Two Options to Worship
Good Shepherd is continuing to offer in-person worship to anyone who would like to worship with us every Sunday Morning at 10:30 am. Holy Communion will also be available in person during the worship service. If you can’t meet together with us on Sunday Morning, we will continue to offer online worship on Sundays and our parking lot Holy Communion on the first and third Sundays from Noon – 1:00 pm.
Please use the following links below to connect online to the Sunday Church Service:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goodshepherdkettering/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFjr6taytoTncrtHVY9TGQw
E-Bulletin
GSLC now has the bulletin on our website. It’s set to go live on our website under the “Worship” and the “More” menu tabs at 10:00 am on Sunday mornings. We hope this makes the worship service more meaningful to you now that you will be able to follow along.
Online Events Information
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church will be doing a Streaming Devotional with Pr. Jamie Vannoy every Wednesday at Noon. We will also be including Read Aloud Stories with Don Bennett every weekday, Monday – Friday, at 2:30 pm. Please come, connect, and enjoy.
Please use the following links below to connect:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goodshepherdkettering/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFjr6taytoTncrtHVY9TGQw
Advent Wreaths
To help us all feel connected while we are worshiping from home during Advent, I thought it would be fun for us to do our own Advent Wreaths. You can use any candles you have around the house it doesn’t matter if they match. And if you are lucky enough to have an Advent Wreath then by all means use it!! I used 4 tealight candles and one larger candle. They weren’t the right colors, but it made me feel like I was included and part of the service by doing the Advent Wreath. When they light the candles in church that will be your opportunity to light your candle at home. 
Please take a photo of your wreath and email it to Don Bennett. He will create a photo gallery on our website of the photos that get sent in as another way for us to feel connected.
Many Blessings to you all during this Joyous Season,
Michele Weyhrauch
Worship Commission
Offerings for last week:
$6,846.17
Electronic Giving
Don’t forget to send in your weekly tithe/offering to the church at 901 East Stroop Rd, Kettering, OH 45429 or go to our online Electronic Giving:
Electronic Giving Good Shepherd Lutheran Church is now offering the option of electronic giving for regular offerings and special offerings. Giving is done using the company Tithe.ly which is the only one endorsed by the ELCA. There are three ways to give:
1. Via smartphone using the Tithe.ly app (download via the App Store or Google Play)
2. Online at https://tithe.ly/give?c=329631
3. Via the GSLC Website which has a link to the Tithe.ly website to give directly to GSLC
The process to create an account and give is simple because it is tied to a debit or credit card. There is also a processing fee of less than 3% that you can choose to cover if desired. Benefits of Electronic Giving:
1. Ability to give from anywhere including other countries – you only need an internet connection via smartphone or computer.
2. Ability to give 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
3. Ability to choose from a variety of options where your gift goes.
4. Can give more than one gift at a time with the “Add Gift” option.
Questions: Contact Martin Pierce (937) 287-4021 or Denise Wilson (513) 913-0133.
This Week’s Article
This week’s article is by William Willimon @ Ministry Maters.
In my time at Duke University Chapel, this Sunday’s Gospel, the parable of the sheep and the goats, won the contest for the most frequently used text by our guest preachers for their sermons. One fall we had three preachers in two months preach on the sheep and the goats.
And why not? It’s a great passage for urging the congregation to get out there and do good for “the least of these.” I’ve heard this text used to urge a congregation to vote Democratic, to vote Republican, and to give to Habitat for Humanity, among a host of other worthy causes. “In as much as you did good for [Fill in the Blank With Your Favorite Cause] you have done it unto me.”
But is the intent of this story to urge Christians to do good works for Christ incognito? My most recent encounter with this parable has made me wonder.
This parable is the last in a series of four parables of judgment (including the parable of the coins that we treated just last Sunday, Matthew 24:45-51). Throughout Matthew 24-25 we have eschatological parables of the end and the judgment that comes at the end. Goats and sheep are divided on the basis of “in as much as you did it unto the least of these” and sent to eternal punishment or to eternal life (25:46). On what basis? The judgement is based upon whether they have fed the hungry, provided drink for the thirsty, welcomed the stranger, clothed the naked, tended to the sick, and visited the prisoner.
Still, we must ask questions like:
“What is this parable about?”
“To whom was this parable addressed?”
“Who is Jesus talking about with his talk of ‘nations,’ ‘sheep,’ and ‘goats’?”
“All the nations” that are gathered before the Son of Man (25:32 NRSV) could mean merely “all the peoples of the world” (Greek: panta ta ethne). Most of the time when Matthew uses the Greek ethne, Matthew clearly means Gentiles (4:15; 6:32; 10:5; 20:19, 25; 24:14; 28:19). So Matthew could mean “all the Gentiles,” that is, all those who neither know nor worship Christ.
Who are “the least of these my brothers” (20:40, literal translation)? The address “my brothers” certainly sounds like Matthew is identifying the victims, the “least of these,” as Christians in the church. Some take ethne specifically to mean Gentiles outside the church. These interpreters have tended to do so for Protestant theological reasons, troubled as they are by the apparent “works righteousness” of believers being judged on the basis of works rather than faith. But there can be no sidestepping that the parable says that judgment is according to works of compassion. So, it might be that the “nations”—Gentiles, non-believers—are being judged on the basis of their good works rather than applying this parable to the need for good works by Christians.
Matthew doesn’t seem to know our good old Protestant grace-versus-works dichotomy. Throughout this gospel we have seen Jesus call his followers to a righteousness that exceeds even that of the scribes and Pharisees (5:17-20). Jesus refuses the acclamation “Lord” from those who fail to do the good works he commands (7:21-29), commending those who do the right deeds over those who have the right words without the deeds (21:28-32). Jesus does not command his followers to desire justice, to pray for peace; he blesses those who do justice and make peace (5:1-16). When this gospel ends, Jesus one last time says to his disciples, “Obey everything that I have commanded you” (28:20, NRSV).
So, it might be fair, particularly because this is the Gospel of Matthew, to see this parable as commending good works. But good works done by whom? The followers of Jesus is an obvious choice, implying that Jesus tells this parable to spur his followers on to do good works for “the least of these.” But I’m not sure that this obvious interpretation is really fair to the specifics of the parable.
Happy Thanksgiving
The staff at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church wishes everyone a Happy Thanksgiving on Thursday, November 26. May you all find something to be blessed about! “We ought to give thanks for all fortune: if it is ‘good,’ because it is good, if it is ‘bad’ because it works in us patience, humility and the contempt of this world and the hope of our eternal country.” ~ C. S. Lewis, in Letters
Decorating the Sanctuary
Saturday, November 28 from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm. We welcome anyone who would like to help decorate the sanctuary for the Advent/Christmas season. We understand that it is the Thanksgiving weekend and a lot of folks may be out of town. Any questions please feel free to contact Michele Weyhrauch at 937-510-4264.
City Barbecue
Our Youth Fundraiser is back the first Monday of each month! Please come on out and show your support for Good Shepherd’s ongoing youth fundraiser with City Barbecue on Monday, December 7 from 10:30 am to 10:00 pm. The location is at 5 E. Franklin Street, Centerville, OH 45459. GSLC will get 25% of the sales back! If you order online or by phone, just tell them you’re with the fundraiser, or show any of the printed flyers and make sure to have the cashier scan the barcodes. Please let any of your friends and family know about this wonderful fundraiser, so they too can give back to our youth! GSLC wants to especially thank you for continuing to support us even when business is slow.
Food Pantry News
Our November 3, Good Shepherd delivery of 270 food items to the Greenmont-Oak Park-Ascension Neighbor to Neighbor Food Pantry was greatly appreciated. Many thanks to the Good Shepherd members and our generous neighbors for continuing donations each month. With Congress and the President currently unable to reach an agreement on economic assistance for pandemic victims our donations now are more important than ever. As you are doing your grocery shopping, please remember the food pantry recipients for these life-sustaining gifts. If you prefer, you can send a check, (payable to Good Shepherd and marked for food pantry) to the office. You can drop off food or checks during the week by ringing the fellowship hall entry bell and placing items in the donation box immediately inside the door or you can bring them to church on Sunday if you choose to attend in-person worship at 10:30 am.
Need a Treasurer
Denise Wilson resigned from being Treasurer after serving faithful and we are in need of a Treasurer. Please pray that we fill this crucial position on the Council will be filled quickly. If you are interested in knowing more information about the position feel free to call the Church Office and ask to speak to Pr. Jamie.
Live Streaming
Our Audio Visual team has been working hard getting our live streaming capabilities up and running. They are now in need of folks to train. If you are willing to help and love being able to volunteer you are the ones we want. The more volunteers we have the less times you have to do it per month. We will be streaming one service a week and it will be a rotating schedule. Don has assured me it is not difficult, you just have to be able to pay attention!! Please, if you are on the fence about this come and see what it is all about. In other words, no obligation, try before you “buy” in. Any questions contact Don Bennett at don.bennet@goodshepherdkettering.com or call the church at 9237-298-0136. ~ Michele Weyhrauch, Worship Commissioner
Advent Midweek Services
On Wednesdays from December 2, December 9, and December 16 there will be Advent Midweek Services at 7:00 pm via GSLC Facebook and Youtube channels.
Please use the following links below:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goodshepherdkettering/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFjr6taytoTncrtHVY9TGQw
Lifelong Learning
Our ADULT Lifelong Learning Classes are ONLINE! Everyone is welcome! Please contact the church office for the links below to join in the conversations. This is a great time to “zoom” in and discover the quality adult education we have at GSLC. Our Bible studies are open to ALL online. If you haven’t checked any of these out, please consider joining the conversations.
Our YOUTH classes (Kindergarten – 6th grade) are resuming. The WHIRL curriculum is based on the weekly lectionary for the church year that allows our students to connect what they learn in class with what they hear in worship. Karin Linch and Sandy Rosholt are the teachers for our youth classes.
CATECHISM is being offered online this year. Catechism is for our 6th, 7th, and 8th graders in preparation for confirmation, affirming the baptismal promises. If you have an interest in our studies of the Bible, Luther’s Small Catechism, and Lutheran heritage, please contact the church office for more information. Pastor Jamie and Don Bennett teach our catechism classes.
NOVEMBER WELCA BIBLE STUDY
This is open to all women to come together and reflect on “holy time” — GOD’S TIME! This is the third of three studies on Holy Time focused on The Holy Future: reimagining the time to come. We will complete the circle as we remember what we learn in Hebrews 13:8 “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”
TOPIC: Holy Time Women of the ELCA
WHEN: Tuesday, November 24 at 10:00 a.m. OR 7:30 p.m.
The same material will be offered in the daytime and again in the evening to allow more women to participate.
LEADER: Pam Bauser
WHERE: Online from the wherever you have internet access
HOW: from your home via ZOOM
Holy Time is the fall Bible study in GATHER for Faith and Action, the monthly magazine of the Women of the ELCA. If you have the magazine, the study is on pages 18-23. IF you do not have the magazine and want a copy, please contact Pam Bauser (937-299-5186).
SATURDAY MORNING BREAKFAST BIBLE STUDY DISCUSSION for ALL
This group meets Saturday, November 21.
No BIBLE Study on Saturday, November 28th.
Topic: Lectionary for Sunday worship
Facilitator: Roger Bauser
Time: 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Place: comfort of your home – connect online!
Bring your own coffee and breakfast along with your BIBLE. The focus is on the Lectionary Lessons for the upcoming Sunday. Come join the discussion facilitated by Roger Bauser. Use the Zoom meeting link to join the conversation. Everyone (ALL ages and genders) is welcome! No prior experience is needed. Each week the study relates to the Scripture lessons for Sunday’s worship. Drop by and learn what’s behind the message on Sunday. If you experience any difficulty connecting, please contact Roger at rebauser@me.com or call 937-299-5186.
SUNDAY MORNING ADULT BIBLE STUDY
Topic: ACTS of the Apostles: a Biblical study on The Book of ACTS!
Facilitator: Roger Bauser
Time: 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Place: Comfort of your home – connect online!
Bring your coffee. Have your Bible handy. COME BE RENEWED by the power of the Holy Spirit! COME LISTEN to God speak to each of us through the Book of ACTS. This week read and ponder Acts chapters 10-11.Hear more of God’s love as the Holy Spirit leads the disciples to share the Good News as Peter has a vision and travels to meet Cornelius. If you experience any difficulty connecting, please contact Roger at rebauser@me.com or call 937-299-5186.
THURSDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY for Men
NO Bible study on THANKSGIVING DAY!
Studies resume on December 3, 2020.
Topic: Lectionary for Sunday worship
Facilitator: Roger Bauser
Time: 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Place: comfort of your home – connect online!
AmazonSmile
In 2018, we received $15.95 in donations from AmazonSmile. In 2019 we received $19.64. Would you like to help go over those amounts for 2020? It’s easy to do. Go to our website for Youth Donations, https://goodshepherdkettering.com/youth-donations/, scroll down and you will see a little graphic labeled amazonsmile. Click on that and follow the directions. Once you’ve done that, instead of going to amazon.com to make an online purchase, go to smile.amazon.com and for every purchase you make, we will get 0.5% of that price donated to us. It’s still Amazon, with all the features of the normal site, we just get a small cut. Over time those 0.5% donations add up. Please consider supporting us in this way. The proceeds go to help with youth events. If you have any questions, please contact Don Bennett.
GSLC Lutheran Youth Corps (LYC)
Gift Card Program Did you know there is a way that you can financially support Good Shepherd at no cost to you? Through the LYC, you can order gift cards from a variety of merchants and restaurants at face value and a portion of each purchase is donated to the church to support youth programs and the First Lutheran Breakfasts. Although the percentage donated to the church may seem small, a few percent of our collective purchases can add up to a significant donation to Good Shepherd over time. Order forms are available in the Narthex. Orders placed on the weekend are normally available for pick up the following week, with the exception of some holiday periods and weeks where we do not reach the minimum threshold for placing an order. Please contact Don Bennett if you have any questions. What a great way to be faithful stewards of our resources!
ELCA NEWS:
ELCA Disability Ministry God’s work. Our hands. Click here.
NEW Lutheran World Relief Sustainable Development. Click here.
ELCA Global Links. Click here.
Community News:
We Care Arts 2020 Cookie Walk- Call for Bakers!
We Care Arts is beginning to prepare for their 9th Annual Cookie Walk (sponsored by Day Air Credit Union), but it’s going to look just a little different this year! Their Cookie Walk will be a drive-through pick-up for 2020. They will have a cookie pre-order available online beginning on November 2 and pick up will be Saturday, December 5 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. in the We Care Arts back parking lot. https://one.bidpal.net/cookiewalk/welcome
HERE’S HOW YOU CAN HELP!
• Bake and donate your favorite holiday treats! During the holidays, it’s those “special” treats that we all love! The more unique or cleverly decorated, the better!
• Buy cookies! Donate a few dozen and place an order online for cookies for your family to enjoy. Tell your friends too!
• Volunteer: They need folks to help them to box cookie orders on the Friday before, and they’ll need “cookie runners” throughout the day on Saturday in the back parking lot.
You may deliver cookies in a sturdy container to We Care Arts on Friday, December 4 between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 3035 Wilmington Pike, Kettering, OH 45429. Thank you for your support of We Care Arts!