,you have increased its joy; they rejoice before youas with joy at the harvest,as people exult when dividing plunder. For the yoke of their burden,and the
- [Sermon - Christmas Eve 2023 (5pm)](https://gslookout.org/sermon-christmas-eve-2023-5pm/) - Isaiah 9:2-7 The people who walked in darknesshave seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness--on them light has shined. You have multiplied the nation,you have increased its joy; they rejoice before youas with joy at the harvest,as people exult when dividing plunder. For the yoke of their burden,and the
- [Sermon - December 20, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-december-20-2023/) - Psalm 46 1 God is our refuge and strength, *a very present help in trouble.2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth be moved, *and though the mountains be toppled into the depths of the sea;3 Though its waters rage and foam, *and though the mountains tremble at its tumult.4 The Lord of hosts
- [Sermon - December 17, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-december-17-2023/) - Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 The spirit of the Lord God is upon me,because the Lord has anointed me; he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed,to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives,and release to the prisoners; to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor,and the day of vengeance of
- [Sermon - December 10, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-december-10-2023/) - 2 Peter 3:8-15a Do not ignore this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like one day. The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but all to
- [Sermon - December 3, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-december-3-2023/) - Isaiah 64:1-9 O that you would tear open the heavens and come down,so that the mountains would quake at your presence-- as when fire kindles brushwoodand the fire causes water to boil-- to make your name known to your adversaries,so that the nations might tremble at your presence! When you did awesome deeds that we
- [Sermon - November 26, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-november-26-2023/) - Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 Thus says the Lord God: I myself will search for my sheep, and will seek them out. As shepherds seek out their flocks when they are among their scattered sheep, so I will seek out my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places to which they have been scattered on
- [Ministry Remarks - November 19, 2023](https://gslookout.org/ministry-remarks-november-19-2023/) - Ministry Remarks by Sam Dumond, Outreach Haiti 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 Now concerning the times and the seasons, brothers and sisters, you do not need to have anything written to you. For you yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. When they say, “There is
- [Sermon - November 12, 2023](https://gslookout.org/2242-2/) - Amos 5:18-24 Thus says the Lord, the God of hosts, the Lord: Alas for you who desire the day of the Lord!Why do you want the day of the Lord? It is darkness, not light;as if someone fled from a lion,and was met by a bear; or went into the house and rested a hand
- [Sermon - November 5, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-november-5-2023/) - Revelation 7:9-17 After this I, John, looked, and there was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, robed in white, with palm branches in their hands. They cried out in a loud voice, saying, "Salvation belongs
- [Sermon - October 29, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-october-29-2023/) - Leviticus 19:1-2,15-18 The Lord spoke to Moses, saying: Speak to all the congregation of the people of Israel and say to them: You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy. You shall not render an unjust judgment; you shall not be partial to the poor or defer to the great: with
- [Sermon - October 22, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-october-22-2023/) - 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace. We always give thanks to God for all of you and mention you in our prayers, constantly remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and
- [Sermon - October 15, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-october-15-2023/) - Isaiah 25:1-9 O Lord, you are my God;I will exalt you, I will praise your name; for you have done wonderful things,plans formed of old, faithful and sure. For you have made the city a heap,the fortified city a ruin; the palace of aliens is a city no more,it will never be rebuilt. Therefore strong
- [Sermon - October 8, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-october-8-2023/) - Philippians 3:4b-14 If anyone else has reason to be confident in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, a member of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew born of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness
- [Sermon - October 1, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-october-1-2023/) - Philippians 2:1-13 If then there is any encouragement in Christ, any consolation from love, any sharing in the Spirit, any compassion and sympathy, make my joy complete: be of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard
- [Sermon - September 24, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-september-24-2023/) - Jonah 3:10-4:11 When God saw what the people of Nineveh did, how they turned from their evil ways, God changed his mind about the calamity that he had said he would bring upon them; and he did not do it. But this was very displeasing to Jonah, and he became angry. He prayed to the
- [Sermon - September 17, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-september-17-2023/) - Genesis 50:15-21 Realizing that their father was dead, Joseph’s brothers said, “What if Joseph still bears a grudge against us and pays us back in full for all the wrong that we did to him?” So they approached Joseph, saying, “Your father gave this instruction before he died, ‘Say to Joseph: I beg you, forgive
- [Sermon - September 10, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-september-10-2023/) - Romans 13:8-14 Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery; You shall not murder; You shall not steal; You shall not covet”; and any other commandment, are summed up in this word, “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
- [Sermon - September 3, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-september-3-2023/) - Romans 12:9-21 Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of
- [Sermon - August 27, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-august-27-2023/) - Romans 12:1-8 I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what
- [Sermon - August 20, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-august-20-2023/) - Ezekiel 36:24-28 I will take you from the nations, and gather you from all the countries, and bring you into your own land. I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. A new heart I will give you,
- [Sermon - August 13, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-august-13-2023/) - Romans 10:5-15 Moses writes concerning the righteousness that comes from the law, that “the person who does these things will live by them.” But the righteousness that comes from faith says, “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?’” (that is, to bring Christ down) “or ‘Who will descend into the abyss?’”
- [Sermon - August 6, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-august-6-2023/) - 2 Peter 1:13-21 I think it right, as long as I am in this body, to refresh your memory, since I know that my death will come soon, as indeed our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me. And I will make every effort so that after my departure you may be able at
- [Sermon - July 30, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-july-30-2023/) - Romans 8:26-39 The Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. And God, who searches the heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the
- [Sermon - July 23, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-july-23-2023/) - Romans 8:12-25 Brothers and sisters, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh-- for if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of
- [Sermon - July 16, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-july-16-2023/) - Isaiah 55:10-13 As the rain and the snow come down from heaven,and do not return there until they have watered the earth, making it bring forth and sprout,giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth;it shall not return to me empty, but
- [Sermon - July 9, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-july-9-2023/) - Romans 7:15-25a I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. Now if I do what I do not want, I agree that the law is good. But in fact it is no longer I that do it, but sin that
- [Sermon - July 2, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-july-2-2023/) - Romans 6:12-23 Do not let sin exercise dominion in your mortal bodies, to make you obey their passions. No longer present your members to sin as instruments of wickedness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and present your members to God as instruments of righteousness. For
- [Sermon - June 18, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-june-18-2023/) - Romans 5:1-8 Since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand; and we boast in our hope of sharing the glory of God. And not only that, but we also boast in our sufferings, knowing
- [Sermon - June 11, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-june-11-2023/) - Romans 4:13-25 The promise that he would inherit the world did not come to Abraham or to his descendantsthrough the law but through the righteousness of faith. If it is the adherents of the law who are tobe the heirs, faith is null and the promise is void. For the law brings wrath; but where
- [Sermon - June 4, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-june-4-2023/) - 2 Corinthians 13:11-13 Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell. Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree withone another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet oneanother with a holy kiss. All the saints greet you. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God,
- [Sermon - May 28, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-may-28-2023/) - Acts 2:1-21 When the day of Pentecost had come, the disciples were all together in one place. And suddenlyfrom heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire housewhere they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue restedon each of them.
- [Sermon - May 21, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-may-21-2023/) - Acts 1:6-14 When the apostles had come together, they asked Jesus, “Lord, is this the time when you will restore the kingdom to Israel?” He replied, “It is not for you to know the times or periods that the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit
- [Sermon - May 14, 2023](https://gslookout.org/sermon-may-14-2023/) - Acts 17:22-31 Paul stood in front of the Areopagus and said, “Athenians, I see how extremely religiousyou are in every way. For as I went through the city and looked carefully at the objectsof your worship, I found among them an altar with the inscription, ‘To an unknown god.’What therefore you worship as unknown, this
- [It takes seven.](https://gslookout.org/it-takes-seven/) - Did you know that it takes seven adults to raise a successful child? Fr. Robert reflects on the three of the seven adults who impacted him as a young man, and where he found them - right smack in his faith journey. John 14:1-14 Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in
- [Continuing the work of the Good Shepherd every day](https://gslookout.org/continuing-the-work-of-the-good-shepherd-every-day/) - On this Good Shepherd Sunday, Mtr. Michele reflects on her first visits to Church of the Good Shepherd in 2019 and 2020 when she was still a seminarian, drawn to this parish by all the ways she saw Jesus' love, hospitality, teachings, and fellowship alive and well here. Acts 2:42-47 Those who had been baptized
- [What matters to you?](https://gslookout.org/what-matters-to-you/) - On the road to Emmaus, two friends are walking and talking when they are joined by Jesus (unbeknownst to them). Throughout their conversation, Jesus opens the scriptures to them and challenges them to ask, what matters to me, to us? Do you stay in the middle place of unbelief, or will you join God on
- [Boxing in Jesus?](https://gslookout.org/boxing-in-jesus/) - Rejoice! Jesus is Risen! Do we still believe he's at work in this world for everyone, or will we reduce Jesus to one line and box him in? Acts 10:34-43 Peter began to speak to Cornelius and the other Gentiles: "I truly understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears
- [Everybody wants something](https://gslookout.org/everybody-wants-something/) - Ever since Jesus' birth, we all want something from Jesus. But Jesus doesn't give us what we want. He gives us what we need. John 18:1-19:42 Jesus went out with his disciples across the Kidron valley to a place where there was a garden, which he and his disciples entered. Now Judas, who betrayed him,
- [“Do you know what I have done to you?"](https://gslookout.org/do-you-know-what-i-have-done-to-you/) - The picture of Jesus on his knees, in the midst of the disciples, washing their feet. Why? What does this act of flipped hospitality - of the teacher serving the students, the king serving his subjects - have to teach us today? John 13:1-17, 31b-35 Now before the festival of the Passover, Jesus knew that
- [Entering the Passion of Jesus](https://gslookout.org/entering-the-passion-of-jesus/) - Who is this man that rode into Jerusalem on a donkey and caused such turmoil to the people in his country? Is he even relevant to us today? Philippians 2:5-11 Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality
- [The raising of Lazarus](https://gslookout.org/the-raising-of-lazarus/) - In restoring life to Lazarus, Jesus takes the next bold step towards his own crucifixion, pouring out his life for Lazarus and for all of us. How will we use this life that has been given? John 11:1-45 Now a certain man was ill, Lazarus of Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha.
- [From excluded to included, transformed by Jesus](https://gslookout.org/from-excluded-to-included-transformed-by-jesus/) - When we feel excluded, outcast, what or who makes you feel included? God? A friend? A stranger? What if that inclusion further estranges you from others? What will you cling to? 1 Samuel 16:1-13 The Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you grieve over Saul? I have rejected him from being king over Israel.
- [Digging wells instead of building fences](https://gslookout.org/digging-wells-instead-of-building-fences/) - Jesus came together at a well with a Samaritan woman. What will be our well so that we may come together with others we may be at odds with, and with God? Exodus 17:1-7 From the wilderness of Sin the whole congregation of the Israelites journeyed by stages, as the Lord commanded. They camped at
- [Know that you are holy](https://gslookout.org/know-that-you-are-holy/) - If you look into the eyes of God, do you see what God sees: yourself reflected back because you are a child of God? How can that transform your life if we live into that reality? Genesis 12:1-4a The Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to
- [What happens when we mistrust God?](https://gslookout.org/what-happens-when-we-mistrust-god/) - Seeing death as punishment keeps from recognizing the natural part that death plays in the cycle of life. And when Adam and Eve sinned against God in the garden, their relationship to and with God changed. What happens when we mistrust God? What happens when we hide from God and believe that there is not
- [Living into the qualities of God](https://gslookout.org/living-into-the-qualities-of-god/) - If God blew the breath of life into us at creation, we bear the qualities of God within us, yet we falter daily and turn on ourselves and one another. This Lent, will we be the people God created us to be? What could happen if we did? Isaiah 58:1-12 Shout out, do not hold
- [Come down from the mountain transfigured](https://gslookout.org/come-down-from-the-mountain-transfigured/) - Brilliant clouds and murky fogs are not enough for human minds to see things of God clearly. What can we hope for in our lives when we expect to be enlightened through our own metaphoric fogs? What can we do to recognize God's presence in our ordinary lives? Exodus 24:12-18 The Lord said to Moses,
- [Getting to the root of choosing life, choosing God](https://gslookout.org/getting-to-the-root-of-choosing-life-choosing-god/) - Choosing life - to love God - or choosing death - to be devoid of the divine presence. It sounds easy, but is it really that easy to choose life, to choose God? Deuteronomy 30:15-20 Moses said, “See, I have set before you today life and prosperity, death and adversity. If you obey the commandments
- [Making room for Jesus](https://gslookout.org/making-room-for-jesus/) - Despite everything that Paul did to the people of God before his conversion, God still claimed him and used him to spread the good news because Paul made room for Jesus. How is God calling you to make room? 1 Corinthians 2:1-16 When I came to you, brothers and sisters, I did not come proclaiming
- [Who are you? What do you want to live for?](https://gslookout.org/who-are-you-what-do-you-want-to-live-for/) - When following Jesus, are you looking to be comforted? Will you still follow him if what he asks challenges that which makes us comfortable? Matthew 5:1-12 When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:
- ["You don't know what you don't know."](https://gslookout.org/you-dont-know-what-you-dont-know/) - What gaps are there in our experiences that might limit us? Do you ever recognize those gaps and the importance of what they meant to your formation? Isaiah 9:1-4 There will be no gloom for those who were in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land
- ["Come and see."](https://gslookout.org/come-and-see/) - Do you seek God? Do you accept the invitation to find God without preconditions? Throughout human history there have always been seekers - those looking for the Creator, for God. Yet, do we always find or recognize God when we meet God? Isaiah 49:1-7 Listen to me, O coastlands, pay attention, you peoples from far
- [Do you believe that God is well pleased with you?](https://gslookout.org/do-you-believe-that-god-is-well-pleased-with-you/) - On this feast day of the Baptism of our Lord, Father Robert asks us if we believe that God is well pleased with us, who are children of God? If nothing can separate us from the love of God, why do tend to focus on what we lack when we come before God? Acts 10:34-43
- [Have you ever taken a journey you haven't wanted to make?](https://gslookout.org/have-you-ever-taken-a-journey-you-havent-wanted-to-make/) - What might we learn from Joseph, traveling with nine-month's-pregnant Mary to Bethlehem? Why go on a journey together so far when Mary didn't need to make that journey too? Mtr. Michele walks us through Joseph's actions leading to Jesus' birth when the Bible stories don't share his voice with us. Luke 2:1-20 In those days
- [So this is Christmas, and what have you done?](https://gslookout.org/so-this-is-christmas-and-what-have-you-done/) - What is Christmas supposed to mean to each of us, to the whole of humanity? Fr. Robert asks if we get so sucked into the sugar-frenzy of getting ready for Christmas and having parties that we miss out on what God has in mind with the birth of Jesus? Titus 2:11-14 For the grace of
- [Was Thomas really the only one with doubts?](https://gslookout.org/was-thomas-really-the-only-one-with-doubts/) - On this longest night of the year, in a festive season that is often difficult for many who don't feel joyous, Mother Michele reminds us about St. Thomas, often called "Doubting" Thomas - the only one not to lock himself away in fear after Jesus' crucifixion, and definitely not the only one to want to
- [Stripping it down to the heart of Christmas](https://gslookout.org/stripping-it-down-to-the-heart-of-christmas/) - Father Robert invites us to think about all the traditions we've built up around Christmas in our families, community, culture, and look at the heart of this gift from God. What is it that really matters? Isaiah 7:10-16 Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, saying, Ask a sign of the Lord your God; let it
- [Have you had faith-related déjà vu moments?](https://gslookout.org/have-you-had-faith-related-deja-vu-moments/) - Mother Michele asks if you, too, have had faith-related moments where an image, an idea, or something scripture related keeps recurring or coming to your attention? Are you paying attention to these Holy Spirit moments? Isaiah 35:1-10 The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad, the desert shall rejoice and blossom; like the crocus
- [Repent? Is this an invitation or a challenge?](https://gslookout.org/repent-is-this-an-invitation-or-a-challenge/) - Seminarian William Simerly asks if we're ready to meet John the Baptist's challenge to repent - to return to God, to change, and re-orient our lives to God. What does this actually mean in today's day and age with wars, cruelty towards others, and devastation of our planet home? What does this mean as we
- [Get ready, it's Advent and Jesus is coming.](https://gslookout.org/get-ready-its-advent-and-jesus-is-coming/) - Signs of endings all around us? Does this make you want to curl up? What's the point of telling us what to look for at the end of time? That's why we need Jesus, Deacon Janice Robbins shares. Isaiah 2:1-5 The word that Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. In days to
- [Can you recognize Jesus' power?](https://gslookout.org/can-you-recognize-jesus-power/) - What kind of God uses power to offer grace, love, forgiveness, and mercy to show true kingship? Perhaps one that suffers with us and was forced to wear a crown of thorns. Colossians 1:11-20 May you be made strong with all the strength that comes from his glorious power, and may you be prepared to
- [Revere the Name of the Lord](https://gslookout.org/revere-the-name-of-the-lord/) - In scripture, names are important - knowing someone's name means you are in relationship with that person. If you disregard and disrespect the name of the Lord, it's a testimony to being out of relationship with God, the consequences of which the Bible warns against. What happens when we disregard or disrespect one another within
- [What does it mean to be surrounded by "a cloud of witnesses"?](https://gslookout.org/what-does-it-mean-to-be-surrounded-by-a-cloud-of-witnesses/) - On this All Saints' Sunday, Fr. Robert walks us through what it means to be surrounded by 'a cloud of witnesses' and why it's important to join and hold onto the witnesses in your faith community throughout our lives. Ephesians 1:11-23 In Christ we have also obtained an inheritance, having been destined according to the
- [How do you catch Jesus' eye?](https://gslookout.org/how-do-you-catch-jesus-eye/) - Revisiting the story of Zacchaeus, who raced up a tree in order to see Jesus, Fr. Robert wonders what we do to catch Jesus' eye and what Jesus sees in us in those moments - with our flaws and our positive qualities all jumbled together - to love us as we are. Luke 19:1-10 Jesus
- [When do you get caught by judging others' hearts?](https://gslookout.org/when-do-you-get-caught-by-judging-others-hearts/) - Mother Michele takes us through the parable of the praying Pharisee and tax collector to wonder how Jesus may be on to our judgmental hearts. Luke 18:9-14 Jesus told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt: "Two men went up to the temple to pray,
- [Wrestling with God](https://gslookout.org/rethinking-outreach/) - Based on today's Old Testament lesson, Genesis 32:22-31, Fr. Robert Childers takes us through Jacob's wrestling with God and how we do the same with our anxieties and fears in life. Genesis 32:22-31 The same night Jacob got up and took his two wives, his two maids, and his eleven children, and crossed the ford
- [Do we see the miracles?](https://gslookout.org/the-prodigal-god-by-tim-keller/) - Deacon Janice Robbins takes us through the story of Naaman, and how it took all the people in his life to help him realize the blessing he'd received. How often do we miss the blessings in our own lives until someone or many someones in our lives open our eyes to them? 2 Kings 5:1-3,
- [How often do we tend to focus on the negative?](https://gslookout.org/voluptatum-deleniti-atque-corrupti-quos-dolores/) - Which opinion stays with you when you receive compliments from several people and a negative remark from one person? Do we then take this into our reading of the scriptures and our understanding of God? Luke 17:5-10 The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!" The Lord replied, "If you had faith the size

## Pages

- [Home](https://gslookout.org/) - The Church of the Good Shepherd Welcomes You Yes, all are welcome in the Episcopal Church. We believe in following the teachings of Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection saved the world. We believe that God loves you - no exceptions.
- [Preparing the Way - Stewardship 2026](https://gslookout.org/giving/preparing-the-way-stewardship-2026/) - Dear friends, Before we talk about the 2026 Stewardship Campaign, we want to say thank you to all who have pledged and given so generously to Good Shepherd over this past year. Your commitment to our community, especially over this past year of transition, has been moving and inspiring. Later this month, you’ll receive a
- [Newsletters](https://gslookout.org/newsletters/) - Print & E-Newsletters Good Shepherd has two publications that help parishioners stay informed and connected with events happening in the parish and its community, and also with what binds us together – faith, faith formation, and participation in this faith community. The Staff is Good Shepherd’s print magazine. It is currently published quarterly (following the
- [Pilgrimage 2026](https://gslookout.org/youth-formation/pilgrimage-2026/) - Confirmation & Pilgrimage 2025-2026 This is the webpage for all relevant and current information pertaining to the upcoming 2025-2026 Confirmation & Pilgrimage. Here you can find schedules, forms, and releases that will be required for participation in this process. If you do not see the information you are looking for, please email Matt Harbison at
- [Youth Formation](https://gslookout.org/youth-formation/) - Youth Formation Youth Sunday School - 10:30 -11:00am Current events and lectionary based discussions on being a Jesus Follower. Wednesday Night Youth -6pm-7:30pm - Returns September 10th We have a vibrant and active group of young people at Good Shepherd. All 6th through 12th grade are invited to participate in our youth programs. Click below to
- [Pilgrimage 2026](https://gslookout.org/youth-formation/pilgrimage-2026-2/)
- [](https://gslookout.org/outreach/) - Serving OthersOutreach East Side Elementary SchoolGood Shepherd has partnered with East Side Elementary School and the Chattanooga Food Bank to bring healthy food to the children at East Side and their families, many of whom become food insecure when their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funds run out, typically around the 21st of every month.
- [History](https://gslookout.org/history/) - Our History Our Mission Our mission is to prepare and inspire all who enter our doors for Christian living through prayer, worship, proclamation of the Gospel and the promotion of justice, peace and love, to restore all people to unity with God. History Summer 1928 The Start of Our Church Reverend Oliver Hart, Rector of
- [Children's Formation](https://gslookout.org/childrens-formation/) - Children's Formation Sundays Sunday School/Godly Play Our main curriculum for children ages 3-11 is Godly Play. In Godly Play , children make meaning through story, wonder and play. Children hear the stories of God and God’s people and the stories about the Christian tradition and are then invited to wonder about them in words, play
- [Staff & Vestry](https://gslookout.org/staff-vestry/) - Parish Staff & Vestry The Rev. Michele Simmons, Locum Tenens & Associate Priest Mother Michele was born in Minnesota and raised in the California Bay Area. She received her BS from the University of California, Davis, in Avian Science (yes, birds!). She enjoyed an extraordinary first career as a National Park Ranger, serving in parks
- [Contact](https://gslookout.org/contact/) - The Church of the Good Shepherd is located at the corner of Scenic Highway and Franklin Road atop Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga, Tennessee. From downtown Chattanooga: Travel South on Broad Street (US-11) towards Lookout Mountain and follow signs for Ruby Falls. Broad Street becomes Highway 41 (Cummings Highway) after you proceed under a railroad overpass.
- [Rector Search](https://gslookout.org/rector-search/) - Rector Search Thank you for your interest in our Rector Search. Please explore our Parish Profile below. If you would like to recommend someone to be the next rector at the Church of the Good Shepherd, please e-mail the search committee. If you are a priest and are interested in applying, please e-mail The Rev. Canon
- [Good Shepherd School](https://gslookout.org/gss/) - Good Shepherd School Registration for Fall 2025-2026 Registration for Fall 2025-2026 will open for currently enrolled families and members of Church of the Good Shepherd on February 3 at 10 am. Current wait list families will be able to register beginning February 10 at 10 am. Open registration for everyone else will open on February
- [GSS Contact Us](https://gslookout.org/gss-contact-us/) - GSS Contact Us Good Shepherd School 211 Franklin Rd.Lookout Mountain, Tennessee 37350 Phone: 423-821-0044 FAX: 423-821-0087 Amanda Padron, Directoramanda@gslookout.com Roxaline Holbrook, Assistant Directorad@gslookout.com Good Shepherd School Forms School Year 2025-2026 2025-2026 Basic School Calendar 2025-2026 Tuition and Fees Schedule and Policy Child's Health History Checklist Children, the Flu, and the Flu Vaccine Influenza Information Notification
- [GSS Enrollment](https://gslookout.org/gss-enrollment/) - Good Shepherd School Enrollment Good Shepherd School accepts children regardless of race, color, religion, ability to pay or special needs. Good Shepherd School is an Episcopal School, which serves children from age 3 months to 5 years. The school is open year-round. Programming runs September through May serving as a school-year program, followed by a
- [](https://gslookout.org/liturgical-ministries/) - Liturgical Ministries “Liturgy” (another word for our worship) means “the work of the people.” When we come together in worship, we are fulfilling our first purpose and gaining both the insight and the strength needed for whatever else is ours to do. Toward this end, we encourage all worshippers to fully participate in the worship experience. This
- [Adult Formation](https://gslookout.org/adult-formation/) - Adult Formation Sundays The Lectionary Class meets at 9:15 am and looks at the Lessons of the day, offering lively and informal discussion of the three lessons heard in our worship service. The Lectionary Class meets in the Library. Coffee and Conversation also meets at 9:15 am and is a Bible study and faith
- [Annual Giving](https://gslookout.org/giving/annual-giving/) - Annual Giving Why Give? At Good Shepherd, we recognize that financial stewardship is a vital component of a balanced spiritual life. Each fall, the Stewardship Committee sponsors a pledge drive, asking parishioners to make a financial commitment for the following year. These commitments help the Vestry build a budget that will support our mission, staff,
- [Sermons](https://gslookout.org/sermons/)
- [GSS Episcopal Identity](https://gslookout.org/gss-episcopal-identity/) - Good Shepherd School Episcopal Identity As a part of the greater Episcopal School Community, we believe in nurturing children through joyful learning and moral development grounded in the grace and love of God. We believe in inspiring curiosity, challenging the intellect, nurturing the spirit, and creating community. Our mission is timeless, and our values are
- [What to Expect](https://gslookout.org/what-to-expect/) - New to Good Shepherd?What to Expect What times are regular Sunday services? Are the services different? We have three services on Sunday. At each service we celebrate the Holy Eucharist, also known as Mass or the Lord’s Supper. This is our principal act of worship in the Episcopal Church. Our services are conducted according to
- [Welcome](https://gslookout.org/welcome-2/) - Welcome to our website of the Church of the Good Shepherd, Lookout Mountain, TN. Realizing that we can’t really convey fully who we are as a community via this virtual world that is the internet, we hope that what you will find as you thumb through our website is a love and grace filled community
- [GSS Curriculum](https://gslookout.org/gss-curriculum/) - Good Shepherd School Curriculum We appreciate how very important these early years are in your child's development. At this very early stage, babies show an incredible sense of curiosity to explore the world around them. We support this discovery through music, colors, and many age appropriate toys. We create an environment that is full of
- [GSS Programs](https://gslookout.org/gss-programs/) - Good Shepherd School Programs School Year Program (September through May) Infants - ages 4 months to 1 year or until the end of the school year. Transitions - ages 12 months and walking (age spread determined each year by enrollment) Groovy Toos- older ones and the very youngest twos. Typically, the children in Groovy Twos
- [GSS Scholarships](https://gslookout.org/gss-scholarships/) - Good Shepherd School Scholarships Financial aid is available for families in need. Prospective families need to pick up a scholarship packet from the school office, complete and submit the forms by May 1. The information is reviewed and families are informed by August 1 for the upcoming school year. It is the hope of the
- [Giving](https://gslookout.org/giving/) - Giving The Importance of Giving There are many privileges of participation at Good Shepherd. We engage in powerful worship, compelling educational programs for all ages, service to our neighbor,s and in the joy of sharing our gifts. The privilege of offering our financial support—and the support of our time, energies and talents—is key to who
- [Fellowship](https://gslookout.org/fellowship/) - Fellowship We like hanging out together at Good Shepherd. We join supper clubs, turn out in droves for parish breakfasts, and swing from the trees at Parish Camp. We gather to discuss books together at each others’ homes, we celebrate Mardi Gras boisterously (and with lots of bacon), and we turn our parish hall into a movie
- [The Good Shepherd Organ](https://gslookout.org/music-2/organ/) - The Good Shepherd Organ The organ at Good Shepherd was completed by Parkey Organbuilders of Duluth, GA in 2008. It includes two independent instruments, Opus 9 is located in the front of the nave and Opus 8 is located in the rear gallery. Both instruments can be played from the console in the musician’s gallery
- [The Balcony Railing](https://gslookout.org/music-2/balcony/) - The Balcony Railing As part of the organ project, a more suitable railing for the balcony allowing for the better passage of sound to the nave floor was desired. This would replace a solid wall which was part of the design of the church at the time of its construction. Help from several members of
- [RSCMA Information](https://gslookout.org/music-2/rscma/) - RSCMA Information The Royal School of Church Music in America is affiliated with the Anglican organization, the Royal School of Church Music, founded in Englancd by Sir Sydney H. Nicholson to promote quality church music. Each year the organization sponsors weeklong courses or summer camps for singers of all ages across the U.S. Good Shepherd
- [Music](https://gslookout.org/music-2/) - Music Music is the way in which worshippers give voice to the action and meaning of the liturgy and worship. At Good Shepherd the choir, singers and organ lead the congregation in corporate song, giving praise and thanksgiving to God through hymns, Psalms and other musical forms. Our music is very closely integrated with the
- [Blog](https://gslookout.org/blog/)

## Layout Parts

- [Music Sidebar](https://gslookout.org/tbuilder-layout-part/music-sidebar/) - RSCMA Information The Good Shepherd Organ The Balcony Railing
- [Sidebar](https://gslookout.org/tbuilder-layout-part/sidebar/) - New to Good Shepherd? Get Involved Newsletter Sermons
- [Good Shepherd School](https://gslookout.org/tbuilder-layout-part/good-shepherd-school/) - Episcopal Identity GSS Programs GSS Curriculum GSS Enrollment GSS Scholarships Contact Us Check us out on Facebook!

## Venues

- [Harriet Caldwell Memorial Garden](https://gslookout.org/venue/harriet-caldwell-memorial-garden/)
- [Labyrinth](https://gslookout.org/venue/labyrinth/)
- [The Commons](https://gslookout.org/venue/the-commons/)
- [Church Lawn](https://gslookout.org/venue/church-lawn/)
- [Lou Garcia Room](https://gslookout.org/venue/lou-garcia-room/)
- [Circular Driveway](https://gslookout.org/venue/circular-driveway/)
- [Junior Choir Room](https://gslookout.org/venue/junior-choir-room/)
- [Choir Room](https://gslookout.org/venue/choir-room/)
- [Godly Play Classrooms](https://gslookout.org/venue/godly-play-classrooms/)
- [Youth Building](https://gslookout.org/venue/youth-building/)
- [Lupton Reading Room](https://gslookout.org/venue/lupton-reading-room/)
- [Talbird Hall](https://gslookout.org/venue/talbird-hall/)
- [Facebook](https://gslookout.org/venue/facebook/)
- [Library](https://gslookout.org/venue/library/)
- [Church](https://gslookout.org/venue/church/)
- [Chapel](https://gslookout.org/venue/chapel/)
- [Grace Point Camp & Retreat Center](https://gslookout.org/venue/grace-point-camp-retreat-center/)

## Organizers

- [Kara Van Brunt](https://gslookout.org/organizer/kara-van-brunt-2/)
- [Kathleen Crevasse](https://gslookout.org/organizer/kathleen-crevasse-2/)
- [Betsy Cake](https://gslookout.org/organizer/betsy-cake/)
- [Rev. Michele Simmons](https://gslookout.org/organizer/rev-michele-simmons/)
- [Kathleen Crevasse](https://gslookout.org/organizer/kathleen-crevasse/)
- [Kara Van Brunt](https://gslookout.org/organizer/kara-van-brunt/)

## Events

- [Junior Choir Rehearsal](https://gslookout.org/event/junior-choir-rehearsal/2025-10-22/) - Junior Choir for choristers in grades 3 through 5 meets on Wednesdays during the school year from 4:00-5:00 pm in the Choir room for practice including music theory, learning about our worship, and snack.
- [Trinity for Kids](https://gslookout.org/event/trinity-for-kids/2025-10-22/) - Trinity Kids on Wednesdays during the school year. Children in K through grade 5 learn Bible stories through Godly Play and have response time through art, music, and movement/yoga. 4:30-6:00 pm Children in K through 2nd grade meet for Godly Play, snack, music with Mr. John, and alternating weeks of art and movement/yoga 5:00-6:00 pm
- [Shepherd's Night Out](https://gslookout.org/event/shepherds-night-out/2025-10-22/) - Join us for Shepherd’s Night Out dinner in Talbird Hall, Wednesdays from fall to spring, at 6:00 pm. Dinners include a main course, side dishes and dessert; pizza for kids! Cost: $10/adult; $5/child ages 3-12; children under 3 eat free; $30 family max. payable by cash, check, or card.
- [Men's Bible Study](https://gslookout.org/event/mens-bible-study-3/)
- [Men's Bible Study](https://gslookout.org/event/mens-bible-study-2/)
- [Advent Morning Prayer](https://gslookout.org/event/advent-morning-prayer-2/) - During Advent, join Kathleen Crevasse for Morning Prayer in the chapel. The service will also be livestreamed to Facebook.
- [Taizé Service](https://gslookout.org/event/taize-service-3/) - A quiet service to soothe the soul in the season of Advent, featuring hymns from the Taizé community's tradition. This service will also be livestreamed to our YouTube channel.
- [Thursday Bible Study](https://gslookout.org/event/thursday-bible-study-2/2025-10-23/)
- [Youth Breakfast & Sunday School](https://gslookout.org/event/youth-breakfast-sunday-school-2/2025-10-19/)
- [Centering Prayer](https://gslookout.org/event/centering-prayer-2/2025-10-21/)
- [Healing Service](https://gslookout.org/event/healing-service-2/2025-10-21/)
- [Intercessory Prayer Group](https://gslookout.org/event/intercessory-prayer-group-2/2025-10-21/)
- [Holy Eucharist, Rite II](https://gslookout.org/event/holy-eucharist-rite-ii-6/2025-10-19/) - Holy Eucharist Rite II with guitar and hymns
- [Morning Prayer](https://gslookout.org/event/morning-prayer-2-2/2025-10-20/) - With Kathleen Crevasse on Facebook
- [Wednesday Night Youth](https://gslookout.org/event/wednesday-night-youth/2025-10-22/)
- [Adult Choir Rehearsal](https://gslookout.org/event/adult-choir-rehearsal/2025-10-22/)
- [Coffee & Conversations](https://gslookout.org/event/coffee-conversations/2025-10-19/)
- [Lectionary Bible Study](https://gslookout.org/event/lectionary-bible-study/2025-10-19/)
- [Young Women's Bible Study](https://gslookout.org/event/young-womens-bible-study/2025-10-23/)
- [Men's Bible Study](https://gslookout.org/event/mens-bible-study/2025-10-22/)
- [Grief Group](https://gslookout.org/event/grief-group/2025-10-23/) - For more information on the Grief Group, please click contact Mother Michele, michele@gslookout.com.
- [Holy Eucharist, Rite I](https://gslookout.org/event/holy-eucharist-rite-i/2025-10-19/) - Rite I, spoken service at 8:00 am
- [Holy Eucharist, Rite II](https://gslookout.org/event/holy-eucharist-rite-ii-4/2025-10-19/) - Rite II with hymns and choir at 10:30 am
- [Evening Prayer](https://gslookout.org/event/evening-prayer-2/2025-10-20/) - With Mtr. Michele on Facebook
- [Tai Chi](https://gslookout.org/event/tai-chi/2025-10-20/)
- [Preschool Chapel](https://gslookout.org/event/preschool-chapel/2026-08-24/)

## Series

- [Junior Choir Rehearsal](https://gslookout.org/series/junior-choir-rehearsal/)
- [Trinity for Kids](https://gslookout.org/series/trinity-for-kids/)
- [Shepherd's Night Out](https://gslookout.org/series/shepherds-night-out-3/)
- [Evening Prayer](https://gslookout.org/series/evening-prayer/) - On Facebook with Mother Michele.
- [Wednesday Night Youth](https://gslookout.org/series/wednesday-night-youth/)
- [Adult Choir Rehearsal](https://gslookout.org/series/adult-choir-rehearsal/)
- [Youth Breakfast & Sunday School](https://gslookout.org/series/youth-breakfast-sunday-school/)
- [Thursday Bible Study](https://gslookout.org/series/thursday-bible-study/)
- [Morning Prayer](https://gslookout.org/series/morning-prayer/)
- [Taizé Service](https://gslookout.org/series/taize-service/)
- [Yoga](https://gslookout.org/series/yoga/)
- [Centering Prayer](https://gslookout.org/series/centering-prayer/)
- [Healing Service](https://gslookout.org/series/healing-service/)
- [Intercessory Prayer Group](https://gslookout.org/series/intercessory-prayer-group/)
- [Holy Eucharist, Rite II](https://gslookout.org/series/holy-eucharist-rite-ii-2/)
- [Holy Eucharist, Rite II](https://gslookout.org/series/holy-eucharist-rite-ii/)
- [Holy Eucharist](https://gslookout.org/series/holy-eucharist/)

## Categories

- [Sermon](https://gslookout.org/category/sermon/)
- [Vestry](https://gslookout.org/category/vestry/)

## Event Categories

- [Worship](https://gslookout.org/events/category/worship/)
- [Formation](https://gslookout.org/events/category/formation/)
- [Fellowship](https://gslookout.org/events/category/fellowship/)
- [Miscellaneous](https://gslookout.org/events/category/misc/)
- [Music](https://gslookout.org/events/category/music/)
- [Good Shepherd School](https://gslookout.org/events/category/preschool/)
- [Youth](https://gslookout.org/events/category/youth/)