Business Details
Welcome to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
At Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, we are committed to Following Christ, Growing in Faith, and Sharing God's Love. Our mission is rooted in the belief that every person is made in the image of God and deserves to be welcomed into a community of grace and compassion. We embrace diversity in all its forms, including race, ethnicity, gender identity, and socioeconomic status, and invite everyone to participate fully in our worship, fellowship, and sacraments. As a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), we emphasize salvation through faith, as described in Ephesians 2:8-9, and strive to live out our values of inclusivity, spiritual growth, and service.Our worship services blend traditional and contemporary elements to meet the needs of all generations, while our ministries extend beyond the walls of our church to address local and global needs through partnerships like LifeWise StL and ELCA World Hunger. We believe that faith is nurtured through relationships, and our programsfrom preschool education to community gardensreflect this commitment to holistic, relational ministry. Whether you are seeking a place to worship, grow spiritually, or serve others, you are welcome here. We are glad you're here. You belong.
Services
Worship Services
Preschool Education
Mission Outreach
Community Garden
Adult Bible Studies
Youth Ministries
Music Programs
Sermon Podcasts
Highlights and features
- We offer inclusive worship services blending traditional and contemporary elements.
- Our ministries serve all ages, from preschool education to senior companionship.
- We partner with LifeWise StL for impactful local community transformation.
- Our mission extends globally through ELCA World Hunger and Guatemala outreach.
- We practice open communion and welcome all to participate fully in church life.
Associations and certifications
- Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA)
What people say
Inclusive community
Engaging sermons
Active outreach
Family-friendly
Spiritual growth
Services
Worship Services
We offer three weekly worship experiences: Saturday evening casual service, Sunday traditional worship, and contemporary Sunday service. All services emphasize liturgical tradition while incorporating modern elements to engage diverse generations. Our worship includes music, scripture readings, sermons, and sacraments like baptism and communion. Each service lasts approximately 60-75 minutes, with childcare and youth programs available during Sunday services.
Preschool Education
Building Blocks Preschool provides faith-based early childhood education for children aged 2-5. Our curriculum focuses on social-emotional development, foundational academic skills, and spiritual growth through play-based learning. The program operates Monday-Friday with morning and afternoon sessions. Certified teachers create a nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten while emphasizing Christian values like kindness and sharing.
Mission Outreach
Through partnerships with LifeWise StL and ELCA World Hunger, we address local and global needs. Our initiatives include food distribution, educational support, and international mission projects. Members participate in hands-on service like packing meals for Feed the Need STL and maintaining a community garden that donates produce to families in need. These programs embody our commitment to serving 'the least of these' as Christ commanded.
Adult Bible Studies
We offer weekly Bible study groups for adults seeking deeper scriptural understanding. Sessions include chronological Bible exploration, book studies, and topical discussions led by pastors and trained lay leaders. Participants engage in small-group discussions that connect scripture to modern life challenges. Materials are provided, and all studies emphasize practical application of biblical principles to daily living.
Youth Ministries
Our youth programs serve middle and high school students through Sunday School, confirmation classes, and special events. Activities include mission trips, retreats, and weekly gatherings featuring games, worship, and discussions about living out faith in school and social settings. Pastors and adult volunteers mentor students in developing personal relationships with Christ while building intergenerational connections within the congregation.
People
Josh Brecht
Lead Pastor
Pastor Josh Brecht has served Good Shepherd since 2015, bringing 18 years of pastoral experience. He focuses on preaching, leadership development, and mission strategy. Josh earned his M.Div. from Lutheran Theological Seminary and emphasizes practical application of scripture in modern contexts.
Amy Stewart
Pastor of Discipleship
Pastor Amy Stewart oversees adult education and spiritual formation. With 12 years in ministry, she specializes in Bible study curriculum and women's spiritual development. Amy holds a Master of Arts in Theological Studies and leads weekly adult education classes connecting faith to daily life.
Varinia Espinosa
Pastor of Congregational Care
Pastor Varinia Espinosa provides pastoral care and leads small group ministries. She has 9 years of experience in counseling and spiritual direction. Varinia earned her M.Div. with a focus on community outreach and coordinates visitation programs for homebound members.
Questions
What are your worship service times?
We offer Saturday evening worship at 5:00 PM, Sunday Traditional service at 9:00 AM, and Contemporary service at 11:00 AM.
Is childcare available during services?
Yes, we provide nursery care and children's programming during Sunday services for ages birth through 5th grade.
Can non-members participate in church activities?
All are welcome to attend services and events regardless of membership status. Our ministries are open to the entire community.
Do you offer preschool programs?
Yes, Building Blocks Preschool serves children aged 2-5 with morning and afternoon sessions Monday-Friday.
How can I get involved in community service?
Join our Service Team through monthly mission meetings or participate in ongoing partnerships like LifeWise StL and Feed the Need STL.
Are there opportunities for adult Bible study?
We offer weekly Bible study groups covering various topics and formats, including chronological scripture exploration and book studies.
