The legacy of Grace presents an opportunity for new ministry.

You Merged with Another Congregation to Start Something New.

Did you know that Grace Lutheran planted Good Shepherd almost 70 years ago? Me neither! One year ago, after their pastor of 20+ years took a call, the congregation of Grace Lutheran in North Hayward was left without pastoral care. As a result of a long-standing relationship with Pastor Dawit and Saron, Grace was approached by Pastors Dawit and Josh to lead worship for them and help navigate a very uncertain future. For a year, they led worship each week, were present at Church Council meetings, and facilitated discussions about the current reality Grace was faced with in addition to what the future could hold for them. 

After much prayer and many conversations the members of Grace voted to merge with Good Shepherd in order to leave their legacy ahead of them. The reality of Lutheran ministry in the Bay Area is that churches are aging, attendance is declining and pastors are retiring. Sadly, in just the last five years 11 LCMS Congregations have closed their doors in the East Bay – their property now either sold or sitting vacant. The members of Grace did not want to see this happen to their near 100 year old ministry! Although it was a challenging decision they honored you by entrusting the future ministry of Grace’s campus into your hands. 

So what does the future hold? Nothing has been decided yet but the plan is to explore options for both a new worshiping community/church plant as well as a resuscitation of some form of school ministry. God was faithful to Grace for almost one hundred years. May He continue to use you and the members of Good Shepherd to faithfully steward their legacy for another hundred years! In the meantime, thank you for welcoming them to the Good Shepherd family with love, encouragement, and warm hearts.