Author: Kathy Dunham

Collaborative Lent Opportunities

This Lent we are excited to announce that we are collaborating with Faith Together Muscatine (with Zion, Grace, and New Era) for Lenten Midweek worship, meal and Family Faith Nights and a special Easter Vigil worship service and meal.

Midweek Lenten Worship – Meal – Family Faith Nights

5:30 | Worship
6:00 | Meal
6:30 | Family Faith Nights

Join us for part, or all, of the night! If you’re eating with us, sign up in the narthex starting Sunday. Adults – if you’re not a part of a Family Faith Night group and would like to be a part of a Lent faith formation group, indicate your interest on a sign up in the narthex. (Kids and youth can always hop in on the groups already going!)

Easter Vigil Worship Service and Meal

4:00 | Worship 
5:30 | Meal

Easter Vigil moves us from the darkness of Good Friday into the joy and celebration of Easter. After celebrating the news of Christ’s resurrection, we’ll feast in joy with one another across our congregations. Sign up in the narthex if you plan to eat with us.

For clarity – Ash Wednesday, Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday worship services will be hosted at SOTC. 

Come and take part in what you can! We’re looking forward to a formative Lenten journey together.

Game Night

Saturday, February 15, 4:30 – 6:30 pm

In the midst of Super Bowl and Valentine’s Day weekends, make sure to join your Shepherds for a game night! Bring an appetizer to share and your favorite games.

Want to Increase Your Giving on Tithely?

We’ve recently received inquires about how to update your giving online through Tithely. The quickest way to do so is to cancel your recurring giving and set up a new recurring giving amount. If you have trouble, or have additional questions, contact Kathy or Pastor Aleese.

Community Diaper Bank Drive

We’ve collected 3,157 diapers for the Community Diaper Bank! Wow! Here’s the challenge: can we double that by the end of February? That would be a total of 6,274 diapers, and 250 packs of diapers for families in our community. 

Sizes 1, 4, 5, 6, and 7 diapers are most needed, but any size will be utilized! Bring in diapers through Sunday, February 23.

Join us at New Era for Worship!

During the Annual Meeting, we shared that Pastor Aleese will continue on rotation with Pastor Willie and Pastor Susan to provide worship leadership for New Era. As one in the body of Christ, we also invite you to join Pastor Aleese when she heads out to New Era! This is not only a time to worship with another congregation, but also an opportunity to deepen our relationships with one another in our partnerships through Faith Together Muscatine. 

Though you’re always welcome to join New Era for worship (11:00 am; fellowship before) Pastor Aleese will be at New Era next on February 9 and March 2. Dates will also be added to our online SOTC calendar.

Miss our Annual Meeting?

If you missed our Annual Meeting this weekend, you can watch a recording linked here. Additional Annual Reports are in the narthex and are also available here. Thank you for your partnership with us in the mission of God’s Kingdom!

Chocolate Fest

Sunday, March 2

In traditional Shepherd custom, we will host Chocolate Fest following worship on Sunday, March 2. This Sunday marks the last Sunday before Lent (Transfiguration Sunday) and is meant to be a “feast” day before entering into the reflective season of Lent. For those who are new to this tradition, the instruction is simple! Everyone (yes, everyone!) bring a chocolate dish to share during fellowship. Then, we’ll all feast!

Welcome to New Members

Sunday, February 16

You may have seen some new faces in our flock recently, and we want to extend a warm welcome to them in worship! During the service, our new members will have the opportunity to re-commit themselves to following Jesus as a part of this congregation, and we will have the opportunity to express our commitment to support them on their journey. Following worship we’ll have a special fellowship hour. Make sure to join us as we welcome Deb Hughes, Wanda McCullough, Wade and Liz Reddy and Bruce and Lynn Selking!

Note: If you’re considering membership, talk to Pastor Aleese! Though we’re welcoming this crew on February 16, we can always add you to the crew or welcome you later this spring! 

Game Night

Saturday, February 15, 4:30 – 6:30 pm

In the midst of Super Bowl and Valentine’s Day weekends, make sure to join your Shepherds for a game night! Bring an appetizer to share and your favorite games.

Want to Increase Your Giving on Tithely?

We’ve recently received inquires about how to update your giving online through Tithely. The quickest way to do so is to cancel your recurring giving and set up a new recurring giving amount. If you have trouble, or have additional questions, contact Kathy or Pastor Aleese.

Community Diaper Bank Drive

Have you brought in a box of diapers yet? With everyone’s help we can help restock our Community Diaper Bank!

Sizes 1, 4, 5, 6, and 7 diapers are most needed, but any size will be utilized! Challenge yourself to donate a box a month, or, a box a week!

Join us at New Era for Worship!

During the Annual Meeting, we shared that Pastor Aleese will continue on rotation with Pastor Willie and Pastor Susan to provide worship leadership for New Era. As one in the body of Christ, we also invite you to join Pastor Aleese when she heads out to New Era! This is not only a time to worship with another congregation, but also an opportunity to deepen our relationships with one another in our partnerships through Faith Together Muscatine. 

Though you’re always welcome to join New Era for worship (11:00 am; fellowship before) Pastor Aleese will be at New Era next on:

February 2
February 9
March 2

Dates will also be added to our online SOTC calendar.

Miss our Annual Meeting?

If you missed our Annual Meeting this weekend, you can watch a recording linked here. Additional Annual Reports are in the narthex and are also available here. Thank you for your partnership with us in the mission of God’s Kingdom!

Church Volunteer and Team Sign Up

Would you be willing to serve in worship? Or, help serve treats on Sunday mornings? Or, serve on a team? All – members and non-members – are welcome to serve as a part of our Shepherd flock. See a complete list of opportunities and teams on the bulletin board in the narthex and via the links above. Sign up at church or online. Sign up will continue through January; those indicating interest will be contacted in early February.

Note: if you are currently serving on a team, or volunteering in a specific role, please re-sign up. This indicates to us your continued interest. 

Pastoral Message from Presiding Bishop Eaton

Much has transpired in the course of one week in our country. As the church, we do not claim the position of any one political party. At the same time, as the body of Christ in the world, we are called to proclaim God’s Gospel message of Good News in our context. On behalf of the ELCA, Presiding Bishop Eaton offers these words for consideration as we continue our call to testity to and enact God’s kingdom of love.

Luther College Nordic Choir in Cedar Rapids

Thursday, January 30, 7:30 pm

Looking for a great night of music? And, want to support one of our Shepherds – Noah Jorgensen? Noah will be singing with Luther College’s Nordic Choir – their flagship choir – this January while on tour. The closest concert is in Cedar Rapids at First Lutheran Church (1000 3rd Ave SE). Tickets are $20/adult, $10/student and may be purchased in advance or at the door. Thanks for supporting our young adults while enjoying a night out!

Chocolate Fest

Sunday, March 2

In traditional Shepherd custom, we will host Chocolate Fest following worship on Sunday, March 2. This Sunday marks the last Sunday before Lent (Transfiguration Sunday) and is meant to be a “feast” day before entering into the reflective season of Lent. For those who are new to this tradition, the instruction is simple! Everyone (yes, everyone!) bring a chocolate dish to share during fellowship. Then, we’ll all feast!

SOTC Annual Report and Meeting

Curious what we’ve been up to as a congregation in 2024? Take a look at our annual report linked here!

Materials for our annual meeting on January 26 (following worship) are also included in the annual report. Questions? Contact Pastor Aleese, Kathy, or Delene. 

Community Diaper Bank Drive

Through the holidays, the Community Diaper Bank’s supply of diapers to distribute to families in the community has dwindled. To help, SOTC is hosting a drive through February. Sizes 1, 4, 5, 6, and 7 diapers are most needed, but any size will be utilized! Challenge yourself to donate a box a month, or, a box a week!

Church Volunteer and Team Sign Up

Would you be willing to serve in worship? Or, help serve treats on Sunday mornings? Or, serve on a team? All – members and non-members – are welcome to serve as a part of our Shepherd flock. See a complete list of opportunities and teams on the bulletin board in the narthex and via the links above. Sign up at church or online. Sign up will continue through January; those indicating interest will be contacted in early February.

Note: if you are currently serving on a team, or volunteering in a specific role, please re-sign up. This indicates to us your continued interest. 

Give for LA Fire Relief

If you’re looking for a way to respond to the wildfires across California, consider giging through Lutheran World Relief (LWR) where 100% of donations go toward immediate relief. LWR already has a team preparing a response. The destruction and need are overwhelming and only getting worse. Thank you for being someone who goes above and beyond to help!

Luther College Nordic Choir

Thursday, January 30, 7:30 pm

Looking for a great night of music? And, want to support one of our Shepherds – Noah Jorgensen? Noah will be singing with Luther College’s Nordic Choir – their flagship choir – this January while on tour. The closest concert is in Cedar Rapids at First Lutheran Church (1000 3rd Ave SE). Tickets are $20/adult, $10/student and may be purchased in advance or at the door. Thanks for supporting our young adults while enjoying a night out!

Christian Day Camp Summer 2025

It might seem like an eon away, but already many programs are asking families for registration. As you’re registering for other events, make sure to keep Christian Day Camp dates blocked off! We’re sponsoring two weeks of elementary camp (two sessions; kids can attend one week), one middle school week, and a series of preschool nights. For more information, contact Pastor Aleese.

Elementary: June 10-13 or 17-20
Middle School: June 24-27
Preschool Nights: June 9, 16, 23

Women’s Epiphany Party

This weekend women from Shepherd (as well as others from our sister Lutheran churches!) gathered for a night of fellowship, laughter, devotion, blessing and prayer. After sharing appetizers and a candle exchange, we contemplated the epiphanies the wise men experienced and shared epiphanies of our own from the past year. We closed the night by offering a blessing for this spiritual house (an Epiphany tradition) for Shepherd to be a space where Christ is revealed to us, and to those in our community, in the coming year. 

SOTC Annual Report and Meeting

This past Sunday we distributed our annual report to the congregation. For a digital copy, and to see what we’ve been up to in Christ’s name this year, click here!

Annual meeting will follow worship on January 26. Agenda for our meeting is included in the annual report. Questions? Contact Pastor Aleese, Kathy, or Delene. 

Community Diaper Bank Drive

Through the holidays, the Community Diaper Bank’s supply of diapers to distribute to families in the community has dwindled. To help, SOTC is hosting a drive through February. Sizes 1, 4, 5, 6, and 7 diapers are most needed, but any size will be utilized! Challenge yourself to donate a box a month, or, a box a week!

Church Volunteer and Team Sign Up

Would you be willing to serve in worship? Or, help serve treats on Sunday mornings? Or, serve on a team? All – members and non-members – are welcome to serve as a part of our Shepherd flock. See a complete list of opportunities and teams on the bulletin board in the narthex and via the links above. Sign up at church or online. Sign up will continue through January; those indicating interest will be contacted in early February.

Give for LA Fire Relief

If you’re looking for a way to respond to the wildfires across California, consider giging through Lutheran World Relief (LWR) where 100% of donations go toward immediate relief. LWR already has a team preparing a response. The destruction and need are overwhelming and only getting worse. Thank you for being someone who goes above and beyond to help!

Shepherds Kids Day!

Monday, January 20

Our elementary aged kids will be gathering for another Shepherds Kids Day on Monday, January 20. We’ll gather from 9:00 – 11:00 am. Parents should have received a message from Pastor Aleese. If you didn’t get a message, or are interested in joining, contact Pastor Aleese. 

Christian Day Camp Summer 2025

It might seem like an eon away, but already many programs are asking families for registration. As you’re registering for other events, make sure to keep Christian Day Camp dates blocked off! We’re sponsoring two weeks of elementary camp (two sessions; kids can attend one week), one middle school week, and a series of preschool nights. For more information, contact Pastor Aleese.

Elementary: June 10-13 or 17-20
Middle School: June 24-27
Preschool Nights: June 9, 16, 23

Women’s Epiphany Party

Saturday, January 11
5:00 – 7:00 pm

A Women’s Epiphany Party is an annual tradition for women at Shepherd. Each year, we gather for fellowship with one another, and each year takes on its own unique twist. Plans for this year are:

Food – Bring an appetizer to share

Service – Jump start a drive during the Epiphany season to assist the Community Diaper Bank. Over the holidays, the Community Diaper Bank stock has been depleted and needs to be refreshed! Size 1, 4, 5, 6, and 7 diapers especially needed. 

Faith Formation – We’ll have a short devotion to move us from the Sunday of Epiphany (celebrated on Sunday, January 5) into the season of Epiphany. 

Candle Exchange – Bring a wrapped candle for an exchange!

Community Diaper Bank Epiphany Drive

Over the holidays, the Community Diaper Bank depleted much of its stock. To help, we’re holding a drive during the Epiphany season (through the end of February) to gather diapers. Sizes most needed are 1, 4, 5, 6 and 7. All sizes are welcome, though! 

Church Volunteer and Team Sign Up

Would you be willing to serve in worship? Or, help serve treats on Sunday mornings? Or, serve on a team? All – members and non-members – are welcome to serve as a part of our Shepherd flock. See a complete list of opportunities and teams on the bulletin board in the narthex and via the links above. Sign up at church or online. Sign up will continue through January; those indicating interest will be contacted in early February.

Congregational Annual Meeting

Sunday, January 26

Mark your calendars for our annual meeting following worship on January 26. Annual report, agenda, and items for discussion will be shared in the new year.

Faith Formation Groups Resume

ReStoried resumed this past weekend, and other groups will be resuming this week! Take note!

Christians Underground – Wednesday, January 8, 12:00 @ Zion
Family Faith Nights – Wednesday, January 8, 6:00 @ Grace

Epiphany Sunday Worship

January 5 @ 9:00 am

After celebrating the season of Christmas, the church turns to the festival (and season) of Epiphany. While the day of Epiphany falls on January 6, we will be celebrating Epiphany (the coming of light) during worship on January 5. 

One practice that we will be exploring during worship is the use of star words. This is an ancient prayer practice that has recently been resurrected. Intention, or guiding, words are written on pieces of paper. Then, people have the chance to take a word. The idea is not for you to chose your word, but to take the word that is given to you as a gift for the coming year. During worship, we’ll explore our words together and consider how God may be speaking through these words. 

So as the Magi followed a star, ultimately leading them closer to Jesus, consider this your invitation to receive something to follow in the new year, moving you closer to Jesus. We hope you can join us in worship!

Women’s Epiphany Party

Saturday, January 11
5:00 – 7:00 pm

A Women’s Epiphany Party is an annual tradition for women at Shepherd. Each year, we gather for fellowship with one another, and each year takes on its own unique twist. Plans for this year are:

Food – Bring an appetizer to share

Service – Jump start a drive during the Epiphany season to assist the Community Diaper Bank. Over the holidays, the Community Diaper Bank stock has been depleted and needs to be refreshed! Size 1, 4, 5, 6, and 7 diapers especially needed. 

Faith Formation – We’ll have a short devotion to move us from the Sunday of Epiphany (celebrated on Sunday, January 5) into the season of Epiphany. 

Candle Exchange – Bring a wrapped candle for an exchange!

Community Diaper Bank Epiphany Drive

Over the holidays, the Community Diaper Bank depleted much of its stock. To help, we’re holding a drive during the Epiphany season (through the end of February) to gather diapers. Sizes most needed are 1, 4, 5, 6 and 7. All sizes are welcome, though! 

Break for Faith Formation Groups 

Due to the holidays, our faith formation groups will take a break for the coming weeks. Note the following dates for when each group resumes:

ReStoried – Sunday, January 5
Christians Underground – Wednesday, January 8
Family Faith Nights – Wednesday, January 8

Communication re Winter Weather and Worship

We’re heading into the heart of winter, and we’re mindful that the season sometimes throws us a curveball! Unfortunately, last winter we needed to cancel worship due to bitterly cold temperatures. Though we hope this does not need to happen again, we want to be clear with how we will communicate with you all. 

If there is a potential for bad weather, stay tuned to the following places for announcements. We will communicate as soon as possible. 

1. Website – updates will be posted on our home page. 
2. Social Media – we’ll post on our Facebook and Instagram accounts
3. Email  – we’ll send out a congregation-wide email notifying of any changes

As always, use common sense when it comes to winter weather and take care of yourself! If you have questions, talk to Pastor Aleese or Delene McConnaha.

Get Excited for Camp EWALU, Summer 2025!

Even though we’re in the midst of winter, Camp EWALU (Strawberry Point) is looking forward to another great summer of camp for youth grades 1-12. Registration has opened and there are great discounts if you register early (even now!). Check out all the options at Camp EWALU’s website.

Congregational Annual Meeting

Sunday, January 26

Mark your calendars for our annual meeting following worship on January 26. Annual report, agenda, and items for discussion will be shared in the new year.

Southeastern Iowa Synod 2024 Annual Report

As we look to the close of a year, our synod – the Southeastern Iowa Synod – has also created an annual report highlighting the ministries throughout our region. Take a look to learn more about how the synod is supporting work in congregations like ours and how the synod is supporting the work of the whole church. 

Christmas Eve and Post-Christmas Services

Christmas Eve, December 24 @ 4:00 pm

Service of candlelight, communion, carols, and the celebration of God’s Word made flesh. Includes a special storytelling time for kids and adults as we tie together our Advent theme.

Service of Lessons and Laughter, December 29 @ 9:00 am

Respond to the good news of Christ’s birth with laughter and rejoicing! Worship will feature three lessons with the opportunity for interaction and fellowship amongst the congregation. Because of the casual nature of this service, worship will not be livestreamed.

Epiphany Sunday, January 5 @ 9:00 am

Start the new year with the practice of using “star words” to guide your spiritual journey. As the wise men followed a star, so too will we rise up and follow in the way of Christ.

Kids “Elves” Day

Santa needs elves to get things done, but we just need our kids! Together, some of our elementary kids put our Silent Night candles together for Christmas Eve worship and also refilled the hand sanitizer containers in our sanctuary. We learned more about the Christmas story, played some games, and then went to HyVee! There, the kids took turns ringing bells for the Salvation Army (their chorus of bells echoed throughout the store!) and we purchased about $300 worth of food for the MCSA Food Pantry. The kids were excellent shoppers in picking out food and staying under the “budget” given to them. Special thanks to the adults who pitched in last minute to make this afternoon a success, and thanks to our kids for serving their congregation and community as they live out the Christmas story!

Caroling at Addington Place & Lutheran Living and Card Making Service Night

Our Family Faith Night crew had the pleasure of going caroling on Wednesday night at Addington Place and Lutheran Living. It was such a heartwarming experience for both singers and guests. We also had a group spend time crafting cards for Cards For Hospitalized Kids non-profit group, who distributes cards to Children’s Hospitals and Ronald McDonald’s houses throughout the United States. Thank you all for spreading the Christmas spirit!

Break for Faith Formation Groups 

Due to the holidays, our faith formation groups will take a break for the coming weeks. Note the following dates for when each group resumes:

ReStoried – Sunday, January 5
Christians Underground – Wednesday, January 8
Family Faith Nights – Wednesday, January 8

Women’s Epiphany Party

Saturday, January 11, 5:00 – 7:00 pm

A Women’s Epiphany Party is an annual tradition for women at Shepherd. Each year, we gather for fellowship with one another, and each year takes on its own unique twist. Plans for this year are:

Food – Bring an appetizer to share

Service – Jump start a drive during the Epiphany season to assist the Community Diaper Bank. Over the holidays, the Community Diaper Bank stock has been depleted and needs to be refreshed! Size 1, 4, 5, 6, and 7 diapers especially needed. 

Faith Formation – We’ll have a short devotion to move us from the Sunday of Epiphany (celebrated on Sunday, January 5) into the season of Epiphany. 

Candle Exchange – Bring a wrapped candle for an exchange!

Communication re Winter Weather and Worship

We’re heading into the heart of winter, and we’re mindful that the season sometimes throws us a curveball! Unfortunately, last winter we needed to cancel worship due to bitterly cold temperatures. Though we hope this does not need to happen again, we want to be clear with how we will communicate with you all. 

If there is a potential for bad weather, stay tuned to the following places for announcements. We will communicate as soon as possible. 

1. Website – updates will be posted on our home page. 
2. Social Media – we’ll post on our Facebook and Instagram accounts
3. Email  – we’ll send out a congregation-wide email notifying of any changes

As always, use common sense when it comes to winter weather and take care of yourself! If you have questions, talk to Pastor Aleese or Delene McConnaha.

Year End Offerings

Sunday December 29 will be the last date SOTC will receive donations for the 2024 year. All donations following that date will be deposited/counted in the new year. 

Counters Needed

We are looking for volunteers with counting our offering after worship Sunday mornings. Having a few more reliable individuals with this task would help ensure accuracy and efficiency. If you are available and willing to assist, please let Kathy Dunham know. We will have a short training session in the new year to make sure guidelines are followed.

Congregational Annual Meeting

Sunday, January 26

Mark your calendars for our annual meeting following worship on January 26. Annual report, agenda, and items for discussion will be shared in the new year.

Southeastern Iowa Synod 2024 Annual Report

As we look to the close of a year, our synod – the Southeastern Iowa Synod – has also created an annual report highlighting the ministries throughout our region. Take a look to learn more about how the synod is supporting work in congregations like ours and how the synod is supporting the work of the whole church. 

Thanks for your Help with Salvation Army Bags!

Thanks to your help, we filled enough bags to provide a Christmas breakfast to 20 families in the greater Muscatine area. Thank you for doing the good that God has called you to and to feeding our community!

Kids “Elves” Day

Friday, December 20, 2:00 – 4:00 pm

Santa has elves, but even our congregations and community need help too! All elementary aged kids and down are welcome to join us for an afternoon of service on Friday, December 20. Families have been contacted, but if we missed you, our apologies! Contact Pastor Aleese for more details. Overall itinerary of the afternoon is:

2:00
Meet at SOTC to do projects to prepare for Christmas Eve, have a lesson, and play Christmas games

3:00
Ring bells at HyVee (2nd Ave) and shop for the MCSA Food Pantry

4:00
Back to Shepherd

Caroling Opportunity

Wednesday, December 18

Calling all singers! Our Family Faith Night crew will be caroling for their December service project. Even if you’re not a regular part of Family Faith Nights, you’re welcome to join us! Itinerary of the evening is:

5:30 – Meal at Grace (pizza)
5:50 – Leave for Addington Place
6:00 – Carol at Addington Place (3515 Diana Queen Drive)
6:30 – Carol at Lutheran Living (2421 Lutheran Drive)
7:00 – Back to Grace

If you’d like to join us for the meal, contact Pastor Aleese so we can plan the right amount of food. Feel free to join us at Grace to carpool with us, or just meet us at Addington!

Christmas Eve and Post-Christmas Services

Christmas Eve, December 24 @ 4:00 pm

Service of candlelight, communion, carols, and the celebration of God’s Word made flesh. Includes a special storytelling time for kids and adults as we tie together our Advent theme.

Service of Lessons and Laughter, December 29 @ 9:00 am

Respond to the good news of Christ’s birth with laughter and rejoicing! Worship will feature three lessons with the opportunity for interaction and fellowship amongst the congregation. Because of the casual nature of this service, worship will not be livestreamed.

Epiphany Sunday, January 5 @ 9:00 am

Start the new year with the practice of using “star words” to guide your spiritual journey. As the wise men followed a star, so too will we rise up and follow in the way of Christ.

Year End Offerings

Sunday December 29 will be the last date SOTC will receive donations for the 2024 year. All donations following that date will be deposited/counted in the new year. 

Congregational Annual Meeting

Sunday, January 26

Mark your calendars for our annual meeting following worship on January 26. Annual report, agenda, and items for discussion will be shared in the new year.

Women’s Epiphany Party

Saturday, January 11, 5:00 – 7:00 pm

It’s back! All women are invited to our Epiphany Party on Sat, January 11. More details to come re what we’re doing and food. Mark your calendars now and stay tuned!

SOTC Christmas Party Blast!

Thank you to all those who attended our Christmas Party! It was a fun early evening filled with sharing cookies, playing games, singing Christmas songs, and telling funny or favorite Christmas stories. Below are a few pictures of our Shepherds writing one word that has to do with Christmas A-Z. A few letters took some thought and creativity.

Christmas Breakfast Food Bags for Salvation Army

Return by Sunday, December 15

We only have 5 bags left! Bags will be given to families in need to provide a Chrismtas breakfast. Food bags need to be filled with pancake mix, biscuit mix, pancake syrup, juice, oatmeal, chocolate chips, country gravy (approximate $20 to fill the bag)

If you’re willing, Salvation Army is also requesting a $20 donation to cover the cost of fresh produce (milk, eggs, butter, meat). Because this is going above and beyond, if you’re not able to offer that additional donation, SOTC will assist with this cost from either the Sunday School fund or our Discretionary Fund. If you write a check: make checks out to Shepherd of the Cross. Then, we’ll write one check to Salvation Army.

Bags are available in the narthex for pick up. Questions? Contact Kathy or Pastor Aleese. 

Christmas Eve and Post-Christmas Services

Christmas Eve worship will be at 4:00 pm. For a full list of services around Christmas, check out the main page of our website.

Year End Offerings

Sunday December 29 will be the last date SOTC will receive donations for the 2024 year. All donations following that date will be deposited/counted in the new year.

2025 Offering Envelopes

If you would like offering envelopes for 2025 see the sign up sheet in the narthex or contact the main office. Please sign up by December 15. 

No Women’s Group in December

For clarification, we will NOT have Women’s Group in December. See below for news about our January Women’s Epiphany Party!

Congregational Annual Meeting

Sunday, January 26

Mark your calendars for our annual meeting following worship on January 26. Annual report, agenda, and items for discussion will be shared in the new year.

Women’s Epiphany Party

Saturday, January 11, 5:00 – 7:00 pm

It’s back! All women are invited to our Epiphany Party on Sat, January 11. More details to come re what we’re doing and food. Mark your calendars now and stay tuned!

Christmas Breakfast Food Bags for Salvation Army

Return by Sunday, December 15

Angel Tree tags for LSI flew off the tree! If you’re still looking to assist families in Muscatine this holiday season, Salvation Army has requested help filling food bags to be distributed to families in need. Food bags need to be filled with the following items:

• pancake mix
• biscuit mix
• pancake syrup
• juice (shelf stable)
• oatmeal
• chocolate chips
• country gravy

If you’re willing, Salvation Army is also requesting a $20 donation to cover the cost of fresh produce (milk, eggs, butter, meat). Previously, these items were covered by local grocery stores, but this year those stores are unable to participate. Because this is going above and beyond, if you’re not able to offer that additional donation, SOTC will assist with this cost from either the Sunday School fund or our Discretionary Fund. 

On the other side, if you’re willing to provide $20 for the fresh produce but don’t want to do the shopping, that works too!

Bags are available in the narthex for pick up. Questions? Contact Kathy or Pastor Aleese. 

Thanks for Helping Decorate for Christmas!

In preparation for the season, we’ve had an army of people help prepare our sanctuary. If you were one of our little angels, thank you! And, if you see someone who’s been assisting, please say thank you!

And…a special thank you to all of you for your help dressing our Christmas tree this past Sunday at the close of worship. As you go into the week, Shepherds, may you know deep in your bones that you are a blessing, created to spread God’s light and to bear God’s Word to the world as we await the coming of God’s blessing – Jesus Christ – in our midst!

Poinsettias

Order now through December 8

Thanks to those who’ve signed up to sponsor a poinsettia! Poinsettias can be sponsored in memory or honor of someone if you desire. Plants are $13.00 each. Sign up in the narthex or contact the main office.

SOTC Christmas Party? 

December 8 @ 3:30pm

It’s happening! Hang out with your fellow Shepherds as we celebrate the Christmas season. On December 8, we’ll gather for fellowship and fun! Bring a dozen Christmas cookies to share for a treat!

An Old Stone Church Christmas

December 7 at 4:00 p.m.

“An Old Stone Church Christmas: Lessons and Carols with Reflections from Martin Luther” will be held at the Old Stone Church. To get there from Muscatine take Highway 61 towards the Quad Cities, turn right at Vail Avenue (Y26). In 2- 3 miles turn left at 180^th Street. The church is on the corner of 180^th Street and Verde Street. The entrance is on 180^th Street past the intersection on the left.  There is no heat and no bathroom, so dress warmly!  All are welcome.

Host College Choir Students this January

January 9, 2025

This January, the Nebraska Wesleyan University Choir is bringing a concert “My Heart Be Brave” to Wesley United Mehodist. Conductor of the choir, Tom Trenney, says, “Though music may not have the power to cure us, we believe that singing can bring healing and hope. Singing meaningful music from diverse cultures can deepen our empathy and broaden our understanding.  We hope this program– filled with authentic artistic expressions of courage, resilience, and hope– will encourage and empower our students to leave the concert hall with a heart of deeper compassion.”

To help make this a success, Wesley is seeking help! They’re looking for households to host students. Hosts would be asked to pick up your students (at least 2) after the concert and provide them a place to sleep for the night and breakfast the next morning. You’ll bring them back to Wesley to get on their bus at 9:30am to continue their tour.

Interested? Contact Sally Potter.Even if you cannot be a host put this dynamic concert on your calendar!

2025 Offering Envelopes

If you would like offering envelopes for 2025 see the sign up sheet in the narthex or contact the main office. Please sign up by December 15. 

Christmas Eve and Post-Christmas Services

Christmas Eve worship will be at 4:00 pm. For a full list of services around Christmas, check out the main page of our website.