Every year at this time, the Weekly is filled to the brim with various opportunities in the life of our church. By my count, there are 23 opportunities this week alone! A recent member of the Good Shepherd family recently e-mailed me to share of the fun...
Next Saturday, August 25th, our elders are meeting for a bi-annual retreat day. We do so every January and August, and they have become two of my absolute favorite days of the entire year, not only because we have a lot of fun together, but also because I learn so much from each one of the leaders on the team....
Last week we welcomed over 220 kids for VBS. This week, our Middle and High School students are on Catalina at Campus by the Sea for a week of summer camp. Different settings, to be sure, but the same goal....
VBS week is like no other week on campus. It’s not even close. All week, over 220 Pre-K through 5th graders have been making crafts, engaging in science experiments, playing games, watching skits and singing. And singing. Then, a little more singing...
When we discovered Jen was pregnant with our first child we were still in Princeton, NJ, entering the last year of our seminary adventure. It was the summer of 2000. In the fall of that year we traveled back home to southern California. We celebrated Jen’s birthday...
The Red Sox and the Yankees. Tom and Jerry. UCLA and USC. Batman and the Joker. Coke and Pepsi. The Hatfields and the McCoys. Classic rivalries are all around us. Here's one you may have never thought of: 9am Classic and 10:45am Modern...
Stanley Hauerwas and Will Willamon’s book Resident Aliens opens with these words: Sometime between 1960 and 1980, an old, inadequately conceived world ended, and a fresh, new world began. We do not mean to be overly dramatic....
In 1926, the United States Supreme Court made a well-intentioned ruling that affects our everyday lives - perhaps for the worst. The justices ruled that the town of Euclid, Ohio could bar the development of land which had been slated for an industrial-use...
My family and I live on a quaint little street near El Dorado park. It’s common on weekends to drive by epic birthday parties and large family reunions sprawled out in the vast open space of the historic park. My children, 4 and 7, always feel left out of playing on the...
The story has been told of a pastor who began his ministry at a new church with a brilliant sermon. Everyone loved it. The next week, however, he preached the same sermon. The exact same sermon. Same text, same illustrations, same application....
My brother and I called it “Big Church.” And it happened every Sunday. Really. Every Sunday! Starting in the 2nd grade! We went to Sunday School, then Big Church. Luckily, most Sundays we’d get a donut in between. But even after a donut - or maybe especially...
A couple of weeks ago lay leader Diana Klimek and I introduced a new ministry during our worship services. If you were absent that day, what follows is a brief overview of our recently launched Care Response Team (CRT)....
Our current sermon series is inspired by the prayer Jesus taught us, a prayer we pray together every week: “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed by Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”...
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter...
I’m one of those weird people who doesn’t like coffee. I like the smell but not the taste. On the rare occasion I visit a coffee shop I order tea or hot chocolate. My aversion to coffee does offer the benefit of saving money and freedom from caffeine addiction....
The story has been told of a Christian college here in Southern California that once sent its students door to door to talk with people about spiritual issues. Can you imagine how difficult that would be!? I hope that these students, by merely attempting...
In his award winning book The Jesus I Never Knew, Philip Yancey describes holy week traditions (or lack thereof) in his childhood church community. He explains that they never held a Good Friday service. Nor one for Maundy Thursday. No, they “skipped past...
Southern California is one of the most beautiful, idyllic places in the world. Where we call home is sought after by people around our country - even world! We may forget that from time to time, or even take it for granted, but it’s true. Case in point...
I've mentioned in sermons that my family and I live in a little fixer upper just across Katella/Willow into Long Beach, a few streets over from El Dorado Park. We love our neighborhood primarily because we have great neighbors, some of whom we get to worship...
The truth is, every church needs young people. Their passion enriches the soil around them. The curiosity they bring to Scripture and the authenticity they bring to relationships keep your church’s teaching fresh and fellowship fruitful....
An amazing thing happened on the way to Jerusalem. The first half of our gospel accounts depict Jesus ministering in and around Galilee. He calls disciples, tells parables, and performs healings on behalf of fascinated crowds. But about halfway through the...
Somewhere around 90% of American households own a car, but that wasn't always the case. A hundred years ago, the automobile was not accessible for most of the population. Then, along came Henry Ford. He once quipped that if he gave people what...
It’s officially known as Naval Support Facility Thurmont, but it’s usually just referred to as Camp David. Built from 1935-1938 in Catoctin Mountain Park near Thurmont, Maryland, Camp David has hosted dignitaries and politicians from all over the world....
In the movie Million Dollar Baby Clint Eastwood’s character likes to torment his priest by asking him questions that are incredibly difficult to answer. One question he asks is about the Trinity......
Sunday we began a new series we’re calling Who Is This Man? Despite the new series title, we’re continuing in the Gospel of Luke, which we began for Advent in December and will continue until Easter in April! “Who is this man?” It’s a question that...
It was one of those visuals that sticks with you, simple though it was. You know the kind: They imprint themselves deeply in your brain’s hippocampus and can’t be forgotten (no matter how hard you try!). In reality it was just two tables on a stage....
In his book Hidden Christmas, Tim Keller writes that every December there are two very different celebrations going on - each observed by millions of people at the same time. Around the world there are those of us who see in Christmas an opportunity to...
One of my favorite parts of preaching is words. Which isn’t all that surprising. I use a couple thousand of them in each sermon (though sometimes one or two of them are repeats). It’s not the amount of words I like (surprise though it may be)...
This fall we engaged the call to create Christian community in our series One Another. Our bulletin cover and PowerPoint background was a serene forest of trees, deep in some secluded forest. The inspiration for that image came from aspen trees,...
Our goal this year at Good Shepherd is to go deeper into community so that we can go further out in faith. If you haven't heard about that, learn more here. The desire to go deeper into community has prompted us to explore the "one anothers" found...
This week is Mission Sunday (remember to come early 2nd service folks!) and also marks the anniversary of an important moment in church history. 500 years ago, on October 31, 1517, Martin Luther posted a copy of his Ninety-five Theses...
One of the movies I still enjoy is The Blues Brothers, staring the late John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd. They play Jake and Elwood Blues, brothers who believe they have a divine appointment to reassemble their band, play a one-night-only benefit concert,...
By now you’ve undoubtedly heard me write or talk about our one year goal at Good Shepherd: "Deeper Into Community, Further Out in Faith." We want every member of our church community to be connected not only in a Sunday morning worship...
The phrase "change the world" is a common one in our day. In one way or another, it seems everyone wants to do so. Type that phrase into Google and you’ll get 206 million results in a search that takes less than a second. Included are more than 50 million...
I am cast upon a horrible, desolate island, void of all hope of recovery. I am singled out and separated, as it were, from all the world, to be miserable. I am divided from mankind – a solitaire; one banished from human society… I have no soul to speak to or relieve me....
On Sunday we conclude our series All In, in which we’re engaging our mission statement: Inviting all people to grow into a Christ-centered life in God’s family. We’ve discussed “inviting all people” and “growing into a Christ-centered life.” On Sunday, we will think...
It’s been said that “words create worlds.” And it’s difficult to argue with that statement. Think, for instance, of the outset of the Scriptures, where God declares “Let there be light.” And, sure enough, there’s light! The next day God creates the sky. The next day...
Erwin Rommel was a genius, no doubt about it. The problem was that he put his efforts to use working for the Nazi regime. And yet, despite his evil intent, we can learn something from Rommel to be put to use for God’s mission in the world. And in our church....
Did you know our sanctuary is equipped with a high-tech device to meet the needs of those with reduced ranges of hearing? Well, it is! Last summer we installed “audio-frequency induction loops” - better known as a “hearing loop.” This device is a...
It's been a year, now, since our two Flame Point Siamese kittens--Wallace and Gromit--joined our family. You'll recall, perhaps, that I am not a "pet person" by nature, and was somewhat uneasy about adding these felines to our household....
The events that took place last weekend in Charlottesville have deeply troubled me to the core. But now, a week later, it is not only the events themselves, but the response - across our country - which reveals how deeply fallen and divided America is. I have sought...
This summer we've been engaging the parables in our series The Stories Jesus Told. You may recall how, a couple months ago, I invited anyone in our community to “tell us what to preach on.” Any story Jesus tells, we'll preach on it. Your favorite parable?...
One of the greatest joys of serving as your pastor is hearing how God has revealed Himself in your lives. Just this Thursday, I met with a Covenant Partner of our congregation to whom God revealed himself in unmistakable ways – clarifying his calling...
An African proverb states: “It takes a village to raise a child,” acknowledging the need for community that stretches beyond the bounds of the nuclear family. Today more than ever dual-income, busy parents need a network of grandmas and grandpas...
The above fresco, titled The Parable of the Sower, is the centerpiece of the chapel at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Charlotte, North Carolina. Painted by artist Gerald Steinmeyer, the work measures 17x20 feet, towering over gathered worshippers...
I'm not sure God intended us to have favorite passages in the Bible, but, I suppose it's only human to be drawn to certain parts of God's Word that speak to us in a special way. One of my "favorites" (if that's okay!?), is Psalm 150:...
After two weeks in Charlotte, North Carolina, at a second-year residency for my Doctorate in Ministry, it is good to be back! And no, I don't miss the humidity! I am grateful for how Josh and Paul kicked off our summer series, The Stories Jesus Told....
This week our church family suffered a very difficult loss as the 26-year old son of Julie Varley, Alex Bradley, was killed in a car crash. A couple of days later Julie pulled from the wreck a photocopy of the hymn “It is Well with My Soul,” which Alex had played on...
Here are some unofficial statistics from our Church Family Picnic, last Sunday: People attended: 157 In-n-out burgers consumed: 196 Water balloons tossed: 98 Bounces in the bounce house: 2,742 Kids laughing: 52 Seniors laughing: 53...
Like many children I enjoyed watching the Hanna-Barbera cartoons: Scooby-Doo, Tom & Jerry, The Jetsons, The Flintstones...they were all Saturday morning favorites. (They're still rather fun to watch today, especially Tom & Jerry.)...
At Tuesday evening’s Session and Staff Meeting, we reviewed a document written by ECO’s Synod Executive, Rev. Dr. Dana Allin, entitled Five Important Shifts for Our Future Development. The first shift is From ‘Clergy-Centered’ to an ‘Unleashed Laity.’...
Sunday we continue our series They Will Know Us By Our Fruit, inspired by Jesus’ teaching in Luke 6: No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from...
If you think about it, e-mail is a strange communication medium. Instead of speaking with someone face to face, or talking over the telephone, where we can at least hear their voice, in e-mail, our brains think up words that our fingers type...
One of the ways in which we love is through action. When Jesus washed the feet of his disciples (John 13) he was setting an example for them of humble care. The Church shines in its community when it lovingly serves. On Saturday, June 3rd,...
Our new web-based church management software, MyGoodShepherd, is really great! Like anything new—especially involving technology—there is much to learn and some inevitable kinks to work out. But......
The mission of Good Shepherd is to “Invite all people to grow into a Christ-centered life in God’s family.” This is the clear and concise statement that describes what we are all supposed to be doing together. Easter is a vital opportunity for us to...
In 1882, ten men began the arduous journey from Roseto, Italy to the New World. In Roseto, they had toiled day in and day out in a stone quarry, which prepared them for similar work when they arrived near Bangor, Pennsylvania. The next year, fifteen more...
We’ve got a problem here at Good Shepherd…a big problem. We’re really good at Bible study. We’ve got years of life experience and skills that others don’t have. We party hard when others celebrate and are saddened when others grieve. We might just be...
Have you ever clicked onto Ancestry.com or another genealogy site to learn more about your family’s history? My mother has done so, tracing Bronzan family roots on one side through Yugoslavia and on the other side through the family of Abraham Lincoln! ...
Southern California doesn't really have seasons, per se. And most of us probably like it that way. It's a bit colder in the winter months, but nothing worth bundling up for. Where I grew up in the Central Valley, seasons were more pronounced. August afternoons were...
If you attended our Annual Congregational Meeting or have had a chance to read this excerpt from the report, you already know that Good Shepherd's leaders began 2017 with a number of initiatives we are working toward. We have begun specifically...
The season of Lent is the 40-day period that culminates with the celebration of Jesus’ victory over death on Easter Sunday. Lent has traditionally focused on self-reflection, repentance, and a re-awakening of our commitment to follow the way of Jesus. ...
With 3 and 5-year-old children, the most common television shows in my home are cartoons. While my wife and I limit screentime, there are a few favorites: Paw Patrol (which features talking dogs that come to the rescue of anyone that needs help)...
At the Athens Olympics in 2004, sport shooter Matt Emmons was just one trigger pull away from winning a second gold medal. He was so far ahead of second place in the fifty-meter three-position rifle competition that all he had to do was hit the target...
A strange thing happens in Luke 9. We learn at the outset of the chapter that after Jesus called his disciples, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and...
It’s important to remember. Imagine forgetting your wedding anniversary or your best friend’s birthday! If you’ve ever forgotten an important date - or had an important date of yours forgotten - you know firsthand how important remembering is....
The first Sunday of every month we celebrate Communion. And our worship attendance is always highest on those days - probably for that very reason. But what happens when the first Sunday of the month is the first Sunday of the year and that first Sunday...
It happens in movies all the time. Two characters are engaged in some surprising conversation or activity when a third character reacts incredulously. That third character can’t believe what they’re seeing or hearing. And in so doing, they model for us - the viewer...
A juxtaposition is defined as "two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect." I’m sure there are a few in this weekend’s movie release, Rogue One, which continues the Star Wars franchise. There’s certainly one in this week’s...
Every four years, after a new president is elected, the chosen candidate gets to appoint their cabinet. This practice dates back to George Washington, America's first president, who elected five other people to serve alongside him and Vice President...
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, everywhere you go! And I suppose it's time. A few weeks ago, I lamented how quickly our society jumped from Halloween to Christmas, skipping right over Thanksgiving. I wrote: This year I noticed, more than...
It’s time for your Greek lesson! (I know what you’re thinking: “Don’t we get enough Greek in your sermons on Sundays!?” And, fair enough. Maybe so. But this one will be short. I promise.) Good Shepherd is a Presbyterian church. This describes not only our...
Apparently teaching through the Book of Acts is a dangerous thing for a preacher to do. Now I know. This fall we've been engaging this book of early church history, as we live into our mission, "Inviting all people to grow into a Christ-centered life in God's family."...
A strange thing happened this week. No, it doesn’t have to do with the Presidential Election. And no, it isn’t the Chicago Cubs winning the World Series for the first time since 1908. Though that was fun (for them!). It has to do with Halloween - or, better yet,...
Last week we engaged the conversion of Saul of Tarsus, who, following his transformation, became the Apostle to the Gentiles, sharing the good news of God's love all over the world. In my message, I noted how God is the author of...
It’s fall (though the weather might not seem like it). If you don’t believe me, stop by Starbucks. You’ll see: Pumpkin Spiced Lattes are on the menu! The season’s change reminded me a powerful metaphor in the book Church Unique used by our Staff and Session...
"How's the running going, Curtis?" It was a simple question. And it deserved a simple answer. "Great!" I could've said, responding succinctly. Or, "Really well, actually, I'm running five days a week, three miles each day," if I wanted to give more details....
Last week in our ongoing series To the Ends of the Earth, we encountered tension between two ethnicities in the early Christian movement. Recall that the Greek widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food (check out the message...
Last Sunday in our series through Acts, we engaged chapter 3, verse 4: “Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, ‘Look at us!’” As we discussed together, this was a strange thing for Luke to add. As a doctor and someone so interested in...
The outset of the Apostle Paul’s first century letters, sent to churches springing up at the ends of the earth, contain a common refrain: Thanksgiving. Is he merely being polite expressing this ongoing gratitude for his partners in ministry and mission?...
I'm 35 years old (believe it or not). I'm married, with two kids. We live near El Dorado Park in a little fixer upper (that, in five years, we haven't fixed up all that much!). I like reading philosophy and listening to indie rock and drinking strong coffee and rooting for...
The past few weeks, I've been trying something new: running. Well, it's not entirely new, since I used to run cross country and track in Junior High and High School. But it's been a while! Trying to run again has been challenging and uncomfortable. The day after...
I’ve told my friends, I don’t really go to retreats to get sleep - although some manage to. Mostly, it’s a much needed break from the usual routine, a time to gain a sense of renewal - renewing old friendships, finding new ones, and recharging our intimacy...
As we transition from summer into a busy fall, one particular passage has been on my mind. In chapter 3 of Paul’s letter to the Philippians, the Apostle to the Gentiles writes, I want to know Christ - yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation...
My son, Moses - our firstborn - begins kindergarten this week. And I'm a wreck of emotions! I can remember the day he was born like it was yesterday. What they say really is true: They grow up too fast! And yet, in the 5 1/2 years since he was born, he’s not...
I like to have a plan. What I don’t like is when reality does not quite match up with my planned expectation! I am quickly getting used to this being a part of life that I cannot control. I have found myself in a situation where my “perfect” plan has been altered....
This weekend we continue our six week series I Am A Covenant Partner, exploring what it means to be a member of the local church. As we have done so, I have been deeply encouraged by conversations following sermons and with those of you who are...
“Time spent with cats is never wasted.” --Sigmund Freud “In ancient times cats were worshipped as gods. They have not forgotten this.” --Terry Pratchet “As every cat owner knows, nobody owns a cat.” --Ellen Perry Berkeley ...
For the next two weeks the world will turn its attention to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, site of the 2016 Summer Olympics. Fans around the world will tune in to cheer on their country. Despite concerns about the Zika virus and subpar housing conditions...
On Thursday night, my wife Cassie and I attended a concert at the Greek Theater. The band isn't her favorite musical act, but I had been looking forward to this show since I got tickets back in December. With work commitments and a busy family life, it had...
Ah yes, Easter. The one day out of the year children look for brightly colored plastic eggs filled with candy and lunch with the family is mandatory. And that's it. Or is it? Could there be more...
The Women’s Ministry spring luncheon, “In the Hands of the Potter†on Saturday, May 7th will feature guest speaker Carole Wolaver, The Pottery Lady. She will instruct and in inspire us to be...
Hi friends, I hope this finds you well in this Lenten season, as we journey toward the Resurrection! I encourage you to be thinking about those you know who need to hear the good news...
Greetings, I have just finished the sermon-based study guide for this coming Sunday and have been moved by the amazing love of Jesus Christ - the event of his crucifixion, his willingness to...
Support Misión Mexico 2011 at The Open Table Tuesday, April 5th. Proceeds from dinner will help our team build retaining walls for a women's halfway house operated by Pastor Maria of...
Cowabunga Dudes and Dudettes!!! Can you believe it's almost that time of year again!? It's almost time for our annual Vacation Bible School! This year we'll be cruising on down to a SonSurf...
Hi friends, A bone marrow drive is being held for our very own eight year old Kai Quinonez on Saturday, March 26th at the corner of Pine and Florista in Los Alamitos from 11am to 3pm....
Hello, Church Family! Saturday, April 2nd, we will have a special spring cleaning day for our church facility. The event will give us all an opportunity to pitch in and really give our campus a...
Hi friends, This week's e-Bulletin noted that it's not too late to buy tickets and raffle tickets for an upcoming We Care fundraiser "From the Heart" next Saturday, March 12th at 6pm. Here's...
It was about 10 years ago that I, as a student, walked from the Student Ministries room into the Sanctuary one Sunday morning to join the rest of the church family in celebration our...
Greetings Good Shepherd Family, We are approaching a special season of the Church year - the season of Lent that leads us once again to the events of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection...
Dear Parents of Good Shepherd Children, At Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church, nothing is more important to us than the safety and security of your children. That’s why we’ve chosen...
Hi friends, I wanted to give you a heads up about a great opportunity coming up on Saturday, February 26th, from 9am to Noon in the Fireside Room. A healing prayer seminar will be led...
Tonight at an Open Table steering committee meeting, team member Leny Ambruso shared a brief excerpt from Mother Theresa's book A Simple Path that was too good not to pass on!...
Hi friends, In an effort to conserve the resources of creation and more effectively communicate all the great things happening at Good Shepherd, we are moving forward with a new e-Bulletin...
Hi friends, I recently received this update from Michelle Swaney, who, with her husband Matt, ministers to college students through Campus Crusade for Christ. If you have any questions on how to...
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, we need your help! “Very Challenging†is the phrase that best describes our financial situation at Good Shepherd. Mindful of our calling to make...
As in years past, Good Shepherd is offering three different Christmas Eve gatherings this Friday night: Our 4pm Family Gathering is specifically designed for parents and their little ones...
In James 5.16 we are called to "confess our sins to each other." And, friends, I've got some confessing to do! Let me begin by stating what may be obvious: I love my job! I am so thrilled to be able...
Hey kids! Want to get in the Christmas spirit?? Come join us December 15th at 6:30! FLIPT will be having its first Potluck Christmas party! We have a FULL fun night planned out...
In January 2011, three new opportunities to Grow in Faith will be available. N.T. Wright's Simply Christian: Why Christianity Makes Sense 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, beginning January 18th in...
This Saturday, November 27th at 4pm is our annual Family Advent Night! All are welcome to this opportunity to share a soup dinner, sing Christmas carols led by Peggy Duquesnel Malbon...
Beginning this Sunday, November 28th at all three worship gatherings, we will be taking a break from our Gospel of Mark series to prepare for advent. The advent series, When the ...
You are invited to GSPC's Canned Food Drive Drive-thru on Thursday, November 18th from 5-7pm. The event will benefit Food Finders goal to raise 100,000 pounds of food. Canned...
Last night was the kick off for The Open Table, a brand new opportunity to gather together and share good food with great friends. And I think it's safe to say, "IT'S A HIT!" The Open Table...
This Sunday, November 14th, Good Shepherd will host a fair benefiting Heifer Project International, a non-profit agency whose mission is to work with communities to end hunger and...
Hi friends, Kirk Brown, Elder for World Mission, recently alerted me to a wonderful opportunity to keep up with Rachel Falco: her personal blog at rachelfalco.theworldrace.org! As you may recall...
Hi friends, I wanted to let you know the Good Shepherd newsletter for November & December is now available! Previous months can also be viewed on the Newsletter page. Or, if you'd like to...
Next Saturday, November 6th, Family ministries is hosting a date night for parents! Childcare will be provided for your children - which includes pizza, games and movies - for only $15 per...
On this Sunday, October 24th there will be a special opportunity in the life of our church: the Local Mission Fair! You are invited to come and learn how your giving is impacting our community and...
I’m constantly being asked, “What exactly does FLIPT stand for or mean?†Well, I hate to disappoint all of you creative thinkers out there, but FLIPT isn’t some acronym with a really...
Did you know Associate Pastor Paul White wears a size 16 shoe? Or Student Ministries Director Werner Ramirez has a pacemaker? Or Children's Ministry Assistant Michelle Heath earned a...
You're invited to a special opportunity to become a part of the Good Shepherd family of faith this Saturday, October 23rd. The bi-annual new members class offers a chance to learn more about...
Can you believe it... our All Church Camp Out starts tomorrow! We're looking forward to a great weekend of enjoying God's good creation with one another at the Canyon RV Park. And if you...
This Friday, October 15th Good Shepherd is hosting a special opportunity to serve our community (and have a lot of fun at the same time!) at the bi-annual Fall Dance for those with special...
Have you been hurt by someone? Does bitterness or anger at that person eat away at you? Jesus said we should love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. In the Lord’s Prayer...
Phil Swingle - husband to Elizabeth and dad to Eva and Elaina - has a great opportunity to serve the children of our community - and is looking for others to join him! As a teacher, he leads an...
Good Shepherd's monthly Senior Adult luncheon was held today in Zirbel Hall. And if you think you know what goes on at these sort of events, you have no idea. Today, the special guest was...
The Purpose Driven Life seeks to answer that question. Beginning Monday October 11th, you are invited to join a 7-week study in Good Shepherd’s Fireside Room. The group will meet at 7pm...
Every year at this time, the Weekly is filled to the brim with various opportunities in the life of our church. By my count, there are 23 opportunities this week alone! A recent member of the Good Shepherd family recently e-mailed me to share of the fun...
Keep ReadingLast week we welcomed over 220 kids for VBS. This week, our Middle and High School students are on Catalina at Campus by the Sea for a week of summer camp. Different settings, to be sure, but the same goal....
Keep ReadingIn his award winning book The Jesus I Never Knew, Philip Yancey describes holy week traditions (or lack thereof) in his childhood church community. He explains that they never held a Good Friday service. Nor one for Maundy Thursday. No, they “skipped past...
Keep ReadingSouthern California is one of the most beautiful, idyllic places in the world. Where we call home is sought after by people around our country - even world! We may forget that from time to time, or even take it for granted, but it’s true. Case in point...
Keep ReadingI've mentioned in sermons that my family and I live in a little fixer upper just across Katella/Willow into Long Beach, a few streets over from El Dorado Park. We love our neighborhood primarily because we have great neighbors, some of whom we get to worship...
Keep ReadingBy now you’ve undoubtedly heard me write or talk about our one year goal at Good Shepherd: "Deeper Into Community, Further Out in Faith." We want every member of our church community to be connected not only in a Sunday morning worship...
Keep ReadingThe phrase "change the world" is a common one in our day. In one way or another, it seems everyone wants to do so. Type that phrase into Google and you’ll get 206 million results in a search that takes less than a second. Included are more than 50 million...
Keep ReadingIt’s been said that “words create worlds.” And it’s difficult to argue with that statement. Think, for instance, of the outset of the Scriptures, where God declares “Let there be light.” And, sure enough, there’s light! The next day God creates the sky. The next day...
Keep ReadingErwin Rommel was a genius, no doubt about it. The problem was that he put his efforts to use working for the Nazi regime. And yet, despite his evil intent, we can learn something from Rommel to be put to use for God’s mission in the world. And in our church....
Keep ReadingIt's been a year, now, since our two Flame Point Siamese kittens--Wallace and Gromit--joined our family. You'll recall, perhaps, that I am not a "pet person" by nature, and was somewhat uneasy about adding these felines to our household....
Keep ReadingHere are some unofficial statistics from our Church Family Picnic, last Sunday: People attended: 157 In-n-out burgers consumed: 196 Water balloons tossed: 98 Bounces in the bounce house: 2,742 Kids laughing: 52 Seniors laughing: 53...
Keep ReadingLike many children I enjoyed watching the Hanna-Barbera cartoons: Scooby-Doo, Tom & Jerry, The Jetsons, The Flintstones...they were all Saturday morning favorites. (They're still rather fun to watch today, especially Tom & Jerry.)...
Keep ReadingIn 1882, ten men began the arduous journey from Roseto, Italy to the New World. In Roseto, they had toiled day in and day out in a stone quarry, which prepared them for similar work when they arrived near Bangor, Pennsylvania. The next year, fifteen more...
Keep ReadingSouthern California doesn't really have seasons, per se. And most of us probably like it that way. It's a bit colder in the winter months, but nothing worth bundling up for. Where I grew up in the Central Valley, seasons were more pronounced. August afternoons were...
Keep ReadingIf you attended our Annual Congregational Meeting or have had a chance to read this excerpt from the report, you already know that Good Shepherd's leaders began 2017 with a number of initiatives we are working toward. We have begun specifically...
Keep ReadingAt the Athens Olympics in 2004, sport shooter Matt Emmons was just one trigger pull away from winning a second gold medal. He was so far ahead of second place in the fifty-meter three-position rifle competition that all he had to do was hit the target...
Keep ReadingA strange thing happens in Luke 9. We learn at the outset of the chapter that after Jesus called his disciples, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and...
Keep Reading"How's the running going, Curtis?" It was a simple question. And it deserved a simple answer. "Great!" I could've said, responding succinctly. Or, "Really well, actually, I'm running five days a week, three miles each day," if I wanted to give more details....
Keep ReadingI’ve told my friends, I don’t really go to retreats to get sleep - although some manage to. Mostly, it’s a much needed break from the usual routine, a time to gain a sense of renewal - renewing old friendships, finding new ones, and recharging our intimacy...
Keep ReadingMy son, Moses - our firstborn - begins kindergarten this week. And I'm a wreck of emotions! I can remember the day he was born like it was yesterday. What they say really is true: They grow up too fast! And yet, in the 5 1/2 years since he was born, he’s not...
Keep Reading“Time spent with cats is never wasted.” --Sigmund Freud “In ancient times cats were worshipped as gods. They have not forgotten this.” --Terry Pratchet “As every cat owner knows, nobody owns a cat.” --Ellen Perry Berkeley ...
Keep ReadingMy firstborn child is now five years old - where the years have gone, I do not know! One of my and Cassie’s recent parenting challenges is responding to some of the new vocabulary our son has picked up at preschool. Nothing too bad, of course (it’s a Christian...
Keep ReadingI hope you apprecated learning more about the ECO National Gathering from members of our staff these past few weeks. If you missed any of their posts, click on any of the following names to read feedback from this great event: Paul White...
Keep ReadingGreetings Families! My name is Michelle Heath and I am the Interim Director of Children’s Ministry at Good Shepherd. I’ve been a member for nine years and have served in Children’s Ministry for over eight years. I love working at our church!...
Keep ReadingThe 2015 Confirmation Adventure began as we entered the tunnel on Highway 41, entering the top of Yosemite Valley. In the darkness, playing through the speakers were the words of Genesis read by the Apollo 8 crew as they circled the earth in 1968. We came...
Keep ReadingDid you know that a group of our 3rd-5th graders just got back from our annual winter camp at Forest Home, this Sunday? If you didn’t know, let me tell you, it was an AWESOME weekend. It is always a huge joy to watch the kids grow in faith and also, to see how...
Keep ReadingParents of Graduating Students, Greetings from Children’s Ministries! I can’t believe how fast this year went! I’m sure it is equally hard to believe how fast your little one is growing! I’m writing...
Keep ReadingThis Sunday we look at the third Resolutions You Might Not Have Thought Of and turn to the resolution to "Keep the Weight Off." "But," you say, "that sounds like a common resolution...
Keep ReadingGreetings Good Shepherd Friends, Here's the study guide (Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat) for the coming Sunday’s scripture passages. I hope you find it helpful as we continue to...
Keep ReadingHello Good Shepherd Friends, The study guide based on Luke 4.14-21 (our passage for this Sunday) is here. We will be looking closely at what it means to be disciples who Serve in Love...
Keep ReadingHi friends, This weekend, we continue a discussion of our mission statement: Good Shepherd exists to make disciples of Jesus Christ who connect with God, grow in faith and serve...
Keep ReadingHi friends, This week we kick off our fall series, “Gospel in Life.†We read a lot about the gospel, we hear a lot about the gospel, we may even talk a lot about the gospel, but what is...
Keep ReadingHello Friends, Here is the study guide for this week’s sermon as we conclude our “Summer of Love†journey through 1st John. This is the first of the month which means we celebrate...
Keep ReadingHello Good Shepherd Family and Friends, Here’s the study guide for 1 John 5.5-12. We are nearing the end of our “Summer of Love†study of 1 John and I am impressed how John circles...
Keep ReadingHi friends, As we look to the conclusion of our Summer of Love series in the Letter of First John, we turn our attention to something we can all relate to: fear. When was the last time you...
Keep ReadingGreetings, The Apostle John continues to point his readers to the central point of God’s divine love. He seems to be drilling down to this foundational “bedrock†of our faith and of our being....
Keep Reading"This is a test. This station is conducting a test of the Emergency Broadcast System. This is only a test." Do those words sound familiar? They always seem to pop up right in...
Keep ReadingHi friends, This weekend we continue the Summer of Love, our series in the Letter of First John. We have heard John’s chorus, time and time again, the command that we love one another...
Keep ReadingHave you ever been asked a loaded question? You know, that's when the person asking already has a perceived answer in mind? This week, as we continue our Summer of Love...
Keep ReadingGreetings Good Shepherd Family, The study guide on 1st John 3.4-10 is attached. This weekend we will be looking at this passage in which we find more of the identity of followers...
Keep ReadingHi friends, I hope you had a fun and safe 4th of July! Have you ever heard the expression "Like father, like son"? It's said pretty regularly at my house, as my wife is convinced that...
Keep ReadingHello Friends, Here is the study guide for the passage we’ll be looking at this Saturday and Sunday, 1st John 2.18-27. Hope to see you in worship this weekend - the “sermon†is going to be...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Here's the Study Guide for our passage this week 1st John 2.12-17, along with a reminder and a note. The reminder is regarding the Town Hall meetings scheduled for this evening...
Keep ReadingHi friends, This weekend we're studing 1st John 2.7-11. In this passage, John engages what the church is supposed to look like, as it reflects Jesus not only to the outside world...
Keep ReadingHi friends, I hope this finds you well. We continue our Summer of Love series this weekend in 1st John 2.3-6, thinking together about abiding, remaining, and living in Christ, as well as...
Keep ReadingGreetings, We are entering into the Summer of Love - that’s the name of the series of teaching and messages drawn from the Letter of 1st John that began last weekend. With great...
Keep ReadingHi friends, In all three worship gatherings this weekend we're kicking off a brand new series we're calling the Summer of Love! No, we're not discussing social phenomenon of 1967...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Here’s the study guide for this weekend. Our focus is on growing in faith - rooted in the community of faith in which we find encouragement and mentors who help us...
Keep ReadingParents of Graduating Students, Greetings from the Children’s Ministry! I can’t believe how fast this year went! I’m sure it is equally hard to believe how fast your little one is growing!...
Keep ReadingHi friends, This is week six of our series Rooted: In the Soil of a Vibrant, Growing Faith, which may strike you as odd, since there are only five solas. What, then, are we going to talk...
Keep ReadingHi friends, We continue our Rooted series in this week's study guide and at all three worship gatherings this weekend. Glory to God Alone, or Soli Deo Gloria, as the Reformers would have...
Keep ReadingGreetings, This week we continue engaging the central doctrines of the Protestant Reformation in a series we're calling Rooted: In the Soil of a Vibrant, Growing Faith. As we have...
Keep ReadingThe 2013 Annual Spring Gathering of the Presbyterian Men of Los Ranchos will be a breakfast featuring Emad Samir as the speaker. Emad is a noted Egyptologist and Scholar...
Keep ReadingThis week we continue engaging the central doctrines of the Protestant Reformation in a series we're calling Rooted: In the Soil of a Vibrant, Growing Faith. Thus far in our quest...
Keep ReadingLasting faith for our children! Research shows that almost half of graduating high school seniors struggle deeply with their faith. Recognizing the ramifications of that statistic...
Keep ReadingThe 20th century theologian Karl Barth was once asked what was the greatest theological statement he'd ever heard. His response was Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible...
Keep ReadingHi Friends, We start a new series this weekend, Rooted: In the Soil of a Vibrant and Growing Faith. This six-week series will take a look at the theological essentials that emerged from...
Keep ReadingHi friends, A blessed holy week to you and yours. It was an honor to join with many of you who were able to attend our Maundy Thursday gathering this evening. This weekend...
Keep ReadingHello, I don’t know about you, but this series entitled not a fan has been extremely challenging and life-changing to me. We have to understand that Jesus does not want fans...
Keep ReadingHi friends, This weekend - on Saturday at 5pm and Sunday morning at 8:45 & 10:30am - we continue our Lenten series Not A Fan: Becoming Completely Committed Followers...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Here’s the study guide for our weekend focus on Matthew 23.1-12. We will see that Jesus is very harsh with those who opt to rely on external appearances and religiosity...
Keep ReadingHello Fellow Sheep! As we continue our Lenten series, Not a Fan: Becoming a Completely Committed Follower of Jesus, yours truly has the preaching duties this weekend, so that...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Grace and Peace be with you. I write from the Serra Retreat Center in Malibu, where I - alongside Pastors Jim and Paul - am attending a retreat of the Los Ranchos...
Keep ReadingThis week we began the season of Lent, journeying toward Holy Week. If you were unable to be at our gathering for Ash Wednesday and would like to think through the beginning...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Here is our study guide on Colossians 3.12-15 for the final message in our series on work, Every Good Endeavor. Also, let me remind you of the Town Hall Meeting this Sunday...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Greetings from Orlando! Pastor Paul and I are currently attending the Fellowship of Presbyterians and Evangelical Covenant Order of Presbyterians national gathering...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Have you ever heard the phrase "Make a name for yourself"? How was it used? Positively or negatively? This week, we continue our series Every Good Endeavor...
Keep ReadingThe past two weeks we have been discussing God's good creation - and His call on us to continuing tilling, working, and cultivating the garden He created in our series, Every Good Endeavor...
Keep ReadingAs we continue in our study of work entitled Every Good Endeavor we take a look at God’s invitation given to Adam, and to all human beings, to take on a role as co-creators...
Keep ReadingThis past weekend we kicked off a brand new series for a brand new year we're calling Every Good Endeavor, a title we've borrowed from Pastor Timothy Keller's book of the same name...
Keep ReadingThis past weekend, January 4th-6th, our Junior and Middle School students travelled up the hill to Forset Home for a weekend of fun and learning about God! Here's a sneak peek of what...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Happy New Year! I hope and pray your holiday season allowed time to celebrate with family and friends. And yet, after the holidays, it's back to work! It's been estimated...
Keep ReadingThis weekend Pastor Paul will help us conclude our Christmas series "Singing the Songs of the Season" with one final rousing chorus from a righteous man who was waiting for...
Keep ReadingHi Good Shepherd friends, This weekend we continue our Advent series, Singing the Songs of the Season. We have been “singin’ in the reign†with Isaiah, delighting in Mary’s song...
Keep ReadingHi friends, This weekend we continue our Advent series, Singing the Songs of the Season, humming along with Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, in Luke 1.57-80. Last week...
Keep ReadingHi friends, This weekend we continue our Advent series, Singing the Songs of the Season, at each of our three worship gatherings: Saturday at 5pm, and Sunday at 8:45 & 10:30am....
Keep ReadingGreetings Good Shepherd Friends, Here's the study guide for our first message in the Advent Season. We are Singing the Songs of the Season sung buy those to whom God revealed...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Grace and Peace be with you this busy and hectic Thanksgiving / Black Friday weekend! It's rather fitting that we conclude our series Joy on the Journey...
Keep ReadingHi friends, We continue in our study of Paul's letter to the Philippians this weekend, looking specifically at 4.2-9. As we will see in worship this weekend and in our study guide with our...
Keep ReadingGreetings, What an appropriate week to be looking at a passage that says “our citizenship is in heaven†not in the kingdoms of this world! We continue through the book of Philippians...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Despite what your favorite coffee shop says, it's not yet the Christmas season (though I'm sure their holiday blend is delicious!). We continue in our study of Philippians...
Keep ReadingHere's this week's study guide on Philippians 3.1-11. In this passage, Paul discusses the good things upon which he used to hang his hat, declaring that he now considers them...
Keep ReadingLooking for a place where your kids can have a WILD time AND learn more about Jesus?! Well, January 4th-6th, 2013, we will be taking all 4th-5th graders to Forest Home again...
Keep ReadingGreetings, As we continue our teaching from Paul's letter to the Philippians we turn to chapter 2, verses 19-30. Here is the study guide. We are introduced to two significant...
Keep ReadingHere is this week's study guide on Philippians 2.12-18. In it Paul, the great Apostle to the Gentiles, reveals the profound calling of disciples of Jesus Christ: That we not retreat into a...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Attached is the study guide for Philippians 2.1-11, a significant passage on an important character quality - humility. God bless you in your study. May you...
Keep ReadingWednesday Greetings, This week we’re looking at only three verses - but what great content in just three verses. I was challenged to whittle it down. May God continue to give us the...
Keep ReadingHi friends, This week we continue in our Joy on the Journey fall series on Paul's letter to the Philippians. Last week we addressed Paul's chains and critics; this week, his crisis...
Keep ReadingHi friends, In the Spirit of the Apostle Paul's letter to the Philippians, Grace and Peace! This week we continue our fall series, Joy on the Journey, engaging Paul's Letter...
Keep ReadingGreetings Friends, You have heard us talk about Connecting with God, Growing in Faith, and Serving in love here at Good Shepherd. One of my main areas of responsibility...
Keep ReadingGreetings, We are kicking off a new series of messages and accompanying study guides on the Letter to the Philippians, a series we are calling Joy on the Journey. This study...
Keep ReadingHi friends, This weekend we conclude our summer series Build Your House on That, by engaging Matthew 7.21-29! After 11 weeks, we encounter the inspiration behind...
Keep ReadingGreetings, As we continue through our “Summer on the Mount" we turn to a series of warnings issued by Jesus. Last week we focused on his warning about being discerning...
Keep ReadingGreetings friends, In Matthew 7.1-12, this week's passage, and study guide, we engage the difficult tension between judging (a necessary part of life) and being judgmental...
Keep ReadingGreetings friends, Here's this week's study guide, on Matthew 6.19-34. In this passage, Jesus speaks boldly of God's providential care over us, inviting us to live lives free of anxiety...
Keep ReadingHere's this week's study guide on Matthew 6.7-15. In it, we engage the Lord's Prayer - or better yet, the Disciple's Prayer - since in it, we are instructed how to pray! It comes right...
Keep ReadingGreetings, What an amazing four weeks of rest, recreation, renewal, and refreshment! Our vacation was sheer delight and Connie and I are grateful to have had such a great...
Keep ReadingLast weekend, Pastor Paul taught on Matthew 5.31-37 in our summer Sermon on the Mount series Build Your House on That! In his message, Beyond the Syllabus, Paul engaged...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here's this week's study guide on Matthew 5.38-48. In these verses we engage some of the most radical, countercultural teachings of Jesus. Teachings that inspired...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here's this week's sermon based study guide on Matthew 5.31-37. Our apologies that it's only now being sent out and posted: We had some difficulty with our e-mail system...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here's this week's study guide on Matthew 5.21-30. These verses contain the first two of six "antitheses" within Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. I hope and pray it helps us...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here's this week's sermon based study guide on Matthew 5.17-20. In this passage we see Jesus' commitment to fulfill God's commandments - and his encouragement...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here's this week's study guide on Matthew 5.13-16. I'm looking forward to digging into this passage this weekend, together uncovering Jesus' encouragement to be salt...
Keep ReadingDon't let your 3rd-5th grader miss out on camp this summer at Forest Home's The Village! The Village is an intentional camp center where 3rd, 4th and 5th graders encounter Jesus...
Keep ReadingGreetings Good Shepherd Friends, Here is the study guide that beings our series on the Sermon on the Mount. We are entitling the series "Build Your House on THAT!"...
Keep ReadingHi friends, This week we conclude our study of the Book of Jonah, examining chapter 4, verses 5-11. This passage contains God's "thirty-nine word" response to his wayward...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here's the sermon based study guide for this weekend's text, Jonah 4.1-4. We've journeyed with Jonah away from God's call on his life, which has taken us down to Joppa...
Keep ReadingHello Friends, Here is the study guide for Jonah 3.6-10. This week's passage is about an anonymous king but, as so often happens with Scripture, it's a passage about us, as well....
Keep ReadingThis past weekend we engaged Jonah 3.1-4, in a message entitled, "The Real Me." These questions, from the study guide, will help you respond to the message (feel free to...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Here is the study guide for Jonah 3.1-5, the passage for our teaching this coming weekend. I am looking forward to speaking about this text and pressing us to consider...
Keep ReadingThis weekend we engaged Jonah's prayer from inside the belly of the giant fish. Here are some questions from the week's study guide to help you further engage with and respond...
Keep ReadingGood Shepherd's Children's Choir is excited to present "Good Neighbor Sam," a children's musical, on Sunday, May 20th at 2pm. This retelling of the story of the...
Keep ReadingHi friends, We continue our journey with Jonah, Israel's wayward prophet, this weekend. We've travelled with him from his call to preach to the Ninevites, down to the city...
Keep ReadingWomen of Good Shepherd, don't miss out! On Saturday, June 9th, plan to attend the Women of Faith event "One Day" at the Terrace Theater in Long Beach. You will be blessed...
Keep ReadingHi friends, We continue our study of the Book of Jonah this weekend at each of our three gatherings: Saturday evening at 5pm as well as Sunday morning at 8:45 & 10:30am....
Keep ReadingReflect on the ways you might tend to blame others for your own "calamities" in life. Can you be honest with God about your need for forgiveness? For inner healing? For humility?...
Keep ReadingJoin us for an afternoon of women's fellowship while supporting GSPC's world and local missions! Tickets are now on sale for the Women's Spring Luncheon, scheduled...
Keep ReadingHere's the study guide for Jonah 1.7-10. This coming weekend we will be focused on this passage and the question "Who Are You?" It's the question asked of Jonah by the crew of the...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Last weekend we kicked off a number of new opportunities in the life of our community, including a new teaching series through the Book of Jonah, which we'll continue...
Keep ReadingThe Presbyterian Men of Los Ranchos will hold their 24th annual spring breakfast on May 12th at Good Shepherd with guest speaker Rev. David Dolan....
Keep ReadingHi friends, This weekend we kick off a number of new opportunities for our congregation and community: the Foundations course, SHIFT, and a brand new 5pm Saturday evening...
Keep ReadingThe women who went to the tomb to properly treat Jesus' body for burial, went with heavy hearts, dashed hopes, and the dread that comes from the death of a loved one. They arrived...
Keep ReadingGreetings, I am looking forward to the celebration of Jesus' resurrection. I also have to let you know how meaningful, Luke 24, the passage for Sunday - and this study guide...
Keep ReadingGreetings, It's hard for me to grasp that we are entering the month of April! It's that time for income taxes to be filed and property taxes to be paid. It's also the beginning of a special...
Keep ReadingOk, ok... so who loves movies?? How about Sno Cones?? Don't the two sound so AWESOME together?!?!?!....the answer is YES!!! If you think so, come March 28th at 6:30pm to FLIPT...
Keep ReadingGreetings, We have come to the end of our study of the Book of Hebrews. I have to admit that this has been a challenging text - challenging because of its richness and the...
Keep ReadingFoundations is a weekly Sunday morning class designed to build and strengthen Christian faith. Over a two-year period a series of core topics will be presented and discussed. Like the...
Keep ReadingGreetings, The study guide for Hebrews 13.9-16 our text for this Sunday, March 18th is here. As we make our way through this season of Lent we are nearing Holy Week...
Keep ReadingGreetings, We have come to chapter 13 of Hebrews and are nearing our completion date of March 25th. It has been quite a journey through the panorama of God's amazing provision...
Keep ReadingGreetings, As we approach the second Sunday in Lent we are also nearing the end of our study in Hebrews. It has been both encouraging and challenging to go through...
Keep ReadingGreetings, This week's study focuses on the promise of being citizens of "the city of the living God" that is, heaven. The passage describes the sharp contrast between the experience...
Keep ReadingAre you busy, tired, stressed out, and stretched to the limit? Does life seem a little out of control? Are you running long on "to do's" and short on time? If so, join us for this 10-week series...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Here is the Study Guide on Hebrews 12.12-17 for Sunday, February 19th. You will find the author striving to encourage the weary Hebrew Christians to run the race of faith...
Keep ReadingHello Good Shepherd Friend, Here's our study guide for February 12th on Hebrews 12.4-11. What's the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word "discipline?" The passage...
Keep ReadingGreetings Good Shepherd friends, Here is the study guide for this Sunday, February 5th. It is based on Hebrews 12.1-3, a particularly encouraging (and exhortative) passage...
Keep ReadingGreetings Good Shepherd family and friends, Here is the study guide for Hebrews 11.32-40, our passage for January 29th. With it comes this reminder: Our annual celebration and...
Keep ReadingGreetings, I am grieved to announce the passing of one of our senior adults, Fran Carlson, on January 14th. Fran has been part of the Good Shepherd family for a number...
Keep ReadingGreetings Good Shepherd friends, Here's the study guide for the coming Sunday's text, Hebrews 11.13-22. The passage continues to develop the nature of faith and to highlight...
Keep ReadingGreetings and Happy New Year! We have turned our attention once again to the Letter to the Hebrews for our weekend teaching. Pastors Paul and Curtis did a tremendous job of directing...
Keep ReadingHi friends, After taking a break for our Advent series Simply Christmas, this Sunday, January 1st we return to our study of the Letter to the Hebrews in all three worship...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Merry Christmas! On this day we recall the words to that famous hymn: "Joy to the World, the Lord is come! Let earth recieve her King!" Here's this week's e-Bulletin. Please note...
Keep ReadingAs we near Christmas day I am looking forward to our times of celebrating the birth of Jesus. Christmas Eve gatherings for worship are at 4, 7 and 8:30pm. The early service is child...
Keep ReadingGreetings Good Shepherd Friends, We are approaching December 18th - the fourth Sunday in Advent! Here is the sermon-based study guide on Luke 1.57-80. Also, don't forget the Christmas...
Keep Reading4th-5th grade students (and parents)! Don't miss this year's Winter Camp at Forest Home where we'll be learning all about how BIG God is! Check out the promo video below then...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here's Pastor Jim's weekly study guide for this Sunday's text, Luke 1.39-56, third Sunday in our Advent series Simply Christmas. May it be a blessing to you....
Keep Reading6th-8th grade students! Don't miss this year's Winter Camp at Forest Home learning how to Be Light! Check out the promo video below then click onto these registration forms to save...
Keep ReadingGreetings, We are already in the second week of Advent and our walking through what we are calling "Simply Christmas" continues. Here's the study guide for this Sunday's text...
Keep ReadingGreetings! Here's the sermon-based study guide for Luke 1.5-25, the text for this first week in our Advent series, Simply Christmas. With it comes a request for all of you who worship...
Keep ReadingGreetings, I am always amazed by the swift passing of the weeks - here we are looking at November 20th, just a few days before Thanksgiving Day. I'm getting a head start on...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here's Pastor Jim's weekly sermon based study guide for this Sunday's text, Hebrews 10.26-31, a difficult passage wherein the author to the Hebrews reminds us to hold fast to Him...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Here is this week's Sermon-Based Study Guide for Hebrews 10.19-25, the text for this Sunday, November 6th. May it guide us individually and as a community...
Keep ReadingGreetings, The Hebrews author is ensuring that we understand a significant fact - in Jesus Christ you and I are forgiven. This theme continues in Hebrews 10.11-18, the passage...
Keep ReadingJesus promises that when we pray, His Father hears and answers our prayers. Why, then, do we not always see our prayers answered according to our expectations? Does God...
Keep ReadingGreetings Good Shepherd Family and Friends, Here's the Sermon-based Bible Study Guide for Hebrews 10.1-10, the text for this Sunday, October 23rd. It is an encouraging...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here's Pastor Jim's study guide for this Sunday's text, Hebrews 9.23-28. If you think of it, keep Jim in prayer as he is away this week on study leave, reading and praying...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Here is the study guide for Hebrews 9.15-22, our passage for October 9th. The author continues to drill down deeply into the significance of Jesus' death, resurrection...
Keep ReadingGreetings Good Shepherd Friends, This Sunday is World Communion Sunday and I can't imagine a more appropriate passage to be focused upon than Hebrews 9.11-14, the passage...
Keep ReadingHello Good Shepherd Family, Do you ever find yourself longing for a real, clear, and delight-filled connection with God? Not a busy frenzy of religious activity or an intellectualized discussion...
Keep ReadingWhat if you only had one month to live? How would you make every day really matter? What would you start, or stop, doing? How would you relate to others? One Month to Live empowers...
Keep ReadingGreetings, God's mercy and forgiveness might seem commonplace and familiar. That's why I'm glad our study for this week on Hebrews 8.7-13 enables us to consider once again the real...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Can you believe we are nearing the 10th anniversary of the tragic events of September 11, 2001? It was a day that changed our world and brought far-reaching consequences...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here's Pastor Jim's study guide for this Sunday's text, Hebrews 7.20-28, in which our author continues to elaborate on the good news that Jesus has become our Great High Priest....
Keep ReadingHi friends, Greetings from the Student Ministries' water ski retreat! Here is Pastor Jim's study guide on Hebrews 7.11-19, our text for this Sunday. After preparing this study for us...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here's Pastor Jim's study guide for this week's text, Hebrews 7.1-10, a truly fascinating passage in which we learn about our great high priest Jesus by engaging with a...
Keep ReadingIt's not too late to sign up for the 2011 women's retreat, Finding Freedom in God's Love! This year's retreat will be September 30th to October 2nd at Hilton Garden in beautiful Carlsbad!...
Keep ReadingGood day to you, Here is the study guide on Hebrews 6.13-20 that focuses on the sure hope we have in Jesus and the significance of God's unchangeable promises made to Abraham...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Here's the study guide on Hebrews 6.9-12 for this Sunday, August 7th. Please remember to pray for the Vacation Bible School this week... over 130 kids! Blessings,...
Keep ReadingGreetings Everyone, Here is the study guide based on Hebrews 6.1-8, our text for Sunday, July 31. The author continues to urge his congregation to not turn back but to move forward to...
Keep ReadingHi folks, Here's the study guide for Hebrews 5.11-14. The writer of the book is beginning to record some very stern exhortations so watch out... they apply to you and me all too well....
Keep ReadingSexuality is a significant dimension of being human. Still, we cannot ignore the confusion that we experience with it. A three-week study led by Pastor Jim on August 3rd, 10th and 17th...
Keep ReadingMen young and old are invited on the third Saturday of each month to join together for good grub, rich fellowship and a short teaching. The first one kicks off Saturday, July 16th! Breakfast starts...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Here's the study guide based on Hebrews 5.4-10 (it also includes verses 1-3). The author of Hebrews introduces the theme of Jesus being the ultimate high priest - a role of...
Keep ReadingYesterday afternoon our Student Ministries Director Werner Ramirez, Student Ministries Intern Nicole Eggers and a number of high school students traveled up the hill to Summer Camp...
Keep ReadingGreetings GSPC participant and Bible student, It is always a challenge to prepare a study guide, but I find it to be a good way of digging into the text and helping you to discover the...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here's this week's Study Guide on Hebrews 4.11-13, a passage commonly referred to when discussing the authority of the Bible. But is that really what's going on?!...
Keep ReadingHello, Here is the Study Guide for Hebrews 4.1-10, the focus of our teaching Sunday June 26th. It points us to God's rest given to us through Jesus Christ and the wonderful reality of heaven...
Keep ReadingYep, you heard right! Starting this year, you can register your child for Vacation Bible School AND pay for the registration fee, ALL online via Eventbrite! Why leave the comforts of your home...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Here is the Sermon-Based Study Guide for Sunday, June 19th on Hebrews 3.14-19. It is a poignant reminder and call to be people who not only share in Christ - God's household...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Here is the study guide for this Sunday's text, Hebrews 3.7-13. This passage calls us to perseverance as followers of Jesus and to continue to listen to the voice of God's Spirit...
Keep ReadingHi friends, You may have already heard about a new book entitled Love Wins: A Book About Heaven, Hell, and the Fate of Every Person Who Ever Lived. It's causing quite a stir, with some...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Pastor Jim and Connie are on vacation this week, enjoying some time with family in Northern California. Please pray for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation! Before he left, Jim prepared...
Keep ReadingMarried couples! I want to invite you to participate in a 4-week class that Good Shepherd is hosting this summer called “Strengthening Your Marriage." No matter how healthy our marriages...
Keep ReadingGreetings, The study guide for May 29th is attached. With it I would like to comment about the buzz around the recent prediction by Harold Camping that Jesus would return last Saturday...
Keep ReadingHi! The sermon-based study guide for May 22 is on Hebrews 2.5-9. This is an amazing - but challenging - passage in which the author exposits the meaning of Psalm 8, applies it to human...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Here's the study guide for Hebrew 2.1-4, for this Sunday, May 15th. We find an emphasis here on the power of God's Spirit - a very interesting and short section of Hebrews. I trust it...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here is Pastor Jim's weekly study guide on this Sunday's passage, Hebrews 1.6-14. Keep Jim in your prayers this week as he attends the West Coast Presbyterian Pastor's...
Keep ReadingGreetings... Sunday at our morning worship services we had a wonderful time of celebration of Jesus' resurrection. We also finished our in-depth study of the Gospel according to Mark....
Keep ReadingGreetings, Here is this week's study guide on Mark 16.1-8. As we enter into Holy Week let me encourage you to focus on the events of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus and be...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Here is the study guide for Mark 15.40-47, which focuses on the events around the burial of Jesus which is our passage for April 17th. This will be Palm Sunday, the beginning of a...
Keep ReadingThe Women’s Ministry spring luncheon, “In the Hands of the Potter†on Saturday, May 7th will feature guest speaker Carole Wolaver, The Pottery Lady. She will instruct and in inspire us to be...
Keep ReadingGreetings, We continue to journey through the Passion Week in our study of the Gospel of Mark. The passage for this week is Mark 15.33-39 in which Mark describes Jesus' experience on...
Keep ReadingGreetings, I have just finished the sermon-based study guide for this coming Sunday and have been moved by the amazing love of Jesus Christ - the event of his crucifixion, his willingness to...
Keep ReadingCowabunga Dudes and Dudettes!!! Can you believe it's almost that time of year again!? It's almost time for our annual Vacation Bible School! This year we'll be cruising on down to a SonSurf...
Keep ReadingGreetings, I am always so amazed by how quickly the weeks pass - we're already to the end of March. The sermon-based Bible study is available here. It covers Jesus' trial before Pilate from...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here is Pastor Jim's study guide for this Sunday, March 20th. We continue our journey through Mark, this week in 14.66-72. May it be a blessing to you as you seek to follow Jesus...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Tomorrow begins the season of Lent, a special time to devote ourselves to drawing near to God and focusing on the events of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. Our Ash...
Keep ReadingIt was about 10 years ago that I, as a student, walked from the Student Ministries room into the Sanctuary one Sunday morning to join the rest of the church family in celebration our...
Keep ReadingHi friends, We continue in the Gospel of Mark this Sunday at each of our gatherings, studying Mark 14.26-52, a difficult passage where Jesus is betrayed by one of his own and seized by a...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here's this week's study guide on Mark 14.12-25 for our continued study of the earliest written gospel account. This Sunday we will study Jesus' first celebration of communion with...
Keep ReadingDear Parents of Good Shepherd Children, At Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church, nothing is more important to us than the safety and security of your children. That’s why we’ve chosen...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here is the study guide for Mark 14.1-11. It's a significant passage in which Jesus makes it clear that he has come to Jerusalem... to die. I hope you will find the time to look...
Keep ReadingHi friends, I wanted to give you a heads up about a great opportunity coming up on Saturday, February 26th, from 9am to Noon in the Fireside Room. A healing prayer seminar will be led...
Keep ReadingGreetings, As we continue to strive to be a church that makes disciples of Jesus Christ who Connect with God, Grow in Faith, and Serve in love, the study of the Bible is an important...
Keep ReadingGreetings, The passage for February 6th is very interesting as Jesus continues to lay out events that will unfold in the near future and how they will affect a significant change in God's provision...
Keep ReadingGreetings, We get into some very challenging material in our text this week as Jesus begins to talk about "the end" - Mark 13:1-13. My hope is that this study guide will enable you to get into...
Keep ReadingGreetings, As we move into 2011 consider this: It is 11 years since Y2K... remember that? It is soon to be 10 years since the events of 9/11/01. And, we are here as a church to help others...
Keep ReadingHi friends, How goes it? I hope and pray this finds you well. We continue our journey through the Gospel of Mark this Sunday, seeing a fairly familiar exchange between Jesus and another...
Keep ReadingHappy New Year! I am enthused to be getting back to our in-depth study of the gospel according to Mark. Here is the study guide for Mark 12.18-27, our passage for this Sunday, January...
Keep ReadingHi friends, I hope and pray this finds you well. This week we return to our study of the Gospel of Mark, picking up on a fascinating passage wherein Jesus discusses our allegiance to earthly...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here's Pastor Jim's study guide for our final Advent text for this Sunday, December 26th: Isaiah 63.7-9. Hope that it helps you grow in faith this Advent season! Grace and Peace....
Keep ReadingGreetings, Have you ever wondered about the prophetic words of Isaiah 7.14: "The virgin shall conceive and bear a son and will name him Immanuel?" That's in the text for this study guide...
Keep ReadingHey kids! Want to get in the Christmas spirit?? Come join us December 15th at 6:30! FLIPT will be having its first Potluck Christmas party! We have a FULL fun night planned out...
Keep ReadingIn January 2011, three new opportunities to Grow in Faith will be available. N.T. Wright's Simply Christian: Why Christianity Makes Sense 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, beginning January 18th in...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Here is our study guide for this week's passage, Isaiah 35.1-10. I have come to enjoy the challenge of preparing these study guides and hope you are finding them useful. One thing...
Keep ReadingGreetings, Here is the study guide based on Isaiah 11.1-10, Matthew 3.1-12 and Ephesians 1.13-14, our texts for December 5th, the Second Sunday in Advent. With gratitude for you....
Keep ReadingThis Saturday, November 27th at 4pm is our annual Family Advent Night! All are welcome to this opportunity to share a soup dinner, sing Christmas carols led by Peggy Duquesnel Malbon...
Keep ReadingHi friends, Here is the study guide for November 28th. This text, Isaiah 2.1-5, is the first in a series of studies and sermons for Advent. This Advent Season is a special time for us to look...
Keep ReadingHello, November 21 already? Where has 2010 gone? Here is the study guide for Mark 12.1-12. We continue through the final week of Jesus' ministry and the conflict with the religious...
Keep ReadingHi GSPC Friend, Here is the sermon-based study guide on Mark 11.27-33, the passage we will be teaching from on Sunday, November 14th. I am so grateful to be able to prepare...
Keep ReadingGreetings friends, Here is the study guide for Mark 11:12-25. This is an amazing passage in which we see the passion of Jesus for God's honor and for all nations of the world to know God's...
Keep ReadingNext Saturday, November 6th, Family ministries is hosting a date night for parents! Childcare will be provided for your children - which includes pizza, games and movies - for only $15 per...
Keep ReadingHi friends, I hope and pray this finds you well. Here is Pastor Jim's study guide on the passage for this Sunday's three gatherings. Usually referred to as Palm Sunday or the Triumphal...
Keep ReadingHello GSPC friend, I hope you are doing well and experiencing the presence of the living Christ. Can you believe we are already nearing the end of October? Here's the study guide based on...
Keep ReadingI’m constantly being asked, “What exactly does FLIPT stand for or mean?†Well, I hate to disappoint all of you creative thinkers out there, but FLIPT isn’t some acronym with a really...
Keep ReadingCan you believe it... our All Church Camp Out starts tomorrow! We're looking forward to a great weekend of enjoying God's good creation with one another at the Canyon RV Park. And if you...
Keep ReadingGreetings friends, Here is the sermon-based study guide for Sunday, October 17th for Mark 10.32-45. I am away this week attending a highly-recommended conference called "Preaching with...
Keep ReadingHave you been hurt by someone? Does bitterness or anger at that person eat away at you? Jesus said we should love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. In the Lord’s Prayer...
Keep ReadingAnother week... another guide! Our text this week, Mark 10.17-31, is a familiar account of a wealthy young man and Jesus' loving invitation for him to embrace the Kingdom. I think - and pray...
Keep ReadingGood Shepherd's monthly Senior Adult luncheon was held today in Zirbel Hall. And if you think you know what goes on at these sort of events, you have no idea. Today, the special guest was...
Keep ReadingThe Purpose Driven Life seeks to answer that question. Beginning Monday October 11th, you are invited to join a 7-week study in Good Shepherd’s Fireside Room. The group will meet at 7pm...
Keep ReadingHere is the study guide for the passage we are studying this week, Mark 10.1-16. In it, we learn about the gift of marriage and address the difficulty of divorce. If the study raises questions or...
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