Good Shepherd was founded in 1956 by a group of young parents with a vitality that continues to this day. Within two years the founders of the church bought five acres of land; hired a priest, an architect and a builder; and broke ground on the new church. The first service in the newly constructed church was on Christmas Eve 1958, even though there was no glass in the windows. The church continues to retain its original 1950s architecture, with the notable addition of contemporary stained glass in those once-empty windows.

From the outset, the worshiping community at Good Shepherd has been characterized by its interest in others, its commitment to young people and, for the most part, an easygoing tolerance of the differences that inevitably arise in any group of human beings intent upon a common goal.

As part of its people's commitment to service,  the church has embarked upon service projects in Guatemala; Tanzania; the Lakota Reservation; Rosebud; South Dakota; the hills of Harlan; Kentucky; and the backyards of Knoxville. Several times a year our members welcome homeless children and their families as our guests for a week of meals and lodging at the church. In various ways we also serve the children and families of those who are in prison; provide food for the hungry and gas money for the stranded; and hold  several fundraisers, with all proceeds donated to charities in the community.

At the center of all this energy and action is the conviction: Jesus set an example for us that we are called to follow by making the world a better place in which to live.