Our Story

A large tree with dense green foliage in front of a building with brick walls and angular concrete supports, with outdoor seating and potted plants.

Nestled in the beautiful Corral de Tierra valley between Monterey and Salinas, the Church of the Good Shepherd is a welcoming Episcopal parish where people of all ages and backgrounds gather to worship God, care for one another, and serve our community. Whether you are new to church, returning after some time away, or looking for a spiritual home, you are wanted and welcomed here — just as you are.

We are part of the Episcopal Diocese of El Camino Real and follow the rich liturgical tradition of the Episcopal Church, while striving to be a place of genuine belonging and connection in today’s world.

Group of seven people performing music outdoors under a large tree, with various musical instruments and sheet music stands.

Worship Life

We worship with joy and the expectation of receiving blessing from the God who loves us and desires relationship with us. Our Sunday worship follows the ancient patterns of the church as found in the Book of Common Prayer, while our preaching and music are alive and relevant, offered with the hope of meeting you personally in your life.

Sunday worship begins at 10:00 a.m. and is followed by Coffee Hour, a relaxed time of fellowship and conversation. Holy Communion is offered on most Sundays, and all baptized Christians are warmly invited to receive.

For those who are unable to be with us in person, our Sunday services are also available via livestream and on our YouTube channel throughout the week.

On weekday mornings, a faithful group gathers online via Zoom at 9:00 a.m. for Morning Prayer — a peaceful way to begin the day in Scripture, psalms, and prayer together.

Group of people gathered outdoors near trees, sitting at long picnic tables with food and drinks, enjoying a social event.

Community Life

At the heart of Good Shepherd is a desire to be a place where people truly know and care for one another. After worship, we linger over coffee and refreshments. Throughout the week, small groups meet (in person and online) for prayer, Bible study, and conversation about life and faith.

We celebrate the seasons of the church year together and gather for special events such as community barbecues, campouts, Cursillo gatherings, jazz and pancakes, annual Art in the Pastures of Heaven fundraiser, and seasonal blessings. Whether you are looking for deep conversation, quiet companionship, or simply a friendly face, there is a place for you here.

Five children dressed in costumes, including angels and a biblical character, are standing indoors near a table with wrapped gifts and a small black and white dog. The background includes a wooden door, a side table with a candle, and a wooden display shelf.

Children & Families

Children are cherished members of our community. We offer Nursery care(ages 1-3) on most Sundays throughout the year, providing a safe and loving space for our youngest worshipers. Sunday School (ages 4-12) is offered from September through May, with a summer recess.

Our on-site Good Shepherd Preschool serves families in the broader community, offering a play-based program rooted in Episcopal Christian values and the warmth of our parish family.

A group of smiling people gathered around a table with bowls of strawberries and salad in a kitchen or cafeteria, posing for a photo.

Outreach & Service

We believe faith is lived out in love and service. Our parish is actively engaged in caring for our neighbors near and far:

  • Preparing and serving meals each week to those experiencing hunger, in partnership with First United Methodist Church in downtown Salinas.

  • Supporting a school in Montrouis, Haiti, through our relationship with St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.

  • Offering prayer support through our Healing Prayer team.

  • Knitting beautiful prayer shawls that bring comfort and the tangible reminder of God’s love to those who are hurting or in need.

These ministries flow from our desire to be the hands and heart of Christ in the world.

You Are Welcome Here

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You Are Welcome Here —

We would love to meet you. Whether you come for a single Sunday, join us for Morning Prayer during the week, or become part of our community for years to come, you are invited.

Come as you are — Sit where you like — Ask questions — Stay for coffee

There is a place for you at Good Shepherd!