Our Traditions

At the Church of the Good Shepherd in Salinas, California, our traditions flow from the rich heritage of the Episcopal Church and the worldwide Anglican Communion. Rooted in the Book of Common Prayer, shaped by Scripture, tradition, and reason, and lived out in a welcoming, inclusive community, these practices connect us to Christians across centuries while calling us to serve our neighbors in Corral de Tierra and beyond.

A family standing in front of an altar inside a church, celebrating a religious occasion, holding colorful decorations with the word 'ALABADO'.

The Via Media: Scripture, Tradition, and Reason

Episcopal tradition follows the “via media” or middle way—balancing the authority of Scripture, the wisdom of Christian tradition, and thoughtful engagement with reason and the world around us. This balanced approach helps us live faithfully in today’s world while honoring the historic faith passed down through the centuries. At Good Shepherd, this means we value both deep spiritual roots and open hearts for all who seek God.

An old metal bell mounted on a pole surrounded by green foliage.

The Book of Common Prayer: The Heart of Our Worship

A priest standing at a pulpit in a church, reading or speaking, with lit candles on a hanging menorah in the background.

The Book of Common Prayer (BCP) is the foundation of Episcopal worship at Good Shepherd. This treasured book guides our prayers, liturgies, and sacraments, filling our services with Scripture and beautiful, time-tested words that unite us as one Body of Christ. Whether you join us in person at our scenic location on Corral de Tierra Road or online via YouTube, you’ll experience worship that is both ancient and alive.

People at a church service with dogs that are being blessed.

Worship, the Sacraments, and the Church Year

Our liturgical worship centers on the sacraments, especially Holy Baptism and Holy Eucharist (also called Communion). Most Sundays we celebrate the Eucharist together, often with choir and music that lifts the spirit. We also offer a family-friendly service and occasional Taizé-style worship.

We follow the liturgical seasons of the Church year—Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, and Pentecost—marking time with special colors, readings, prayers, and observances. These seasons shape our life together, including in our preschool program, where children experience the wonder of the Christian story through stories, colors, and simple worship.

A group of people gathered outdoors, some sitting on benches and others standing, during a ceremony or event at a park or wooded area, with a man speaking or reading at a podium covered with colorful cloth.

Community, Service, and Radical Welcome

Episcopal tradition calls us not only to worship but to serve. At Good Shepherd, our traditions come alive through community events such as:

  • Community BBQs and coffee hour

  • Healing Prayer Services

  • Cursillo and Bishop visitations

  • Back-to-School Blessings

  • Partnerships feeding the hungry, and more

We are an inclusive Episcopal Church that affirms the dignity of every person. All are welcome—whether you’re exploring faith for the first time, returning after a long absence, or seeking a spiritual home that honors both tradition and today’s world.

Experience

Our Traditions

Whether you prefer traditional liturgy, enjoy hybrid worship (in-person and online), or are drawn to a close-knit community in a beautiful oak-studded setting, the Church of the Good Shepherd invites you to discover Episcopal traditions that are both timeless and deeply relevant.

Join us for Sunday worship at 10:00 a.m. (with choir, nursery, and Sunday School), explore our weekday Morning Prayer, or reach out to learn more about how you can connect with our faith community.

Ready to visit or learn more? Contact us or watch a recent service online. We look forward to welcoming you into the Good Shepherd family.