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New to Good Shepherd?

I’m New … What Should I Expect?

So you have seen our times and locations and have decided to visit, but you have some questions about how our worship service works. We hope you will find some of the answers here but, if you don’t, just click the contact button below and send us your inquiries. We understand if something is confusing, because we have all been new at some time or another. It doesn’t matter if you’re new to Good Shepherd, new to the Dunedin area, or even new to Church, we want you to feel welcome. We were hoping you would join us, so let’s help you feel at home.

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What time should I arrive?

We have 2 services on Sunday, at 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. We suggest you arrive around 5-10 minutes early. Someone will greet you at the door and give you the worship bulletin and a newsletter with details of what’s happening at church on that day and over the coming weeks. The greeters will also be happy to answer your questions about where to sit, restrooms, nursery and Sunday School for the kids (at the later service) – and if they don’t know the answer, they’ll know whom to ask.

What Time Should I Arrive?

What should I wear?

Please just come as you are – church is about the people you're with, not the clothes you're wearing. If you want to wear shorts or jeans – super! If you want to wear a coat and tie or hat and heels – marvelous!

Do I need to bring anything?

You don't need to bring anything except your name and a sense of curiosity.

I am hard of hearing

We have assisted listening devices available; please let a greeter or usher know, and they will set you right up.

Why Do You Wear Name Tags?

Because at a family meal, don't we usually know the names of the people around the table? Also, it’s hard to have a sense of belonging when we don’t know each other’s names.

To get a name tag, all you have to do is ask for one – and it doesn't mean you're officially joining the church or making a donation or doing anything more than being willing to share your name with other people in God’s family. We usually have it ready by the next week. A sign-up sheet is on a clipboard in the back of the church. Write whatever name you wish to be called – all we ask is that you print clearly so we get it right.

What about my kids?

We love kids!

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” ~  Matthew 19:14

That means that children are welcome to stay in church. We know God put the wiggle in children.

A few tips might help:

  • It might seem counter intuitive, but sit toward the front where it’s easier to see and hear.
  • There are boxes of children’s books in the back the church, one on each side.
  • Sing the songs, pray, and speak the responses. Children learn worship by copying you.
  • If you need to leave the worship service with your child, please feel free to do so... but please come back!

All that said, during the 10 AM service many kids enjoy going to our Nursery or Sunday School instead of staying with the adults the whole time. All our caregivers receive training in child care and protection.   All of the children (except sleeping babies) are brought in for the Peace and stay for Holy Communion.

What’s there to do after worship?

After worship, follow the crowd to the hall for food and conversation. People usually catch up and visit with each other and enjoy bringing our guests into the fellowship. We’re always eager to see what goodies folks have brought to share each week. On the third Sunday of each month from 8:30 until noon, the men of the church host the Bodacious Breakfast, featuring eggs, pancakes, sausage, and other good fixins’. Guests who complete an information card receive a coupon to attend the next Bodacious Breakfast - on the house!