Author: Kathy Dunham

Categories
Worship Services

Worship: Full to the Brim – Even in the Desert

Luke 4:1-13 | As we continue into the season of Lent, we are brought into the wilderness where Jesus was tempted. There, the devil craftily tried to take away from Jesus the only things he had to hang onto his identity and his assurance of the Holy Spirit sustaining him. In the same way, when we find ourselves in places of the wilderness, we may be tempted to let go of our identity in Christ and let go of our reliance on the Holy Spirit to protect us and provide for us. And yet, it is precisely in our identity in Christ and in our reliance on the Holy Spirit that we are filled to the brim, even in the desert. Join us for worship as we acknowledge areas of wilderness in our lives and in our world, and as we boldly dare to claim that we are filled to the brim…even in the desert.

March 6, 2022, First Sunday in Lent Bulletin

Copyright acknowledgments:  Music covered under 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: Public Domain medley of songs. Gathering Song: If You But Trust in God to Guide You. Text and Music: Georg Neumark, 1621-1681; tr. composite. Text: © 1978, 2006 Augsburg Fortress. Covered under One License subscription. Hymn of the Day: I Want Jesus to Walk with Me. Text and music: African American spiritual; arr. hymnal version. Text and music © 2006 Augsburg Fortress. Public Domain. Covered under One License subscription. Offering: Sing a New Song. Text and music: Dan Schutte. Text and music: © 1972, OCP. Covered under One License subscription. Communion Song: Lamb of God. ELW Setting. Text and music © 2022 Augsburg Fortress. Covered under One License subscription. Sending Song: Lead Me, Guide Me. Text and music: Doris Akers, 1922-1995. Text and music © 1953 Doris Akers, admin Unichappell Music, Inc. Covered under One License subscription.

Categories
Worship Services

Worship: Ash Wednesday

Psalm 51:1-17 | Ash Wednesday begins our annual Lenten journey to Christ’s cross and resurrection. At the same time, one could also suggest that Ash Wednesday begins our annual “cleaning” as we prepare to stand in God’s presence? But how much of this work can we do on our own? Join us for worship as we begin the Lenten season and as we invite the Holy Spirit to cleanse us and fill us to the brim.

March 2, 2022, Ash Wednesday Bulletin

Copyright acknowledgments: Music covered under 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. ELW Setting 8,  © 2022 Augsburg Fortress. Used by permission. Prelude: Christ, Be Our Light. Text and Music: Bernadette Farrell. Text and music: © 1993, 2020 OCP. Covered under One License subscription. Call to Worship: O Lord, Hear My Prayer. Text and Music: Jacques Berthier, 1923-1994, Taize. Text and music: © 1982, Le Presses de Taize, GIA Publications, Inc., agent. Covered under One License subscription. Gathering Song: O Lord Throughout These Forty Days. Text: based on Claudie F. Hernaman, 1838-1898; para. Gilbert E. Doan Jr., b. 1930. Music: A. Davisson, Kentucky Harmony, 1816; arr. Theodore A. Beck, 1929-2003. Text: © 1978 Lutheran Book of Worship, admin. Augsburg Fortress. Arr. © 1969 Concordia Publishing House.  Covered under One License subscription. Hymn of the Day: Just As I Am, without One Plea. Text: Charlotte Elliott, 1789-1871. Music: William B. Bradbury, 1816-1868. Text and music: Public Domain. Covered under One License subscription. Imposition of Ashes: We Are Called. Text and music: Mark Hayes, David Haas. Text and music © 2014 GIA Publications, Inc. Covered under One License subscription. Offering: Surely The Presence of the Lord. Text and music: Lanny Wolfe. Text and music: © 1977 Lanny Wolfe Music. Admin. by Capitol CMG Publishing. Covered under CCLI subscription. Communion Songs: Lamb of God. ELW Setting 8. Text and music © 2022 Augsburg Fortress.  Covered under One License subscription. Ashes by The Many. Purchased with the license to stream from Convergence Music Project. Sending Song: Bless Now, O God, the Journey. Text: Sylvia G. Dunstan, 1955-1993. Music: Welsh tune, 19th cent. Text: © 1991 GIA Publications, Inc. Music: Public Domain. Covered under One License subscription. Postlude: Great Is Thy Faithfulness. Contributors: Chisholm, Mark Hays. Text and music: © 1994 Hope Publishing Company. Covered under One License subscription. Prayers written by Rev. Sarah (Are) Speed | A Sanctified Art LLC | sanctifiedart.org. Adapted Rev. A. Kenitzer

Categories
News

News & Events

Ash Wednesday Worship

Wednesday, March 2 @ 7:00 pm

Gather with us as we confess our sin, our brokenness, and our scattered-ness, and gather with us as we seek God’s mercy and forgiveness. Not able to make it to worship but would like to receive ashes and communion? Contact Pastor Aleese via email or cell phone (319-427-0600).

Lenten Midweek Meals and Worship

Starting Wednesday, March 9

5:30 – 6:15 pm | Meal 
6:30 – 7:15 pm | Worship Service

Our worship service will use the first half of the Holden Evening Prayer Service and then will spend time looking at the previous Sundays’ Scripture/theme. 

If you’re willing to help provide food for a meal, please sign up below. We’re looking for teams of 5 people per Wed to provide, serve, and clean up a meal. Each group of people will determine what they would like to serve. Sign up here or on the sign-up sheet in the narthex. Questions re meals? Contact Colleen Bentz, team lead for our Social Team.

Can you help make laundry soap? 

For many families in the greater Muscatine community, laundry soap is an expensive item that often gets left to the side. To help, Shepherd is teaming up with Grace Lutheran to gather supplies to make laundry soap.  That’s right…we’re making laundry soap, at a much cheaper rate than buying it outright! Starting March 6, we’ll be collecting the following items:

  • baking soda (4 lb. boxes)
  • borax (4 lb. boxes)
  • Fels Naptha bar soap
  • Oxi Clean (4 lb. containers)
  • Washing soda

We’ll gather materials throughout the season, and then our Family Faith Night crew will put these raw materials together to make laundry soap to benefit the families of Lutheran Services of Iowa (LSI). Want to get in on the fun? Mark your calendars now to join us at Grace on April 20 at 6:30 p.m.!

Sewing Machines Needed

Do you have an unused sewing machine in your closet? World Relief of the Quad Cities is looking for used (or new!) sewing machines for immigrant women in our area. If you have a machine you would like to donate, please contact the church office or Ric Smith.

Looking for a mid-week dive into God’s Word?

Join us Wednesdays @ 12:00 pm @ Geo Johnz

Looking for a way to dive into our Sunday Scripture readings prior to worship? Join us for Christians Underground on Wednesdays at 12:00 pm at Geo Johnz (203 E 2nd Street). We’ll provide copies of the Scripture readings and all you need to do is show up and be open to the transformative power of the Spirit through God’s Word! Questions? Talk to Pastor Aleese.

Making Sense of the Cross Adult Education

Beginning Sunday, March 6

When asked, “Why did Jesus die?” what would you say? Many may respond with something like, “to forgive us our sin.” But what does that mean?

If you’d like to dive deeper into the cross, and various perspectives that the four Gospels give us of Jesus’ death and resurrection, join other adults (and older youth) as we dive deeper. The conversation will begin at about 10:30 a.m. and will be led by Pastor Aleese.

Panda Express Fundraiser

March 6

Looking to support our youth and eat some good food at the same time? This opportunity is for you! 

Here’s what you need to do:

  • order food (eat-in/order online) at Panda Express on March 6
  • present our coupon code: 334975
  • enjoy your food and watch SOTC Youth get fundraising dollars!

For more information, and for a page that reminds you of our fundraising code, bookmark this page. Questions? Talk to Leslie Eichelberger.

Categories
News

News & Events

Welcome to the Carter’s, Sullivan’s, and Passmore’s!

A hearty welcome to Chris, Kirsten, Travis, Jill, Aden, Dwight, and Judy!  We officially welcomed them during worship this past Sunday and our young adults/families with kiddos gathered for a night of fellowship later Sunday evening. Welcome to the flock, friends! 

Chocolate Fest!

Sunday, February 27 

In true Shepherd tradition, we will be hosting Chocolate Fest following worship on Sunday, February 27.  This tradition started years ago as “one last chance” to eat all the chocolate/sweets you want before heading into the season of Lent (see below for more information). Whether you’re thinking about giving something up for Lent or not, make sure to join us for an assortment of all things chocolate! All members are invited to bring something to share for our fellowship hour. 

Lent is Coming!

Soon and very soon, we will be launching into the season of Lent. Out theme for this season is “Full to the Brim.” Our hope this Lent is to invite you into God’s abundant and expansive grace, just as you are. Later this week we hope to share more about our theme and other plans for our life together, but for now, note the following details and dates:

Ash Wednesday Worship

Ash Wednesday begins our Lenten journey on Wednesday, March 2. Join us for worship at 7:00 pm

Lenten Midweek Meals and Worship

Starting Wed, March 9, our schedule will be: 

5:30 – 6:15 pm | Meal 
6:30 – 7:15 pm | Worship Service

Willing to help provide food for a meal? We need you! We’re looking for teams of 5 people per Wed to provide, serve, and clean up a meal. Each group of people will determine what they would like to serve. Sign up here or on the sign-up sheet in the narthex. Questions re meals? Contact Colleen Bentz, team lead for our Social Team.

Looking for a mid-week dive into God’s Word?

Join us Wednesdays @ 12:00 pm @ Geo Johnz

Looking for a way to dive into our Sunday Scripture readings prior to worship? Join us for Christians Underground on Wednesdays at 12:00 pm at Geo Johnz (203 E 2nd Street). We’ll provide copies of the Scripture readings and all you need to do is show up and be open to the transformative power of the Spirit through God’s Word! Questions? Talk to Pastor Aleese.

Recognition of Team Members in Worship

Sunday, February 27

A few weeks ago, we offered a blessing and prayer for our Council leaders. But it’s not just our Council leaders who are making things happen at SOTC! Our teams are working hard! To honor our teams, bless them, and offer a prayer, we will be recognizing members of our Shepherding Teams during worship on Sunday, February 27. Team members: simply come to worship and follow instructions during the closing announcements. Thank you, team members, and all Shepherds, for the ways you contribute to the ministry of Jesus Christ through this congregation!

Panda Express Fundraiser

March 6 and April 10

Looking to support our youth and eat some good food at the same time? This opportunity is for you! Mark your calendars for March 6 and April 10 as days to eat in/order online from Panda Express. In the coming weeks, we’ll be given a coupon code as a congregation; simply offer that code when you order and SOTC will receive a portion of each meal sold. Thanks for your support!

Summer Camp Registration at EWALU

If you have a child in grades 1-12, consider spending a day, half-week or week at Camp EWALU this summer!  Early bird registration (deducting $40 from your registration cost) goes through March 1.  Check out EWALU’s website for a full list of camp opportunities!

Do note that we are looking into a confirmation camp opportunity for middle school (grades 6-8) youth this summer. If interested, contact Pastor Aleese. 

For all youth: our Ed Team has agreed to offer a scholarship to youth attending camp. Total donation TBD, but know we are supporting you!

Categories
Worship Services

Worship: More than a Hallmark Card

Luke 6:27-38 | If we were to distill the Christian message into one word, some might suggest that word be “love.” Out of grace, God loves us, and now, we are called to embody that love. Often the catchphrase is “love God, love others,” right? But while that command may seem cut and dry, the more we experience life, the more we are likely to recognize that truly loving one another is quite difficult. So then what? Well, having just passed a holiday celebrating love, join us in worship as we experience God’s grace for us, and as we are challenged to take up a renewed call to embody God’s love in the world.

February 20, 2022, Seventh Sunday after Epiphany Bulletin

Prelude: Gather Us In. Text and music: Marty Haugen, Jeanne Cotter. Text and music: © 1990 GIA Publications, Inc. Covered under One License subscription. Gathering Song: All Are Welcome. Text and music: Marty Haugen, b. 1950. Text and music: © 1994 GIA Publications, Inc. Covered under One License subscription. Hymn of the Day: Lord of All Nations, Grant Me Grace. Text: Olive Wise Spannaus, b. 1916, alt. Music: Samotulsky Kancional, 1561. Text and music © 1969 Concordia Publishing House. Covered under One License subscription. Offering: In the Breaking of the Bread (Emmaus and Jerusalem). Text and music: Bob Hurd.. Text and music: © 2006 OCP. Covered under One License subscription. Communion Song: There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy. Text: Frederick W. Faber, 1814-1863, alt. Music: Calvin Hampton, 1938-1984. Text and music © 1977 GIA Publications, Inc. Covered under One License subscription. Sending Song: Make Me An Instrument. Text and music: Larry Olson, Karol Baer. Text and music © 1989 Dakota Road Music. Covered under CCLI subscription.

Categories
News

News & Events

Lenten Midweek Schedule Finalized!

Thank you for your feedback!  Based on the results of those who responded, our Lent midweek schedule (starting Wed, March 9) will be:

5:30 – 6:15 pm | Meal
6:30 – 7:15 pm | Worship Service

Mark your calendars to join us and look for more information to come soon! Note that Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent on Wed, March 2. Worship for Ash Wednesday will be at 7:00 pm.

Christians Underground to Resumes this Week!

Wednesdays @ 12:00 pm, February 16

Prior to the pandemic, we often met at a restaurant downtown for Bible study and fellowship. For various reasons, this group subsided. However, recently there seems to be an interest in reviving such a group. 

To get going again, we will meet weekly on Wednesdays at 12:00 pm at Geo Johnz Pizza (203 E 2nd Street). The topic of study/conversation will likely begin by focusing on the upcoming Sunday readings. In the future, we may decide to work our way through a book of the Bible.  Join us to offer your suggestions and what you’re looking for! Questions? Talk to Pastor Aleese.

Welcome to the Carter’s, Sullivan’s, and Passmore’s!

Sunday, February 20

Our flock is growing! During worship on Sunday, we will be offering prayer and blessing for the Carter, Sullivan, and Passmore families as they join our family of faith. Mark your calendars to join us for worship and a time of fellowship to get to know them better and offer your welcome!

Panda Express Fundraiser

Looking to support our youth and eat some good food at the same time? This opportunity is for you!

Mark your calendars for March 6 and April 10 as days to eat in/order online from Panda Express. In the coming weeks, we’ll be given a coupon code as a congregation; simply offer that code when you order and SOTC will receive a portion of each meal sold. Thanks for your support!

Summer Camp Registration at EWALU

Though it’s quite cold outside, our Lutheran Outdoor Ministry camps are looking ahead to summer! If you have a child in grades 1-12, consider spending a day, half-week, or week at Camp EWALU.  Early bird registration (deducting $40 from your registration cost) goes through March 1. Check out EWALU’s website for a full list of camp opportunities! Contact Pastor Aleese if your child is considering camp as Shepherd may be able to provide a camping scholarship.

Chocolate Fest!

Sunday, February 27

In true Shepherd tradition, we will be hosting Chocolate Fest following worship on Sunday, February 27. This tradition started years ago as “one last chance” to eat all the chocolate/sweets you want before heading into the season of Lent (starting March 2). Whether you’re thinking about giving something up for Lent or not, make sure to join us for an assortment of all things chocolate! All members are invited to bring something to share for the fellowship hour.  

Categories
Worship Services

Worship: Blessed

Luke 6:17-26 | We often use the word “blessed” when talking about experiences in our lives. But what does that word mean? And how did Jesus use this word? Join us for worship as we hear God’s Word and experience Christ’s promises. Special thanks to Pastor Marvin Robeck and our lay leaders in Pastor Aleese’s absence.

February 13, 2022, Sixth Sunday after Epiphany Bulletin

Copyright acknowledgments: Music covered under 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. Gathering Song: Come All You People. Text and music: Alexander Gondo; tr. I-to-Loh, b. 1936, alt. Text and music: © 1986 World Council of Churches and the Asian Institute of Liturgy. Covered under One License subscription. Hymn of the Day: Blest Are They. Text and music: David Haas, b. 1957. Text and music © 1985 GIA Publications, Inc. Covered under One License subscription. Offering: Change My Heart, O God. Text and music: Eddie Espinosa, b. 1953. Text and music: © 1982 Mercy/Vineyard Publishing, admin. Music Services. Covered under CCLI subscription. Communion Song: We Come to the Hungry Feast. Text and music: Ray Makeever, b. 1943. Text and music © 1982, Ray Makeever, admin. Augsburg Fortress. Covered under One License subscription. Sending Song: We Are Called. Text and music: David Haas, b. 1957. Text and music © 1988 GIA Publications, Inc. Covered under One License subscription.

Categories
News

News & Events:

Lenten Midweek Schedule Feedback

We need to hear from you!

Our Worship and Music and Education Teams have begun making plans for our Lenten journey. We have a few questions, especially in regards to midweek Lenten worship services and meals, so as to gauge the interest and timing of our evening together. Please complete a survey here to help us determine what is best for the whole of our community! Thank you!

Christians Underground to Resume!

Wednesdays @ 12:00 pm, starting February 16

Prior to the pandemic, we often met at a restaurant downtown for Bible study and fellowship. For various reasons, this group subsided. However, recently there seems to be an interest in reviving such a group. 

To get going again, we will meet weekly on Wednesdays at 12:00 p.m. at Geo Johnz Pizza (203 E 2nd Street). The topic of study/conversation will likely begin by focusing on the upcoming Sunday readings. In the future, we may decide to work our way through a book of the Bible.  Join us to offer your suggestions and what you’re looking for! Questions? Talk to Pastor Aleese.

Souper Bowl of Caring Drive

Sunday, February 6 and 13

As many celebrate Super Bowl weekend, let’s work together to fill the Muskie Locker at Susan Clark Junior High! We’ll be collecting the following items on Sunday, Feb. 6 and 13:

  • deodorant (male and female)
  • toothpaste and toothbrushes
  • hoodies
  • sweatshirts
  • adult gloves and hats
  • trappers

All donations must be new (not used). Cash/check donations are also accepted. Questions? Contact Colleen Bentz. 

Welcome to the Carter’s, Sullivan’s and Passmore’s!

Sunday, February 20

Our flock is growing! During worship on Sunday we will be offering prayer and blessing for the Carter, Sullivan, and Passmore families as they join our family of faith. Mark your calendars to join us for worship and a time of fellowship to get to know them better and offer your welcome!

Pastor Aleese Continuing Education

February 11 – 14

Pastor Aleese will be attending the ELCA Extravaganza (a youth leader networking conference) from Feb 11 – 14. She will also be receiving training to lead our synod’s “Synod Day” at the upcoming ELCA Youth Gathering. During her time away, Pastor Willie Rosin (Zion Lutheran) will be available for pastoral emergencies. Pastor Marv Robeck will serve as supply preacher/presider along with lay leaders on Sun, Feb. 14. 

Summer Camp Registration at EWALU

Though it’s quite cold outside, our Lutheran Outdoor Ministry camps are looking ahead to summer! If you have a child in grades 1-12, consider spending a day, half-week, or week at Camp EWALU.  Early bird registration (deducting $40 from your registration cost) goes through March 1.  Check out EWALU’s website for a full list of camp opportunities! Contact Pastor Aleese if your child is considering camp as Shepherd may be able to provide a camping scholarship.

Tone Chime Rehearsals to Resume 

After a brief break over the holidays, our tone chime choir will be coming back together soon!  Watch for more information from Jon Thoma regarding when rehearsals will begin again. 

Want to be involved but were not before? Email Jon directly.

Categories
Worship Services

Worship: Definition of Insanity Redefined

Luke 5:1-11|As the old adage goes, “the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result.” And yet, after a night of fishing and catching nothing, this is exactly what Jesus calls Simon and his comrades to do. Obeying Jesus’ command, they throw their nets in the water (yet again) and are surprised to pull in a catch of fish so large that it breaks their nets. So, today, might we be called to toss our nets into the water (yet again) even when it seems as though nothing is going to change? And, might there be an abundance that we miss out on if we don’t? Join us for worship as we hear Christ’s promise of abundance and fulfillment and as we are sent as Jesus’ disciples.

February 6, 2022, Fifth Sunday after Epiphany Bulletin

Copyright acknowledgments: Music covered under 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: Interlude. Text and music: Mark Hayes. Text and Music: © 1981 Harold Flammer Music Admin. by Hal Leonard LLC, Admin. by Tom Cat Music. Covered under CCLI subscription. Gathering Song: Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty!. Text: Reginald Heber, 1783-1826. Music: John B. Dykes, 1823-1876. Text and music: Public Domain. Covered under One License subscription. Hymn of the Day: You Have Come Down to the Lakeshore. Text and music: Cesareo Gabarain 1936-1991. Text and music © 1979, 1987, Cesareo Gabarain. Published by OCP. Covered under One License subscription. Offering: Take, Oh, Take Me As I Am. Text and music: John L. Bell, b. 1949. Text and music: © 1995 Iona Community, admin. GIA Publications, Inc. Covered under One License subscription. Communion Song: Here I Am, Lord. Text and music: Daniel L. Schutte. Text and music © 1981, OCP. Covered under One License subscription. Sending Song: Make Me An Instrument. Text and music: Larry Olson. Text © 1989 Dakota Road Music. Covered under CCLI subscription.

Categories
News

News & Events:

Lenten Midweek Schedule Feedback

We need to hear from you!

Our Worship and Music and Education Teams have begun making plans for our Lenten journey. We have a few questions, especially in regards to midweek Lenten worship services and meals, so as to gauge interest and timing of our evening together. Please complete a survey here to help us determine what is best for the whole of our community! Thank you!

Shepherding Team Sign Up

We’re closing in on having our team line up ready to share with the congregation! Before doing so, if you haven’t had the chance to sign up to be a part of a Shepherding Team, sign up here or on the bulletin board in the narthex. We need everyone in this community to help facilitate the mission of Jesus Christ in this place!

SOTC Game Night

Saturday, February 5 from 4:00 – 6:00 pm

 It’s this weekend! Bring your favorite games and an appetizer to share for our meal. If you’re willing to bring a liter of pop and/or help in the kitchen during the evening, contact Colleen Bentz or Kathy Dunham. 

Souper Bowl of Caring Drive

Sunday, February 6 and 13

As many celebrate Super Bowl weekend, let’s work together to fill the Muskie Locker at Susan Clark Junior High! We’ll be collecting the following items on Sunday Feb 6 and 13:

  • deodorant (male and female)
  • toothpaste and toothbrushes
  • hoodies
  • sweatshirts
  • adult gloves and hats
  • trappers

All donations must be new (not used). Cash/check donations also accepted. Questions? Contact Colleen Bentz. 

Narrative Directory Now Available!

Ever want to know a bit more about your fellow Shepherds? Thanks to our Social Team, we have a new Narrative Directory that helps us get to know one another! Check it out to put a name to a face (thanks to your awesome pictures!) and learn more about our church family! Members will find it in our Members tab on website.

Pastor Aleese Continuing Education

Feb 11 – 14

Pastor Aleese will be attending the ELCA Extravaganza (a youth leader networking conference) from Feb 11 – 14. She will also be receiving training to lead our synod’s “Synod Day” at the upcoming ELCA Youth Gathering. During her time away, Pastor Willie Rosin (Zion Lutheran) will be available for pastoral emergencies. Pastor Marv Robeck will serve as supply preacher/presider along with lay leaders on Sun, Feb. 14. 

Tone Chime Rehearsals to Resume 

After a brief break over the holidays, our tone chime choir will be coming back together soon!  Watch for more information from Jon Thoma regarding when rehearsals will begin again. 

Want to be involved but were not before? Email Jon directly.