In September 1947, Lutheran Church Of The Good Shepherd met in a “Scout House” across the street from its first location at 817 Beech Street in Salinas, California. The sanctuary was eventually dedicated in 1949, and is now owned by Iglesia El Buen Pastor. On Easter Morning in 1991, LCGS moved and began worshipping in our current sanctuary, which is located at 580 Larkin Street.
Our Mission
Know Christ as Savior, Lord and Friend
GROW in Christ through Worship, Bible Study, Prayer, and Christian Fellowship
GO in Christ’s name to proclaim the Good News of His love, care for the needy, and make Disciples of all.
As you browse the church website, you will discover the vibrancy and engagement of this community of faith.
Our Congregation
Whether you were born and raised in church or this is your first time attending, you will find a welcoming spirit and a sense of the presence of God here.
We are a medium sized congregation with enough people to offer a wide variety of programs for all ages, yet not so large that individuals get lost in the crowd. We offer a variety of ways to connect, whether through social service or simple fellowship.
We don't take ourselves too seriously...
Church should be a place of love, not judgement. While we use traditional Lutheran theology, that just means we are open to discussion and re-evaluation. It also means that we are all humans, imperfect, and prone to making mistakes. We still look for joy and laughter and practice forgiveness.
While our worship has "structure" it also has room to try new things like Star Words, birthday themed Children Sermons, so Pastor is always willing to try something different from time to time.
School Aged Children
Children are always welcome in worship. They may even be asked to help out by lighting candles, ushering, or serving communion.
More than Sundays in the church building
We are not a Sunday-only congregation. You can find people on the beautiful church grounds nearly 7 days a week. Additionally, there are many different groups working both at the church and all over the Salinas Valley all the time. No matter what your interests, you're likely to find a way to connect with people.
Children in Worship
Sometimes it is nerve-wracking to be a parent with small children. RELAX!
Your children, with their wiggles, propensity to climb things they shouldn't, and inability to speak quietly, are welcome here too! In fact, we LOVE having the noises of children in church. After all, they are the future.
When they need a break or a snack in the middle of the service there is a nursery room located off of the narthex with toys and comfortable chairs. There are speakers in the room so you can still hear and participate in worship. We offer the nursery during Sunday worship services for those parents who will get more peace from some quiet time for themselves. Just ask an usher and they will direct you.
