Archbishop William Temple wrote that the church is the only institution that does not exist for itself, but for others. Love of God is clearly expressed in and related to the love of the neighbor. Good Shepherd is committed to faithfulness in this part of the church's calling. To that end we strive to give away a third of our budget each year for God's work in the local community and wider world. In 2010, this total is $341,750. Community & World Ministries is 27% of the 2010 budget.
COGS
COGS is an acronym for "Church of the Good Shepherd". This organization is a group of volunteers that meet once a month to "work hard and serve the Lord" at area non-profits. For the past 14 years, volunteers have contributed their time to many organizations and agencies in Augusta, providing assistance and support to God's people.
We meet in the church kitchen for directions, information and coffee talk. Usually we finish between noon and 1:00 PM -- depending on the work and the number of volunteers. Students are encouraged to come and earn service hours, but if under age 16, must have a designated parent to supervise -- a 1:4 ratio is recommended. Snacks and drinks will be provided for volunteers.
2010 - 2011 COGS Schedule
Interfaith Hospitality Network of Augusta (IHNA)
The Interfaith Hospitality Network of Augusta provides shelter, meals and support services to homeless families with children. For one week, several times each year, our parish house becomes their "home." Hosting guests requires parish volunteers to prepare meals, help children with homework, and be available for conversation and encouragement. Families stay safely and securely in area church facilities while working to regain self-sufficiency.
Other Ministries Supported by Good Shepherd
Caring for the Homeless:
Ballentine House; CSRA Economic Opportuunity Authority; St. Stephen's Ministry, Inc.; Salvation Army; Interfaith Hospitality Network of Augusta (IHNA); CaringWorks/Maxwell House; Garden City Rescue Mission
Caring for the Hungry:
Golden Harvest Food Bank; Downtown Cooperative Church Ministries (DCCM); St. Stephen's Ministry, Inc.
Caring for Children:
Augusta Youth Center; Child Enrichment; EDS Outreach; Kids Restart; Mount Up Ministries of Appling; Augusta Mini Theater
Caring for families with Children:
Interfaith Hospitality Network of Augusta (IHNA)
Caring for those with substance abuse:
Hope House; The Georgia Meth Project
Caring for Veterans: Fisher House
Caring for those with mental illness or disability:
Augusta Training Shop for the Handicapped; Friendship Community Center; Berry Center, Inc.; Developmental Disabilities Ministries, Inc./Drew Home, Lynndale, Inc.; Serenity Behavioral Health
Caring for prisoners:
Epiphany of Georgia
Caring for victims:
Domestic Violence Intervention Center (SafeHomes)
Caring for the poor and needy:
Catholic Social Services; Mercy Ministries, Inc.
Caring for those with special needs:
Center for Care and Counseling; Comfort House; Family Counseling Center
National and International Organizations:
Remote Area Medical Corps (RAM); Episcopal Relief and Development; Compass Rose Society; Dominican Development Group
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