As We Gather
Sometimes the simplest of words carry the greatest of importance. As Jesus speaks with the doubting disciple Thomas gathered in a special room with the disciples a few days after the resurrection, He says simply, “See.” But that is all He needs to say. It confirms the powerful truth that He is indeed arisen from the dead. Today we are faithful people gathered in a different room—but also with those who are disciples of the Lord. And He has promised to be with us and among us in the upper room. As we worship, we will see signs of His abiding presence.
Holy Communion
The Lord’s Supper is celebrated today with the confession that we receive the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, in, with and under (a way of saying that Christ is fully present in) the bread and wine. Christ's presence gives us the assurance that our sins are forgiven and to nourish our faith. This is a solemn celebration, “For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves” (1Corinthians 11:29). The Lord’s Supper is meant for our good, not to our judgment. But, before presenting yourself ask these questions:
1. Am I sorry for my sins and need forgiveness?
2. Did Christ die and rise to forgive my sins?
3. Am I receiving the very body and blood of Christ Jesus?
If your answers are yes, you are welcome. If you are not a member of a LCMS church, or have further questions about The Lord’s Supper, please speak with the pastor.
Stewardship
1Peter 1:3-4 – “He has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you.”
We have an inheritance waiting for us, a treasure gathered where moth and rust do not destroy. That should change our perspective on the treasures of this earth. They are fleeting. They come and go. But we can use the treasures of this earth for the work of the kingdom that will not fade away.
Lutherans For Life
“Did the soldiers wonder about Jesus in years to come? Surely, a Man of such power could have avoided the cross. But that wasn’t what Jesus was doing with His authority. He was in charge that night, because He was about the business of saving us. And now that He has risen from the dead and ascended into heaven, we know that He is in charge of everything in heaven and earth—and we are safely His forever.” Dr. Kari Vo, Lutheran Hour Ministries – A Life Quote from Lutherans For Life • www.lutheransforlife.org
Altar Flowers
The Altar Flower Chart is posted on the bulletin board in the Narthex by the drinking fountains. Check chart for donation opportunities and availability.
Children Sunday School
"Jesus Is Rejected at Nazareth" is the Sunday School lesson this week. In Nazareth, throughout His ministry, and even this week, Jesus is rejected by people who do not have faith in Him. God's Word clearly shows that Jesus is God's Son, and in faith, we believe. With your family, discuss, "How does sin blind our eyes to the Savior and cause us to suffer from sin's effects with sickness, trouble, and even physical death?"
Kenwood Elementary Donates
Kenwood School is currently in need of donations of pants and shorts for students who may require a change of clothes during the school day. Gently used items are welcome, including sweatpants, leggings, jeans, pajama bottoms, athletic shorts, and similar styles. Elastic waistbands are especially helpful, and well worn pants are perfectly acceptable. Needed sizes range from children’s sizes 5 through 14, as well as adult size Small. For more information contact Rachel.Bollinger@okaloosaschools.com.
Youth Group
The Way Cafe
Join us for Ash Wednesday Worship at 6:30 PM, as well as Lent Worship through the month of March at 6:30 PM (preceded by a meal at 5:30 PM). Way Café will continue through these services and return to the Café space on January 7th.
American Heritage Girls Troop 1517
American Heritage Girls (AHG) is a Christ-centered scouting program for girls ages 5–18, focused on faith, service, and fun. AHG builds character and leadership through badge work, outdoor adventures, and community service. Girls grow in confidence and develop practical skills in a supportive, all-girl environment grounded in Christian values. Join AHG to grow in faith and friendship!
For more information contact Adrienne Cook.
Council Meeting
Let us do everything with love. The Church Council is a gathering of elected advisers who serve and guide the ministries of the congregation toward our given mission. (Matthew 28:19-20). We meet in the library.
Sanctuary Cleaning Day
A clean sanctuary helps us focus on what truly matters: Christ Himself, present among us in Word and Sacrament. We invite the whole congregation, young and old, to join in a Sanctuary Cleaning Day. The pews need to be cleaned with hot water and Murphy's Oil Soap. Cleaning items, buckets and rags will be supplied. No experience is needed. The work will take about 2 to 3 hours. Your labor of love blesses us all. “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord” - Colossians 3:23.
For more information contact Anna Haase.
Benevolence
Benevolences. “Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” Luke 12:32-34. Please consider contributing to our benevolence fund. (Online to donate: https://www.shalimar.church/human-care)
Concert Series
The first in the 2026 concert series "Sheep May Safely Graze" featuring classical music groups. A community event to reach out and draw people in. For more information contact David Ott
Sharing and Caring
A ministry supported by our congregation through donations of non-perishable food items, placed in the collection basket in the inner Narthex. Sharing and Caring serves individuals and families in need by providing food, clothing, and emergency assistance. It brings hope, encouragement, and practical support to those experiencing hardship or crisis.
Car Show
The Board of Outreach is excited to announce an upcoming Car Show and invites you to help make it a success. This event will bring our community together, connect with new families and neighbors, and create meaningful outreach opportunities. We are forming a volunteer team to plan and carry out the event, with roles in organizing, hospitality, marketing, registration, and logistics. Contact Pastor Eric or Jennifer.
Worlds Greatest Baby Shower
Hosted by Healthy Start Coalition of Okaloosa and Walton Counties. The World's Greatest Baby Shower is expected to welcome approximately 1,300 who are new parents, expectant parents, and their family members! Our purpose is to have a presence in the public square, and as a reminder for the unchurched community that faith has a place in the welfare of a growing child.
Legacy Deo
Tired of paying income tax on your IRA required minimum distributions (RMD)? You can reduce your tax burden in retirement and bless Good Shepherd by designating all or part of your RMD as a qualified charitable distribution (QCD). When your IRA administrator sends the gift directly to Good Shepherd, it is not included in your taxable income. You can begin QCDs at age 70½. Visit www.legacydeo.org or call 1-800-880-3733 to learn more.
Mite Boxes
Lutheran Women in Mission collect change in Mite Boxes to support mission grants locally and globally. Inspired by the widow’s mite (Luke 21:1–4), these voluntary offerings are gathered the first Sunday of each month. Though Mite Boxes have changed in appearance, the purpose remains: freely giving to share the Gospel through Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML) ministries.
Smokes and Jokes, a Christian Fellowship
Enjoy an evening of conversation and light refreshments as we relax together, share stories, and encourage one another in faith and friendship. Feel free to bring a snack or a joke to share, and come ready for a warm, casual time among friends. If you’d like to join, please contact Pastor Klemme directly for date, time, and location.
Board Of Outreach Meeting
Philemon 4-6. The Board of Outreach has a two fold mission: To Communicate the Gospel of Christ through the members of our congregation and in the endeavor to identify the congregation with the Gospel in the local community. Meets with Pastor Klemme in the Cafe.
Properties Board Meeting
For the maintenance and repair of the congregation’s facilities; to enable the congregation and its members to carry out our Christ centered ministries. Meets in the Library. For more information contact Jeff Adams
Board of Elders Meeting
Meeting with the Called Ministers and the Board of Elders to discuss, plan, and implement strategies to carry out corporate worship, and addressing the spiritual health of the congregation.
For more information contact Joe Staton
Commemoration of Lucas Cranach & Albrecht Duerer, Artists
The Church honor's saints for showing us how living out faith can be done.
Lucas Cranach (1472-1557), a close friend of Martin Luther, was a celebrated painter of portraits and altar pieces and a producer of woodcuts of religious subjects. Albrecht Duerer (1471-1528), a native of Nuernberg, Germany, was one of the most learned of Renaissance artists and also an ardent admirer of Martin Luther. His paintings and woodcuts include examples of the splendor of creation and skilled portrayals of biblical narratives. Both Cranach and Duerer are remembered and honored for the grandeur of their works of art that depict the glory and majesty and the grace and mercy of the triune God.
Source: LCMS Calendar of Commemorations.