Reflection from Pastor Carl-Eric Gentes
After evaluating feedback from the ISAIAH Listens meetings we held at GSC in August, I learned that many of us were concerned about the recent reductions in government funding of medical research. I was reminded of this when the Oldfield family took the initiative in September to host a garage sale at GSC in support of the American Cancer Society and related research. I was further inspired to see more than 25 families contributing items for the sale and how several GSC members volunteered to help prepare for the sale, which ended up raising something under $2000.
 
On the Sunday following the sale, Carol Oldfield shared that the garage sale results had exceeded their expectations and had raised something short of $2000.  Having seen how hard everyone had worked to make this happen, it was obvious to me that contributing Sunday's offering of $141 in hopes of bringing the total amount raised to $2000 would be a great way to further a worthy cause and recognize the efforts of all who were involved.
 
For several years I've been blessed to be a part of GSC's Social Ministry team, a team which looks for ways to extend GSC resources in support of those outside our walls who are hurt and in need of support. One example of this is the Sharing Tree, which gets decorated with gift requests each Thanksgiving, and enables GSC members to provide Christmas presents for Zumbro Valley Mental Health and Lutheran Social Services residents. The Disciple of the Week is now another truly inspiring way that I see the Holy Spirit working in the hearts and minds, arms and legs of our GSC family to serve the needs of our community.
 
Prayer
God of immeasurable abundance, We give you thanks for the bountiful gifts you shower upon us. Gather us into the depths of your grace so that we may dwell in the love of Christ. Empower us to use these gifts to heal the sick, to feed the hungry, and build the church so all may experience the fullness of Christ’s love. Send us to the heights of joy as we serve others so that the mountains and the hills shall sing before you, and the trees shall clap their hands. To you be given honor, praise, and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Reflection from Tim Fynskov
After evaluating feedback from the ISAIAH Listens meetings we held at GSC in August, I learned that many of us were concerned about the recent reductions in government funding of medical research. I was reminded of this when the Oldfield family took the initiative in September to host a garage sale at GSC in support of the American Cancer Society and related research. I was further inspired to see more than 25 families contributing items for the sale and how several GSC members volunteered to help prepare for the sale, which ended up raising something under $2000.
 
On the Sunday following the sale, Carol Oldfield shared that the garage sale results had exceeded their expectations and had raised something short of $2000.  Having seen how hard everyone had worked to make this happen, it was obvious to me that contributing Sunday's offering of $141 in hopes of bringing the total amount raised to $2000 would be a great way to further a worthy cause and recognize the efforts of all who were involved.
 
For several years I've been blessed to be a part of GSC's Social Ministry team, a team which looks for ways to extend GSC resources in support of those outside our walls who are hurt and in need of support. One example of this is the Sharing Tree, which gets decorated with gift requests each Thanksgiving, and enables GSC members to provide Christmas presents for Zumbro Valley Mental Health and Lutheran Social Services residents. The Disciple of the Week is now another truly inspiring way that I see the Holy Spirit working in the hearts and minds, arms and legs of our GSC family to serve the needs of our community.
 
Prayer
God of immeasurable abundance, We give you thanks for the bountiful gifts you shower upon us. Gather us into the depths of your grace so that we may dwell in the love of Christ. Empower us to use these gifts to heal the sick, to feed the hungry, and build the church so all may experience the fullness of Christ’s love. Send us to the heights of joy as we serve others so that the mountains and the hills shall sing before you, and the trees shall clap their hands. To you be given honor, praise, and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Reflection from Becky Bruinsma
I volunteered to be the Disciple of the Week after seeing the long line of unhoused individuals waiting outside the downtown Warming Center and overnight shelter. The image stayed with me and reminded me of the many challenges people in our community face just trying to meet their most basic needs. I had also previously worked with Rudy Naul through Good Shepherd’s Family Promise program, and those experiences deepened my awareness of the struggles unhoused individuals encounter every day.
 
I chose to donate specifically to the Warming Center because of my connection with Rudy and my respect for the tireless work he does to support the unhoused community. When I gave him the $278.33 from GSC, he gratefully received it and explained that the funds would be used to purchase milk for the center for about a month. The center had lost access to free milk from Channel One due to federal funding cuts, so this gift came at just the right time to help fill a critical gap.
 
This experience has been meaningful because it reminded me how many organizations in our community rely on donations to provide the essentials that most of us take for granted. It also opened my eyes to how even small contributions can meet very specific, practical needs—like milk for people who otherwise might go without. I’ve been inspired by the creativity and compassion shown by other congregation members, from individuals to entire families, in deciding where these funds should go each week. It feels powerful to be part of a multi-generational ministry where together we are living out Christ’s love in ways that are both simple and profound.
 
Prayer
God of immeasurable abundance, We give you thanks for the bountiful gifts you shower upon us. Gather us into the depths of your grace so that we may dwell in the love of Christ. Empower us to use these gifts to heal the sick, to feed the hungry, and build the church so all may experience the fullness of Christ’s love. Send us to the heights of joy as we serve others so that the mountains and the hills shall sing before you, and the trees shall clap their hands. To you be given honor, praise, and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Reflection from Sawyer Hanson
I volunteered because I thought it would be a nice thing to do and a way to share kindness with others.
 
I chose to support Alexis with the money she used to buy stuffed animals for kids at Mayo Clinic. The animals are given to children who have to spend the night in the hospital. I wanted to help because I know being in the hospital can feel scary, and having something soft to hold can make it easier. Stuffed animals have comforted me in the past, so I knew they could help other kids feel less afraid, too.
 
This experience reminded me that God’s love can be shared in simple but powerful ways. I wanted the children to feel comforted by the stuffed animals, to hug them tightly, and to be reminded that they are loved by God and not alone. In helping them feel safe and brave, I felt like I was living out Christ’s love.
 
Alexis’ Website: https://alexasaltruisticstuffedanimals.webflow.io/ 
 
Prayer
God of immeasurable abundance, We give you thanks for the bountiful gifts you shower upon us. Gather us into the depths of your grace so that we may dwell in the love of Christ. Empower us to use these gifts to heal the sick, to feed the hungry, and build the church so all may experience the fullness of Christ’s love. Send us to the heights of joy as we serve others so that the mountains and the hills shall sing before you, and the trees shall clap their hands. To you be given honor, praise, and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Reflection from Phoebe Mohr
I wanted to put my name in the offering plate because I thought it would be fun, and I was curious to see what I could do to help if my name was picked. It felt like a special way to be part of something bigger.
 
With the funds, I bought puzzles and games to give to the children’s hospital. I chose this because the hospital doesn’t always have enough for all the kids, and I know that being in the hospital can feel long and boring. Puzzles and games give kids something fun to do, and they can also help take their minds off being sick. I wanted to bring a little joy to them during a hard time.
 
Good Shepherd made this possible by giving me the money to buy the puzzles and games. Without that support, I couldn’t have done it on my own. This experience reminded me that Christ’s love is about bringing kindness and joy to others, even in small ways. By sharing these puzzles and games, I was able to help kids know that they are cared for and not alone.
 
Prayer
God of immeasurable abundance, We give you thanks for the bountiful gifts you shower upon us. Gather us into the depths of your grace so that we may dwell in the love of Christ. Empower us to use these gifts to heal the sick, to feed the hungry, and build the church so all may experience the fullness of Christ’s love. Send us to the heights of joy as we serve others so that the mountains and the hills shall sing before you, and the trees shall clap their hands. To you be given honor, praise, and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Reflection from Daisy Mohr
I volunteered to be a Disciple of the Week because I thought it would be fun, and I already had an idea of what I wanted to do if my name was picked. It felt exciting to have the chance to make a difference and put that idea into action.
 
With the funds, I bought toys for the Children’s Hospital at Mayo Clinic. I wanted the kids to have something fun and uplifting, especially as prizes for when they play Bingo at the hospital. Being in the hospital can be really hard, and I thought the toys might bring them a little joy and encouragement during their stay.
 
This experience showed me how even a small gift can make a big impact. Good Shepherd provided the money for this project, and without that support, I wouldn’t have been able to buy the toys. Because of the church’s generosity, children facing tough times will get to experience moments of happiness and play. For me, that’s a way of living out Christ’s love—sharing joy, offering comfort, and reminding others that they are cared for.
 
Prayer
God of immeasurable abundance, We give you thanks for the bountiful gifts you shower upon us. Gather us into the depths of your grace so that we may dwell in the love of Christ. Empower us to use these gifts to heal the sick, to feed the hungry, and build the church so all may experience the fullness of Christ’s love. Send us to the heights of joy as we serve others so that the mountains and the hills shall sing before you, and the trees shall clap their hands. To you be given honor, praise, and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Reflection from Anna KC and Sarah Coffman
We volunteered to be Disciples of the Week because we wanted to put our faith into action in a tangible way. Serving others has always been important to us, and this felt like a meaningful opportunity to give back to the community while also growing in discipleship. Hearing how others chose to use their funds was inspiring—it reminded us that small acts of generosity can ripple outward in powerful ways. We wanted to be part of that same movement of hope and care.
 
We decided to divide the funds between two organizations making a direct impact in our community. First, we donated to the Salvation Army Warming Center, which provides warmth and shelter to those experiencing homelessness, especially during the harsh winter months. Their resources were running low, and we knew the timing of this gift could help meet urgent needs.
 
We also provided essential child items to the Crisis Nursery of Families First, which serves families experiencing homelessness. This choice was especially meaningful to us because our mom works closely with teen parents, many of whom face homelessness themselves. We wanted these funds to not only offer comfort but also send a message of dignity and care to families navigating very difficult circumstances.
 
This experience reminded us that Christ’s love knows no boundaries—it extends to every person, especially those who are struggling or overlooked. Through the generosity of Good Shepherd Church, we were able to serve with compassion and humility, deepening our awareness of God’s presence in the lives of our neighbors. In giving, we are reminded of the call to see Christ in others, and to reflect His love in the ways we care for our community.
 
Prayer
God of immeasurable abundance, We give you thanks for the bountiful gifts you shower upon us. Gather us into the depths of your grace so that we may dwell in the love of Christ. Empower us to use these gifts to heal the sick, to feed the hungry, and build the church so all may experience the fullness of Christ’s love. Send us to the heights of joy as we serve others so that the mountains and the hills shall sing before you, and the trees shall clap their hands. To you be given honor, praise, and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Reflection from Marlene Lynne
After retiring from Mayo Clinic, I began volunteering at the Gift of Life Transplant House (GOL), where I give tours to prospective guests. GOL provides affordable, temporary housing for transplant recipients and organ donors. Following surgery, patients are often required to remain nearby for continued treatment and monitoring—a recovery that can last weeks or even months. For many recipients and their families, this extended stay creates immense financial hardship. It quickly became clear to me that The Transplant House not only eases that financial burden but also provides a safe haven and built-in support system for both guests and their caregivers.
 
I was honored to present GSC’s donation to the Executive Director, who shared that it would go into the Susan Powers Helping Hands Fund. Much like Pastor Carl-Eric’s discretionary fund, this fund assists guests who cannot afford even the reduced cost of $30 per night. Thanks to the generosity of GSC members, eleven nights of lodging will be provided for someone in need—a gift of rest and relief during a very difficult time.
 
During my career in the medical community—working in the departments of Surgery and Physical Medicine Rehabilitation—I wasn’t a high-powered executive or brain surgeon, but I was privileged to provide care and service to patients. Rarely did a day go by when I didn’t feel, in some small way, that I had helped make someone’s life a little easier, less stressful, or more hopeful. Volunteering at the Transplant House allows me to continue that work with empathy and compassion, following Christ’s example. In serving others, I find that my own soul is nourished and sustained.
 
Prayer
God of immeasurable abundance, We give you thanks for the bountiful gifts you shower upon us. Gather us into the depths of your grace so that we may dwell in the love of Christ. Empower us to use these gifts to heal the sick, to feed the hungry, and build the church so all may experience the fullness of Christ’s love. Send us to the heights of joy as we serve others so that the mountains and the hills shall sing before you, and the trees shall clap their hands. To you be given honor, praise, and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Reflection from Tamsen Leimer
I signed up the very first week this opportunity was available because giving back to the community is a true passion of mine. Whether it’s through personal connections, friendships, work, or through Good Shepherd, I’m always looking for ways to make our community a little bit better—whether by sharing resources, time, or talents. I also believe that even if we can only do a little, when we all contribute, the impact can be tremendous.
 
At first, I planned to use the funds to help stock the resource room at the Rochester Public Schools ALC. Each high school has a resource room with food, hygiene items, and other essentials that some students might not have access to at home. While making the donation, one of the ALC faculty members asked if I would consider sponsoring t-shirts for their basketball team. The ALC doesn’t have the same traditional sports and extracurricular opportunities as other schools, but they had formed a basketball team and were preparing for a tournament. Unfortunately, they didn’t have funding for shirts for the players. Of course, I said yes—I was more than happy to help. If the GSC congregation’s gift could provide these students with a positive experience and sense of belonging, I knew it was the right choice. This moment also reminded me to keep an open mind—to ask what is truly needed before assuming I already know.
 
This experience reaffirmed my belief that even small actions matter. When we each do a little, together we can create something much greater. I’ve found joy in building relationships with others in the community who share this desire to give back. I believe this is what God calls us to do: work together, care for one another, and make our communities stronger, kinder, and better for everyone.
 
Prayer
God of immeasurable abundance, We give you thanks for the bountiful gifts you shower upon us. Gather us into the depths of your grace so that we may dwell in the love of Christ. Empower us to use these gifts to heal the sick, to feed the hungry, and build the church so all may experience the fullness of Christ’s love. Send us to the heights of joy as we serve others so that the mountains and the hills shall sing before you, and the trees shall clap their hands. To you be given honor, praise, and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Reflection from Brenda Booth
Thank you for this wonderful idea of choosing Disciples of the Week. It has been a joy to see our mission statement come to life in such a tangible way. Each week, I look forward to hearing not only where the cash donations are going, but also the stories and faith behind those choices. It reminds me how God works through all of us in different ways.
 
When my name was picked, I knew immediately what I would do with the gift. I chose to give the donation to the pastor’s discretionary fund. I’ve seen how faithfully Carl-Eric uses that money to help those in our community who are struggling—meeting needs quietly and compassionately, often in ways most of us never see. It feels good to know that even a small contribution can ripple outward to bless others in meaningful ways.
 
In the same spirit, I think of my routine blood donations. Every 12 weeks, I can spare a unit of blood that may help up to three people in their moment of greatest need. It’s such a simple act, yet it can bring healing, hope, and even save a life.

For me, discipleship is about answering Jesus’ call with both joy and action—offering what I can, whether it’s resources, time, or even a part of myself, so that others may experience God’s love.
 
Prayer
God of immeasurable abundance, We give you thanks for the bountiful gifts you shower upon us. Gather us into the depths of your grace so that we may dwell in the love of Christ. Empower us to use these gifts to heal the sick, to feed the hungry, and build the church so all may experience the fullness of Christ’s love. Send us to the heights of joy as we serve others so that the mountains and the hills shall sing before you, and the trees shall clap their hands. To you be given honor, praise, and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Reflection from Steve and Sheryl Castros
We volunteered to be Disciple of the Week because we enjoyed hearing everyone’s stories and the unique ways people chose to share God’s love. It was inspiring to listen to what others decided to do with the money and why—it gave us a deeper glimpse into the heart of our church family.
 
We chose to donate the funds to North Star Honor Flight, an organization that arranges a once-in-a-lifetime day in Washington, D.C. for Veterans. They charter a flight and guide Veterans through visits to the memorials, including the moving ceremony of the changing of the guard at Arlington National Cemetery. We were drawn to this cause because Steve is retired from the military, and both of our dads also served. Supporting this mission feels like a way to honor them and so many others who have given so much. It is especially meaningful because too often, Veterans—particularly those who served in Vietnam—have not received the respect, gratitude, and appreciation they deserve.
 
This opportunity reminded us that Christ’s love is vast enough to reach every corner of our community. Through giving, we were able to become a small part of that net of love—offering hope, healing, and comfort to those who have sacrificed deeply for the freedoms we enjoy.
 
Prayer
God of immeasurable abundance, We give you thanks for the bountiful gifts you shower upon us. Gather us into the depths of your grace so that we may dwell in the love of Christ. Empower us to use these gifts to heal the sick, to feed the hungry, and build the church so all may experience the fullness of Christ’s love. Send us to the heights of joy as we serve others so that the mountains and the hills shall sing before you, and the trees shall clap their hands. To you be given honor, praise, and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Reflection from the Howard Family
We volunteered to be the Disciples of the Week based on the imagination of Makenna and guidance from the Tooth Fairy. Makenna lost a tooth and left a note asking for $100 bill to help someone in need. Although the Tooth Fairy didn’t have it, they suggested finding other resources that may. We thought of Good Shepherd and was inspired to put our names in the offering – and as Matthew put it emphatically, “We won!!”
 
We wanted to help an organization that helps others who are in need. Our experiences at the Mayo Clinic have shown there are a great number of families who need medical services but have difficulties when coming from afar. We chose The Ronald McDonald House because they help families with basic housing and necessities, which is provided online via a list. We used the funds to purchase various items on the list and hand-delivered them. We also donated some collected pop can tabs. They were very surprised and grateful for the many gifts.
 
It is imagining the unimaginable that this experience and the generosity of Good Shepherd has enabled us to live out the great depths of Christ’s love, for as when you have helped the least of these you have helped your neighbor. It is the depth of an eight year old’s imagination whose love and compassion reaches the heights of Christ’s love by giving what one does not have. This generosity is a reflection of the pure of heart – a heart freely given of love – a love that knows no boundaries and dwells within our heart.


Prayer
God of immeasurable abundance, We give you thanks for the bountiful gifts you shower upon us. Gather us into the depths of your grace so that we may dwell in the love of Christ. Empower us to use these gifts to heal the sick, to feed the hungry, and build the church so all may experience the fullness of Christ’s love. Send us to the heights of joy as we serve others so that the mountains and the hills shall sing before you, and the trees shall clap their hands. To you be given honor, praise, and glory, now and forever. Amen.