Phone: (865) 687-9420
Open Christianity • Open Hearts • Open Minds • Lead us to God
About Us
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.
Present The Rev. Dorothy Pratt
2015 – 2016 The Rev. J. Kenneth Asel, Interim Rector
2006 – 2015 The Rev. Charles Fels
1988 – 2006 The Rev. A Henry Swann
1983 – 1987 The Rev. Charles Livemore
1971 – 1983 The Rev. Karl Weddle
1968 – 1971 The Rev. John Height
1966 – 1968 The Rev. Ben F. Binkley
1962 – 1966 The Rev. James. M. Coleman
1958 – 1961 The Rev. B. Sidney Sanders
Sunday Schedule
Holy Communion: 8:30am and 11:00am
Christian Formation for all ages: 9:45am
Fellowship after both Services
Summer Schedule (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend)
Holy Communion: 8:30am and 10:00am
Breakfast: 9:15am