Events Calendar

Lesson on Maps—Let’s Learn Where All This Bible Stuff Happened
We’ll take a fun and interactive look at biblical geography to understand where major Bible stories took place. Students will explore maps, locate important regions, and discover how the locations in Scripture help us better understand God’s story.

Grief Support Group
The Grief Support Group will meet on Thursday, September 25, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM. This group provides a safe and compassionate space for individuals grieving the loss of a loved one to share experiences, find support, and begin the healing process together.

Sunday School: Unit 1 — The First Sin
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.


Cub Scout Pack 17
Cub Scout Pack 17 will meet on Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM. Scouts will engage in activities, skill-building, and planning as part of their ongoing program. All members are encouraged to attend.

Scouts Troop 22
Troop 22 will meet on Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM. Scouts will participate in activities, planning, and skill-building as part of their ongoing troop program. All members are encouraged to attend.

Lesson on The New Testament—Why is the bible split in two parts?
We’ll explore the difference between the Old and New Testaments and why both are essential to understanding God’s big story. Students will learn how the New Testament continues and fulfills the promises of the Old.

WELCA Meeting
The WELCA (Women of the ELCA) group will meet on Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Join us for fellowship, discussion, and planning as we continue our mission of service, community, and faith-based activities.


Sunday School: Unit 2 — The Red Sea
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Milestone Ministry: Kindergarten
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Lesson on Jesus—How can Jesus be human and God?
This week we dive into one of the most important questions of our faith—how Jesus can be fully human and fully divine. We’ll look at Scripture and how Christians have understood Jesus for thousands of years.

Sunday School: Unit 2 — The Red Sea
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.


ConFest at Trinity Lutheran Church in Sparta, WI
A high-energy evening with other Confirmation students from the entire La Crosse Area! Expect worship, games, music, and inspiring messages. Let’s gather together to celebrate faith and have fun!

Sunday School: Unit 2 — The Red Sea
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Volunteer Day—Donating to Salvation Army and Hunger Task Force
We’ll roll up our sleeves and give back by helping collect, organize, and donate goods to local organizations fighting hunger. A hands-on way to live out what Jesus teaches about loving our neighbors.

Trunk-or-Treat
TRUNK OR TREAT IS BACK!
Get ready for a spooktacular afternoon of family fun on Saturday, October 25th from 3:00–5:00 PM at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church! Our parking lot will be transformed into a Halloween wonderland with decorated trunks, candy galore, and plenty of festive fun for kids of all ages.
Dress in your best costume, bring your candy bag, and enjoy a safe, fun-filled way to celebrate Halloween with the community. Invite your friends, neighbors, and family—this is an event you won’t want to miss!
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Milestone Ministry: 3rd Graders
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Sunday School: The Reformation
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Lesson on Matthew—Why does Matthew talk about the Old Testament?
We’ll look at how Matthew connects Jesus to Old Testament prophecy and shows us that Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah.
Special note: 8th grade students will also begin working on their Confirmation Banners.

Final Day to Sign Up for Faith Webs
Make sure to register if you plan to participate in Faith Webs and attending Sugar Creek Bible Camp or attending another Bible camp experience this summer (2026). Don’t miss out!

Sunday School: Unit 3 — Jonah and the Big Fish
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Lesson on Mark—Who is this disciple?
We’ll dive into the Gospel of Mark and learn about its fast-paced style and the unique perspective it brings to Jesus’ story.

Sunday School: Unit 3 — Jonah and the Big Fish
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Lesson on Luke—Lets Learn About Luke
Luke’s Gospel is full of compassion, healing, and stories of the outcast. Discover what makes Luke different and what his message means for us today.

WELCA Holiday Marketplace Sale
🎄✨ Mark your calendars for the 2025 WELCA Holiday Marketplace Sale at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church!
Join us at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in the Mattes Center on Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 9:00am to 2:00pm. Admission is free, and the event will feature 24 local gift and craft vendors, homemade baked goods, and the church’s famous Norwegian lefse.
Guests can also enjoy door prizes throughout the day and a lunch served from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This festive gathering is the perfect opportunity to support local artisans, find unique holiday gifts, and enjoy time with the community.

Sunday School: Unit 3 — Jonah and the Big Fish
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Lesson on John—Why did he get his own book in the bible?
John’s Gospel stands apart from the others. We’ll explore his deep, poetic view of Jesus and how he helps us understand who Christ really is.

Sunday School: Christmas Program Practice
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Lesson on Acts—Is church today supposed to look like church in Acts?
In this session, we’ll explore how the early Christians lived out their faith in the book of Acts—and what that means for us today.
Special note: 8th graders begin writing their Faith Statements and should turn in their banner materials.

Sunday School: Christmas Program Practice
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Lesson on Paul and the Early Church—Who is Saul/Paul?
This week, we’ll explore the powerful story of Saul, a man who once persecuted Christians, and how he became Paul—the most influential missionary of the early church. Students will learn how God can use anyone, even someone with a rough past, to share the Gospel and spread the message of Jesus. We’ll also talk about what it means to have a calling and how Paul’s letters helped shape the early Christian community.

Sunday School: Christmas Program Practice
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Sunday School: Christmas Program
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Volunteering for Salvation Army Bell Ringing
Put your faith into action by ringing bells for the Salvation Army! We’ll head out into the community to help raise money for families in need during the holiday season. This is a fun and meaningful tradition where students get to serve others, spread Christmas cheer, and live out the love of Christ during a time of year when many need hope the most.

Sunday School: Unit 4 — The Disciples
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Lesson on Paul's Theology—What did Paul want us to learn?
Paul didn’t just plant churches—he helped people understand how to live out their faith every day. This session dives into his major teachings about grace, faith, and life in Christ. Students will see how Paul’s writings offer wisdom for real life and why his theology still matters today.

Sunday School: Unit 4 — The Disciples
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Lesson on Romans—What is Paul's letter even trying to say?
Romans is one of Paul’s most important letters—but also one of the most complex. We’ll work through the big themes like sin, salvation, and God’s incredible gift of grace. Students will begin to understand how this letter lays the foundation for much of Christian belief.

Sunday School: Unit 4 — The Disciples
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Milestone Ministry: 1st Graders
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Lesson on 1 and 2 Corinthians—What’s going on with the church there?
The Corinthian church had a lot of problems—divisions, arguments, and confusion about how to live as Christians. Paul responded with care, correction, and love. This week, we’ll look at how Paul helped a struggling church and how his advice still helps churches (and people!) today.

Sunday School: Unit 5 — Mary & Martha
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Lesson on Galatians—What do you do when Christians disagree?
Paul wrote Galatians during a major disagreement in the early church. This lesson explores how he defended the idea that we’re saved by grace through faith—not by rules. Students will learn about the importance of unity, freedom in Christ, and standing up for what really matters.

Sunday School: Unit 5 — Mary & Martha
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Lesson on Letters—Why are so many letters considered holy scripture?
The Bible includes a lot of letters—especially in the New Testament. This week, we’ll learn why these personal messages from Paul and other leaders are so important and how they continue to shape our faith today.
👉 Reminder: 8th Grade Faith Statements are due tonight!

Sunday School: Unit 5 — Mary & Martha
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Lesson on Revelation—What happens in the book Revelation?
Revelation is full of strange images—beasts, battles, and heavenly visions—but it’s also full of hope. We’ll help students unpack this mysterious book and understand its message that God wins, evil loses, and Jesus will return to make all things new.

Milestone Ministry: 2nd Graders
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Sunday School: Unit 6 — Ten Men Healed
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Sunday School: Unit 6 — Ten Men Healed
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Sunday School: Unit 6 — Ten Men Healed
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Milestone Ministry: 4th Graders
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Sunday School: Unit 6 — Ten Men Healed
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Sunday School: Unit 7 — The Last Supper
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Sunday School: Unit 7 — The Last Supper
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Sunday School: Unit 7 — The Last Supper
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Milestone Ministry: 5th Graders Seder Supper
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Sunday School: Serving Others Project
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Sunday School: Service Project
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Sunday School: Final Art Day
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Sunday School: Education Sunday Practice
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Confirmation Worship Service & Ceremony
Join us for a very special worship service as we celebrate our 8th grade students completing their journey through Confirmation! During this meaningful service, students will publicly affirm the promises made at their baptism, share their faith statements, and be officially confirmed as adult members of the church. It’s a time of celebration, reflection, and blessing as we honor their growth in faith and the support of their families, mentors, and church community. All are welcome to attend this joyful milestone in their faith journey.

Sunday School: Education Sunday Practice
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Sunday School: Education Sunday
A joyful close to the school year, celebrating all the children’s learning and milestones.
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Parish Education Meeting
The Parish Education Committee will meet on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. This meeting provides an opportunity to plan and coordinate educational programs and activities for all ages within the church community.

Quilting
Join us for Quilting on Monday, September 22, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. This is a wonderful opportunity to create quilts for Lutheran World Relief, connect with fellow quilters, and share your skills in a meaningful ministry.

Good Shepherd Men's Group
The Good Shepherd Men’s Group will gather on Sunday, September 21, 2025, from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Join us for fellowship, discussion, and shared reflection as we build community and grow in faith together.

Boy Scouts Troop 22
Troop 22 will meet on Sunday, September 21, 2025, from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM. Scouts will participate in activities, planning, and skill-building as part of their ongoing troop program. All members are encouraged to attend.

Sunday School: Unit 1 — The First Sin
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.


Bunco Night (Fall Theme)
Join us for Bunco Night with a festive fall theme on Friday, September 19, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Enjoy an evening of fun, games, and fellowship with friends and church members of adults ages 18+.

October Shepherd's Voice Newsletter Articles Due
The deadline for submitting articles for the October edition of the Shepherd’s Voice Newsletter is Friday, September 19, 2025, by 1:00 PM. Please ensure all content is submitted on time for inclusion in the newsletter.

Team Building, Meet your Groups
Students will meet their small groups and leaders for the year and get to know one another through fun games and activities. This night is all about building trust, making friends, and creating a safe space to learn and grow together.

Church Council Meeting
The Church Council will meet on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This meeting provides an opportunity for council members to discuss church operations, plan upcoming events, and make decisions that support the mission and ministry of Good Shepherd.

Cancer Support Group
The Cancer Support Group will meet on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This group provides a supportive and compassionate space for individuals affected by cancer to share experiences, find encouragement, and connect with others on a similar journey.

Growth, Fellowship, Membership Committee
The Growth, Fellowship, and Membership Committee will meet on Monday, September 15, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. This meeting focuses on strategies to foster spiritual growth, strengthen fellowship, and encourage membership engagement within the church community.

Good Shepherd Men's Group
The Good Shepherd Men’s Group will gather on Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Join us for fellowship, discussion, and shared reflection as we build community and grow in faith together.

Boy Scouts Troop 22
Troop 22 will meet on Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM. Scouts will engage in activities, planning, and skill-building as part of their ongoing troop program. All members are encouraged to attend.

Cub Scout Pack 17
Cub Scout Pack 17 will meet on Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM. Scouts will participate in activities, skill-building, and planning as part of their ongoing program. All members are encouraged to attend.


Sunday School: Unit 1—The First Sin
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.

Bummert Funeral
The Bummert Funeral will take place on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Join us as we honor and remember the life of our loved one, offering prayers, support, and fellowship to family and friends.

Bummert Visitation
The Bummert Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. This time provides an opportunity for friends and family to gather, offer condolences, and support one another in remembrance and fellowship.

Game Night
Join us for Game Night on Friday, September 12, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Enjoy an evening of fun, fellowship, and friendly competition with board games and card games for all ages.

Grief Support Group
The Grief Support Group will meet on Thursday, September 11, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM. This group provides a safe and compassionate space for those grieving the loss of a loved one to share experiences, find support, and heal together.

Welcome to Confirmation & Parent Orientation
Students and parents are invited to kick off the Confirmation year together! We’ll introduce the Confirmation program, review the schedule, talk about expectations, and share how families can support their student’s faith growth at home and at church.

Hillview Communion
Join us for Hillview Communion on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, from 1:45 PM to 2:45 PM. This service brings the sacrament of communion to members at Hillview, offering a time of worship, reflection, and fellowship.

Dementia Support Group
The Dementia Support Group will meet on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, from 1:15 PM to 2:15 PM. This group offers a safe and supportive space for caregivers and family members to share experiences, gain resources, and find encouragement.

Before the After
Join us for Before the After on Monday, September 8, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. This session provides fellowship, discussion, and support for those navigating life transitions or challenging times. All are welcome to attend.

Quilting
Join us for Quilting on Monday, September 8, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. This is a wonderful opportunity to create quilts for Lutheran World Relief, connect with fellow quilters, and share your skills in a meaningful ministry.

Good Shepherd Men's Group
The Good Shepherd Men’s Group will gather on Sunday, September 7, 2025, from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Join us for fellowship, discussion, and shared reflection as we build community and grow in faith together.

Boy Scouts Troop 22
Troop 22 will meet on Sunday, September 7, 2025, from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM. Scouts will engage in activities, planning, and skill-building as part of their ongoing troop program. All members are encouraged to attend.

Burrito Breakfast
Kick off Rally Sunday with a Burrito Breakfast on Sunday, September 7, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM. Join us for a delicious meal and fellowship with church members of all ages as we celebrate the start of the new Sunday School year!

Milestone Ministry Sunday: Preschoolers
Questions? Contact Brea Ellison, Director of Children’s Ministry, at breanna@gslacrosse.org.