A journey of spiritual renewal, community, and faith formation
Living Waters invites people into a journey of spiritual renewal. It is a place to grow in faith, explore what it means to follow Jesus in today's world, and listen for where God is leading you.
Living Waters is inspired by an ancient Christian process used to prepare people for baptism and deeper participation in the Christian faith.
At Good Shepherd, this journey is designed both for people who are exploring faith or considering joining the church, and for longtime believers seeking renewal
If you are new to Good Shepherd or interested in becoming part of our community, Living Waters is a good place to begin.
What We Do
We meet after worship beginning in the fall 3 times a month and through Easter Eve.
Each Living Waters gathering includes two parts:
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a Gospel reflection using a lectio divina style of listening; and
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conversation about major themes faith, worship, and daily life.
We meet in small groups to discuss topics, share insights and questions, and grow in understanding together. The process makes room for questions, stories, laughter, prayer, and honest reflection.
Topics include:
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Jesus
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Forgiveness;
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Baptism and Communion;
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The Bible as the Living Word
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the Reformation;
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Spiritual gifts;
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Prayer;
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Living a life of purpose and meaning;
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Loving and serving our neighbors.
Living Waters
Worship and Renewal
The Living Waters journey includes meaningful rites during worship centered around welcome, blessing, naming our gifts, and affirming our call to serve God.
These worship moments invite the whole congregation to take part in the journey, whether or not everyone is able to attend the gatherings.
Living Waters culminates at the Easter Vigil, when current, new, and returning members may affirm their baptisms as part of their faith journey.
What Living Waters Has Meant
Living Waters has helped renew hope, deepen relationships, and strengthen our shared life. Many participants have found that the process builds trust, encourages openness, and opens new ways of hearing Scripture as the living Word of God.
It has also helped Good Shepherd rediscover gifts already present among us and imagine new possibilities for ministry, welcome, and service.
Looking Ahead
We look forward to building on the Living Waters experience in the coming year. Future Living Waters gatherings will continue to offer opportunities for spiritual growth, community building, and deeper engagement with Lutheran faith and daily discipleship.