Category: News

Holy Week Worship

After celebrating Palm Sunday this weekend, we look toward Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Vigil, and Easter Sunday.

Maundy Thursday, April 17 – 7:00 pm worship with Holy Communion

Good Friday, April 18 – 7:00 pm worship

Easter Vigil, April 19 (New Era) – 4:00 pm worship; 5:30 pm meal
Bring a dessert to share!

Easter Sunday, April 20 – 9:00 am festival worship

Holy Week Worship Times @ Grace, Zion, New Era

Unable to make the worship time at Shepherd? Consider joining one of our fellow Faith Together Muscatine churches! Please note the time change for Good Friday worship for Zion. 

Easter Breakfast and Egg Hunt

Sunday, April 20

Join us for Easter Breakfast starting at 8:00 am! Breakfast will wrap up by 8:45 am so we can transition to worship. 

Have kiddos? All are welcome to partake in an Easter Egg Hunt at 8:30am. Bring your basket if you’d like! We’ll also have extra bags on hand.

Communuity Easter Egg Hunt @ Lutheran Living

Friday, April 18 @ 1:30 pm

Lutheran Living (2421 Lutheran Drive, Muscatine) is hosting a community-wide Easter Egg Hunt complete with pictures with the Easter bunny, prizes, and refreshments! There will be three search areas: for ages 1-5, 6-8, and 9-12. Join the fun!

Shepherd Kids’ Day

Friday, April 18, 9:00 – 11:00 am

Lower and upper elementary youth are invited to join us for a morning exploring what is worship, why we worship, and how we can participate in worship. If you have questions, or if your kids have friends they’d like to bring with them!, contact Pastor Aleese.

Renewal Christian Women’s Retreat

Saturday, May 3
9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Muscatine Community College

Join women for a one-day retreat, designed to inspire women to find joy and hope amidst the chaos of everyday life. This event will provide a supportive environment for spiritual growth, Christian fellowship, and personal rejuvenation. 

Check out the event website to learn more and register. Register by April 26. 

UNI Choir and Orchestra Concert

Saturday, April 26 @ 7:00 pm
Wesley United Methodist

The UNI Concert Chorale and Northern Iowa Symphony will perform Mozart’s Requiem right here in Muscatine! The choir also includes some Muscatine natives.Doors open at 6:00 pm. Concert is free to attend.

LAST NIGHT!

Midweek Worship, Meal, Family Faith Nights

Wednesday, April 9

We’ve made our way through much of Holy Week, and in this last evening, we’ll consider not only the joy of Easter Sunday, but the fredom given to us through Christ. Whether you’ve joined us once, twice, or not at all yet this season, join us for worship at 5:30, meal at 6:00, and Family Faith Nights at 6:30. Meal is pulled pork, mac and cheese, coleslaw and dessert.

Holy Week Worship

Our last leg of Lent brings us to Holy Week with the celebration of Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Vigil, and Easter Sunday. 

Palm Sunday, April 13 – 9:00 am worship with procession of palms

Maundy Thursday, April 17 – 7:00 pm worship with Holy Communion

Good Friday, April 18 – 7:00 pm worship

Easter Vigil, April 19 (New Era) – 4:00 pm worship; 5:30 pm meal
Bring a dessert to share!

Easter Sunday, April 20 – 9:00 am festival worship

Holy Week Worship Times @ Grace, Zion, New Era

Unable to make the worship time at Shepherd? Consider joining one of our fellow Faith Together Muscatine churches!

Help Needed for Easter Breakfast and Egg Hunt

We need your help! 

1. Help provide food for Easter Breakfast (8:00 am) – donuts, muffins, yogurt, fruit, juice and coffee. Sign up in the narthex or contact the church office. 
2. Bring bags of individually wrapped candies to church for the Easter Egg Hunt (8:30 am). Bring donations by April 13. 
3. Help fill eggs during fellowship on Palm Sunday (April 13)

Thanks in advance for your help in our celebration of our Lord’s resurrection!

Communuity Easter Egg Hunt @ Lutheran Living

Friday, April 18 @ 1:30 pm

Lutheran Living (2421 Lutheran Drive, Muscatine) is hosting a community-wide Easter Egg Hunt complete with pictures with the Easter bunny, prizes, and refreshments! There will be three search areas: for ages 1-5, 6-8, and 9-12. Join the fun!

Shepherd Kids’ Day

Friday, April 18, 9:00 – 11:00 am

Lower and upper elementary youth are invited to join us for a morning exploring what is worship, why we worship, and how we can participate in worship. If you have questions, or if your kids have friends they’d like to bring with them!, contact Pastor Aleese.

Upcoming Opporutnities to Support Our Youth!

Check out how and where our Shepherd youth are performing later this spring and mark your calendars! Thanks for supporting one another!

The Adams Family Muscatine High School Musical
April 24 & 25, May 1 & 2 @ 7:00 pm

Join us for a night of hilarity and drama as we support Elyse Eichelberger! Tickets are $9 online and $12 at the door. Tickets can be purchased through the Muscatine Box Office. Tickets will be sold online up to 15 minutes before each show. Performance is at the Muscatine High School auditorium.

Dance Recital
May 9 & 10 @ 7:00 pm

Support the Vircks girls as they dance! Recital takes place at the Muscatine High School.

Wesley Youth Choir Concert
May 11 @ 4:00 pm

Amelia Vircks will be performing as a part of the youth choir for this concert.

Renewal Christian Women’s Retreat

Saturday, May 3
9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Muscatine Community College

Join women for a one-day retreat, designed to inspire women to find joy and hope amidst the chaos of everyday life. This event will provide a supportive environment for spiritual growth, Christian fellowship, and personal rejuvenation. 

Check out the event website to learn more and register. Register by April 26. 

UNI Choir and Orchestra Concert

Saturday, April 26 @ 7:00 pm
Wesley United Methodist

The UNI Concert Chorale and Northern Iowa Symphony will perform Mozart’s Requiem right here in Muscatine! The choir also includes some Muscatine natives.Doors open at 6:00 pm. Concert is free to attend.

Midweek Worship, Meal, Family Faith Nights Continue!

Wednesday, April 2

A huge thank you to all who helped with the midweek meal last Wednesday! This coming Wednesday, we’ll sit in the “in between” time between the death of Christ on Good Friday and the dawn of the resurrection on Easter Sunday. Join us as we begin to look toward the Easter Vigil that we’ll be celebrating at New Era later this month!

5:30 | Worship
6:00 | Meal
6:30 | Family Faith Night Groups

Holy Week Worship

Our last leg of Lent brings us to Holy Week with the celebration of Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Vigil, and Easter Sunday. 

Palm Sunday, April 13 – 9:00 am worship with procession of palms

Maundy Thursday, April 17 – 7:00 pm worship with Holy Communion

Good Friday, April 18 – 7:00 pm worship

Easter Vigil, April 19 (New Era) – 4:00 pm worship; 5:30 pm meal

Easter Sunday, April 20 – 9:00 am festival worship

Help Needed for Easter Breakfast and Egg Hunt

We need your help! 

1. Help provide food for Easter Breakfast (8:00 am) – donuts, muffins, yogurt, fruit, juice and coffee. Sign up in the narthex or contact the church office. 
2. Bring bags of individually wrapped candies to church for the Easter Egg Hunt (8:30 am). Bring donations by April 13. 
3. Help fill eggs during fellowship on Palm Sunday (April 13)

Thanks in advance for your help in our celebration of our Lord’s resurrection!

Christian Day Camp Registration Now Open!

Registration Information for Kids

If you have kids you’d like to resiger for the summer, do so soon! Though registration extends until May 9, registration will close early if we reach capacity. Already, our elementary and preschool camps are half-full. Although there is ample space for our middle school camp, we anticipate word spreading fast! Go to the registration page on our website to review dates, cost, and register!

Volunteers needed!

With two sessions for elementary, one for middle school, and three preschool nights, we need many volunteers to make camp a success. If you’re able to help for a half day, a full day, or a full week, we’ll take you! Help needed as group leaders (taking kids from station to station), station helpers (assisting a specific station leader with something like crafts), food servers, and more! Sign up using our online form. 

Renewal Christian Women’s Retreat

Saturday, May 3
9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Muscatine Community College

Join women for a one-day retreat, designed to inspire women to find joy and hope amidst the chaos of everyday life. This event will provide a supportive environment for spiritual growth, Christian fellowship, and personal rejuvenation. 

Check out the event website to learn more and register. Register by April 26. 

Communuity Easter Egg Hunt @ Lutheran Living

Friday, April 18 @ 1:30 pm

Lutheran Living (2421 Lutheran Drive, Muscatine) is hosting a community-wide Easter Egg Hunt complete with pictures with the Easter bunny, prizes, and refreshments! There will be three search areas: for ages 1-5, 6-8, and 9-12.  

Join the fun!

Christian Day Camp Registration Now Open!

Registration Information for Kids

If you have kids you’d like to resiger for the summer, do so soon! Though registration extends until May 9, registration will close early if we reach capacity. Already, our elementary and preschool camps are half-full. Although there is ample space for our middle school camp, we anticipate word spreading fast! Go to the registration page on our website to review dates, cost, and register!

Volunteers needed!

With two sessions for elementary, one for middle school, and three preschool nights, we need many volunteers to make camp a success. If you’re able to help for a half day, a full day, or a full week, we’ll take you! Help needed as group leaders (taking kids from station to station), station helpers (assisting a specific station leader with something like crafts), food servers, and more! Sign up using our online form. 

Midweek Worship, Meal, Family Faith Nights Continue!

Wednesday, March 26

We’re already halfway through Lent! This coming Wednesday we’ll consider Jesus’ sacrifice through the lens of the story of the sacrifice of Isaac.

5:30 | Worship
6:00 | Meal
6:30 | Family Faith Night Groups

Holy Week Worship

Our last leg of Lent brings us to Holy Week with the celebration of Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Vigil, and Easter Sunday. 

Palm Sunday, April 13 – 9:00 am worship with procession of palms

Maundy Thursday, April 17 – 7:00 pm worship with Holy Communion

Good Friday, April 18 – 7:00 pm worship

Easter Vigil, April 19 (New Era) – 4:00 pm worship; 5:30 pm meal

Easter Sunday, April 20 – 9:00 am festival worship

Easter Vigil Worship Service and Meal

Saturday, April 19 – 4:00 worship, 5:30 meal
New Era Lutheran Church (3455 New Era Road, Muscatine)

We’re thrilled to have a good crew who’ll be joining us for worship and a meal on the eve of Easter! To prepare for the meal, Shepherd has been tasked to bring desserts. If you plan to attend worship, bring a dessert with you! Easy as that! No sign up needed! Questions, talk to Pastor Aleese.

Easter Breakfast and Egg Hunt

Before worshipping our risen Lord, join us for fellowship and fun!

Easter Breakfast, 8:00 am – donuts, muffins, yogurt, fruit, juice and coffee

Easter Egg Hunt, 8:30 am – outside weather permitting! All kids invited!

Renewal Christian Women’s Retreat

Saturday, May 3
9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Muscatine Community College

Join women for a one-day retreat, designed to inspire women to find joy and hope amidst the chaos of everyday life. This event will provide a supportive environment for spiritual growth, Christian fellowship, and personal rejuvenation. 

Check out the event website to learn more and register. Register by April 26. 

Euchre Tournament

Saturday, March 29, 4:00 – 8:00 pm

Enjoy cards? This event is for you! The Muscatine Senior Center is hosting a Euchre night as a fundraiser. Doors open at 4:00 pm with food available for purchase (sloppy joes, chips, cookie, soda, water). Euchre begins at 5:00 pm. Cost is $15 per person (in advance) and $20 at the door. For more information, and to get your tickets, call Senior Resources at 563-263-7292. 

Christian Day Camp Registration Now Open!

Registration Information for Kids

If you have kids you’d like to resiger for the summer, do so soon! Though registration extends until May 9, registration will close early if we reach capacity. Already, our elementary and preschool camps are half-full. Although there is ample space for our middle school camp, we anticipate word spreading fast! Go to the registration page on our website to review dates, cost, and register!

Volunteers needed!

With two sessions for elementary, one for middle school, and three preschool nights, we need many volunteers to make camp a success. If you’re able to help for a half day, a full day, or a full week, we’ll take you! Help needed as group leaders (taking kids from station to station), station helpers (assisting a specific station leader with something like crafts), food servers, and more! Sign up using our online form. 

Midweek Worship, Meal, Family Faith Nights Continue!

Wednesday, March 19

We had a great first evening last week, and look forward to gathering this Wednesday to explore the connection of the Passover to Maundy Thursday.  Join us for part, or all, of the night!

5:30 | Worship
6:00 | Meal
6:30 | Family Faith Night Groups

Celtic Psalms Concert

Saturday, March 22 @ 7:00 pm @ First Presbyterian Church (401 Iowa Ave)

Immerse yourself in a night of ancient psalms, reimagined with stunningly beautiful traditional Irish and Scottish melodies, and rich harmonies, celebrating a deep spiritual and cultural heritage. Celtic Psalms is touring the US, starting on the east coast, and ending right here in Iowa! This concert is sponsored by First Presbyterian, who traveled with members of this group last year. For more information on the group, check out the Celtic Psalms website. 

Holy Week Worship

Our last leg of Lent brings us to Holy Week with the celebration of Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Vigil, and Easter Sunday. 

Palm Sunday, April 13 – 9:00 am worship with procession of palms

Maundy Thursday, April 17 – 7:00 pm worship with Holy Communion

Good Friday, April 18 – 7:00 pm worship

Easter Vigil, April 19 (New Era) – 4:00 pm worship; 5:30 pm meal

Easter Sunday, April 20 – 9:00 am festival worship

Easter Vigil Worship Service and Meal

Saturday, April 19 – 4:00 worship, 5:30 meal
New Era Lutheran Church (3455 New Era Road, Muscatine)

We’re thrilled to have a good crew who’ll be joining us for worship and a meal on the eve of Easter! To prepare for the meal, Shepherd has been tasked to bring desserts. If you plan to attend worship, bring a dessert with you! Easy as that! No sign up needed! Questions, talk to Pastor Aleese.

Easter Breakfast and Egg Hunt

Before worshipping our risen Lord, join us for fellowship and fun!

Easter Breakfast, 8:00 am – donuts, muffins, yogurt, fruit, juice and coffee

Easter Egg Hunt, 8:30 am – outside weather permitting! All kids invited!

Renewal Christian Women’s Retreat

Saturday, May 3
9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Muscatine Community College

Join women for a one-day retreat, designed to inspire women to find joy and hope amidst the chaos of everyday life. This event will provide a supportive environment for spiritual growth, Christian fellowship, and personal rejuvenation. 

Check out the event website to learn more and register. Register by April 26. 

Euchre Tournament

Saturday, March 29, 4:00 – 8:00 pm

Enjoy cards? This event is for you! The Muscatine Senior Center is hosting a Euchre night as a fundraiser. Doors open at 4:00 pm with food available for purchase (sloppy joes, chips, cookie, soda, water). Euchre begins at 5:00 pm. Cost is $15 per person (in advance) and $20 at the door. For more information, and to get your tickets, call Senior Resources at 563-263-7292. 

Christian Day Camp Registration Now Open!

Calling all preschoolers, elementary kids, and middle school youth! We have another great summer lined up for Christian Day Camp just for you! New website for camp has just been launched where you can register in minutes.

Check out the session dates below, check your calendar, and then head to the website for more information! Volunteers – we need you too! Sign up through our website. 

Elementary Session 1: June 10 -13
Elementary Session 2: June 17-20
Middle School: June 24 – 27
Preschool Nights: June 9, 16, 23

Midweek Lenten Worship – Meal – Family Faith Nights

Beginning THIS Wednesday, March 12

After Ash Wednesday, we will be gathering with Zion, Grace, and New Era for midweek worship, meal, and Family Faith Nights.

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

Join us for part, or all, of the night! 

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, come and join us! Our Sojourners adult group will continue to meet on their own, but an additional Lenten group will form led by Andy Christy. 

Have kids or youth who want to join in during Lent? They can join our lower elementary, upper elementary, and middle school groups! 

Celtic Psalms Concert

Saturday, March 22 @ 7:00 pm @ First Presbyterian Church (401 Iowa Ave)

Immerse yourself in a night of ancient psalms, reimagined with stunningly beautiful traditional Irish and Scottish melodies, and rich harmonies, celebrating a deep spiritual and cultural heritage. Celtic Psalms is touring the US, starting on the east coast, and ending right here in Iowa! This concert is sponsored by First Presbyterian, who traveled with members of this group last year. For more information on the group, check out the Celtic Psalms website. 

Support of Ukrainian Refugees in Muscatine Area

Several weeks ago we announced that some of the Ukrainian families who sought refuge in the Muscatine area may need financial assistance. Since then, many of these families have decided to apply for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). 

There is still a cost to applying for, and the process, of obtaining Temporary Protected Status. To assist with these fees, Muscatine Sister Cities is in the process of setting up a charitable fund at the Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine. This is expected to be finalized in the near future. For more information, contact Deb Hueser. 

If you are seeking an avenue to give now, consider giving toward Global Refuge, an organization rooted in the Lutheran church that supports immigrants and refugees in the United States. 

Holy Week Worship

Our last leg of Lent brings us to Holy Week with the celebration of Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Vigil, and Easter Sunday. 

Palm Sunday, April 13 – 9:00 am worship with procession of palms

Maundy Thursday, April 17 – 7:00 pm worship with Holy Communion

Good Friday, April 18 – 7:00 pm worship

Easter Vigil, April 19 (New Era) – 4:00 pm worship; 5:30 pm meal

Easter Sunday, April 20 – 9:00 am festival worship

Easter Vigil Worship Service and Meal

Saturday, April 19 – 4:00 worship, 5:30 meal
New Era Lutheran Church (3455 New Era Road, Muscatine)

Easter Vigil moves us from the darkness of Good Friday into the joy and celebration of Easter. Worship will begin with a campfire outside (weather permitting), interactive Scriptures, song, prayer, remembrance of baptism, and Holy Communion. 

After celebrating the news of Christ’s resurrection, we’ll feast in joy with one another across our congregations with a meal. Buns and meat will be provided; congregations will be asked to help provide either side dishes or deserts. To help plan for food, if you’re eating with us, sign up in the narthex or contact Pastor Aleese. 

Shepherd Kids Day

Friday, April 18 @ 9:00 am

Once again our kids will be gathering for a Shepherds Kids Day on Good Friday. Focus of our time will be on worship: why do it? and why do we do all the things we do in worship? 

Parents of elementary aged kids will be contacted soon. If you have questions, contact Pastor Aleese or an Education Team member (Mackenzie Gilbert, Connie Hoektra, Judy Bartling, Bruce Selking).

Easter Breakfast and Egg Hunt

Before worshipping our risen Lord, join us for fellowship and fun!

Easter Breakfast, 8:00 am – donuts, muffins, yogurt, fruit, juice and coffee

Easter Egg Hunt, 8:30 am – outside weather permitting! All kids invited!

Ash Wednesday Worship

TOMORROW, Wednesday, March 5 @ 7:00pm

Our journey into the season of Lent begins with a call to “return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful.” Together in worship we’ll confess our sin, receive God’s forgiveness, practice the imposition of ashes, and partake in the sacrament of communion. 

Unable to join us at 7:00? Join our fellow ELCA congregations:

Zion – 5:30 pm
Grace – 6:00 pm

Easter Flowers

Sunday, March 9

Want to help make Easter morning extra special? We are wanting to add 15 plants to decorate our santuary. Cost is $13 per plant. Sign up in the narthex or contact Kathy with how many and who you would like the plant in memory/honor of.

Christian Day Camp Registration Now Open!

Calling all preschoolers, elementary kids, and middle school youth! We have another great summer lined up for Christian Day Camp just for you! New website for camp has just been launched where you can register in minutes.

Check out the session dates below, check your calendar, and then head to the website for more information! Volunteers – we need you too! Sign up through our website. 

Elementary Session 1: June 10 -13
Elementary Session 2: June 17-20
Middle School: June 24 – 27
Preschool Nights: June 9, 16, 23

Midweek Lenten Worship – Meal – Family Faith Nights

Beginning Wednesday, March 12

After Ash Wednesday, we will be gathering with Zion, Grace, and New Era for midweek worship, meal, and 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 or contact the church office. 

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, email Andy Christy. (Kids and youth can always hop in on the groups already going!)

Easter Vigil Worship Service and Meal

Easter Vigil moves us from the darkness of Good Friday into the joy and celebration of Easter. Worship will begin with a campfire outside (weather permitting), interactive Scriptures, song, prayer, remembrance of baptism, and Holy Communion. 

After celebrating the news of Christ’s resurrection, we’ll feast in joy with one another across our congregations with a meal. Buns and meat will be provided; congregations will be asked to help provide either side dishes or deserts. To help plan for food, if you’re eating with us, sign up in the narthex or contact Pastor Aleese. 

Holy Week Worship

Our last leg of Lent brings us to Holy Week with the celebration of Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Vigil, and Easter Sunday. 

Palm Sunday, April 13 – 9:00 am worship with procession of palms

Maundy Thursday, April 17 – 7:00 pm worship with Holy Communion

Good Friday, April 18 – 7:00 pm worship

Easter Vigil, April 19 (New Era) – 4:00 pm worship; 5:30 pm meal

Easter Sunday, April 20 – 9:00 am festival worship

Support of Ukrainian Refugees in Muscatine Area

Several weeks ago we announced that some of the Ukrainian families who sought refuge in the Muscatine area may need financial assistance. Since then, many of these families have decided to apply for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). 

There is still a cost to applying for, and the process, of obtaining Temporary Protected Status. To assist with these fees, Muscatine Sister Cities is in the process of setting up a charitable fund at the Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine. This is expected to be finalized in the near future. For more information, contact Deb Hueser. 

If you are seeking an avenue to give now, consider giving toward Global Refuge, an organization rooted in the Lutheran church that supports immigrants and refugees in the United States. 

Shepherd Kids Day

Friday, April 18 @ 9:00 am

Once again our kids will be gathering for a Shepherds Kids Day on Good Friday. Focus of our time will be on worship: why do it? and why do we do all the things we do in worship? 

Parents of elementary aged kids will be contacted soon. If you have questions, contact Pastor Aleese or an Education Team member (Mackenzie Gilbert, Connie Hoektra, Judy Bartling, Bruce Selking).

Easter Breakfast and Egg Hunt

Before worshipping our risen Lord, join us for fellowship and fun!

Easter Breakfast, 8:00 am – donuts, muffins, yogurt, fruit, juice and coffee

Easter Egg Hunt, 8:30 am – outside weather permitting! All kids invited!

Community Diaper Bank Drive Total!

Through your donations, we collected 5,923 diapers for the Community Diaper Bank! That will be 236 packs of diapers distribited to families in the greater Muscatine area. Thank you for your contributions and thank you for sharing God’s love in our community!

Blessings to Delene

This past Sunday we offered a blessing for Delene who is moving to Nebraska. Delene – you will be dearly missed! We pray God’s blessing on you as you continue your journey, trusting that in God’s love we are always connected!

Chocolate Fest

Sunday, March 2

In traditional Shepherd custom, we will host Chocolate Fest following worship this coming Sunday. This coming weekend 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!

Ash Wednesday Worship

Wednesday, March 5 @ 7:00pm

Our journey into the season of Lent begins with a call to “return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful.” Together in worship we’ll confess our sin, receive God’s forgiveness, practice the imposition of ashes, and partake in the sacrament of communion. 

Unable to join us at 7:00? Join our fellow ELCA congregations:

Zion – 5:30 pm
Grace – 6:00 pm

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 soon. (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 (7:00), Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday (7:00), Good Friday (7:00), 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.

National Lutheran Choir Concert

Friday, February 28, 7:30pm @ Luther College, Decorah

This Friday the National Lutheran Choir, led by Dr. Jennaya Robison, is coming to Decorah on their regional tour. This powerful program is entitled, “Healing: Body and Spirit.” There is no charge to attend this performance, but all attendees must secure a ticket. Go to the Luther Box Office website to reserve yours today!

Shepherd Kids Day

Friday, April 18 @ 9:00 am

Once again our kids will be gathering for a Shepherds Kids Day on Good Friday. Focus of our time will be on worship: why do it? and why do we do all the things we do in worship? 

Parents of elementary aged kids will be contacted soon. If you have questions, contact Pastor Aleese or an Education Team member (Mackenzie Gilbert, Connie Hoektra, Judy Bartling, Bruce Selking).

Christian Day Camp Registration

Opens Monday, March 10!

Calling all preschoolers, elementary kids, and middle school youth! We have another great summer lined up for Christian Day Camp just for you! New website for camp will be launched March 1 where you can register in minutes. In the meantime, check these dates on your calendar so you’re set and ready to register!

Elementary Session 1: June 10 -13
Elementary Session 2: June 17-20
Middle School: June 24 – 27
Preschool Nights: June 9, 16, 23

Community Diaper Bank Drive

We’ve collected 4,124 diapers for the Community Diaper Bank! Wow! Pastor Aleese challenged us to a total of 6,274 diapers by the end of February. That would be a total of 250 packs of diapers for families in our community!

Make sure to bring in your diapers this Sunday, February 23! Last chance! Sizes 1, 4, 5, 6, and 7 diapers are most needed, but any size will be utilized! 

Farewell and Godspeed to Delene

Sunday, February 23

As a congregation, we welcome, we grow, and we send. Sometimes, that sending sends our Shepherds on new adventures away from this community. 

Later this spring Delene will be moving to Nebraska. Before heading out, we’ll offer her a special blessing during our worship service along with fellowship to follow. Be sure to join us as we wish Delene farewell (see you soon!) and Godspeed!

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

What a fun night! Lots of laughs, food, and games! Thanks to all who joined us!

Welcome to New Members

With joy we welcomed 7 new members this past Sunday in worship: Deb, Wanda, Wade, Liz, Bruce, Lynn and Nancy. Continue to hold them in prayer as they join our flock, and continue to uphold one another as fellow disciples of Jesus!

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!

Ash Wednesday Worship

Wednesday, March 5 @ 7:00pm

Our journey into the season of Lent begins with a call to “return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful.” Together in worship we’ll confess our sin, receive God’s forgiveness, practice the imposition of ashes, and partake in the sacrament of communion. 

Unable to join us at 7:00? Join our fellow ELCA congregations:

Zion – 5:30 pm
Grace – 6:00 pm

The Stations of the Cross Concert

Friday, March 21 @ 7:00pm

Dr. Stephen Hamilton, international concert organist, will present the organ meditations on “The Stations of the Cross” by Marcel Dupré on Friday, March 21, at 7pm at Wesley United Methodist Church. This is a free event. The meditations combine 14 poetic readings of the Passion and Death of Jesus with powerful organ music. Michael Barone, the creator and host of “Pipedreams,” will be the narrator. Slides of artwork depicting the Stations will accompany the performance.

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.

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, Bruce and Lynn Selking, and Nancy Coulter!

Farewell and Godspeed to Delene

Sunday, February 23

As a congregation, we welcome, we grow, and we send. Sometimes, that sending sends our Shepherds on new adventures away from this community. 

Later this spring Delene will be moving to Nebraska. Before heading out, we’ll offer her a special blessing during our worship service along with fellowship to follow. Be sure to join us as we wish Delene farewell (see you soon!) and Godspeed!

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 March 2. Dates will also be added to our online SOTC calendar.

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!

The Stations of the Cross Concert

Friday, March 21 @ 7:00pm

Dr. Stephen Hamilton, international concert organist, will present the organ meditations on “The Stations of the Cross” by Marcel Dupré on Friday, March 21, at 7pm at Wesley United Methodist Church. This is a free event. The meditations combine 14 poetic readings of the Passion and Death of Jesus with powerful organ music. Michael Barone, the creator and host of “Pipedreams,” will be the narrator. Slides of artwork depicting the Stations will accompany the performance.