Good Shepherd Lutheran Church | Burnsville, MN

FAQ

FAQs

What denomination is Good Shepherd a part of?
Good Shepherd is affiliated with the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS)

What do “Lutherans” believe?
For a simple explanation – see What We Believe. For more details see Lutheran Confessions.

What do I need to do to join Good Shepherd?
Guests who are new to Good Shepherd and/or WELS should attend a Bible Information Course. The classes will cover the basic truths of Christianity as taught by Good Shepherd and the WELS. The class discussions are designed for people interested in becoming a member at Good Shepherd, as well as those who simply want to learn and discuss biblical truth. The classes are prerequisites for church membership, in most cases.

We ask guests who are coming from a WELS (Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod), ELS (Evangelical Lutheran Synod), or LCMS (Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod) church to speak with a pastor about their interest in membership.

Why is church membership important?
(answer pending approval)

What if I need to talk to someone about an issue?
We care about you because Jesus cares about you. For that reason, we are dedicated to helping people no matter what the issue may be. Our pastoral staff is always willing to listen. Contact the church office at 952-432-5527 or info@goodshep.com and ask to speak with a pastor. If your issue is more pressing, we generally refer people Christian Family Solutions. CFS is an independent, not-for-profit organization servign people in need regardless of their faith affiliation. Although independent, CFS shares faith fellowship with the WELS and the Evangelical Lutherand Synod (ELS). They have an office in Lakeville, MN, or will hold virtual appointments, if necessary.

What do I need to do to have a child baptized, or be baptized?
Jesus says, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19-20) Children are a part of “all nations” and have a deep need for Jesus as their Savior because of sin (Psalm 51:5), just like the rest of us. God tells us that baptism is a sacrament through which he offers forgiveness (Acts 2:38-39), brings people to faith (Galatians 3:26), empowers them with faithful living (Romans 6:1-4), and offers eternal life (Titus 3:5). Because of this command from our Lord, we consider it a great privilege to bring children – even newborns- into God’s family through the sacrament of baptism. Please contact the church office and ask to speak with a pastor to schedule a baptism.

What do I need to do to have my wedding at Good Shepherd?
Congratulations! We would be privileged to conduct your wedding at Good Shepherd. We require either the bride or groom to be an active member in good standing at Good Shepherd, or pursuing membership. The couple should plan to meet with a pastor prior to setting the wedding date with the church.