1964

Area Lutherans meet to discuss the formation of a new congregation. In September, the Rev. Daniel D. Oravec arrives as mission developer for the Lutheran Church in America.  First worship services begin in November, meeting at Gaithersburg Junior High School

1965

81 adults and 50 children sign the charter to organize Good Shepherd.  The congregational charter is signed in April and Pastor Oravec accepts the call to become the first pastor.

1966

A three-acre site for the future church building is purchased at the corner of Route 355 and S. Westland Dr.

1967

Good Shepherd takes the lead in organizing Gaithersburg HELP, thus launching a strong social ministry in the congregation.

1969

Congregation dedicates its first building unit, now called the fellowship hall.

1970

Due to steady growth, Good Shepherd starts a second Sunday worship service and introduces lay readers.  Other hallmarks include Christian education, youth ministry and a strong music program under the leadership of Music Director Esther Groninger and Organist Barbara Zanner.

1972

Good Shepherd begins a ministry for the deaf and builds a retreat house.

1975

After mentoring at Good Shepherd, Ray Scheck, a former Roman Catholic priest, is called as associate pastor.

1978

Good Shepherd dedicates its second building unit, and current worship space, narthex and office spaces.

1980

The congregation establishes weekly communion.

1982

The Good Shepherd Players, a drama ministry directed by Roz Phillips, presents “Godspell,” the first of 15 annual productions.

1984

Beth and Randy Neubauer are called as associate pastors.

1985

First annual Social Ministry concert is held.

1987

Rebecca Heber is called as associate pastor and Lay Associate John Tucker for youth ministry.

1988

Two-story education wing is constructed, along with a lobby and renovated offices at the center of the church complex.  With expanded facilities, community activities are increased and the Korean Christian Church begins worship services Sunday afternoons.

1989

Third Sunday morning worship service is established.

1991

Under the direction of Rebecca Erwin and Kerry Hurley, the Good Shepherd Preschool is established.
William Heber is called as associate pastor for youth ministry.

1994

After two previous Allen electronic organs, a Wicks pipe organ is installed.  A contemporary music service is offered.  After 22 years, Esther Groninger retires as music director.  Peter Schmidt is called as the new music director.

1998

Pastor Oravec retires after 34 years of ministry in Gaithersburg and is named Pastor Emeritus.  The Rev. Roger Dahlin is named Interim Senior Pastor. 

2000

The Rev. George Handley becomes Interim Senior Pastor.

2001

Senior Pastor David A. Sonnenberg, Jr. installed.

2002

Associate Pastor Justin C. Lathrop called. Laura Albanese become the Director of Children, Youth and Family.

2003

The Congregation grows under the leadership of Pastors Sonnenberg and Lathrop.  Good Shepherd begins development of a Master Ministry Plan to address growth over the next ten years.

2004

Good Shepherd begins a 2004-2007 Capital Campaign as part of a major facility expansion and renovation plan.

2007

Pastor Justin C. Lathrop departs to take a call as pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Woodbridge, VA. Pastor Terri Driver-Bishop serves as Support Pastor until September. Construction begins on the new sanctuary. Pastor Terri departs August 26, 2007. The call process for an Associate Pastor begins in November.