Public

Staff Contact Information and Bios

Associate Pastor

Rev. Kerstin Hedlund
(708) 848-4741

 

As Pastor Kathy begins a dual role at the Metropolitan Chicago Synod office and at Good Shepherd, Rev. Kerstin Hedlund is excited to serve with Good Shepherd in new ways.  She will serve as a contracted part-time Associate; this will help free Pastor Kathy to more fully serve both Good Shepherd and the larger church of which we are a part.  

Pastor Kerstin is currently rostered with the Greater Milwaukee Synod. She currently serves as an Army Reserve chaplain as well as a full-time student at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago in the PhD program.  She has been on leave from call for academics since 2015 and is grateful for an opportunity to re-engage with parish ministry in a small, but deeply fulfilling way.

Her identified areas of service at Good Shepherd are Evangelism and Young Adults. Pastor Kerstin will preach once per month and is currently scheduled for February 2nd and March 1st. The current contract term is February 1 to June 30.

 

Lead Pastor

Rev. Kathy Nolte
(708) 848-4741
RevK@GoodShepherdLC.org

Rev. Kathy Nolte has served as pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Oak Park since 2008. In January 2020 she accepted a part-time position as Assitant to the Bishop of the Metroplitan Chicago Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. She has been an ordained minister since 2001, previously serving in North Aurora, IL. 

Through her work at Good Shepherd, she works with Kidz Express, an after-school mentoring program in the Austin neighborhood of Chicago and is a member of the OPRF Workgroup for Positive Youth Development which seeks to reduce underage drinking in Oak Park and River Forest.  Since 2004 Rev. Nolte has served as the Chair of the Companion Synod Advisory Group, which builds relationships with the Central Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa centered in SOWETO South Africa. Previously Rev. Nolte served on the Chicago chapter of Reconciling Works which seeks to create welcome within Lutheran congregations for LGBTQIA+ individuals. To augment her work in these areas she advocates for anti-racism training, LGBT rights and mental health initiatives.

Working towards restoration of Good Shepherd's building after a fire in 2018, Rev. Nolte has gained expertise in project management in church building construction. Previously Rev. Nolte served as president of the Oak Park Regional Housing Center which seeks integration through housing and as Vice President of the Community of Congregations within the Oak Park Community.  She previously served as Dean of both the West Conference and the Near West Conference for the Metropolitan Chicago Synod.

As a woman who began her spiritual journey as a Roman Catholic, her ministry has an ecumenical stance and openness to others.  She finds that each faith tradition has a different lens through which to catch a glimpse of the Divine One who remains veiled. Through her work she has partnered with playwright, Rohina Malik to bring stories from the Muslim tradition to her congregation and advocates for religious freedom for Muslims..

Director of Christian Education

Deaconess Debbie Speer
(708) 848-4741
ChristianEd@GoodShepherdLC.org

The first question I am usually asked is, “What is a deaconess anyway?” The quick answer is that a Lutheran deaconess is a woman who is called, trained and set apart for service. For me, this service is lived out in a congregation setting, currently here at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church as the Director of Christian Education. I did my education/formation at Valparaiso University, a year of internship in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and was consecrated as a deaconess in 1999.

My ministry at Good Shepherd focuses on faith education and spiritual growth for all ages. I lead our Sunday School, Confirmation ministry and youth program, coordinate our summer Vacation Bible School, and offer support and resources to our many member-led programs. I am passionate about encouraging others in what God has called them to do and to create opportunities for mentoring between age groups.

What makes my work so great is that I get to do crafts with kids, go bowling with middle schoolers, ride horses with high schoolers and camp with college students. At the same time, I am able to talk with parents about the challenges of parenting today, explore the gift of being a woman of faith with other women, and volunteer at a food bank side by side with people of every generation. I truly love what I do!

Director of Music

Carl Heine
(708) 848-4741
Music@GoodShepherdLC.org

Carl Heine grew up in Seattle, Washington and moved to Illinois with his wife, Pat, and their three children in the mid-80’s. Before coming to Good Shepherd, Carl served four other congregations in a variety of capacities, from organist and music director to youth and Christian education director. He has degrees in music and education, including a PhD in education from the University of Chicago. Most recently, he was the music director at St. Paul Lutheran in Wheaton, IL as well as director of entrepreneurship at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy. As a musician, Carl plays an array of instruments, composes sacred choral and instrumental music and enjoys performing all periods and styles. For Carl, music is significant in the life of a congregation—as demonstrated at Good Shepherd—to the extent that it opens ears to the Word and allows voices of all ages and talents to be heard.

Office Administrator

Kimberly Adami-Hasegawa
(708) 848-4741
ChurchOffice@GoodShepherdLC.org

 

 

Communications Lead

Jeanne Peppler
(708) 848-4741
communications@goodshepherdlc.org

Sunday Nursery Attendant

Elois Gardner

During the 9:00am Sunday worship service, small children may be taken to our nursery where they are watched over by one of our caring professional attendants. Elois Gardner and Ruth Collins alternate Sunday childcare so you may worship and nourish your spirit knowing your small children are playing games, napping, doing crossword puzzles, snacking, and being entertained in a kind, caring and responsible environment.

Sunday Nursery Attendant

Ruth Collins

During the 9:00am Sunday worship service, small children may be taken to our nursery where they are watched over by one of our caring professional attendants.  Ruth Collins and Elois Gardner alternate Sunday childcare so you may worship and nourish your spirit knowing your small children are playing games, napping, doing crossword puzzles, snacking, and being entertained in a kind, caring and responsible environment.

May 20, 2012 Bulletin (Pentecost phase 1)

May 20, 2012 Bulletin (Pentecost phase 1)

July 8, 15 & 22, 2012 Bulletin

July 8, 15 & 22, 2012 Bulletin

Come to Church on Time this Sunday!

Daylight savings time begins THIS SATURDAY, March 10th.  Turn your clocks ahead one hour before going to bed Saturday night.  If you forget, you'll be late to church!

Council Contact Information and Bios

Church Council President

Troy Koch

Along with my wife and two children, I have been a member of Good Shepherd since February 2011. My father-in-law is Rev. Neal Boese, a retired Lutheran pastor and consultant in the area of church growth. With decades of experience as an executive in the life science and healthcare field I have led corporate and non-profit employers, government agencies, and union groups in the areas of:

• Strategic planning and team culture evolution
• Market evaluation and new product development
• Sales and account team development and training support
• Managed markets marketing and channel strategy
• Subject matter expertise in managed care, pharmacy benefit management, and the impact of healthcare reform
• Pharmacy benefit manager vendor evaluation and contract procurement, negotiation, and audit

Church Council Vice President & Personnel Chair

William Campbell
7088484741
churchoffice@goodshepherdlc.org

My life's purpose is "Oneness".  I believe that we all have more commonalities than differences.  By capitalizing and leveraging our commonalities, we can live out a shared vision. I am a powerful and creative leader, trainer and coach, and have supported people in a variety of business environments, from the manufacturing floor to the boardroom. I have been a Learning and Development leader for over eight years, and have been an operations manager for over ten years.  I'm known for being open, approachable and insightful. I am an expert at helping others establish and utilize connections in a meaningful way.

I have a passion for photography, a poet's soul and a deep and sincere love affair with music.  I ride motorcycles and have no problems jumping out of a perfectly good airplane!  I believe that we are the sum of our experiences - so why not experience as much as possible!

I'm fortunate enough to have the love and support of my wife, Kellie, and my three sons - Evan, Liam and Duncan, who keep me on my toes (and I wouldn't have it any other way... but don't tell them!)  

 

Church Council Member

Carrie Cook

I joined Good Shepherd 3 years ago with my husband Carson and two children Cortez and Maxwell. My former employment as a social worker greatly informs my extensive volunteer work, with Good Shepherd, New Moms, Hephziban, Oak Park Women's Guild and others. 

Church Treasurer

Jossy Gelpi

I have always felt God’s presence in difficult situations.  For me, trusting God is obvious.  It goes back to my childhood.  When I think about going to church, my memory goes back to when I was a little girl.  Every Sunday, my mother dressed me with a beautiful dress for going to church and I always entered holding my father’s hand. My mother was evangelical and my father was Catholic; both had very clear that God loves us all. They always were very particular on teaching me that God is looking for souls and not any particular church. They taught me that with God and faith, you will never be alone. Through the ups and downs of life, that has always been true for me.

Church Council Member

Rose Mabwa

I work with The Community Builders, a non-profit realestate developer that builds and sustains strong communities where people of all incomes can achieve their full potential. Previously, I was with Mercy Housing and ShoreBank. As a member of Good Shepherd since 2005, my areas of interest are in Social Ministry, Christian Education and music. My work with United Power for Action and Justice is in the area of housing development and criminal justice reform. 

Church Council Member

E.J. Roginic

I joined Good Shepherd in 2014 with my parents, Rich and Jane Novak, ans sisters Becca and Lauren, I am a life-long Lutheran and am currently involved in Vacation Bible School, Women's Spirituality and retreats. At Urbanest Living I wear many hats, including office manager, human resources, and product development. My husband, Nick, and I have a dog named The Dread Pirate Robers (Wesley for short). In our off hours we enjoy board games and finding new beer to enjoy.

Committee and Chair Information

Christian Education

Amy Dominguez
(708) 848-4741

Our mission is to provide interesting and engaging ways for children and adults to nurture and strengthen their faith journeys while encouraging them to grow in faith, service and fellowship.  The committee meets on the second Tuesday of the month.  We make sure that all of our programs are running smoothly with the necessary volunteers each week.  We discuss upcoming events and how we can help make them happen.  We discuss ways to keep our programs relevant and meaningful for all participants.  We vision about what more we would like to see happen at Good Shepherd.  If you are interested in Christian Education and want to learn more, contact Amy Dominguez, chairperson, or any of the committee members.

Evangelism

Richard Sehl
(708) 848-4741

Our mission is to spread the spirit and words of Christ to all men and all women; to welcome all to worship in our diverse Good Shepherd congregation; to encounter Christ in each person treating all with love, trust and respect; to nourish spiritual growth and encourage, teach and support all who witness and follow Christ's example.  The committee meets monthly at Saigon Pho. 

Finance

Laura Knitt
(708) 848-4741

Our mission is to oversee and provide guidance for the financial life of Good Shepherd Lutheran.  The committee meets once a month as scheduled.  See the Good Shepherd calendar for upcoming meetings.  If you are interested in Finance and want to learn more, contact Committee Chair Laura Knitt. 

GS Connects

Gail Frost
(708) 848-4741

Our mission is to organize/assist with fellowship events for the congregation to foster connections among members, visitors and our community.  The committee meets approximately once a month as scheduled.  See the Good Shepherd calendar for upcoming meetings.  If you are interested in helping make and foster connections within our church community and want to learn more, contact the GS Connects! Chair or Pastor Kathy.

Property

Rich Novak
(708) 848-4741

Our mission is to support Good Shepherd by caring for our physical assets and facilitating their use by members and friends.  The Property Committee meets as scheduled.  See the Good Shepherd calendar for upcoming meetings.  If you are interested in Property and want to learn more, contact Committee Chair Rich Novak.

Social Ministry

Mary Scherer-Emunds
(708) 848-4741

Our mission is to support programs bringing help to members, our community and the world, and to educate Good Shepherd members concerning justice and social welfare issues.  The Social Ministry committee meets as scheduled.  See the Good Shepherd calendar for upcoming meetings.  If you are interested in Social Ministry and want to learn more, contact either Committee Co-Chair Barb Hunt or Florence Miller.

Stewardship

Kellie Campbell
(708) 848-4741

Our mission is to assist and encourage members striving for whole life stewardship, and to plan and conduct the annual Pledge Drive to assist in budgeting for ministries, programs, property maintenance, and staff payroll.   If you are interested in Stewardship and want to learn more, contact Committee Chair Kellie Campbell.

Sustainability is now "Healing Our Earth"

Laura Derks
(708) 848-4741

Our mission is to connect the actions of the Good Shepherd community to the stewardship of God's creation.  We promote sustainability in every aspect of church life, and advocate and demonstrate ideas and tehnologies that move our community to more sustainable living.  See the Good Shepherd calendar for upcoming meetings.  If you are interested in Sustainability and want to learn more, contact Committee Chair Laura Derks.

Worship, Music and The Arts

Lynn Railsback (interim)
(708) 848-4741

Our mission is to provide a worship experience for people of all spiritual paths so they are equipped and inspired to practice their faith throughout the week.  We stress the experience of God's love and grace in community, joy and thankfulness, comfort and consolation, provocation and challenge.  The committee meets the second Thursday of each month.  If you are interested in Worship, Music and the Arts and want to learn more, contact Committee Chair Lynn Railsback.

Located at

611 Randolph St.
Oak Park, IL 60302
(708) 848-4741

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Space Rental Information

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Public Shepherd's Staff for the Web February 2010

Public Shepherd's Staff for the Web February 2010. Good Shepherd members should login to see the Members Only version of the Shepherd's Staff and other Member publications.

Monthly Themes to Spotlight Hallmarks of Good Shepherd's Ministry

Throughout the Anniversary Year, monthly themes will spotlight seven hallmarks of Good Shepherd's ministry.  Events and communications related to these themes will comprise our year long celebration.

January:  Diversity
March:  Social Ministry
May:  Sustainability
June:  Spiritual Development
August:  Community Involvement
September:  Vibrant Worship
October:  Lutheranism

Our Anniversary Theme: "Building on our Past to Grow our Future"

Our Anniversary theme, "Building on our Past to Grow our Future" is a reflection of Good Shepherd's remarkable history which inspires our ministry for years to come.  The theme is visually captured in the Anniversary logo (see left) which is anchored in the building blocks of our past and points to the life-filled ministry of our future, all centered around the infamous "folded hands" logo that has aptly represented Good Shepherd for many years.

CONTINUING SAGA OF THE SAFE

One of the "out of the box" ideas from the 75th Anniversary committee is an attempt to open and remove an old safe that hasn't been opened or moved in decades, since we lost the combination. We knew it would be hard to accomplish, but not this hard....

A group gathered to move the safe to a different location where it could be cracked open or taken apart. Ouf-dah! It must weigh a ton - literally 2000 pounds - as it could barely be budged from its spot. Most certainly it could NOT go into the elevator and could likely damage the stairs if we got it that far. Read more »

Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!

  Read more »

Title Post date File
Building Usage Guidelines During Pandemic Sep 24 2020
application/pdf iconGuidelines for Space Users
Restoration Plan and Guidelines for COVID-19 Sep 24 2020
application/pdf iconGood Shepherd Policies on COVID-19
Leader Application for Children & Youth Ministry Aug 29 2018
application/pdf iconleader_application_for_children_and_youth_programing.pdf
Parental Consent Form Aug 29 2018
application/pdf iconparental_consent_form.pdf
Child Safety Policy Aug 29 2018
application/pdf iconchild_safety_policy.pdf
2018 Summer Congregation Retreat Brochure Apr 19 2018
application/pdf icon2018_brochure.pdf
Automatic Donation Form Oct 18 2016
application/pdf iconset up ACH deductions
Request Money from the Memorial Endowment Fund Jun 30 2015
application/pdf iconmef_request_form_2015.pdf
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