Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS)
Our congregational family is part of a larger family, a church body known as the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). The third largest Lutheran church body in America, we have more than 1,250 congregations in the U.S. and 20 other countries, many with Lutheran Elementary Schools and/or preschools. The synod is headquartered in Waukesha at our Center for Mission and Ministry office.
Luther High School
Good Shepherd is part of an association of churches affiliated with Luther High School. In partnership with 30 area WELS congregations, Luther High School provides a Christ-centered education that encourages and equips students for life and eternity. Started over 50 years ago, Luther High School faithfully proclaims and applies the Word of God through the teaching of classes, life skills, and activities in accordance with the Lutheran Confessions.
St. Paul’s Lutheran School (Onalaska)
St. Paul’s Lutheran School is a Christian day school serving three-year-old preschool through 8th grade. Their dedicated Christian teachers are serious about helping each child grow, no matter the starting point. They offer instructional support for delayed and advanced learners and adhere to the KML Curriculum Standards. Throughout the entire school day, students are surrounded by a Biblically-based worldview.
First Lutheran School (La Crosse)
First Lutheran School has been a source of Christian education for their church members’ children and grandchildren for over 150 years. The school also extends the blessings of Christ to the community of La Crosse. First Lutheran offers children a place to grow in body, soul, and mind.
Ministerial Training & Education
Preparatory Schools
Located in Watertown, Wisconsin, Luther Preparatory School is one of two synod-supported preparatory schools, specifically designed for entry into Martin Lutheran College. The other is Michigan Lutheran Seminary in Saginaw, Michigan.
Martin Luther College
Students train to be pastors, teachers, and staff ministers in our synod’s churches, missions, and schools at Martin Luther College in New Ulm, Minnesota.
Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary
Pastoral students continue their training in a four-year Master of Divinity program at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon, Wisconsin.
Other Synod Schools & Affiliations
Wisconsin Lutheran College
Wisconsin Lutheran College, located in Milwaukee, prepares its graduates to be servant leaders in the secular world.
Northwestern Publishing House
As the publishing company for the WELS, Milwaukee-based Northwestern Publishing House produces many publications, including devotions for people of all ages. The daily devotional, Meditations, is published quarterly, and copies are available in the church hallway.
“[The Lord] himself gave the apostles, as well as the prophets, as well as the evangelists, as well as the pastors and teachers, for the purpose of training the saints for the work of serving, in order to build up the body of Christ.”
Ephesians 4:11-12