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During the Stillness Retreat, Ruth taught us a practice for stilling ourselves in moments of stress, worry, anxiety, or uncertainty. Peace: Take a breath. Be: Remember that you are beloved of the One who created you. Still: Wait for God to speak or to show you the next step. Breathing, remembering your identity, and listening for God are all wonderful practices to incorporate as you seek God's direction, especially in moments of difficulty. Peace to you!

Do you have a place in your home where you can be alone with God, even for a minute? Some people sit where they can see out a window. Some people create a shrine or altar. Some people have a Bible or devotional book near a favorite chair and curl up with it and a cup of tea. Some folks go for a walk in their yard or nearby park. Some simply have a picture of a favorite place - a place of contentment and peace - that can become a focus for imagining Jesus walking with them in that happy place. Where is your spot? What does it look like? If you've created or found a "still place", share a photo or comment below!

At the end of the Stillness Retreat on Saturday, Pastor Lynette shared a blessing from the writer Jan L. Richardson - "May you find the spiritual practices that offer you a doorway into the heart of God." Over the next week or so, we'll be sharing some of the practices we discussed right here. Maybe one of them will inspire you!

In the gospel reading for Sunday, January 19, Jesus provides 175 gallons of wine for a newly married couple. Whatever for?! Come to worship and hear about God’s good news in Christ. Worship begins at 9 AM, is also livestreamed on our website, and is always open to all. #elca #champaignurbana

This Sunday, January 12, we will celebrate the Baptism of Our Lord. Join in worship at 9 AM to remember your own baptism and celebrate God's many gifts to us. Sunday School starts up again this week, as does Adult Forum and our Dwelling Together small group. If you're looking for traditional worship, done warmly and well, in an inclusive and open way, this might be the community for you! #elca #champaignurbana

This Sunday, January 12, we'll hear in the Gospel reading that the people of Jesus’ day were “filled with expectation” (Luke 3:15). What about you? What do you expect when you come to worship at Good Shepherd? What expectations do you have for our worship life or what you'll take away from worship each Sunday? Comment below!

A blessed new year to you and to all! May God lead us into peace, justice, and hope during 2025 and may God illuminate our lives with love. Happy New Year from Good Shepherd.

With gladness, we see the star and follow like the wise men did. Celebrate Epiphany with us this Sunday, January 5 as we sing all those wonderful Christmas carols about the wise men and the gifts they brought. Worship begins at 9 AM in person and will be livestreamed on our website. Come and worship! Bring your gifts and your friends. All are welcome here. #elca #champaignurbana #epiphany

Mary sings and we do, too, of justice and reversal, of hope and God's plan. Join us for worship on the 4th Sunday of Advent. Worship begins at 9 AM in the sanctuary and a livestream will be available on our website. Let us prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus! #elca #advent #champaignurbana