Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers for first-time visitors — what to expect, where to go, and how to feel at home.
Visiting for the First Time
What time are services?
We offer three services each week: Saturday at 4:30 PM, Sunday at 8:00 AM (Holy Eucharist, Rite II — Chapel, no music), and Sunday at 10:15 AM (our main service with choir, Children's Chapel, and coffee hour following). The 10:15 AM service is also livestreamed on YouTube.
What should I wear?
Come as you are — truly. You'll see everything from jeans to Sunday best. Comfortable and casual is perfectly at home here.
What happens during an Episcopal service?
Our worship follows the Book of Common Prayer — there's a natural rhythm of standing, sitting, and kneeling, with spoken responses and hymns. You'll receive a bulletin when you arrive with everything you need to follow along. Feel free to simply observe anything that feels unfamiliar; no one will put you on the spot.
How long is the service?
The 8:00 AM service runs about 45 minutes. The 10:15 AM service typically runs about 75 minutes.
Do I have to be Episcopalian to attend?
Not at all — everyone is welcome, regardless of background, faith tradition, or membership. We invite all baptized Christians to receive Communion at Good Shepherd. If you haven't been baptized or prefer not to receive, you're warmly welcome to come forward for a blessing instead. No one will ask or judge.
Families
What programs are available for children?
Nursery care is available from 9:00 AM for infants and toddlers. During the 10:15 AM service, children are welcomed into worship with the congregation and then dismissed for Children's Chapel during the sermon. Sunday School classes for all ages run at 10:00 AM during the school year. Our Youth Director leads monthly events and a summer mission trip for middle and high schoolers. Visit our Children & Youth page for full details.
Planning Your Visit
Where should I park and enter the church?
The main parking lot is off NE Chouteau Drive. The main entrance is on the parking lot level — no steps required. Designated accessible spaces are close to the entrance, and the entire first floor is on the same grade as the lot. An elevator connects to the Parish Hall below, and accessible restrooms are on both levels. Large-print prayer books and hearing assistance are available upon request.
How do I get connected after my first visit?
The best first step is simply to introduce yourself to one of our clergy or greeters after the service — we'd love to meet you. You're also welcome to send us a message, and we'll help you find where you fit.
Church Leadership
Who is leading the church during the Rector search?
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 supports our congregation with pastoral care and outreach. Our Bishop, the Rt. Rev. Amy Dafler Meaux, oversees the Diocese of West Missouri. You can learn more on our Staff page.
Contact
How can I contact the church?
Call us at 816-452-0745 or email office@episcopalcogs.org. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. For urgent pastoral needs outside office hours, leave a message and clergy will follow up as soon as possible. You can also reach us through our Contact page.
More Questions?
Download the full FAQ document for additional details on weddings, baptism, pastoral care, and more.
Download Full FAQStill Have Questions?
We mean it — there are no silly questions when you're exploring a new church. Reach out any time and we'll get back to you promptly.
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