Snapshots of Good Shepherd
Welcome! These snapshots offer a glimpse into the life, ministry, and fellowship of Church of the Good Shepherd in Galax. From worship and celebration to service and outreach, we invite you to see who we are — and to know that you are always welcome here.
Worship & Celebration
Octoberfest in the sanctuary — a joyful time of food, music, and fellowship.
Celebrating twenty years in this building.
Christmas Eve celebration.
Welcoming new members to our church family.
Rev. Marty Wagner
Santa Dennis visits children in the sanctuary.
Supply Clergy, Rev. Dr. Jan Fuller, on Pentecost Sunday.
Supply Clergy, Rev. Terrie Sternberg, preaching, accompanied by her dog, Theo.
Vice Pastor, Rev. JoAnn Bunn
Meeting Our Bishops
As a shared Lutheran and Episcopal congregation, we cherish moments of connection with our wider church family. We were grateful to welcome Bishop Phyllis Milton, Bishop of the Virginia Synod of the ELCA, and to meet Bishop Karin MacPhail, Episcopal Bishop of Southwestern Virginia, at the New River Convocation Gathering.
Bishop Phyllis Milton — Bishop of the Virginia Synod, ELCA.
A memorable visit with Bishop Phyllis Milton.
Bishop Karin MacPhail — Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Southwestern Virginia.
Wilma Williams having a conversation with Bishop MacPhail.
Serving Our Neighbors
Serving others is at the heart of who we are. Whether we’re delivering snacks to first responders, packing food for local schoolchildren, or reaching around the world, we believe in putting faith into action.
Thanking Our Law Enforcement
Providing snacks and encouragement for the law enforcement officers who serve our county.
God’s Work, Our Hands
Each year we join Lutherans across the country in a day of service — because faith is something we live out together, with our hands and our hearts.
On September 13, 2026 we prepared forty-four personal care kits for Lutheran World Relief to deliver to those in need.
Feeding Our First Responders
A fish fry was hosted for our local rescue squad and their families — a small thank-you for their tireless service to our community.
Outreach Near and Far
Some of the outreach projects we’re proud to support.
Places we reach around the world.
Delivering contributions and backpack supplies to Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM).
Folks at Church of the Good Shepherd donated a total of 204.5 Lbs. of pasta on September 6, 2016 to help feed people in our community over the summer.
Global Connections
The Dunor Family in Liberia — We helped this family in the past when they were in a time of need. One of the meaningful connections that reminds us how big and beautiful God’s family truly is.
Welcoming Visitors from the Boys Home
We were honored to welcome visitors from the Boys Home and share a time of worship and fellowship together.
Prison Pup Program at Bland Correctional Center
One of the ministries closest to our hearts is the Prison Pup Program. Inmates at Bland Correctional Center train service dogs for one year before the dogs move on to St. Francis Service Dogs for advanced training. Once fully trained, these dogs are placed with individuals who need them as assistance dogs.
The toys pictured here were purchased with donations from Church of the Good Shepherd for the dogs in the Prison Pup Program. It’s a joy to play a small part in a program that transforms so many lives — inmates, dogs, and future handlers alike. In 2026 Church of the Good Shepherd donated $3,909.00 to the Prison Pup Program.
The Director of St. Francis Service Dogs shared a wonderful presentation with our congregation about the life-changing work of these amazing animals and their trainers.
A Dog-Friendly Church
Yes, really! Well-behaved dogs are welcome at Good Shepherd. We have hosted pet adoption events, wellness checks, and an annual Blessing of the Animals — because every member of the family matters.
Some Dogs Who Have Attended Worship
Toby
Lizzie
Pepper
Charlie
Lilah
Sidney Sue
Theo
Maizy Gray
Fellowship, Fun & Learning
Good Food, Great Company
Fellowship and food in the forum room — because breaking bread together is one of the sweetest parts of church life.
A cookout with our friends from the Permaculture Garden.
We share lots of good food — and there’s always a seat at the table for you.
Health Fair
A community Health Fair was hosted at our church — one of the many ways we love our neighbors.
Yoga in the Sanctuary
Yoga class in the sanctuary — a time for stillness, breath, and community.
Recognizing Servant Hearts
We were so proud to see Kisha Johnson receive the Serving Boldly Award — a wonderful recognition of a life lived in loving service.
Behind the Scenes: Building Our Sound Booth
A heartfelt thank-you to Rob Meinecke and Mary Schwalenberg, who did a wonderful job building the sound booth for our church.
Tenson and Kevin operating the finished sound booth in our sanctuary — helping every voice, word, and note be heard.
Another look at our sound booth in action during worship.
Our Story in Buildings
Our former building on Center Street in Galax.
Sanctuary of the Center Street church.
The site dedicated for the new church building we call home today.
