Author: Kathy Dunham

Worship: The Rich Man and the Great TP Crisis

Post author By Kathy Dunham
Post date July 31, 2022

Luke 12:13-21 | Remember when it was race to get toilet paper or disinfectant wipes from stores at the beginning of the pandemic? Though a memory some of us would rather forget, the urge to “stock up” amidst uncertainty for the sake of ourselves speaks to a parable Jesus tells of a rich man. In keeping his grain for himself, he was able to eat, drink, and be merry, but it was at the expense of his neighbors. Join us for worship as we consider what we are tempted to hang onto for ourselves, and as we are reminded of God’s grace given to us in baptism: freeing us to fully live in relationship with Christ and with our neighbors.

Sunday, July 31, 2022, Eighth Sunday after Pentecost Bulletin

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News & Events

Post author By Kathy Dunham
Post date July 25, 2022

Support for LSI Family in Muscatine

Can you help?

Late last week, Pastor Aleese received a message from a local LSI case worker who has been working with a family. This family needs to have some work done on their car, but cannot afford the parts. They have friends who can do the work, but until parts are purchased, they cannot move forward. Unfortunately, other local non-profit/service organizations in Muscatine cannot offer assistance.

At Shepherd, we do not have a discretionary fund set aside for situations like this. As we are able, we support local non-profits/service organizations who offer assistance to families. However, in situations like this, when case workers reach out with specific information, it’s still possible for us to come together and support those with a specific need.

If you would like to contribute financially to support this family, please contact Pastor Aleese as soon as possible (319-427-0600). Thank you!

Baptism of Brooks Sullivan

Sunday, July 31

In Acts 8, as Phillip is teaching a man about Jesus, Phillip and this man come across water. When the man sees it, he asks, “What is to prevent me from being baptized?”

The answer: nothing! In the Spirit of God’s grace being something that cannot be held back or “waited on,” the Sullivan family will be bringing Brooks to the baptismal font this coming Sunday, July 31. Join us as you’re able to witness the outpouring of God’s Spirit upon Brooks! Cake reception during fellowship will follow the service.

Christians Underground Resumes this Week

Wednesday, July 27 @ 12:00 pm

After a brief hiatus, Christians Underground resumes this Wed, July 27 at Geo Johnz. Join us at 12:00 for discussion around our upcoming Scripture readings and enjoy some pizza! All are welcome!

Women’s Group

Saturday, August 13 @ 8:30 am

This summer our Women’s Group has been gathering under the theme “Crafted in Christ,” a three-month Bible study that’s used the concept of quilting to explore rest, renewal, and the Christian community. This month, we finish up our series by thinking about “ties” that bind us together. Together we’ll examine how God invites us to commit to a new way of life with God and with each other.

Haven’t been able to join us yet this summer? No problem! All are welcome! Take a peek at the study we’ll be doing together.

Kick Off Night for Family Faith Nights!

Wednesday, August 31 @ 6:30 pm

You’ve been hearing about the joint Family Faith Nights for the coming year. And now, it’s time to mark your calendars!

Join us for a night of fun, fellowship, food, and information about the coming year. Anyone interested/involved in any age group (elementary, middle school or adults) is encouraged to join us! Family Faith Nights will then continue each Wednesday thereafter.

Note that if you indicated interest in an adult group, leaders will be in touch with you soon to help determine what group you best fit into, and what a potential schedule will be. Parents of kids and youth: a school year calendar will be available soon!

Questions? Talk to Pastor Aleese or Andy Christy.

SOTC Camp Out

Sat, Aug 27 – Sun, Aug 28

It’s back! After being on hiatus for a few years, we’re returning to school with a camp out on our back lawn.

Join us either for just the evening, or for the entire night.

Fall Calendars Coming!

Already our families are receiving back-to-school schedules, and we won’t be far behind! Information about Rally Day, Sunday School, and our faith formation opportunities for the upcoming year will be published soon! Stay tuned!

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Blog: Ask and You Will Receive

Post author By Kathy Dunham
Post date July 25, 2022

Prayer. It’s seemingly one of the simplest things, and yet the most complicated. As simple as Jesus made it sound in our Gospel reading from this past weekend, “Ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you,” sometimes life makes it seem more complicated than that.

I don’t think I’m the only one who’s ever wondered if God hasn’t heard my prayers, or wondered if God has left me “without” an answer to my prayers. But recently, I’ve begun thinking about prayer a bit differently. Thinking about our passage from Luke, though Jesus promises to provide for us, Jesus doesn’t promise to give us the very thing we ask for. In the words of Elenore Stump, “He [Jesus] says that if we ask, we will receive; but he doesn’t happen to mention what we will receive.”

Think of it this way: When you’re physically sick and go to a doctor, it’s not your job to determine what you need to be healed. That’s the doctors job. Your only “job” is to ask for help, seek the guidance and healing of another, and open yourself to receive what the doctor may be able to provide for you.

Again, using the words of Stump, “In the same way, the Lord’s prayer requires us to trust God enough to tell God what we want – over and over and over. Our job is to ask continually. God’s job is to figure out what to give us that will really fill us and heal us.”

This week, dear Shepherds, allow yourself to come to your Father in prayer. Seek to unite yourself with Christ, and be honest with God about where you’re at. And in time, you just might receive that which Jesus promises us in Luke 11: the gift of the Holy Spirit, filling us with grace, with peace, and with life.

Worship Services

Worship: Our Father

Post author By Kathy Dunham
Post date July 24, 2022

Luke 11:1-13 | For many, prayer has been associated with folding our hands, bowing our heads, and either praying silently in our hearts or out loud with others. But what really is prayer? And who do we believe we are praying to? As Jesus taught his disciples, he began his prayer by using a name for God that was very personal and relational, uniting him as one with God. But in our prayer, do we dare approach God in such a way? Or, might there be other things inhibiting our relationship, and causing us to see God as something – or somebody – else? Whether you feel as though prayer is second-nature or something you’re still trying to figure out, join us for worship as we hear God’s promise to answer us when we call, and as we boldly come before our Lord, trusting that our God desires nothing than the best for God’s children.

Sunday, July 24, 2022, Sixth Sunday after Pentecost Bulletin

Copyright acknowledgements: Music covered under Augsburg Fortress License #SB135131, CCLI License #1141706, One License #738128-A.Scripture from New Revised Standard Version Bible, © 1989 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. Prelude: Let My Prayer Rise Up. Text and Music: Marty Haugen. Text and Music: © 1986 GIA Publications, Inc. Covered under One License subscription. Gathering Hymn: Seek Ye First. Text and Music: Karen Lafferty b. 1948. Text and Music: © 1972 Maranatha! Music, admin. The Copyright Co. Covered under CCLI subscription. Hymn of the Day: Lord, Listen to Your Children Praying. Text and Music: Ken Medema. Text and Music: © 1973 Hope Publishing Company. Covered under One License subscription. Offering: You Are My King. Text and Music: Billy J. Foote. Text and Music: © 1996 worshiptogether.com songs (Admin. by Capitol CMG Publishing). Covered under CCLI subscription. Communion Song: What a Friend We Have in Jesus. Text: Joseph Scriven, 1820-1886. Music: Charles C. Converse, 1832-1918. Text and Music: Public Domain. Sending Song: Bring Forth the Kingdom. Text and Music: Marty Haugen. Text and Music: © 1986 GIA Publications, Inc. Covered under One License subscription.

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News & Events

Post author By Kathy Dunham
Post date July 19, 2022

Update from Pastor Aleese

Thank you to all who have expressed concern in the recent days after a positive COVID test. Thankfully, symptoms have remained mild. So as to protect others, I will continue to isolate through most of the week. Please see below for updates to any previously scheduled Bible Studies or meetings. Note that I was previously scheduled to be out of Muscatine the week of July 24 leading a high school youth camp in WI. As I am still recovering, I have decided to stay in Muscatine. As of now, I plan to be in worship with you all on July 24 (masked) and on July 31.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach me via email or cell phone. As I feel up to it, I will be doing some work remotely while also striving to take care of myself. Thank you, Shepherds, for your care, your willingness to pitch in, and for your support.

Pastor Aleese

Christians Underground Cancelled This Week

No Bible Study Wednesday, July 20

Because of a varied schedule this week, and because of Pastor Aleese’s absence, Christians Underground is cancelled for this week. Stay tuned for updates for when we will resume. Thank you for understanding

Welcome to the Flock!

We’re so excited to announce that Josie Mae Bartling was born on July 12, 2022 to Joe and Takoma Bartling (granddaughter to Kim and Judy Bartling). She was born at a healthy 6 lbs. 4 oz. 19 inches long. Mom, baby, and family are all doing well! We look forward to meeting her in person!

…We Can Trust God’s Promises!

Last Sunday through Thursday, we had close to 50 kids join us for Vacation Bible School as they learned about how “we can trust God’s promises.” Each day as we learned different Bible stories, we heard stories of how others trusted God’s promises, and were encouraged to go forth sharing the news that even we can trust God’s promises, too! Imagine 50 kids (plus about 30 other adults) shouting “We can trust God’s promises!” and you’ll get a sense of what our week was like! Check out the pictures below and look for more on our Facebook page and Instagram account. Thank you SO much to all our SOTC helpers!

Mark Your Calendars for Family Faith Nights!

Starting Wednesday, September 7

For the past few weeks, we’ve been highlighting the upcoming adult groups forming this fall. But, we’re looking forward to creating space not only for adults, but for entire families to come together again this year!

Similar to last school year, SOTC will be collaborating with Zion and Grace starting in September. Our first official Family Faith Night will be Wed, September 7. Keep your eyes out for an announcement for a special kick-off to get us going!

Take a listen to Pastor Willie as he invites families from our congregations, along with those in the community, to participate wit us this year.

Women’s Group

Sat, August 13 @ 8:30pm

Join women of the congregation as we continue through our summer series. Haven’t made it yet this summer? Not a problem, all are welcome for a time of fellowship, prayer and study. Stay tune for more details of what we will be looking at!

SOTC Camp Out

Sat, Aug 27 – Sun, Aug 28

It’s back! After being on hiatus for a few years, we’re returning to school with a camp out on our back lawn.

Join us either for just the evening, or for the entire night.

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Blog: Only One Thing

Post author By Kathy Dunham
Post date July 18, 2022

This past weekend, we had the opportunity to dwell in the story of Mary and Martha. Though I wasn’t able to worship with you all this weekend due to a positive COVID test, the statement that Jesus tells Martha just wouldn’t leave me last week. “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things…” Finishing up a full week with Vacation Bible School, looking ahead to things for the fall, and trying to be present to the joys and sorrows of those within our Shepherd community, I felt a bit like Martha: running around, serving others, attending to their needs, but not taking one moment to sit and be still in the presence of my Lord.

But by the end of the week and into the weekend, the tone of what Jesus said to Martha took a turn. Instead of hearing Jesus’ voice in an accusatory way, saying with a clip in his voice, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things…” I heard this statement from Jesus with more care and compassion. And instead of hearing Jesus direct this statement to Martha, I heard it directed toward me. “Aleese, Aleese, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing.”

On Sunday morning, as many of you worshipped together at Shepherd, I was still in bed. When I did wake up, I confess, I didn’t watch the livestream immediately. Later in the day I did. But that morning, in between coughs and some sips of tea, I chose to sit on my couch, to journal, and to put myself at the feet of Jesus for just a bit.

So this week, I encourage you to find those moments to come and sit at the feet of Jesus. Even if it is for just a moment, sit and receive what Jesus has to offer you. And hear from Jesus what that “one thing” is that you need for the road ahead of you. Distractions, and the work around us, will never cease. But our relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ will never, ever be taken away from us.

Worship Services

Worship: Only One Thing

Post author By Kathy Dunham
Post date July 17, 2022

Luke 10:28-42 | This weekend we had the opportunity to take a breath and dwell in the story of Mary and Martha. While Martha continued serving, Mary took time to sit at Jesus’ feet. Join us for worship as we take time to sit with Jesus and are sent forth as servants of Christ. Special thanks to our lay worship leaders for serving in Pastor Aleese’s absence!

Sunday, July 17, 2022, Sixth Sunday after Pentecost Bulletin

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News & Events

Post author By Kathy Dunham
Post date July 12, 2022

Outdoor Worship, Ice Cream Social Fundraiser, Family Night…Oh My!

Sunday, July 17

Join us for worship, ice cream, fellowship, service to our community, and family fun!

Outdoor worship, 9:00 am | You bring a lawn chair and we’ll provide the rest!
Ice Cream Social Fundraiser | Stick around after worship for a sweet treat. Consider offering a special offering as our fundraiser will be given toward the Diversity Services Center of Iowa, an organization highlighted by our Stewardship Team in May.
Family Night, 6:00 pm | Young adults and families with high school aged and below youth are welcome to join us for a night of fun! In June we gathered outside for a bonfire and had hot dogs and s’mores while playing lawn games. Families – watch for an email from Mackenzie to coordinate our meal.

Looking forward to a great Sunday with you all in various ways!

VBS is off to a great start!

Kids and adults have been gathering at Zion Lutheran since Sunday evening to immerse themselves in the theme “From Generation to Generation.” Through stories like Abraham, Joseph, and David, our kids have been learning that God’s steadfast love endures forever. Check out our Facebook page and Instagram for more updates and pictures! Thanks to all our SOTC helpers!

Considering an Adult Faith Formation Group?

Last week we shared an overview from Andy Christy as he introduced the potential adult groups forming this coming fall. So as to give members of Grace, Zion, and Shepherd a glimpse into what these groups are about, we took some time to interview Tammy Stein from Grace. She was a participant in the Wednesday evening Family Faith Nights last year and participated in the adult group (now named “Sojourners” on the Adult Group menu). Take a listen as she offers her perspective on what the adult group meant to her and her invitation to those considering being a part of a group this coming year.

Interested in joining us? Click here to learn more and access the interest survey link. Reminder, we will have an interest meeting for those interested in adult groups on Sunday, July 17 after worship and our ice cream social.

Willing to Volunteer to Read to Children?

In an effort to close or narrow the achievement gap in literacy, Grace Lutheran offers a literacy program providing free tutoring services to 1st and 2nd grade children from neighboring schools who need support in reading. Looking to the coming school year, Grace is looking for volunteers to read one-on-one with the children from 4:00 – 5:00 on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the school year. Volunteers help as often as they like, and schedule can be adjusted as needed. The sole responsibility of the volunteer is to read to children! Volunteers can be 7th graders through 90+. High School students have been able to apply this service to earning a silver cord. If interested, contact Deb Holliday (563-299-2145) or Karen Woods (563-260-58-46) for more details.

SOTC Camp Out

Sat, Aug 27 – Sun, Aug 28

It’s back! After being on hiatus for a few years, we’re returning to school with a camp out on our back lawn. Join us either for just the evening, or for the entire night.

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Blog: Won’t You Be My Neighbor?

Post author By Kathy Dunham
Post date July 12, 2022

This past Sunday, we heard the beloved story of the Good Samaritan. Many of us have likely heard, studied, and pondered this text numerous times. Yet still, even after hearing this story over and over again, it continues to challenge us to see one another as our neighbors, to draw near to them, and to reach out in acts of service.

Easy to say. But in practice? Sometimes that asks a bit more than we are willing to give. Yet, drawing on the words of Martin Luther King Jr., as people united to each other in the body of Christ, we don’t have the luxury of isolating ourselves from one another. He writes:

“On the parable of the Good Samaritan: I imagine that the first question the priest and Levite asked was, ‘If I stop to help this man, what will happen to me?’ But by the very nature of his concern, the good Samaritan revised the question, ‘If I do not stop to help this man, what will happen to him?'”

What would happen if we approached our neighbors, especially those left half-dead in our society, through the lens of the second question? And, what would happen to us, as we open our eyes to see our neighbors as people full of dignity, deserving of respect?

This week, consider reframing the way you see those around you. Even today, there are those on the margins who are barely noticed – let alone seen as neighbors – within our communities, within our country, and within our world. If we, as the body of Christ, do not pay heed to the pain of those around us, what will happen to them?

Worship Services

Worship: Won’t You Be My Neighbor?

Post author By Kathy Dunham
Post date July 10, 2022

Luke 10:25-37 | Many of us have likely heard the invitation from Mr. Fred Rodgers – “won’t you be my neighbor?” Seeing his kindness, it’s a seemingly obvious choice to be a neighbor to someone such as Mr. Rodgers. But in our day-to-day encounters, what does being a neighbor imply? And, what does it cost us? Join us for worship as we hear Jesus invite us to go forth as neighbors to each other, and as we experience the sacrificial love of our God who became our neighbor for our sake.

Sunday, July 10, 2022, Fifth Sunday after Pentecost Bulletin

Copyright acknowledgements: Music covered under Augsburg Fortress License #SB135131, CCLI License #1141706, One License #738128-A.Scripture from New Revised Standard Version Bible, © 1989 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. Prelude: Just As I Am. Text: Charlotte Elliott 1789-1871. Music: William Batchelder Bradbury 1816-1868. Text and Music: Public Domain. Gathering Hymn: O Christ, Your Heart, Compassionate. Text: Herman G. Stuempfle Jr., b. 1923. Music: German melody, 18th cent.; adapt. X.L. Hartig, Melodien zum Mainzer Gesangbuche, 1833. Text and Music: © 2000 Gia Publications, Inc. Covered under One License subscription.
Hymn of the Day: When the Poor Ones. Text: Jose Antonio Olivar, b. 1939; tr. Martin A. Seltz, b. 1951. Music: Miguel Manzano, b. 1934. Text and Music: © 1971, 1998 J.A. Olivar, Miguel Manzano, and San Pablo Internacional-SSP, admin. OCP Publications. Covered under One License subscription.
Offering: I Will Be Here. Text and Music: Steven Curtis Chapman. Text and Music: © 1989, 1990 Universal Music – Brentwood Benson Songs (Admin. by Brentwood-Benson Music Publishing, Inc.) Greg Nelson Music (Admin. by Capitol CMG Publishing) Sparrow Song (Admin. by Capitol CMG Publishing) . Covered under CCLI subscription. Communion Song: Will You Let Me Be Your Servant. Text: Richard Gillard, b. 1953. Music: Richard Gillard; arr. Betty Pulkingham, b. 1928. Text and Music: © 1977 Scripture In Song, admin. Integrity Music.Covered under CCLI subscription. Sending Song: The Lord Now Sends Us Forth. Text: Anonymous, Central America; tr. Gerhard M. Cartford, b.1923. Music: Anonymous, Central America. Text and Music: © 1998 Augsburg Fortress. Covered under One License subscription.