What is Good Shepherd Lutheran Church like?
We are a group of believers who love to gather around God’s Holy Word and His precious Sacraments. Being small we are able to care for one another individually and we share our joys and concerns much like one does with a close family.
Can I remain anonymous or will I be pointed out to everyone as a visitor?
Because we are not a large assembly, people will know that you are not a member, but not to worry, we do not ask visitors to stand up and be introduced. You will be greeted as you enter and leave the church, just as all our members are. It is up to you whether you wish to have an extended conversation with us. We would love to meet you and get to know you.
Is it okay to just watch at first?
We believe that church membership is a voluntary act, and that the most important thing is to trust in the Lord Jesus Christ for forgiveness and salvation. People need time to evaluate and decide if they want to get further involved. We respect that need, and if in time you desire to join our membership and commune with us, we would be happy to speak to you about it.
What should I wear?
Sometimes people wonder how they are expected to dress at a church they’ve never visited before. Since the Bible presents no dress code, aside from simple modesty, we don’t make any rules either. Like most people, our members try to make their worship time at church a special time. This is often reflected in the way they dress. However, on any given Sunday you may see running shoes and high heels, jeans and suits, open collars and ties. When a person dresses out of love for God, the choice of dress (casual or more formal) is acceptable to God… and us.
What if I don’t know much about the Bible?
All of us are to be growing in our knowledge and faith. None of us have our Bibles completely memorized. The Divine Service and Bible study are opportunities to grow in our knowledge of the Bible and trust in our Savior. You won’t have to answer any questions you don’t want to answer. And remember, sometimes the wisest words we say are, “I don’t know.”
Is your church full of “perfect” people?
No. Our church is a spiritual hospital. Jesus himself said: “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick” (Mt 9:12). Jesus is the Great Physician of our souls. We’re far from perfect! That’s why we’re at church—to hear that we are forgiven!
