Visitor FAQs

Visiting a church for the first time can be daunting. We at Good Shepherd want to help make your visit a positive experience. We've tried to answer some of the most common questions people have when visiting a church.

What can I expect on a Sunday?

We offer two services on Sunday mornings: one at 8:00 AM and another at 10:30 AM. These services can be described as blended worship. We utilize different forms of liturgy and various styles of music while observing our rich Lutheran heritage. Between services, there are snacks and coffee provided in the Fellowship Hall and Bible Studies for all ages begin at 9:15 AM.

What should I wear?

There is no "dress code" at Good Shepherd, however, it is common to dress "California Casual."

What about my children?

We encourage families to worship together. During Sunday Worship Services, children are invited up to the front for a short object lesson just for them that relates to the sermon topic or the theme of the day. During Communion, families may bring their children to the altar for a blessing. We have a "cry room" available for those times when little ones are fussy.

At 9:15 AM the children meet for Sunday School classes that we affectionately call "The Flock." The Flock begins with a large group for all ages in the Parish Hall and breaks into smaller groups by age. Small group lessons are reinforced through crafts, games and other activities.

Should I give an offering?

Our members give out of thankfulness for what God has given them. As our guest, we do not want you to feel obligated to give and you may simply pass the plate, unless you too are moved to express your thankfulness to God for what He has given you.

Will I be able to follow along in the service?

Yes! We provide a complete printed version of the service in both regular and large print.

Can I participate in Communion?

We celebrate Holy Communion every first and third Sunday of the month. We invite people to come to the altar for Holy Communion if they are repentant (sorry for their sins) and desire to be forgiven by the Lord. We believe that when Jesus said, "This is my body... This is my blood..." He meant it, and we also accept that it is at the same time still bread and wine.

We serve both alcoholic wine and non-alcoholic wine. The non-alcoholic wine is lighter in color and in the center of the tray.

If you have difficulty kneeling at the altar, feel free to remain standing. We also serve communion in the pews to anyone who finds it difficult to walk up to the front. If you desire this, please let an usher know.

If you have any questions regarding our practice of Holy Communion, please don't hesitate to contact the pastor or an elder.

If you have any other questions that were not answered here, please click here to contact us.