Reformation and LSM’s Recital
Reformation Sunday
On Sunday morning, October 27, three young adults from our congregation stood in front of the assembly and proclaimed the words of the Apostles Creed. This confirmation moment, or Affirmation of Baptism, wasn't just three individuals on display. We as a body of believers also named those articles as our own altogether.
As part of the preparation for this important day, these confirmands look through and find scripture that closely relates to where they are on their faith journey. They select scripture that speaks to them and resonates with how they see God and Jesus and their place in this world. They are listed below, and if you didn't have the opportunity to take your insert home following worship, I invite you to read their selections and pray over these three young disciples as they move into the next phase of their faith.
The way that Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd helps students move through that worship service is very different and unique. We have the students surrounded by their immediate family, sponsors, grandparents, and others, and then the congregation at large turned towards them on purpose. With all of us reciting the same blessing, speaking in solidarity is one of the ways that we try and amplify how we see all of our roles intertwined when it comes to supporting each other's faith journey.
Those students heard that promise and prayer most closely from their own family, but it is apparent that we are all wrapped up in moments like this, all of our voices have a place here. It is an honor to be invited into the lives of students and families, and to be able to walk with them as they approach that day…and in the days, weeks, and months to follow.
Amelia Schilling, Ephesians 4:32
Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
Paul Roellinger, Luke 6:35-36
Instead, love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, for he himself is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
Ben Prange, 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.
We give thanks for the students, their families, and a place that lets us explore and own our faith together.
Written by Mark Halvorson, Director of Congregational Ministries
Evening Recital with Lutheran Summer Music
On Saturday, October 13, over forty people came to take in a night of music and worship at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd in the style of a typical night at Lutheran Summer Music Academy and Festival, simply titled: Evening Recital with Lutheran Summer Music.
As many of you know, I spend a month from late June to late July at Valparaiso University in Indiana where I serve as the Summer Academy Director of LSM. LSM is a rewarding experience that immerses the students in musical enrichment and profound worship opportunities- and surrounds them with world-renowned musicians. It has been a dream of mine to worship from the older Lutheran Book of Worship’s Evening Prayer liturgy, as well as perform some music I wouldn’t normally sing on Sunday. Thanks to the wonderful staff at Good Shepherd, the creative musicians, and former students of LSM.
You can find the recital and evening prayer in its entirety below. I am truly grateful for your continued support as we look to further enrich our lives together in worship.
Written by Seth Hartwell, Director of Worship and Music