Meetups & Things
Upcoming EVENTS
We believe in time spent with God, with others, and serving others.
Join us as we gather with our church body and our community in these upcoming events.
Youth Group IN RECESS
Our Youth Group is in recess on December 22 and 29, 2024 for the Christmas and New Year holiday. For specific questions, contact Stephanie McArthur at stephanie@gslcirvine.org.
Serve Project: Yale Navigation Dinners
Wednesdays at 4:30 pm
Resumes January 8, 2025
Come make a difference at the Yale Navigation Center in Santa Ana by joining our weekly dinner service for residents! This impactful opportunity lets us use the Center's commercial kitchen to prepare and serve a hot meal for men, women, families, and even their pets who call this space home.
The Navigation Center offers vital resources like case management, medical services, and safe shelter, and by sharing a meal, we get to share kindness and hope. We’ll spend time connecting with residents, offering a listening ear, and praying with those who need it.
To participate, sign-up is required, and a volunteer form must be completed prior to your first serve night. Complete this form to be added to Good Shepherd's Yale Navigation Serve Team email list.
Let’s serve, support, and share God's love in this unique way.
For additional information, contact Erin Steinhouser at erin@gslcirvine.org.
Prayer Mornings
Beginning January 9, 2025
Thursdays in January
9:00 am in the Sanctuary
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Start your day by seeking God’s presence and aligning your heart with His will. Every week in January, join us for a dedicated time of prayer as we embark on this season of discernment together. Drawing inspiration from David in 1 Samuel, we will consecrate this new season to the Lord, setting it apart for what He is doing in and through our church. Come center your heart on Christ and lift up the future of our congregation. All are welcome to participate in this meaningful time of spiritual focus.
Prayer Mornings
Thursdays in January
9:00 am in the Sanctuary
—
Start your day by seeking God’s presence and aligning your heart with His will. Every week in January, join us for a dedicated time of prayer as we embark on this season of discernment together. Drawing inspiration from David in 1 Samuel, we will consecrate this new season to the Lord, setting it apart for what He is doing in and through our church. Come center your heart on Christ and lift up the future of our congregation. All are welcome to participate in this meaningful time of spiritual focus.
Women's Bible Study
Looking for a community of women to share life, engage in meaningful conversations, and grow in faith? Join us for our Winter/Spring Women’s Bible Study as we explore the beloved book of Psalms.
This flexible study is designed for drop-in participation or weekly attendance—no commitment required! Each week, we’ll take a deep dive into one Psalm, reflecting on its meaning, discussing its relevance, and discovering how to apply God’s word in practical ways.
When: Tuesdays, January 21–April 8, 2025
Time: 10:00–11:30 AM
Where: Youth Room
There’s no cost to participate, but we recommend purchasing the book linked below for deeper engagement. Registration is optional but available if you’d like to provide your name, email, and cell phone number.
Whether you come every week or just occasionally, we’d love to have you with us!
Worship & Prayer Night
Gather with us for a powerful evening of worship and guided prayer as we enter this season of discernment for our church. This special night is designed to center our hearts on Christ, seeking His guidance and blessing as we dedicate this new season to Him. Drawing from David’s story in 1 Samuel, we will consecrate our time and ask God to lead us boldly into His plans. Let’s come together as a congregation to worship, pray, and surrender all to the One who makes all things new.
Prayer Mornings
Thursdays in January
9:00 am in the Sanctuary
—
Start your day by seeking God’s presence and aligning your heart with His will. Every week in January, join us for a dedicated time of prayer as we embark on this season of discernment together. Drawing inspiration from David in 1 Samuel, we will consecrate this new season to the Lord, setting it apart for what He is doing in and through our church. Come center your heart on Christ and lift up the future of our congregation. All are welcome to participate in this meaningful time of spiritual focus.
Prayer Mornings
Thursdays in January
9:00 am in the Sanctuary
—
Start your day by seeking God’s presence and aligning your heart with His will. Every week in January, join us for a dedicated time of prayer as we embark on this season of discernment together. Drawing inspiration from David in 1 Samuel, we will consecrate this new season to the Lord, setting it apart for what He is doing in and through our church. Come center your heart on Christ and lift up the future of our congregation. All are welcome to participate in this meaningful time of spiritual focus.
Youth Group IN RECESS
Our Youth Group is in recess on December 22 and 29, 2024 for the Christmas and New Year holiday. For specific questions, contact Stephanie McArthur at stephanie@gslcirvine.org.
Christmas Sunday
Join us on Christmas Sunday for a joyful morning filled with festive worship and warm community! We'll gather for our usual Traditional and Contemporary Worship Services, enhanced with a touch of Christmas cheer. Enjoy beloved Christmas hymns and worship songs, a cozy reading of the traditional folktale The Three Trees, and the joy of having kids stay with us in the service. After worship, step onto the patio to soak in the festive vibes with cheerful carolers, a delicious hot cocoa bar, and opportunities to connect with others. It's the perfect way to kick off Christmas week together and get a taste of the celebration to come on Christmas Eve!
Advent Bible Study
December 5, 12 & 19
9:00 to 10:00 am
Youth Room
Join us this December for Waiting Here for You: An Advent Journey of Hope, a special Bible study designed to help us pause and reflect amid the holiday rush. Meeting Thursdays in December, we’ll watch and discuss teachings by pastor Louie Giglio that guide us to embrace the true purpose of the Advent season—waiting with anticipation, joy, and peace for the coming of our Savior. Together, we’ll rediscover the richness of Advent, preparing our hearts to celebrate Christmas with renewed hope and the promise of our newborn King. Registration is required to ensure we have enough books.
Youth Christmas Party
🎄✨ Youth Christmas Party at Good Shepherd! 🎄✨
Calling all 6th to 12th graders! It’s time to deck the halls and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with friends, food, and festive fun. Join us for a night packed with a mouth-watering dinner, wild games, caroling karaoke, and laugh-out-loud Christmas crafts! 🎤🎨
Whether you’re a regular, go to another church, or don’t attend one at all—EVERYONE is welcome! So bring your friends and let’s make this a night to remember. Wear your most ridiculous, over-the-top Christmas outfit and get ready for some holiday cheer!
🎁 Best part? It’s completely FREE! But don’t forget to register so we have plenty of food for everyone.
Got questions? Reach out to Stephanie McArthur at stephanie@gslcirvine.org.
Serve Project: Days for Girls
Increasing access to menstrual care and education by developing global partnerships, mobilizing volunteers and innovating sustainable solutions that shatter stigma and limitations for women and girls. Good Shepherd partners with Days for Girls to assemble hundreds of kits each year and we could use your help to keep that up! Support this ministry by gathering with us to sew and assemble kits - sewing experience not needed, but welcomed.
For additional information, contact Adalmina Sarkar at adalmina.sarkar@gmail.com.
Advent Bible Study
December 5, 12 & 19
9:00 to 10:00 am
Youth Room
Join us this December for Waiting Here for You: An Advent Journey of Hope, a special Bible study designed to help us pause and reflect amid the holiday rush. Meeting Thursdays in December, we’ll watch and discuss teachings by pastor Louie Giglio that guide us to embrace the true purpose of the Advent season—waiting with anticipation, joy, and peace for the coming of our Savior. Together, we’ll rediscover the richness of Advent, preparing our hearts to celebrate Christmas with renewed hope and the promise of our newborn King. Registration is required to ensure we have enough books.
Serve Project: Families Forward Family Serve
Join us in the spirit of giving this holiday season! Good Shepherd families with children ages 3 and up are invited to come together for a special evening of service at the Families Forward Food Pantry. This is a wonderful opportunity to make a difference and bless local families as we prepare to meet their needs in December. Let’s gather to lend a helping hand and spread joy in our community!
Please RSVP to let us know you'll be joining us for this impactful evening.
For additional information, contact Erin Steinhouser at erin@gslcirvine.org.
Sharpies (55+) Advent Lunch
Celebrate the Advent season with joy and fellowship at our Sharpies Advent Lunch! Join us on Tuesday, December 3, at 11:30 am in the Youth Room for a delicious lunch, featuring ham and a spread of salads, sides, and desserts contributed by our very own attendees.
Adding a festive touch to the occasion, we’re thrilled to welcome the OC Sound Chorus for a special performance. We’ll enjoy beautiful holiday harmonies from a talented ensemble that includes our own Carol Ingram!
Please register to let us know if you’ll bring a salad, side dish, or dessert. We look forward to sharing this joyful season with you!
Cost: $5 per person
Potluck: Ham is provided, but please bring a side dish, salad or dessert to share (nut-free please!)
For additional questions, contact Erin Steinhouser at erin@gslcirvine.org.
Serve Project: Life on the Streets Breakfast
Join us for Life on the Streets (LOTS), a heartfelt ministry dedicated to serving those experiencing homelessness in Costa Mesa. Together, we provide essential services like warm meals, laundry, and clothing, offering support and kindness to those who need it most. Whether you're called to lend a hand, prep a meal, or simply listen to a story, your presence can make a powerful difference. Step into this community of care and compassion—come serve with us and experience the joy of giving back.
For specific questions, contact Toby Albers at tobyalbers@cox.net.
Serve Project: LOTS Sandwich Ministry
Contact Toby Albers at tobyalbers@cox.net if you plan to prep lunches to coordinate drop-off.
Support Life on the Streets (LOTS) from home by preparing peanut butter and jelly lunch bags with your family, friends, or group. Your help in assembling 75 bagged lunches will ensure that those we serve in Costa Mesa receive nourishing meals during our outreach event. This is a wonderful way to get involved in meaningful service and show love to those experiencing homelessness. Gather around the kitchen, spread some joy, and know that your efforts will bring comfort to someone in need. Join us in making a difference, one lunch bag at a time!
Lunches are handed out Saturday Mornings and ideally prepped the day before for freshness. To keep the bread from getting soggy, spread peanut butter on both pieces, then add the jelly in the middle.
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Shopping List for 75 Lunches -
7 loaves of bread
2 jars creamy peanut butter (64 oz)
3 jars strawberry jelly (20 oz)
75 bottles of water
75 bags of chips
75 mandarin oranges (or some type of fruit)
75 sandwich bags
75 paper bags
Optional - stickers and notes for lunch bags
Christmas & Campus Decor Day
Get ready to spread some holiday cheer as we come together to make our campus shine for the Christmas season! Join us as we decorate the sanctuary, hang lights, and spruce up the grounds to create a welcoming, festive atmosphere for all. Whether you have a knack for decorating or enjoy yard work, there’s a role for everyone! Treats and coffee will be provided to keep you energized and in the holiday spirit.
Let's make this season bright—hope to see you there!
Outreach Ask: Shepherd's Tree
Bring holiday joy to families in need at Good Shepherd, Horizon Pregnancy Center, Laura’s House, Ronald McDonald House, and the Life on the Streets Homelessness Ministry this Christmas!
Pick up an ornament on the Good Shepherd campus beginning November 24 with a requested gift then bring the unwrapped gift back to campus by Sunday, December 15.
For additional questions, contact Erin Steinhouser at erin@gslcirvine.org.
Youth Friendsgiving
Hey, 6th to 12th graders! Get ready for an epic Thanksgiving feast with your friends—old and new! Whether you call Good Shepherd home, attend another church, or don’t usually do church, you're totally welcome here. We’ll have a mouthwatering spread, drool-worthy desserts, awesome games, and a night of worship that’ll leave you feeling grateful and energized.
The best part? It’s FREE! Just make sure to register so we have plenty of food for everyone!
Don’t miss out—and bring your friends along for the ride!
For additional questions, contact Stephanie McArthur at stephanie@gslcirvine.org.
Serve Project: Days for Girls
Increasing access to menstrual care and education by developing global partnerships, mobilizing volunteers and innovating sustainable solutions that shatter stigma and limitations for women and girls. Good Shepherd partners with Days for Girls to assemble hundreds of kits each year and we could use your help to keep that up! Support this ministry by gathering with us to sew and assemble kits - sewing experience not needed, but welcomed.
For additional information, contact Adalmina Sarkar at adalmina.sarkar@gmail.com.
The Welcoming Table
Are you new to Good Shepherd or looking to deepen your connections?
Join us for The Welcoming Table, a casual lunch where you can meet our staff, connect with others, and hear about the various ministries we offer. This is a great opportunity to get to know the heart of our church and find ways to get involved in our community. Come enjoy lunch, learn more about how to make Good Shepherd your home, and take a next step toward building meaningful connections. We look forward to welcoming you!
Not sure if this gathering is for you? Reach out to us!
Contact Erin Steinhouser at erin@gslcirvine.org or (949) 398-5187.
Men's Breakfast
Join us for valuable connecting with your Christian "Band of Brothers", hear an impactful message, and you’ll get a delicious breakfast!
This month, Kent Schlichtemeier will share his insights on servant leadership in his talk titled "Embracing the Anomaly of Servant Leadership." With decades of leadership experience, Kent will explore why servant leaders are rare in today's world, why Christians should answer the call to lead in this way, and how we can become effective servant leaders. Expect to be inspired and challenged by Kent's wisdom and practical guidance for living out this crucial aspect of leadership.
Women's Bunco Night
Ladies, you're invited to an evening of fun, laughter, and community at our Women’s Bunco Night! Join us at the beginning of November for a relaxed and exciting evening featuring delicious treats and the classic, easy-to-learn game of Bunco. No experience is necessary—whether you’re a seasoned player or brand new to the game, you’re sure to have a great time.
This is a fantastic opportunity to unwind, connect with new and familiar faces, and enjoy a night filled with friendly competition and lots of laughter. Grab a friend, and come ready for a memorable evening! We’ll handle everything else.
See you there!
Youth Halloween Bowling
Calling all 6th through 12th graders—it’s time to celebrate Halloween with a night of strikes, spares, and spooky costumes! Grab your friends (whether they go to another church or don’t attend one at all—they’re totally welcome!) and join us for an epic night of bowling, pizza, and prizes for the best costumes. ️
Details:
- Date & Time: Sunday, October 27 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm
- Location: Irvine Lanes
- Cost: $10 per student (covers bowling, shoes, pizza, and soda)
- Prizes: Dress up in your best costume and you could win awesome prizes!
⚠️ Reminder: There will be no on-campus Youth Group on this date.
Outreach Ask: Readers Donations
At the beginning of February in 2025, a team from Good Shepherd will be heading to the Dominican Republic for a medical mission to serve those living in remote areas along the Dominican Republic Haiti border. Our team of medical professionals and volunteers will provide much-needed care, and we need your help! Many of the people we serve are in need of non-prescription reading glasses, also known as 'readers.' If you'd like to support the mission, consider donating new readers of any strength, design, or color. Thank you for helping us share the love of Christ through this important mission!
Collecting October 27 & November 3
Following Sunday Worship Services
Trunk or Treat
Hosted by Good Shepherd Lutheran Church & Preschool
Grab your decorations and stock up on candy, Trunk or Treat is back! From hot dogs to treat bag decorating to pumpkin bowling to a photo op, all ages will enjoy this fall time fun. Join in by wearing a festive (non-scary) costume while "oooing" and "awwing" at the creatively decorated car trunks and then the best part of the night - Trunk or Treating!
We are looking for candy donations and volunteers to help make this event a success! If you’d like to donate candy or assist as a volunteer, simply complete the form above, and we'll get you all set up.
In lieu of an attendance fee, we ask that you bring a donation item. This year, we are gathering items for the Families Forward Food Pantry -
Donation Items:
cereal
rice 1-2 lbs. bag
canned soups
canned fruits
canned beans
peanut butter (12oz or 16oz)
canned veggies
canned pasta
canned meats (tuna, chicken, etc)
mac n cheese
pasta (dry)
pasta sauce
Sharpies (55+) Chili & Chillin with Cody
Join us for a relaxed afternoon of fellowship, food, and fun at our upcoming Sharpies event! All ages 55+ are invited to enjoy a delicious lunch featuring assorted types of chili and all the fixings, while spending time with Pastor Cody. We'll have engaging activities designed to help you get to know Cody better and for him to learn more about you!
Cost: $5 per person
Outreach Donation: Please bring a jar of fruit jelly or creamy peanut butter to support the LOTS sandwich ministry.
Come for the chili, stay for the community!
Youth Night of Worship
Join us for an unforgettable Youth Worship Night on the first Sunday of October! This event is designed for youth to engage in intentional worship through music, writing, prayer, and other creative expressions. It's a powerful opportunity to connect with God and each other in a meaningful way.
Whether you're part of our church or another, everyone is welcome, so feel free to bring a friend! Let's come together to lift our voices, share our hearts, and experience God's presence in a fresh and transformative way. Register now to reserve your spot!
Men's Breakfast
Our Men’s Ministry is BACK after their summer break for fellowship and breakfast. This is valuable time for you to connect with your Christian "Band of Brothers", hear an impactful message, and you’ll get a delicious breakfast!
This month we'll welcome David Kamashian, Executive Director of Radical Recovery Ministries. David will share his powerful testimony, detailing his life on the streets as a homeless man, his time in prison, and the life-changing moment he encountered Christ. Today, as the founder of Radical Recovery Ministries, David leads a ministry that has helped over 200 people turn their lives to Christ.
Don’t miss this inspiring story of transformation and hope!
Grace Based Parenting
Parenting can be one of life's most rewarding and challenging roles, but it doesn't have to be done alone. Join us for the Grace Based Parenting Study Group at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church & Preschool, where we will explore a parenting blueprint rooted in the grace that God offers to His children. Based on the "Grace Based Parenting" series by Dr. Tim Kimmel, this group provides practical, biblically centered insights that help parents navigate the complexities of raising children in today’s world.
Through weekly video teachings and guided discussions, we'll dive into essential topics such as:
Why Parenting Is So Hard: Understanding the biblical reasons behind parenting struggles.
Faulty Parenting Blueprints: Identifying and overcoming cultural pressures that may lead us astray.
Building a Grace-Based Home: Focusing on the inner needs of your children—security, significance, and strength—through God’s grace.
Raising Kids for True Greatness: Learn what it truly means to raise successful children who love God and others.
This study group is designed for parents at all stages, whether you are parenting young children or teens, and will provide both encouragement and actionable steps to apply grace-based principles at home.
Come grow with us as we build stronger, grace-filled families!
Time and location will be determined by the group - complete the registration form if you’re interested!
All Church Serve Project: Meal Packing
The Bible calls each of us to serve – within our church, within the community and throughout the world. For the month of September, alongside Kids Around the World and the community we partner with Aguas Verdes, all ages are invited to join us to pack 30,000 meals!
Shifts begin at 9:00 am and 11:15 am to accommodate whichever worship service you attend. All ages welcome!
For additional information, contact Erin Steinhouser at erin@gslcirvine.org.
Parent's Retreat & Kids Night Out
Hey Parents! Ready for a night of relaxation, laughter, and inspiration? Join us for our yearly Parent Retreat! Enjoy an evening filled with community bonding, a heartwarming inspirational message, engaging small group sessions, and a side-splitting comedy act.
While you're unwinding and connecting, your little ones (from birth through 8th grade) will be having a blast at our Kids Night Out! It's a night packed with fun activities, games, and plenty of surprises to keep them entertained.
This is the perfect chance for the whole family to have an amazing night out! You won't want to miss this incredible opportunity to recharge and reconnect.
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This event costs $10 per parent (kids are free!) to attend and we kindly ask that you RSVP so we can best prepare.
Fall Kick Off
Join us on Sunday, September 8, as we kick off the Fall Season at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church & Preschool! It's a day to celebrate the return of all our beloved ministries—Confirmation, Bible Study, and FLOCK Sunday School are back in full swing, along with some exciting new gatherings for the fall.
But the fun doesn’t stop there! Stick around after worship for an all-church community event. We’ll be enjoying lunch together, followed by games and activities for all ages. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with old friends and make new ones as we head into this new season.
To help us plan accordingly, we kindly ask that you register in advance so we can ensure there’s plenty of food for everyone.
Mark your calendars—we can’t wait to see you there!
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8:00 am // Traditional Worship
9:10 am // Jr High Confirmation, High School Bible Study & Adult Bible Study
10:00 am // Contemporary Worship
11:15 am // Lunch & Community Fun
Women's Prayer Partner Dessert
Join us for an uplifting evening of fellowship, faith, and dessert as we gather to connect women in a journey of spiritual growth.
Experience the joy of sharing your prayer requests, supporting one another, and witnessing the incredible impact of united prayer. As part of the evening, you'll be paired with a trusted Prayer Partner who will walk alongside you in your faith journey for the next year.
Together, let's cultivate a deeper connection with God and embrace the strength of prayer among the Women of Good Shepherd!
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We kindly ask that all women who attend this event are college age and up.
The event will be held outdoors, so be sure to check the weather and bring a coat in case it's chilly.
Young Adult Community Night @ Handel's!
Hey! If you're 18 to early 30s, come hang with us at Handel's for our very first Young Adult Community Night! It’s a laid-back chance to meet new people, grab some ice cream, and have a good time. Whether you're part of Good Shepherd or just looking to connect, we’d love to see you there!
🗓 Date: Thursday, September 12
📍 Handel's Ice Cream - Irvine Market Place
⏰ Time: 7:30 pm
Invite a friend and come chill with us!
For additional questions, contact Elliana Forgione at elliana@gslcirvine.org.
Family Life Groups - Fall 2024 Session
Each Sunday Night during Life Group Sessions, families with birth through High School age kids join together for Family Life Groups! While our Jr High and High School students attend Youth Group, and time in community with games and fun for the kids, parents get to experience encouragement, prayer, and support while studying the Bible.
Each Life Group series is accompanied by a set of questions to guide our conversations and understanding of Scripture. By engaging together, groups get to know the Bible and each other more as they study together.
Potluck-style dinner for Kids & Parents - side dishes requested, main provided in the Preschool Kitchen.
Dinner provided for Jr High & High School students in the Youth Park.
For additional questions, contact Stephanie McArthur at stephanie@gslcirvine.org.