Good Shepherd Ministries
As disciples of Jesus Christ there are many ways we live out our faith. One of the ways we do this is by serving others, especially our neighbors and those in need. Here are just a few of the ways that members of Good Shepherd serve our neighbors.
Immigration Justice Team
At our congregational meeting in January 2020, we voted unanimously to become a Welcoming Congregation in the ELCA’s AMMPARO initiative. READ the message of welcome to Good Shepherd from the ELCA offices. AMMPARO ~ Accompanying Migrant Minors with Protection, Advocacy, Representation, and Opportunities.
Food Shelf
The Essex Jericho Underhill Ecumenical Ministry (EJEUM) Food shelf is located at Good Shepherd. Because of our faith in Jesus Christ and his teachings concerning those in need, the mission of the Essex Jericho Underhill Ecumenical Ministry is to operate a community food shelf, provide educational experiences, and provide emergency aid for community members. EJEUM is a partnership of local churches, groups and individuals working together to combat hunger. We are a network partner of the Vermont Foodbank. Follow the link to find out more information about their work and how to get involved. Food distributions are held at Good Shepherd, using a drive-through model (remain in your car and someone from Food Shelf will direct you) on the third Saturday of the month, 9:00 - 10:30am.
Equal Exchange
One of Good Shepherd’s ministries helps educate members and visitors about the importance of supporting Fair Trade that helps small farmers throughout the world. For instance, the coffee and tea enjoyed during fellowship after worship is purchased through Equal Exchange, a US Fair Trade company whose mission is to build environmentally sound and economically just relationships between farmers and consumers for a more sustainable world.
In cooperation with Equal Exchange, there is opportunity at Good Shepherd to enjoy fine food and drink products that originate throughout the world. Products can be purchased, mostly at wholesale cost, by visiting the corner display in the fellowship area. We’ve selected fine coffee, tea, cocoa, olive oil, pasta raisins, dates, and chocolate bars for you to purchase and enjoy, knowing you are making a healthy choice for yourselves and the world.
All proceeds help support small farms in areas of the world where Equal Exchange has established programs. Pay by cash or by check, made out to “Good Shepherd Lutheran Church” (write “coffee” on the memo line).
Thank you for supporting this global ministry.
People Helping People Global
A young couple at Good Shepherd, Isabel and Alex Tuck, founded this organization in March of 2009 from their home in Fairfax, VT. They created it to provide individuals with the tools necessary to help themselves and their communities escape extreme poverty. Their well-rounded approach is accomplished by providing interest-free micro loans, training, and exposure to new markets. In return for the funding and help provided, the individuals verbally agree to repay the 0% interest loan. Everyone understands that repayment is important, because it allows other community members to participate and the community is strengthened with each project. By partnering with the individuals of these communities, they are empowered to develop businesses which will generate enough income to raise their family and community out of poverty.
On the PHPG website, you can learn more about the current project in Nicaragua, meet Alex and Isabel, and see what a difference PHPG is making in the lives of many poor families. It is easy to donate through the website, but also fun and valuable to participate in the Valentine’s Day Brunch and the Brain Freezer 5K. Join the Tuck’s online newsletter here.
Prayer Shawl Ministry
Knitters and crocheters, either working together or individually, create a simple shawl which is then given away. The shawl not only provides warmth to its wearer, but through the dedication and prayer of the knitter it is also a reflection of God’s comfort and care. If you know of someone who might enjoy the comfort of a hand-created shawl, please let us know. We would be delighted to provide you with a shawl to give to your friend, relative, baby, teen or anyone in need of a hug. The shawl can either be given in celebration of a special occasion (e.g. baptism, parents expecting a child), to a friend or relative going through a difficult time or for someone recovering from an illness. Please call our church office if you would like to request a shawl or if you would like to find out more about this ministry, such as who to contact and when the meetings are held.