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Friday Eblast – January 15, 2021

Dear Church,
 
It is with a heavy heart that we share the following:
 
David Thyse, long-time member of Good Shepherd, died peacefully on Friday, January 8, 2021 at age 92 with his daughter Connie at his side. He was born August 20, 1928 to Sigurd and Mary Thyse of Fergus Falls, MN and grew up on the family’s farm. He served in the Army from 1952-1954 and moved to Southern California in 1958. He married Bette Church, with whom he had four children: Connie, Tria, Ann, and Michael. Later in life, he married Adalia in 1985. He will be remembered by a number of family members. Over the years at Good Shepherd, David was a regular in Tuesday and Thursday Bible study groups and participated in the Journey with Christ program. He was known as a kind person with a positive attitude and deep faith who displayed a passion for others to know Christ. A memorial service is being planned. Condolences may be sent in care of David’s daughter, Connie Keeble; 2080 Brisbane Ave.; Reno, NV 89503-1416.
 
Longtime Good Shepherd member Esthermae Haines, who served as choir director of the church for about 10 years, died Wednesday, January 13 at age 93. Her husband Ron was with her. Esthermae came to Nevada in 1949 from Philadelphia. She taught music in schools, first in Tonopah and then in Reno. She opened the music department at Clayton Middle School and later at Hug High School. She worked in or was involved with a wide variety of endeavors over the years: different roles with the Reno Gazette Journal, performing with music and theater groups, working as a real estate agent, serving on the board of Nevada Opera Company, golfing, and performing with the Sheep Dip show. She and Ron were married in 1976 by Pr. Jack Ericson. At Good Shepherd, besides the choir, she or they were also involved as offering counters and shepherds reaching out to members of the church. Plans are being made for a memorial service with limited in-person attendance and live-streamed to the Good Shepherd YouTube channel. Condolences may be expressed to Ron.

 
Sunday Worship for January 17, 2021, RIC Sunday
This Sunday is Reconciling in Christ Sunday where we celebrate our commitment to welcoming people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.  Join us for our livestreamed Sunday worship at 11am on our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLZp-VxXQtNhP9ge-xNluZg or you can view the livestream recording any time after worship concludes.
 
Office Closed January 18
The church office will be closed Monday, January 18, for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. We will reopen on Tuesday at 9am.
 
Good Shepherd Congregational Meeting Set for Sunday, February 7
We will host the annual congregational meeting on Sunday, February 7, via Zoom at 12:15 p.m. Among the items to address: 
  • Report of the Nominating Committee for leaders for the Governing Board and Endowment Committee
  • Determine commissioners for the online Synod Assembly
  • Treasurer’s report with financial summary from 2020 and the Governing Board’s recommended 2021 budget
Typically, this meeting is held every February between the 9 and 11 a.m. services. This year, we will conduct the meeting online via Zoom at 12:15 p.m. following the livestreamed service. We will provide Zoom login information and other participation instructions. The Zoom format allows us to safely conduct formal business by allowing for information to be shared, questions to be asked and answered, and action to be taken. Please look for additional instructions in an upcoming email. 
 
Small Business Directory – Do you have a small business? Date extended . . .
We know small businesses in our community are struggling during the pandemic, and we would like to help those in our congregation who own small businesses. If you are a small business owner, send us your business card by January 25. We plan to have the directory ready by February 1. Mail to us at 357 Clay Street, Reno, NV 89501 or email us at staff@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Are You Prepared?
This time of COVID separation has given us all time to think about relationships, time together, and other things we deeply value. It may also prompt us to think about the challenges of isolation, the difficulty of accessing health care, and what we would do if we were to experience a personal crisis, health-related or otherwise. These thoughts may also cause us to reflect on our own end-of-life wishes and plans. If these things are on your mind, Pr. Scott recommends two action steps: 
 
Contact the church office at 329-0696 or ciara@goodshepherdreno.org to provide emergency contact information for a relative or close friend which can be entered into your record in the church database. Include your name and your contact’s name, relationship to you, phone, and email. 
 
Be alert to a coming invitation from Pr. Scott for an online Zoom version of his End-of-Life Planning Workshop. We’ll talk about planning a memorial service, making arrangements for one’s body, letting people know your plans, and providing a legacy gift. A Zoom meeting time is not yet set, but you may send Pr. Scott an email at PrScott@goodshepherdreno.org if you like to be sure to be notified.
 
January Shared Harvest
This Thursday is the last day to drop off your donations for the January Shared Harvest.  You can drop off your donations this week between 9am and 2pm Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Our shopping list for January:
  • Chili (We need 26 cans.)
  • Macaroni and Cheese (We need 35 boxes.)
  • Saltine Crackers (We need 26 sleeves.)
  • Canned Tuna (We need 26 cans.)
  • Canned Vegetables (We need 26 cans.)
  • Zip-lock bags - quart size.
January’s 2nd Mile Offering
The January 2nd Mile Offering will be distributed as follows:  1/3 to Reconciling Works (RIC), 1/3 to serve poor people locally (Project Lazarus), and 1/3 to serve poor people worldwide.
 
The peace of the Lord be with you all during these stressful times.  Reach out to us if you need help!
 
Maribeth Doerr
Director of Operations and Pastoral Care
Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd
www.goodshepherdreno.org
(775) 329-0696, ext. 100
 
A Reconciling in Christ Congregation
 
Nominees for consideration at the February 7 Congregational Meeting:
 
David Soderlund
Nominee to Governing Board
 
Carol and I moved to Reno from Geneva, NY in July 2018.  We began attending Good Shepherd later that year and transferred our membership from our former congregation in 2019.  We were attracted to the worship life at Good Shepherd, the friendly and welcoming people, and the congregation's commitment to ministry in the community.
 
Carol and I met in high school in Oakland, CA.  I graduated from Pacific Lutheran University (B.S.) and University of California, Berkeley (Ph.D.).  From 1978 until my retirement in 2017, I was a member of the faculty of Cornell University in NY, serving as Professor, Associate Chair, and Chair in the Department of Entomology.  In retirement I enjoy travel and fine art landscape photography.  I also play trombone; after 20 years with the Finger Lakes Concert Band in NY, I was fortunate after we moved to find a place in the Reno Wind Symphony.
 
We moved to Reno to be close to our older son and family, who live in Reno. We also have extended families and longtime friends who live in the west.
 
I agreed to serve on the Governing Board if elected as a way for me to support the ministry of Good Shepherd.  I have extensive and diverse leadership experience in the church, not only in my former congregations but also at the synodical (ELCA Upstate New York Synod Council and Candidacy Committee) and national (ELCA Division for Ministry Board, Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary Board) levels.  I hope to draw on this experience in my work on the Governing Board.
 
 
Jennifer Williamson Kem
Nominee to Endowment Committee
 
How long have you been at Good Shepherd?
I have been attending Good Shepherd since approximately 2015.  We became members in 2018. I was baptized at St. John Lutheran Church in Ocean City, New Jersey. 
 
Where do/did you work? 
We board and walk dogs and pet-sit occasionally.   I am a licensed mental health professional and provide counseling services to clients online. 
 
Are you married/family?
I live with my husband, Sotheare “Ree”.  We were married at Good Shepherd in 2018.  My parents moved in 2019 and live a few miles from us.  They became members of Good Shepherd in early 2020.
 
What hobbies do you enjoy? 
I enjoy traveling to new places and traveling to see our families on the East coast.  I bike inside and outside, weather permitting outside.  I have biked (almost) the 72 miles around the perimeter of Lake Tahoe. We garden until we forget to water or freeze kills the plants. Snowshoeing - miss the show shoe group! Hiking - miss the hiking group!
 
Why do you want to serve on the Endowment Committee? 
I am committed to the long-term growth of the community, church and members. 
 
What assets do you bring to your leadership role? 
I have my experience in my human services role working in various positions and roles in the community. 
 
What is your favorite thing about Good Shepherd? 
I love the way new people are welcomed, and the Zoom meetings while we are separated until we can meet in person again. I also loved seeing the children’s Christmas play. 
 
My husband and I have enjoyed Tables of Grace at Good Shepherd. 
I have attended two ELCA youth gatherings, in St. Louis and New Orleans. 
 
I have participated in volunteering, leading to my love of service to others. 
 
I have participated in Journey with Christ and participated in the refugee resettlement committee, and the most recent Call Team committee.
Posted on January 25, 2021 12:04 PM by Maribeth Doerr

Friday Eblast – January 8, 2021

Dear Church,
 
With the events of the past week, here is a prayer from the Bishops of Region 2 of the ELCA . . .
 
We urge the people of our congregations and ministries and all people of faith and good will to pray for peace and a quick restoration to order, as well as a peaceful transition of power in the coming two weeks. We pray –
+       for an end to the rancor of the deep political divisions that have plagued this country in recent times,
+       for those who feel their voices are not being heard to find more productive and peaceful ways to register their concerns,           
+       for the willingness for our leaders to work with those with whom they may differ to advocate for the needs of all the people they have been called to serve, 
+       for the Peace and Reconciliation of Christ to reign in our hearts. 
Amen
 
Small Business Directory – Do you have a small business? Date extended . . .
We know small businesses in our community are struggling during the pandemic, and we would like to help those in our congregation who own small businesses. If you are a small business owner, send us your business card by January 25. We plan to have the directory ready by February 1. Mail to us at 357 Clay Street, Reno, NV 89501 or email us at staff@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Sunday Worship for January 10, 2021
We are back to our regular online schedule of livestreaming Sunday worship at 11am on our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLZp-VxXQtNhP9ge-xNluZg.  The livestream will be recorded for viewing any time after worship concludes so don’t worry if you miss us live!
 
2021 Church Year Calendar Available
If you would like a copy of the liturgical calendar (Year B), drop by the office or call Ciara and ask to have one mailed to you.  Office hours are Monday from 9am to 4:30pm and Tuesday through Thursday from 9am to 2pm.
 
January Justice Huddle
On Tuesday, January 12, Justice Huddle will meet at 5:30 p.m., via conference call, to hear Ann Silver, CEO at Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce, speak to us about what the State of Nevada is doing about climate change. Contact Bambi Gillette or Barbara Gruenewald for information to access the conference call. 
 
New Women’s Bible Study Begins January 13
As we turn our attention to a new year, maybe you would like to spend a little more time in God’s Word this year? The Women’s Bible study group can be a great way to do that! We meet weekly via Zoom, so you can join us no matter where you live! We meet twice a week on either Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm or Thursday mornings at 10am. The new study is called “Love the Loveless” which is a study of the book of Jonah. It is a four-week study that will begin January 13 and 14. You can download the Bible study free here: Jonah Bible Study Journals - Free Online Bible Study | Love God Greatly.  If you would like more information about this great opportunity to study God’s work with other women from Good Shepherd, contact Stephanie Leff at stephanie@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Are You Prepared?
This time of COVID separation has given us all time to think about relationships, time together, and other things we deeply value. It may also prompt us to think about the challenges of isolation, the difficulty of accessing health care, and what we would do if we were to experience a personal crisis, health-related or otherwise. These thoughts may also cause us to reflect on our own end-of-life wishes and plans. If these things are on your mind, Pr. Scott recommends two action steps: 
 
Contact the church office at 329-0696 or ciara@goodshepherdreno.org to provide emergency contact information for a relative or close friend which can be entered into your record in the church database. Include your name and your contact’s name, relationship to you, phone, and email. 
 
Be alert to a coming invitation from Pr. Scott for an online Zoom version of his End-of-Life Planning Workshop. We’ll talk about planning a memorial service, making arrangements for one’s body, letting people know your plans, and providing a legacy gift. A Zoom meeting time is not yet set, but you may send Pr. Scott an email at PrScott@goodshepherdreno.org if you like to be sure to be notified.
 
January Shared Harvest
While we are worshiping online, you may drop off your Shared Harvest donations at the church office on Mondays between 9am and 4:30pm or Tuesdays through Thursdays between 9am and 2pm. The last day to drop off your donations for the January assembly is Thursday, January 21. Our shopping list for January:
  • Chili (We need 26 cans.)
  • Macaroni and Cheese (We need 35 boxes.)
  • Saltine Crackers (We need 26 sleeves.)
  • Canned Tuna (We need 26 cans.)
  • Canned Vegetables (We need 26 cans.)
  • Zip-lock bags - quart size.
 
January’s 2nd Mile Offering
Every month, we take a special offering called the “2nd Mile Offering” which is over and above the regular offerings received. Each month we focus on a different ministry in our Synod. Feel free to send in a separate offering for 2nd Mile anytime during the month and write “2nd Mile” on the memo line. The January 2nd Mile Offering will be distributed as follows:
  • 1/3 to Reconciling Works (RIC)
  • 1/3 to serve poor people locally (Project Lazarus)
  • 1/3 to serve poor people worldwide.
Office Hours
Office hours are Monday from 9am to 4:30pm and Tuesday through Thursday from 9am to 2pm.
 
The peace of the Lord be with you all during these stressful times.  Reach out to us if you need help!
 
Maribeth Doerr
Director of Operations and Pastoral Care
Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd
www.goodshepherdreno.org
(775) 329-0696, ext. 100
 
A Reconciling in Christ Congregation
Posted on January 11, 2021 1:46 PM by Maribeth Doerr

Friday Eblast – January 1, 2021

Happy New Year!
Here we are in a brand new year. 2020 was a challenge for everyone. Each of us has been tested in ways we never anticipated on this day a year ago. I know we all hope and pray for better days in 2021, but let’s not forget the lessons of 2020. Amongst the stinky parts, there were gems as well.  Let’s carry those lessons and gifts into 2021. As Pr. Scott reminded us on Christmas Eve, “By God’s gracious choice in Jesus, God is together with us.” Thanks be to God, and happy new year!
 
Small Business Directory – Do you have a small business?
We know small businesses in our community are struggling during the pandemic, and we would like to help those in our congregation who own small businesses. If you are a small business owner, send us your business card by January 15. We plan to have the directory ready by February 1. Mail to us at 357 Clay Street, Reno, NV 89501 or email us at staff@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Sunday Worship on January 3, 2021
We are back to our regular online schedule of livestreaming Sunday worship at 11am on our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLZp-VxXQtNhP9ge-xNluZg.  The livestream will be recorded for viewing anytime after worship concludes so don’t worry if you miss us live!
 
January Shared Harvest
Shared Harvest is a joint ministry of several local Lutheran churches who deliver food once a month to working-poor families.  They deliver up to 52 bags of groceries each month.
While we are worshiping online, you may drop off your Shared Harvest donations at the church office on Mondays between 9am and 4:30pm or Tuesdays through Thursdays between 9am and 2pm. The last day to drop off your donations for the January assembly is Thursday, January 21.
 
Our shopping list for January:
  • Chili (We need 26 cans.)
  • Macaroni and Cheese (We need 35 boxes.)
  • Saltine Crackers (We need 26 sleeves.)
  • Canned Tuna (We need 26 cans.)
  • Canned Vegetables (We need 26 cans.)
  • Zip-lock bags - quart size.
 
January’s Eddy House Meals
If you would like to help with our Monday meals program for Eddy House, the January signup list is at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70a044ea9aa2da6f49-eddy14.
 
New Women’s Bible Study Begins January 13
As we turn our attention to a new year, maybe you would like to spend a little more time in God’s Word this year? The Women’s Bible study group can be a great way to do that! We meet weekly via Zoom, so you can join us no matter where you live! We meet twice a week on either Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm or Thursday mornings at 10am. The new study is called “Love the Loveless” which is a study of the book of Jonah. It is a four-week study that will begin January 13 and 14. You can download the Bible study free here: Jonah Bible Study Journals - Free Online Bible Study | Love God Greatly.
 
If you would like more information about this great opportunity to study God’s work with other women from Good Shepherd, contact Stephanie Leff at stephanie@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Good Shepherd’s Website
Our website was rebuilt last September and continues to evolve through the liturgical seasons. It’s my job to keep it updated and fresh. It’s now ready for 2021, and it’s a great place to find out what’s happening at Good Shepherd. Check it out at goodshepherdreno.org
 
Good Shepherd Office Hours
We are open Mondays from 9am to 4:30pm and Tuesdays through Thursdays from 9am to 2pm. We are closed on Fridays because the entire staff is involved in livestreaming worship on Sunday mornings. The office and church are NOT open to the public on Sundays. 
 
The peace of the Lord be with you all!
 
Maribeth Doerr
Director of Operations and Pastoral Care
Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd
www.goodshepherdreno.org
(775) 329-0696, ext 100
 
A Reconciling in Christ Congregation
Posted on January 11, 2021 1:44 PM by Maribeth Doerr

Friday Eblast – Saturday, December 26, 2020

Christmas blessings dear Good Shepherd!
We hope you enjoyed our Christmas Eve worship video.  If you haven’t seen it yet (or if you wish to watch it again), it will remain on our YouTube channel so you can watch it anytime (and who doesn’t want to see those cute kids again!) at https://youtu.be/gdpI_15Dh5s.
 
Office Closure and Eddy House Deliveries on Monday, December 28
Just a reminder, our office will be closed Monday, December 28. We will reopen at 9am on Tuesday, December 29.  If you are bringing something for Eddy House on Monday, please bring it between 3:30 and 4:30 and deliver it to Becky Erdmann at the Shepherd Hall door.  Please do NOT leave food at the office front door. Thank you all!
 
Online Worship for December 27, First Sunday of Christmas
Join Pastor Scott on Sunday, December 27 at 10am as he leads worship on the first Sunday of Christmas through Zoom. Many of us have grown accustomed to using Zoom for business meetings, Bible studies, and other gatherings. Pr. Scott will use Zoom to offer a more informal worship service on this First Sunday of Christmas. The service will include music, scripture, reflection on the readings, and prayers in an abbreviated format. After the worship service, we can linger for conversation as people wish. If you’re still in your pajamas, that’s okay. We’d love to have you join us and you can participate without video as you wish. This Zoom Sunday worship service is one-time only on this first Sunday of Christmas to allow our hard-working worship crew a one-week break from preparation and leadership of a full service. We’ll resume a livestream of worship on Sunday, January 3 available on both our YouTube channel and Facebook page. 
 
Year-End Offerings
Your year-end offerings need to be received at the church office by noon on Dec. 31.  Any offerings received past that date will get processed in 2021. It’s not too late to send in your 2021 Estimate of Giving. You can mail to us or drop it by at 357 Clay Street, Reno, NV  89501 or you can complete it online at https://www.goodshepherdreno.org/2021-estimate-of-giving. Thank you to everyone who has pledged.
 
Small Business Directory
We know small businesses in our community are struggling during the pandemic, and we would like to help those in our congregation who own small businesses. If you’re a small business owner, send us your business card by January 10. We plan to have the directory ready by February 1. Mail to us at 357 Clay Street, Reno, NV 89501 or email us at staff@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Thank you virtual poinsettia sponsors!
Thomas & Jan Brady: In memory of Joe & Mary Pritchard 
Becky Erdmann & Don Hill: In memory of Gertrude & Curtis Hill
Becky Erdmann & Don Hill: In memory of Phyllis Jark
Gale Lundquist: In memory of Robert Lundquist
Gale Lundquist: In memory of Bernice Freestone
Carl & Dianne Wilfrid: In memory of Alice Wilfrid
Carl & Dianne Wilfrid: In memory of Edith Hill and Wallace Hill 
Dan & Ann Reaser: In memory of Margaret Sue Watson 
Barbara Reese: In memory of June Hobron
Barbara Reese: In memory of Earl & Blandina Asmus
Ken & Janyece Narducy: In memory of parents Carol, Violet, LeRoy, & Donald
Ken & Janyece Narducy: In memory of Jack & Shirley Ericson
Ken & Janyece Narducy: In celebration of children Tom, Chad, & Dawne
Ken & Janyece Narducy: In celebration of grandchildren Katie, Kody, Amelia, & Austin
Ken & Janyece Narducy: In celebration of great-grandchildren Blake, Oliver, & Luka
Elizabeth Lenz: In memory of Gilbert G. Lenz
Elizabeth Lenz: In memory of Lise Lenz Drake
Elizabeth Lenz: In memory of Jack Ericson 
Vernie & Dennis McCrohan: In celebration of our wedding anniversary 
Deanna Gaunt: In celebration of all staff members at Good Shepherd
Deanna Gaunt: In celebration of office mates at church Pr. Scott, Maribeth, Stephanie, & Ciara and Marijo
Deanna & Dave Gaunt: In memory of father Dean Head
Deanna & Dave Gaunt: In memory of father Jack Gaunt
Sheila Freed: In memory of Pastor Roland Grumm
Peggy Von Bargen: In memory of brother Fred Von Bargen
George & Arlene Summerhill: In memory of Gabriel Summerhill
George & Arlene Summerhill: In memory of Rev. Ernest Rupert & Marjory Rupert
George & Arlene Summerhill: In memory of Gladys & George Summerhill
George & Arlene Summerhill: In memory of Marie, Don, Victor, Oleah, Alice, David, Roger, Arlene, & Gene
George & Arlene Summerhill: In celebration of Craig, George (Skip), & Brad
George & Arlene Summerhill: In celebration of Sophia Summerhill
Mary Aker: In loving memory of George Aker 
Grace Schoenfeld: In memory of husband Budd Schoenfeld
Ellen Marston: In memory of Joan Rodican
Joanne Kaufmann: In memory of Augie Kaufmannand all loved ones who have joined the church triumphant 
Mary & Pat McGrath: In memory of our sister Carol Roush
Mary & Pat McGrath: In memory of friends Opal, Ernie, Shirley, Jack, Joan, and Ed
Mary & Pat McGrath: In celebration of the Good Shepherd staff and Sunday assistants
Lee & Sue Landrith: In memory of Shirley Eppley
Lee & Sue Landrith: In memory of Tami Ainsworth 
Marlene Swaffar: In memory of husband Baxter Swaffar
Marlene Swaffar: In memory of Shirley Ericson
Ron and Linda Smith:  In memory of Margaret Smith
 
This year in lieu of purchasing poinsettia plants, all monies raised from Poinsettia sponsors will be divided between: 
Mt. Cross Lutheran Camp 
Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary 
Good Shepherd Clothes Closet 
Catholic Community Services
Bread for the World
Habitat for Humanity and 
Sierra Pacific Synod’s Rwanda companion parish in Africa
 
The peace of the Lord be with you all!
 
Maribeth Doerr
Director of Operations and Pastoral Care
Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd
www.goodshepherdreno.org
(775) 329-0696, ext 100
Posted on January 11, 2021 1:42 PM by Maribeth Doerr

Friday Eblast - December 18, 2020

Christmas blessings dear Good Shepherd!

One week from today is Christmas Day. We will be sending you emails reminding you and explaining how to access our Christmas Eve worship and how we will worship December 27.  Please check your email throughout the week as we prepare for Christ’s birth . . .

 
Sunday Worship – December 20 – Fourth Sunday in Advent
Continuing with our Those Who Dream theme, this week we remember that we are not alone. We will be livestreaming Sunday at 11am on YouTube. A recording will be made which you can watch later if you can’t join us live. Our YouTube channel is at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLZp-VxXQtNhP9ge-xNluZg. Deanna will send out a link Saturday that will take you straight to our livestream Sunday morning. Join us as we wind down our Advent journey.
 
Christmas Eve Poinsettias
It is our usual tradition to invite the congregation to purchase a poinsettia plant for $10 as a way to honor/celebrate a loved one. This year we will not be purchasing the plants but we’d like to offer you the opportunity to remember and celebrate your loved ones as we usually do.  We are inviting you to give $10 or more and the money this year, instead of being used to purchase poinsettias, will be divided between eight organizations that we partner with each year:   
Mt. Cross Lutheran Camp, Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, Good Shepherd Clothes Closet, Catholic Community Services, Bread for the World, Habitat for Humanity and our synod’s Rwanda companion parish in Africa.
Our deadline to receive your names is December 21.  All of the names will be listed on the screen during worship.  You can make your financial gift online via our website or by mailing or dropping a check by the office. Let us know your loved ones’ names by calling us at 775-329-0696 or emailing Ciara Hornbarger at ciara@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Christmas Eve Home Kits Now Available!
Every year, 500-700 worshipers have gathered at Good Shepherd to welcome baby Jesus to the world. This year we will not be able to physically gather in our worship space for Christmas Eve, but we do have a delightful and inspiring worship service planned for you which will be available online December 24 at 10am on our YouTube Channel.   
 
In an effort to make it a little simpler for you to worship at home for Christmas, we are providing a Home Kit that will include:
  • Candles for lighting as we sing Silent Night
  • Communion bread/juice kit
  • Bulletin of the worship service
  • Instructions for finding us online
  • A nibble of sweetness!
Please call 329-0696 or email the church office at ciara@goodshepherdreno.org to reserve your kit and plan to stop by the church office December 21 - 23 to pick up your kit. We are open:
  • Dec. 21  Monday – 9am-4pm
  • Dec. 22  Tuesday – 9am-2pm
  • Dec. 23  Wednesday – 9am-2pm
The church office will be closed Dec. 24, Dec.25 and Dec. 28.
 
It is not necessary to have the kit if you already are prepared to have candles, communion bread/wine and if you already are clear about how to find us online. The bulletin of the worship service will also be sent with the link on Dec. 24 for you to view or download. We hope everyone can participate with us for Christmas worship.  We miss you all.  Please call us if there is anything else we can assist you with.
 
Evening Prayer with Pr. Scott – Mondays at 5:30 
On Monday evenings at 5:30 during the season of Advent, Pastor Scott will lead a brief Evening Prayer service via Zoom. The services follow a particular order including a psalm or other scripture and guided prayers, during which time there will be opportunity to mention a thanksgiving or concern. The services are intentionally brief, about 20 minutes, as we give thanks as the day closes and darkness gathers and give thanks for the light of the Christ that has come into the world, the light that even death could not overcome. This Monday, December 21, will be the last evening prayer. 
 
Family Story Time for Those Who Dream – Wednesdays During Advent
Every Wednesday in Advent we will be doing a Kids’ Story Time! This past Wednesday, Miss Ciara shared one her favorite Christmas stories, “The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey.”  Tune in at https://youtu.be/GNCDbVrPkoU.
 
Online Worship for December 27, First Sunday of Christmas
Join Pastor Scott on Sunday, December 27 at 10am as he leads worship on the first Sunday of Christmas through Zoom. Many of us have grown accustomed to using Zoom for business meetings, Bible studies, and other gatherings. Pr. Scott will use Zoom to offer a more informal worship service on this First Sunday of Christmas. The service will include music, scripture, reflection on the readings, and prayers in an abbreviated format. After the worship service, we can linger for conversation as people wish. If you’re still in your pajamas, that’s okay. We’d love to have you join us and you can participate without video as you wish. This Zoom Sunday worship service is one-time only on this first Sunday of Christmas to allow our hard-working worship crew a one-week break from preparation and leadership of a full service. We’ll resume a livestream of worship on Sunday, January 3 available on both our YouTube channel and Facebook page. 
 
Small Business Directory
We know small businesses in our community are struggling during the pandemic, and we would like to help those in our congregation who own small businesses. If you’re a small business owner, send us your business card by January 10 (sorry we won’t have this ready in time for Christmas). We plan to have the directory ready by February 1. Mail to us at 357 Clay Street, Reno, NV 89501 or email us at staff@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
2021 Pledge Cards
It’s not too late to send in your 2021 Estimate of Giving. You can mail to us or drop it by at 357 Clay Street, Reno, NV 89501 or you can complete it online at https://www.goodshepherdreno.org/2021-estimate-of-giving. Thank you to everyone who has pledged.
 
2nd Mile Offering for December - PLTS
This month’s 2nd Mile Offering benefits Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary. You can mail in a check for 2nd Mile anytime during the month or drop it off in the mail slot at the church office. Please write 2nd Mile on the memo line. 
 
The peace of the Lord be with you all!
Posted on December 18, 2020 1:01 PM by Maribeth Doerr

Friday Eblast - December 11, 2020

Dear Church,
 
These last few weeks have been incredibly painful for our congregation with the deaths of beloved members Joan Rodican, Jack Ericson, and Ed Anderson. As Pr. Scott reminded us in his email announcement on Monday, “though past ways of gathering or reaching out may be restricted, may we find ways to care for one another.” If you feel the need to talk or connect with someone, please call or email us.  We are here for you!  Call us at 775-329-0696 or email us at staff@goodshepherdreno.org or one of the staff members listed at the end of this eblast. God’s peace to us all.
 
Advent 2020 Shepherd’s Voice
It is with great joy that I share our Advent 2020 Shepherd’s Voice with you. Our last issue was Lent/Easter, and it was terribly depressing to go through that and read about all the wonderful things we planned for Lent that had to be cancelled because of the pandemic. This issue explains how Advent/Christmas will be for us this year and shares some of the things we have been doing over the last several months. Enjoy!  You can also view the Voice on our website at https://www.goodshepherdreno.org/newsletters-and-reports.
 
Sunday Worship – December 13 – Third Sunday in Advent
Continuing with our Those Who Dream theme, this week we sow joy. Pastor Scott’s sermon is titled “Choosing Joy.” We will be livestreaming Sunday at 11am on YouTube. A recording will be made which you can watch later if you can’t join us live. Our YouTube channel is at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLZp-VxXQtNhP9ge-xNluZg. Deanna will send out a link Saturday that will take you straight to our livestream Sunday morning. Join us as we continue with our Advent journey.
 
Family Story Time for Those Who Dream – Wednesdays During Advent
Every Wednesday in Advent we will be doing a Kids’ Story Time! This past Wednesday, Ms. Dawnn shared one her favorite Christmas stories, Always Room for a Little One. These stories are for everyone! Gather up your kiddos, your grandkiddos, or just enjoy it yourself!  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_0uVOC2amo
 
Christmas Eve Poinsettias
It is our usual tradition to invite the congregation to purchase a poinsettia plant for $10 as a way to honor/celebrate a loved one. This year we will not be purchasing the plants but we’d like to offer you the opportunity to remember and celebrate your loved ones as we usually do.  We are inviting you to give $10 or more and the money this year, instead of being used to purchase poinsettias, will be divided between eight organizations that we partner with each year:   
Mt. Cross Lutheran Camp, Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, Good Shepherd Clothes Closet, Catholic Community Services, Bread for the World, Habitat for Humanity and our synod’s Rwanda companion parish in Africa.
 
Our deadline to receive your names is December 21.  All of the names will be listed in the Christmas Eve worship program and also listed on the screen during worship.  You can make your financial gift online via our website or by mailing or dropping a check by the office. Let us know your loved ones’ names by calling us at 775-329-0696 or emailing Ciara Hornbarger at ciara@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Small Business Directory
We know small businesses in our community are struggling during the pandemic, and we would like to help those in our congregation who own small businesses. If you’re a small business owner, send us your business card by January 10 (sorry we won’t have this ready in time for Christmas). We plan to have the directory ready by February 1. Mail to us at 357 Clay Street, Reno, NV 89501 or email us at staff@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Evening Prayer with Pr. Scott – Mondays at 5:30 
On Monday evenings at 5:30 during the season of Advent, Pastor Scott will lead a brief Evening Prayer service via Zoom. The services follow a particular order including a psalm or other scripture and guided prayers, during which time there will be opportunity to mention a thanksgiving or concern. The services are intentionally brief, about 20 minutes, as we give thanks as the day closes and darkness gathers and give thanks for the light of the Christ that has come into the world, the light that even death could not overcome. The services will be November 30 and December 7, 14, and 21 at 5:30 p.m.  
 
2021 Pledge Cards
It’s not too late to send in your 2021 Estimate of Giving. You can mail to us or drop it by at 357 Clay Street, Reno, NV 89501 or you can complete it online at https://www.goodshepherdreno.org/2021-estimate-of-giving. Thank you to everyone who has pledged.
 
Shared Harvest for December
December’s Shared Harvest will be assembled December 20 and your LAST day to drop items off is Thursday, December 17.  You can drop off your donations at the Church Office on Monday through Thursday between 9am and 2pm. We will have the bin outside the Office for your safety. Our shopping list for December includes:
  • Cold Cereal (We need 27 boxes.)
  • Chicken Noodle Soup (We need 41 cans.)
  • Canned Fruit (We need 41 cans.)
  • Canned Tuna (We need 41 cans.)
  • Shampoo (We need as much as possible)
2nd Mile Offering for December - PLTS
This month’s 2nd Mile Offering benefits Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary. You can mail in a check for 2nd Mile anytime during the month or drop it off in the mail slot at the church office. Please write 2nd Mile on the memo line. 
 
The peace of the Lord be with you all!
Posted on December 18, 2020 12:58 PM by Maribeth Doerr

Friday Eblast - December 4, 2020

Dear Church!
 
It’s beginning to look a lot like . . . ADVENT!  Have you checked out our Advent-looking website at goodshepherdreno.org yet? You’ll find lots of Good Shepherd goodness right there!
 
Sunday Worship – December 6 – Second Sunday in Advent
Continuing with our Those Who Dream theme, this week we prepare the way (peace). We will be livestreaming Sunday at 11am on YouTube. A recording will be made which you can watch later if you can’t join us live. Our YouTube channel is at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLZp-VxXQtNhP9ge-xNluZg. Deanna will send out a link Saturday that will take you straight to our livestream Sunday morning. Join us as we enter into this precious season of Advent.
 
Family Story Time for Those Who Dream – Wednesdays During Advent
Every Wednesday in Advent we will be doing a Kids’ Story Time! This past Wednesday, Ms. Becky shared her favorite Christmas story, The Christmas Visitor by Anneliese Lussert. These stories are for everyone! Gather up your kiddos, your grandkiddos, or just enjoy it yourself! So cozy up with a warm drink, click here: https://youtu.be/SZRzZ706UEQ and enjoy story time!
 
In Lieu of Poinsettias this year, honor your loved ones by contributing to our Giving Tree
Typically for Christmas eve, we invite you to purchase poinsettia plants for $10 each that we use to fill our sanctuary. But this year, we would rather financially support some of the many organizations who may be struggling this year due to Covid-19.
 
This year we offer a new tradition — give to our Giving Tree in honor or in memory of a loved one. You can give $10-$100 and your financial gift will be distributed among eight organizations who all help others give the gift of food, clothing, spiritual guidance and education.  100% of all monies received will be dispersed among:
  • Mt. Cross Lutheran Camp
  • Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary
  • Good Shepherd’s Clothes Closet
  • Catholic Community Services
  • Bread for the World
  • Habitat for Humanity
  • Our synod’s Rwanda companion parish in Africa
How to Give:
1. Mail a check to Good Shepherd with your loved ones’ names included on a sheet of paper.
2. Go online to goodshepherdreno.org/give and make a contribution and tag it as “Giving Tree”; email your loved ones’ names to ciara@goodshepherdreno.org
3. Go to the Give+ App on your mobile device make a contribution and tag it as “Giving Tree”; email your loved ones’ names to ciara@goodshepherdreno.org
 
Music This Christmas!
I know many of us are missing concerts this Christmas. Jennie Tibben has shared some links for those longing for music:
Enjoy!
 
Small Business Directory
We know small businesses in our community are struggling during the pandemic, and we would like to help those in our congregation who own small businesses. If you’re a small business owner, send us your business card by January 10 (sorry we won’t have this ready in time for Christmas). We plan to have the directory ready by February 1. Mail to us at 357 Clay Street, Reno, NV 89501 or email us at staff@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Evening Prayer with Pr. Scott – Mondays at 5:30 
On Monday evenings at 5:30 during the season of Advent, Pastor Scott will lead a brief Evening Prayer service via Zoom. The services follow a particular order including a psalm or other scripture and guided prayers, during which time there will be opportunity to mention a thanksgiving or concern. The services are intentionally brief, about 20 minutes, as we give thanks as the day closes and darkness gathers and give thanks for the light of the Christ that has come into the world, the light that even death could not overcome. The services will be December 7, 14, and 21 at 5:30 p.m.  Contact the church office for Zoom login details.
 
2021 Pledge Cards
It’s not too late to send in your 2021 Estimate of Giving. You can mail to us or drop it by at 357 Clay Street, Reno, NV  89501 or you can complete it online at https://www.goodshepherdreno.org/2021-estimate-of-giving.  Thank you to everyone who has pledged.
 
Shared Harvest for December
December’s Shared Harvest will be assembled December 20 and your LAST day to drop items off is Thursday, December 17.  You can drop off your donations at the Church Office on Monday through Thursday between 9am and 2pm. We will have the bin outside the Office for your safety. Our shopping list for December includes:
  • Cold Cereal (We need 27 boxes.)
  • Chicken Noodle Soup (We need 41 cans.)
  • Canned Fruit (We need 41 cans.)
  • Canned Tuna (We need 41 cans.)
  • Shampoo (We need as much as possible)
2nd Mile Offering for December - PLTS
This month’s 2nd Mile Offering benefits Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary. You can mail in a check for 2nd Mile anytime during the month or drop it off in the mail slot at the church office. Please write 2nd Mile on the memo line. 
 
December Signups for Eddy House Monday Meals
If you’re interesting in helping/contributing to the Eddy House meals for December, the new signup list is at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A044EA9AA2DA6F49-eddy13. If you have any questions, contact ciara@goodshepherdreno.org.

The peace of the Lord be with you all!

Posted on December 04, 2020 1:20 PM by Maribeth Doerr

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