Beloved,

In the tapestry of our church’s journey, change is an inevitable thread—one that often stirs emotions and questions. By now, you may have heard the news that the church council has voted on a resolution to leave the ELCA and join the LCMC. (Read the letter from our Council President HERE) Of course, there are still many steps to be taken, including your input. This letter is not about those steps, but instead, a pastoral word of encouragement. While change can be a challenging prospect, it can also be an opportunity for deeper faith, growth, and a strengthened reliance empowered by the unchanging nature of our Lord.

In times of uncertainty, we find solace in the power of God, who is with us always. As it says in Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” The hand that upholds us is the same hand that has guided our church through its history, and it is the hand that will continue to lead us into a future marked by the unfathomable grace of God.

Our hope does not rest in structures or affiliations but in the unwavering foundation of our faith—Jesus Christ. As we navigate this potential transition, let us echo the wisdom of Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” I am not afraid of our future, because I know that God is not afraid. We follow an unwavering and strong leading-God. 

Please join the Good Shepherd leadership in prayer, seeking God’s wisdom and guidance during this pivotal time. Together, we are a community bound by a shared history of mountains and valleys, understanding, and an unwavering trust in our Almighty God. God has seen us through every up and down, and God will see us through this one, too. This is not a solo journey; it is a collective one embraced by a community that has been held in the hands of God since its inception. Our church is blessed with strong, dedicated leadership committed to discerning God’s future for us.

In the upcoming weeks and months, my prayer is that we are a community marked by resilience, faith, and a shared vision for the future. Our unity will be our strength, and as we move forward together, may we see that God will continue to weave our story together. May the peace that surpasses all understanding guard our hearts and minds as we embark on this new chapter. Take heart, dear friends, for our God goes before us, and His promises remain steadfast.

Ministry and worship will continue to be the centerpiece of all that we do at Good Shepherd. I am so excited for the season of Advent to begin as we kick off our new sermon series, Marvel. This week, we will “marvel through the eyes of the prophets” with Pastor Greg in the Sanctuary and myself in the Worship Center. Dear ones, God is with us, and I can’t wait to be together on Sunday.

From my heart,

Pastor Tara Beth