As a community of women created in the image of God, called to discipleship in Jesus Christ, and empowered by the Holy Spirit we commit ourselves to grow in faith, affirm our gifts, support one another in our callings, engage in ministry and action, and promote healing and wholeness in the church, the society and the world. ~WELCA Mission and Purpose
The Mission of WELCA is to mobilize women to act boldly on their faith in Jesus Christ.
Women in the Good Shepherd congregation have organized themselves to follow these statements since the church was established in 1958. They join the Lutheran women who gather in more than 7,000 locations in the US and Caribbean for service, study, advocacy and fellowship. The Good Shepherd WELCA has a monthly Gather Bible study on the 4th Tuesday of the month.
Activities of Good Shepherd WELCA include making and selling Krumkake for Nordic Fest and participating in and hosting World Day of Prayer & May Friendship Day events. WELCA participates in Lutheran World Relief initiatives by assembling fabric kits, school kits, personal care kits, and baby care kits. Funds raised by Good Shepherd WELCA are divided among Good Shepherd initiatives as well as community and church-wide endeavors at its annual meeting in January. Members organize serving activities for funerals and other special events held at Good Shepherd. Our WELCA members attend conventions of the Northeast Iowa Synodical Women’s Organization, the Upper Iowa River Cluster D and the Triennial gathering.
Coordinating Committee Members for 2024
- First Co-Chair: Bev Sheridan
- Second Co-Chair/Secretary: Ann Naslund
- Treasurer: Marty Steele
Good Shepherd WELCA produces a handbook annually with contact information for members, committees and officers of the Upper Iowa River Cluster and Northeast Iowa Synodical Women’s Organization. The handbook also contains an activity calendar, Gather Bible study schedule for the year, and policies and requirements for assembling kit materials.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Good Shepherd is fully accessible to all. 