Advent at Good Shepherd begins Sunday, November 26
Welcome to Advent
As we begin the season of Advent, a time of spiritual preparation and anticipation, you're invited to embark on a profound journey. This year, our Advent theme is "Breaking Through," inspired by Psalm 80:3 – "Restore us, O God; let your face shine upon us, and we shall be saved." This theme reflects our collective aspiration to seek God's light and guidance as we prepare for the coming of Christ in a world that often seems dark and divided.
The Good Shepherd staff and our committees have been intentionally working to help this be a blend of reflection, prayer, and active participation. Of special note: we will begin our Advent observance on November 26, a week ahead of the traditional lectionary, with a focus on the following weekly themes:
November 26
Potter & Clay
This week, we reflect on our need for renewal and God’s role as our savior. It's a time to examine our lives and our community, committing to the path of Jesus Christ and opening ourselves to God’s transforming presence.
Reading: Isaiah 64:1-9
December 3
Home is Wherever God is
Here, we remember that we are never alone. God breaks through our isolation, fear, and self-centeredness, reforming us into a community of faith, whole despite our brokenness.
Reading: Isaiah 40:1-11
December 10
Messengers of Hope to the Hopeless
We are reminded that as recipients of God’s renewal and restoration, we are called to be bearers of Good News, extending hope and grace beyond the walls of our church.
Reading: Isaiah 61: 1-4, 8-11
December 17
God Keeps
God's Promises
In the final days of Advent, we focus on the fulfillment of God’s promise through Jesus Christ, a testament to God’s unwavering commitment to mercy, justice, and peace.
Reading: 2 Samuel 7:1-11;16
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9:00 a.m. | Madison Campus
You're invited to the intersection of
Whitney Way and Raymond Road for a morning of worship with traditional Lutheran textures and rhythms.
10:00 a.m. | Verona Campus
Head down County Highway PD in Verona for morning Worship featuring modern expressions of praise and prayer anchored by foundational traditions.
6:00 p.m. | Verona Campus
A worship service with evening rhythms for song, prayer, reflection rooted in ancient practices and present-day cares & concerns.
Worship Together
All Good Shepherd worship services are available as a livestream or replay
Advent Family Dinner & Gingerbread House Making
Friday, Dec. 1 from 5-7 p.m.
Joanne Zastrow or Emily Gold
Verona Campus
Enjoy a meal prepared by the Holy Cow, Advent crafts and gingerbread house decorating. Bring a gingerbread house and we’ll provide the candy to decorate.
Christmas Camp
Friday, December 15, 5:30 - 8 p.m.
Joanne Zastrow
Verona Campus
Drop the kids off for an evening of Christmas joy with crafts, music, and games. Register here!
Christmas around the Tree
Sunday, December 17 @ 6 p.m.
Sarah Iverson
Verona Campus
An evening to ponder, pray, praise, and prepare in this Advent season.
Birth - 3 Playgroup
Tuesdays, 8:30 - 9:30 a.m.
Emily Gold
Verona Campus
Enjoy group story time, rhymes, songs and time
for caregivers and babies to socialize! We will not meet between 12/24 and 1/7 and then resume 1/9!
Church School
Sundays at 9, 10 a.m. & 6 p.m.
Joanne Zastrow
Madison & Verona Campus
Church school is offered for kids aged 3 through fifth grade. Explore the Bible and grow in faith together.
A Night of Caroling, Cabernet & Cookies
Sunday, December 3 at 7 p.m.
Jared Stellmacher
Toot & Kate's Wine Bar
Come one, come all for an evening of Christmas songs and spirits! And feel free to bring a plate of cookies or munchies to share.
The Brilliance | In Concert
Friday, December 8 at 7 p.m.
Sarah Iverson
Madison Campus
Enjoy poetic and liturgical music with beautiful orchestral sounds that can be enjoyed by all. A fundraiser for HS Youth. Tickets are available here.
Christmas Concert: "Holy Light"
Monday, December 18 at 7 p.m.
Jared Stellmacher
Madison Campus
Scripture readings, meditations and numerous familiar Christmas carols are woven into this festive program.
Blue Christmas Worship
Thursday, December 21 at 7 p.m.
Jared Stellmacher
Madison Campus
Blue Christmas is a gentle, contemplative service for those with hearts that are hurting.
Advent by Candlelight
Thursday, December 7 at 6:30 p.m.
Ronda Beggs
Verona Campus
We’ll read scripture. We’ll sing carols. Storytellers will share with us what Advent means so them. We’ll also share devotional materials that could be a good anchor for you in this holy season. Click here to register and/or sign-up for a table.
Madison Campus
9:00 a.m., 4:30 p.m., 6:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Verona Campus
10:00 a.m., 4:30 p.m. & 6:00 p.m.
Worship Together
All Good Shepherd worship services are available as a livestream or replay
Have a question?
If you'd like to know more about a specific program, we'd be happy to connect you with a member of our staff.
Click below to connect via e-mail with someone from our team and we'd be happy to help!