Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything people most often want to know — about visiting, worship, children, accessibility, and life at Good Shepherd.
Visiting
How should I dress for worship?
Come as you are — truly. You'll see the full range at Good Shepherd: slacks and polos, sundresses, jeans, and yes, traditional Sunday best. "Casual Friday" attire is probably the most common. What matters is that you're here. The focus is on praising God and being a community of faith, not on what anyone is wearing.
Where should I sit?
Sit wherever you feel most comfortable. Good Shepherd members spread out naturally, and there's generally more open seating to the right of the altar. Ushers will be happy to help you find a spot.
Do I need to know anything about Episcopal worship before I come?
Not at all. You'll be given a service bulletin with everything you need to follow along. Our liturgy comes from the Book of Common Prayer — it's participatory, so there's standing, sitting, and spoken responses — but you're welcome to simply observe as much as feels comfortable. No one will put you on the spot or ask you to introduce yourself.
Is Good Shepherd a "high church" or "low church" parish?
Those terms are a bit old-fashioned, but if it helps: our worship is traditional, and we use incense on major occasions, putting us somewhere in the middle of the spectrum. We hope that the joy and substance of our worship — not just the style — is what sticks with you.
Children & Families
Is there a nursery?
Yes. Nursery care is available on Sundays beginning at 9:00 AM for infants and toddlers. The nursery is at the end of the hall past the elevator, with a sign above the door. It's staffed by two trained, background-checked workers with years of experience. There's a wide variety of toys, a dedicated child-sized restroom, and parents are alerted immediately if their child needs them.
What programs do you offer for children and youth?
During the school year, we offer Christian Formation classes for teens at 9:00 AM and for children at 10:00 AM. Children's programs are age-appropriate with multiple groups and qualified, background-checked teachers. Our acolyte program welcomes youth from 3rd grade through high school to assist in worship every Sunday at 10:15 AM. Our Youth Director leads monthly events and one mission-focused trip each summer.
Accessibility
Is the building accessible?
Yes. The entire first floor is on the same grade as the parking lot — no ramps required to enter the building. We have designated accessible parking spaces close to the main entrance, accessible restrooms, and an elevator that makes the Parish Hall (one floor down) available to all. Our sound system is amplified. Large-print editions of the Book of Common Prayer are available. Wheelchairs and walkers are available upon request.
Getting Involved
What ministry opportunities are there?
For a mid-sized congregation, Good Shepherd is remarkably active. Our Backpack Shepherd Program provides food to three area schools. We maintain a community garden and orchard. We donate clothing and household items throughout the year and support organizations including the Shepherd's Center, Northland Assistance Center, and Nourish KC. We have a Kiva microloan fund and fund irrigation projects abroad. We also provide space for a polling station, a bi-annual health clinic, and various community groups. There are social groups too: knitting, bridge, art, and more. If you have an idea for a new ministry, we'd love to hear it.
How do I learn more about the Episcopal Church?
We have printed tracts in the church foyer you're welcome to take home. We also offer Inquirer's Classes in the weeks before our bishop's visitation — a great way to ask questions in a relaxed setting. And you can always reach out to our clergy or office; no question is too small.
Clergy & Leadership
Who are the clergy at Good Shepherd?
The Episcopal Church has three orders of ordained ministry — bishops, priests, and deacons — all open to women and men. Our Bishop, the Rt. Rev. Diane M. Jardine-Bruce, oversees the Diocese of West Missouri and visits Good Shepherd as her schedule allows. The Rev. Jonathan David Callison serves as our Interim Priest, joining Good Shepherd in July 2026 to provide priestly leadership as we prayerfully seek our next rector. Deacon Lynda Hurt serves our congregation with a particular focus on pastoral care and outreach. You can reach the church office to connect with clergy.
Weddings
How do I inquire about a wedding at Good Shepherd?
Generally, weddings at Good Shepherd are for members or families of parish members. Please contact the office at 816-452-0745 to begin the conversation. Since marriage is offered only after pre-marital counseling with clergy (3–6 sessions depending on circumstances), we recommend reaching out at least 6 months before your intended date.
Can a divorced person be married in the church?
Yes, with permission of the bishop and after counseling with the priest. The State of Missouri requires a minimum of 6 months after a final divorce decree before remarriage.
Is there a fee for a wedding?
There is no set fee. A donation to the congregation and to the officiating clergy's discretionary fund is appreciated — $150 for each is suggested. The discretionary fund is audited and used to help those in need. It is also customary to offer an honorarium to musicians, as recommended by the American Guild of Organists.
Baptism
How do I schedule a baptism?
Baptism is the beginning of a faith journey, not a one-time event. We ask that baptismal candidates be regular participants in worship at Good Shepherd or their home parish. Traditional dates for baptism are Epiphany, Easter Vigil, Pentecost, Trinity Sunday, and All Saints' Day. Call the office at 816-452-0745 to begin the conversation.
Is there a minimum age for baptism?
Baptism is offered at any age. For infants, we understand gathering family from out of town can be complicated, and arranged dates are possible. Adults are generally encouraged to join group baptisms on major feast days.
Pastoral Care
Who do I contact for pastoral needs or emergencies?
During office hours, call 816-452-0745. The office can connect you with clergy for urgent pastoral needs. You can also reach out via the contact form on our website.
Will you pray for someone?
Of course. Fill in the prayer request form in your pew, call the office, or submit a request through our contact page. After two months without further updates, we remove names from the prayer list — so please keep us informed of any changes. Good Shepherd also has a Daughters of the King chapter and a prayer chain of members who pray for specific needs.
What if someone is hospitalized?
Due to HIPAA regulations, you or your family must contact the Good Shepherd office directly when someone is admitted to the hospital. Please let us know the hospital name, location, and room number so clergy can visit.
Full FAQ Document
Download the complete FAQ document, including additional details on weddings, baptism, and pastoral care.
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