2025 Outdoor Worship
What an incredible day we had yesterday at our church picnic, where the three congregations of Augustana, Good Shepherd and TOL came together under sunny skies! The air was filled with laughter, delicious food, and the warmth of Christian fellowship. As we gathered, Pastor Adam dove into the challenging and inspiring words of Luke 14:25-33,…
Golisano Children’s Hospital Celebrates Arlen’s Recovery
Arlen has been through so much, yet her spirit shines. Her church family and friends are by her side through her health journey. Below is the celebration from Rochester’s Golisano Children’s Hospital:
2025 Food Pantry Easter
The Good Shepherd Food Pantry was able to hand out Easter baskets and family hams to our cherished clients thanks to additional financial help from a grant from Lutheran Charities of Western New York and The Lutheran Foundation. Heartfelt thanks to our dedicated congregational members who secured the community service funds from Thrivent Lutheran. Their…
2025 Easter Celebrations and New Members!
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church held its Easter egg hunt and coffee hour, Easter service celebrating Christ’s resurrection, and also welcomed new members to our community. It was a special day to share both events together. Let’s ponder 1 Peter 1:3 (NIV): “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his…
2025 Good Friday
Today is Good Friday, a day to reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice and love. Join us at Good Shepherd as we honor this sacred day with the Stations of the Cross, open from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Lord, on this Good Friday, we thank You for Your boundless love and sacrifice. May we walk in…
2025 Lenten Season Refugee Donation Drive
This Lenten Season, Good Shepherd is collecting funds to aid in refugees here in Western New York. A donation jug will be in the Narthex on Sundays. Please make checks payable to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church and place refugee in the memo section. Recently resettled individuals and families in our community are at risk. Arriving…
Service Cancelled, Online Message
Good Shepherd family – while we can’t gather in person today, let’s come together in spirit! Join us for worship by checking out Pastor Adams’ YouTube video for today’s service. Let’s stay connected and uplifted in faith. Link here:
Welcome Pastor Adam Arends!
We are thrilled to welcome Pastor Adam Arends as our new Transition Pastor at Good Shepherd! Pastor Adam brings a wealth of experience and a heart full of passion for our mission. Growing up in Minnesota, he attended Wartburg College in Iowa, where he majored in English and religion and sang in the choir. After…
2025 Farewell to Pastor Miranda!
Wishing Pastor Miranda all the best as she takes on new roles to serve God! We’ve been so fortunate to have her at Good Shepherd for the past three years as her dedication and spirit have touched each of us in profound ways. We thoroughly enjoyed the wonderful celebration held in her honor after service…
Good Shepherd Council Statement on Pastor Miranda’s Resignation
Please read the attached statement from the Good Shepherd Council on Pastor Miranda’s resignation:
2025 A Prayer for New Year’s Day
Gracious God, As we stand at the threshold of a new year, we pause to express our gratitude for the journey of the past year—its lessons, its joys, and even its challenges. We thank You for the grace that has carried us through each moment. We pray for the year ahead, asking for Your guidance…
2024 Christmas Pageant!
Last Sunday’s church Christmas pageant was magical! Kids and adults alike joined in the festive spirit, coming together to celebrate the holiday with joy and song. The nativity scene came alive with our little angels, animals, shepherds, townspeople and a Star joining Joseph and Mary! Truly a heartwarming community event! #ChristmasJoy #CommunityCelebration
2024 Christmas Movie Night
What fun tonight at movie night! We watched Rudolph and Frosty and even had a surprise visit from Santa!
2024 Hanging of the Greens
Today after service, our community came together to transform the interior of the church into a celebration of Christmas. The sanctuary is now aglow with the light of Christ, featuring majestic Christmas tree adorned with symbols of hope and joy. Join us in this sacred space to reflect, celebrate, and share in the peace…
2024 Fall Cleanup, Food Panty, Clothing Closet and Free Breakfast!
Today’s church activities were a testament to community: – Food Pantry: Sharing sustenance and spreading kindness for those in need here in Tonawanda. – Clothing Closet: Providing warmth, one outfit at a time. – Free Breakfast: Starting the day with a warm meal for volunteers and open to the community every fourth Saturday of the…
2024 Fall Vendor Event
Everyone had a blast that the church Fall vendor Event today! From handmade crafts to delicious treats, frozen chowder and chili, there was something for everyone. To top it off, a 50/50 raffle where every ticket sold supported our humble food pantry. Thanks to all those who came out – your generosity helps feed our…
2024 Trunk or Treat!
Yesterday’s trunk or treat was a blast! The GSLC community came together to transform our parking lot in to a spooky, fun filled wonderland. Cars were decked out with each trunk brimming with treats and surprises! Kids in their adorable costumes went from car to car, collecting candies and enjoying the creativity of each setup.…
2024 Christian Education
Nurturing Faith, One Sunday at a Time! Join us at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church for a morning of spiritual growth and community! Sunday School & Adult Bible Study – When: Every Sunday at 9:00 AM – Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 2669 Sheridan Drive, Tonawanda, NY, 14150 – What: Dive into engaging lessons, discussions,…
Faithful Friday 10/04/2024
Check out the message from Pastor Miranda while in Chicago and intruducing a new video series – #FaithfulFridays! Also, if not already, follow the Good Shepherd YouTube channel so you don’t miss out!
2024 Chicken Dinner, Awesome Paws and Pet Blessings
On September 14, 2024 volunteers spent the day selling chicken dinners via a drive thru in the church parking lot! Also joining us were friends from Awesome Paws pet adoption agency. Weather was warm and we all had a fun time raising money for the church!
2024 Kylee Scholarship
Congratulations to our own Kylee Russel on receiving a scholarship through Lutheran Charities of WNY! Kylee will attend Roberts Wesleyan in the fall for music / special education.
2024 Office Administrator Appreciation
We can not let the weekend go by without a thank you to our wizard of an office administrator, Jessica! Whether you need help formatting a document, troubleshooting the printer, or a good laugh, she is there. Thank you Jessica for all you do! Happy office administrator’s day!
April 2024 God Talk Presentation
The third Wednesday of each month we get together for God Talk at The Grill at the Dome. This month we were blessed to hear the story of Ryan Young, one of our community members and food pantry volunteers. His story is one of resilience, hope and courage. Thank you Ryan!
2024 Lent Begins
Tomorrow begins the season of Lent. We start this journey remembering we are dust: the same dust that makes up the cosmos created by an almighty God. If you have not received your devotional materials from the church, please take one per family. May this season of reflection bless you and center you in the…
Sermon Recap – January 28, 2024
Instead of posting our weekly worship recording, Pastor is trying something new! Each week we will upload a sermon recap meant to remind us of what we heard in worship and help carry us through our week. Stay tuned for upcoming kid friendly story times as well! Sermon Recap 1/28/2024
2024 Social Ministry Hats, Gloves and Scarves
We want to wrap you in warmth and love! Social Ministry has hats, gloves and scarves for those in our community that need them to stay warm on our tree outside church.
2023 Advent Workshop!
What great fellowship today at our Advent workshop! Check out the gnomes and ornaments we made!
2023 Gay Men’s Chorus
Last night we had the Buffalo Gay Men’s Chorus perform! What an excellent holiday concert!
2023 Advent Weary World
In community, our joy expands. When we can’t rejoice, we can carry each other’s joy. That is what Elizabeth and Mary do for each other. The good news begins to take shape in Elizabeth’s womb, but scripture tells us that she stays secluded, hiding her pregnancy from others—that is, until Mary arrives at her door,…
2023 VNA Bags
Visiting Nurses Association (VNA) gift bags are ready to be delivered to the Niagara County VNA this morning. The VNA will distribute them to their clients. This is only a portion of the bags! Thank you to all that filled a bag!
2023 Christmas Decorating!
This first Sunday of advent we decorated the church and were reminded that in Jesus we find our hope! Decorating together is one of our favorite traditions. What is yours?
2023 Advent Weary World
As Advent begins, what weariness do you carry—in your body and soul? What does it look like for you to rejoice when you are weary? When have you welcomed joy while simultaneously feeling anxious, afraid, alone, sad, or overwhelmed? @sanctifiedart
2023 Christmas Movie Night!
We are hosting “The Grinch” tonight! Complete with pizza, homemade hot chocolate and popcorn!
2023 Fall Surprises
Today we made Fall surprises for our members who are unable to come to church at this time. Sending them love and God’s blessings tis autumn.
2023 Bills Tailgate
Not everyone had on Bills gear today at church but Pastor had to get a picture of those who did! Thank you to those who helped with today’s “tailgate.” It was a wonderful time of fellowship!
2023 Rally Day
Celebrating “God’s Work, Our Hands” Day along with Rally Day! Such a fun event! #GodsWorkOurHands
2023 Outdoor Worship
Yesterday we had our outdoor worship and backpack blessing! While we don’t have a recording, we have some great photos. As you prepare for September, May you be blessed and remember God is with you always!
2023 Garden Beds
A little rain won’t stop us! Garden beds are cleared and ready to be planted, front flower pots are planted and fellowship was had! Thank you to our volunteers.
2023 Lutheran Charities of WNY Awards Banquet
Some of Good Shepherd in attendance at the Lutheran Charities of WNY awards banquet!
Jenkins Family Support
Prayers and support for the Jenkins family are greatly needed. Any donations would graciously accepted on the gofundme fundraiser by clicking the image below:
2023 Medical Debt Relief
A Message from Conference Dean, Rev. Jeremiah Smith: For the last three years during Lent, we have held a friendly “competition” to see who could collect the most toilet paper, female hygiene products, and diapers. This year the conference council would like to challenge congregations to collect change for change. Millions of Americans are struggling…
2023 Ash Wednesday
This ash Wednesday may you remember that the same particles that make the stars have also formed you. Remember that you are constantly held in the love of God. And remember that you are cosmic, beautiful dust, and one day to dust you shall return.
2023 Follow Good Shepherd on Instagram!
You can now follow us on Instagram @goodshepherdtona! Previously used only for confirmation, you’ll now be able to see our posts on multiple platforms. Give us a follow this Valentine’s day and tell us what your favorite candy is! Click Here:
2023 Bible Study – Exodus
Now we begin Exodus! Read with us through this book of God’s liberation until March 5th. Remember, we will discuss our readings and reflections at Bible Study each Sunday at 9am. You can also post here to start a discussion. March 6th we will begin everyone’s favorite book, Leviticus! Bible Study Home Page:
2023 Thank You Diane!
After many years of dedicated service, Diane Mangus will be stepping down as a worship assistant after today’s service. We thank her for her continual leadership and support!
February 2023 God Talk
Thanks to all who came out for good food and great conversation! And for The Grill at the Dome for hosting us each month. One question from tonight’s gathering was “what does it mean to be a Christian?” What do you think?
2023 WNY Earthquake
We’re not used to earthquakes here in WNY – make sure you check on one another! For those who suffer life altering natural disasters, you can donate directly to Lutheran disaster response. Unlike other organizations, 100% of what is collected goes directly to those in need. Click here for the Lutheran Disaster Response Website
2023 Bible Study – Genesis
We officially kicked off reading the Bible from Genesis to Revelation! We explored God’s creation as described in the first chapters of Genesis – and the beauty nature provides us today; among other thoughts. It’s not too late – All are welcome to join us on this journey! Leave a reply below if you want…
2023 Bible Study
Have you ever wanted to read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation? Here’s your chance to do it with a community to support you! We begin in Genesis with a reading finish date of 2/12. We will discuss what we have read each week in Bible Study on Sundays at 9am! Then beginning 2/13 we…
2023 Meghan James Ordination
This afternoon we celebrated the ordination of Meghan (Garland) James. As stated on the Upstate NYS Synod Facebook page: Let it be acclaimed that Meghan James is a called and ordained minister of word and sacrament in the church of Christ. Meghan has Christ’s authority to preach the word of God and administer the sacraments,…
2023 January God Talk / Wally’s Birthday!
Had a great time at God Talk tonight with 21 of us sharing our thoughts on Christ. Good food, great company, and we celebrated Wally’s birthday!
2022 Christmas Eve Services on Zoom
A winter storm of biblical proportions forced the city to shut down and driving was impossible, so Christmas Eve services were on zoom this year! Don’t fret if you couldn’t watch it live, because here we have the link to it. Click on the image below to watch it!
2022 Craft and Vendor Event
Come shop with us! We have stuff for everyone! Stop and get a massage too!
2022 Introducing Sheppi !!!
We’d like to introduce you to our new friend, Sheppi! He is pictured here along side one of our youth’s elf- Mr. Jingle Gingerbread. Similar to those tricky elves that may hide around your home, Sheppi is a Shepherd on the search and he will hide in our sanctuary each week with a special message…
2022 Thanksgiving Meal / Food Pantry and Chowder Saturday
Thank you to all who helped with chowder/chili and food pantry/turkey dinner giveaway today. Thank you to Thrivent for your donation!
2022 Veterans Day
Today is Veterans Day. We honor and give thanks for those who have served in the military to secure freedom, justice, peace and security for our country and other nations. Remembering the sacrifices they have made on our behalf, we pray for their families, their congregations, federal chaplains, and organizations that support and care for…
2022 Pet Blessing
We had the best night tonight meeting and blessing some furry friends! Let us give thanks today and everyday for our companions that love us unconditionally- they are such a gift from God.
2022 Outdoor Service
This morning we gathered for worship, backpack blessings, and a meal! It was a beautiful day and reminder that God created us in their image, full of love, and ready to share blessings with the world. Thank you to everyone who helped set up (and take down) shared delicious food, and gathered in community. We…
2022 Pastor Miranda 1 Year Anniversary
Congratulations Pastor Miranda on one year of Ministry!
2022 Ashes to Go
The annual 2022 Ashes to Go was held at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.
Food Pantry
For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me. Matthew 25:35 The Good Shepherd Food Pantry is a distribution center located within the church which provides food directly to those in need. Donations are provided by local organizations, individuals…
2021 GriefShare Surviving the Holidays
There was a special edition of GriefShare held Monday night at Good Shepherd. The holidays can be a difficult time for those grieving the loss of a loved one. This GriefShare seminar was a one night event to focus on family traditions, expectations, social events and emotions that can blindside you. We pray that…
Ellwood Food Drive Benefiting the GSLC Food Pantry
Many thanks to the Ellwood Fire Department! The Good Shepherd Food Pantry was the recipient of the non-perishable food collected from the 2021 Annual Food Drive. The shelves were overflowing after receiving cases upon cases of food! Volunteers were busy Saturday afternoon sorting the delivery and stocking the shelves to prepare for distributing to those…
2021 Christmas Movie Night
Everyone was in the Christmas spirit Friday 12/10/21 when many gathered to watch “The Polar Express” on the big screen. Popcorn and hot chocolate was enjoyed while the movie played, but the children could not get in without their ticket. Of course the train conductor was there to make sure the tickets were punched!…
2021 Christmas Ornament
2021 Christmas Ornament The orders are in and the 70th Anniversary commemorative Christmas ornaments will be arriving in time for Christmas! Thank you to all those who have purchased one! Not only is this a beautiful addition to the Christmas tree, but the proceeds earned from this sale will go towards the costs of those…
2021 Christmas Vendor Event
Thank you to all of those who came out to Good Shepherd to do some Christmas shopping at the Holiday Vendor Event on Saturday 12/4/21. We are also grateful to those vendors who spent the day with us and helped spread the holiday cheer! We of course would not have been able to hold this…
2021 Christmas Decorating
It’s that time of year and we are thankful to celebrate the Christmas season inside the Church building! Many stepped up to decorate and get in to the festive spirit after service on Sunday. Thank you to all that brought your Christmas spirit!
November 2021 Chowder Prepwork
It was that time again – to work together making the Good Shepherd chowder! It is always a fun time preparing the ingredients, so that many, in and out of the congregation, can enjoy the delicious chowder!
2021 Fall Cleanup
It’s that time of year and the Fall Cleanup was underway this morning! Many of us gathered to clean the church property in spite of the early morning snow. Teamwork, elbow grease and a lot of coffee was needed to prepare for winter. Thank you to everyone that came out today. We are truly blessed!
70th Anniversary Celebration
A day of celebration, gratitude and reflection in Christ was held on November 7, 2021 as the congregation gathered to remember 70 years of Good Shepherd. Photos, newspaper clippings and stories were shared with a hearty meal which followed an All Saints service. Honored guests joined us with Bishop Lee Miller, Pastor Hans Irmer, Pastor…
2021 Stewardship Drive
“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful.” Colossians 3:15 To Our Church Family, In these times, being grateful can be a tough thing to find in our heart and soul. Gratitude is defined as the quality of being thankful…
Trunk or Treat 2021
Fun times were had by all that attended the first annual Trunk or Treat following service on Halloween!
Bible Study 2021
The 2021 Bible Study at Good Shepherd has officially been kicked off! All adults are welcome to join us to discuss scripture in an open, friendly and respectful environment. We meet every Sunday morning at 9:00 AM in the Fellowship Hall. We began this morning by watching the following video on Ecclesiastes, reading the…
God Talk – September 8, 2021
Fun times were had by those who came out for ‘God Talk’ on Wednesday September 8, 2021! Food, drinks, music, fellowship, theology and laughs were shared by all in the private room at The Grill at The Dome. Consider joining us for the next time! We meet every second Wednesday of the month from 6:30…
Good Shepherd Celebrates an Outdoor Sunday Service
An outdoor service was celebrated on August 22, 2021.
Good Shepherd Welcomes Our New Pastor
The installation service for Pastor Miranda was held on June 13, 2021 with Rev. Lee Miller presiding.
News for February 23, 2021
A Note from the Pastor One of the reasons why the hardships of the pandemic have been so heavy to bear is because our hopes for relief and a return to a pre-pandemic normal have been so high. (At least to the best of that normal. Some of it I’m just as glad to leave…
News for March 2, 2021
A Note from the Pastor At the heart of my ruminations on covenant last Sunday was the idea that God brings everything to a committed relationship with us and expects nothing from us but gratitude, which is all we really have to bring since everything belongs to God already except our gratitude. It’s been particularly…
Meet Pastor Miranda
Thank you for visiting our website! As called Pastor at Good Shepherd I know how important first impressions are. So if this is your first time looking us up, or if you have been to church, I want you to know you are welcome here just as you are! I am a mom…