Hello everyone,

You may know I have struggled with severe depression and anxiety most of my life which comes from a diagnosis of PTSD. Over the past ten years, I have tried to bring more awareness to others about mental health and trauma in our children. As well as elicit understanding, acceptance, and support for individuals in our community and worldwide struggling with mental health issues. I feel that our faith is a powerful tool in supporting mental health. Spiritual beliefs can offer comfort, hope, and resilience to those struggling with mental health issues. These range from scriptural guidance to the simple act of prayer; our faith is solace in difficult times. Understanding mental health issues and their accompanying struggles can be essential for compassionate care, self-awareness, and creating supportive environments. Creating an environment where mental health can be discussed openly and without judgment is crucial in supporting those who are struggling.
    I want to confront mental health stigma and lack of knowledge. We must strive to create an environment of understanding and compassion and dispel myths and misconceptions. Many individuals with mental health disorders face societal stigma, leading to discrimination, embarrassment, or shame. Here at CGS, we believe in the power of community and want to ensure that every member feels seen, heard, and supported.
    Educating ourselves and others around us can help bring an understanding of the complexities of mental health disorders and foster empathy and effective support. Our community is only as strong as we make it. Let's also strive to build a supportive, inclusive church community where mental health is acknowledged, accepted, and cared for. Please remember that Mental health awareness is more than just understanding - it's about empathy, support, and ensuring that no one has to fight their battles alone. Let's continue to foster a supportive environment in our church community and make mental health a conversation we're not afraid to have. Together, we can make our church a haven of understanding, acceptance, and support for all.
I ask you to pray with me:
God, heal and support all those suffering from mental illness. May they always know they can run to you for comfort and peace. And I pray they will be surrounded by people and communities supporting them in their healing journey. In Jesus's name, Amen.

Blessings and Peace,
Sophie Jobe

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​The countdown to the most vibrant shindig of the year is on, and guess who's strutting their stuff? That's right – the amazing crew from Christ the Good Shepard is getting ready to rock the house at the Silicon Valley Pride Parade! On Sunday, August 27th, CGS is bringing the spirit of unity, love, and acceptance to the streets. Don't miss the groove – we're inviting everyone to join the party!
If you haven't heard, CGS is a bunch of big-hearted folks who are all about spreading good vibes, supporting one another, and throwing one heck of a party! We're all about building a community where everyone feels like a superstar, and we're not afraid to shout it from the rooftops. Being a part of the Silicon Valley Pride Parade is like a glittery cherry on top of our acceptance sundae.
Mark your calendars, slap on some glitter, and get those dancing shoes shined up! CGS is all about spreading the joy, and we want YOU to be a part of it. We're not just marching; we're strutting our stuff with style!
**Date and Time:**
Sunday, August 27th
Parade Kickoff: 10:30 AM
Line-up Jam: 10:00 AM
Location: Downtown SJ
How to Get in on the Action:
March with Us: Got a white t-shirt? Good! Bring it to church and we’ll tie-dye it rainbow for you to wear during the parade. Let's turn heads and show off our kaleidoscope of unity and diversity.
Float Fiesta: Before we hit the streets, we're throwing a float-decorating fiesta that's gonna be off the charts! Join us on Saturday, August 26th, at 10 AM at CGS. We’ll work together and create a float that's as unique as CGS.
Why We're Rocking the Pride:
This isn't just any parade; it's a glittery, joyous statement of love, acceptance, and progress. At CGS, we believe in celebrating everyone for exactly who they are. We're all about making sure everyone's voice is heard, no matter who they love or how they identify. Jumping into the Silicon Valley Pride Parade is our way of showing that we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our LGBTQ+ community.
Get ready to party, dance, and celebrate the love that makes our community shine bright. See you at the parade!
For questions contact Jean Jensen or Mike White

​CGS will host Safe Car Park guests during the month of September. The program provides a safe place to stay for those who are living in their cars.  We are a part of a network of faith communities who work on a monthly rotating schedule.  The CGS team leaders; Chelsea Byom, Sarah Janigian, Kevin Visscher, Rachel Visscher, Susan Duran.  Pastor Kris and Christina Unzen provide staff support. 
We have learned in our previous hosting experiences that the CGS community plays an important part in how we extend welcome and hospitality for this ministry.  Volunteers are needed to assist with check-in (evening) and check-out (morning), providing a meal once a week, and staffing the hospitality room on Thursdays. Please use the link to sign-up to work during the month. (Click Here) ​
We will offer one meal per week to our guests, and have snacks available throughout the month. If you would like to volunteer to prepare a meal, please use the volunteer link.
 Donations of restaurant, grocery and gas gift cards are greatly appreciated. Grab and go snacks are gladly accepted. An Amazon wish list has been set up to make it very easy to donate in this way.  You can drop off snack donations to the table by the church office. Please mail, leave in the office, or hand deliver to one of the team members gift card donations. Cash donations are gladly accepted and will be used in the program.
If you have any questions or would like to make a donation, please contact any of the team members.  If you are interested to become a part of the SafeCarPark@CGS team, please contact Pr. Kris or one of the members of the team.
Gratefully,
Sarah Janigian, Chelsea Byom, Kevin Visscher, Rachel Visscher and Susan Duran