Good Shepherd – 35 Years of God's Blessings

Abstract

This historical essay chronicles the founding and growth of Good Shepherd Evangelical Lutheran Church in West Bend, Wisconsin, from its beginnings as a mission in 1950 to its flourishing congregation in 1986. Andresen details the congregation’s early challenges, including worshiping in temporary locations and recovering from a fire, and its eventual establishment of permanent facilities. The essay highlights pastoral leadership transitions, the development of a Christian Day School, and the congregation’s role in founding Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School. It also documents major building projects, including a new church and parsonage, and the congregation’s financial strategies such as “Lending to the Lord.” Through adversity and expansion, Good Shepherd grew from 41 members to over 1,500, reflecting a steadfast commitment to Christian education and outreach. —Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)