Category: News

Seeking Food Donations!

The SOTC council is excited to reboot our weekly food drive to help support our local MCSA food pantry! As the needs in our community grow, this is a great opportunity to come together and help those in need. 

Simply grab a non-perishable food item from your pantry and place it in the green tote found in the narthex. A volunteer will make sure items are delivered to MCSA in a timely manner. Some needed items are (pop top cans preferred):

Listen, God is Calling Stewardship Opportunities

We’re looking forward to the coming weeks! See below and mark your calendars!

Saturday, September 28 | Bonfire, 6:30 – 8:30 pm 

Kick off our stewardship focus by celebrating our community! Bring your own lawn chair and any outdoor games you enjoy playing.

Sunday, October 6 & 13 | Return Pledge Cards and Posters

On Sunday, September 29, we will distribute a pledge card and a pledge poster. The pledge poster is meant as an exercise for an entire family/household. Consider, and pray over, how God is calling you in your lives, in our congregation, and in our community. Reflect on your responses, write them on the poster, and then bring it back to SOTC to tape to our window wall in the narthex. 

Financial pledge cards will also be distributed this year as an encourage to consider our commitment to fostering the mission of Jesus through Shepherd of the Cross. Though stewardship is more than money, money is also a part of the resources that God has entrusted to us. 

Sunday, October 6 | Sock-tober Drive begins

Live out your response to God’s generosity by serving others! We’ll collect socks for Laundry Love, an initiative that offers low-cost laundry services to Muscatine families and basic essentials. 

Sunday, October 13 | Celebration Breakfast Potluck

Celebrate the invitations God has given us and our collective response of praise! To have a good spread, sign up to bring something! We’re looking for breakfast casseroles, muffins, fruit, and drinks. Sign up in the narthex or contact the church office. 

Muscatine CROP Hunger Walk

Sunday, October 6, @ 2:00pm, at the Riverfront

Muscatine is excited to host another CROP Hunger Walk, funding hunger initiatiatives close to home and domestically (25% of the money collected is returned to the Muscatine Community Food Pantry and Bag of Blessings at the Muscatine Community Schools). If you’re interested in joining the cause against hunger, here are some ways to participate:

1. Donate to Shepherd’s Team | Give online any amount! Click the orange “Make a Donation” button on the side of the page. Enter your information and make sure to include that your donation is in support of Shepherd of the Cross. 
2. Walk on October 6 | Contact Kathy if you’d like to represent Shepherd and our financial contribution!
3. Dine at Applebee’s on September 24, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm | Eat from the special menu and 50% of the meal price plus any tips/donations go to the Crop Walk. Join your fellow Shepherd’s @ 4:30pm for a dinner meal together!

Collaboration Update

This past Sunday Mackenzie and Nick, on behalf of SOTC’s Council and the collaborative working group between ELCA congregations (Shepherd, Zion, Grace, and New Era) shared an update. If you missed it, or want to return to what was shared, click here to see the written announcement. Questions or concerns? Talk to a member of Council (Delene McConnaha, Gladys Reif, Linda Adams, Kathy Dunham, Erin Jorgensen, Melissa Booth, Joanne Drinkall, Connie Hoekstra) or a Shepherd representative from the collaborative group (Mackenzie and Nick Gilbert, Andy Christy). 

Shepherd Kid Days

October 18, January 20,
April 18

Last spring, our Shepherd kids gathered on Good Friday to learn about communion. This school year, we’re expanding that to offer three days throughout the school year. We’ll meet at SOTC from 9:00 – 11:00 am, each time focusing on a different topic (October: Stewardship and Service; January: Justice; April: Baptism)

For now, mark your calendars…and families – be on the look out for more information soon! If you know someone from outside SOTC that would like to participate, talk to Pastor Aleese.

Soup Fest

Sunday, November 3

As we look to fall, we’re also looking forward to SOTC’s (nearly) annual Soup Fest event. Once again, SOTC will host Soup Fest on the first Sunday of November. In time, we’ll be seeking bakers, cooks, servers, dish washers, and the like. For now, mark your calendars and let others know if they ask about this event!

Seeking Food Donations!

The SOTC council is excited to reboot our weekly food drive to help support our local MCSA food pantry! As the needs in our community grow, this is a great opportunity to come together and help those in need. 

Simply grab a non-perishable food item from your pantry and place it in the green tote found in the narthex. A volunteer will make sure items are delivered to MCSA in a timely manner. Some needed items are (pop top cans preferred):

Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant difference in the lives of families facing hunger in the Muscatine area. Questions: talk to Gladys Reif, Melissa Booth, or Kathy Dunham.

Upcoming Stewardship Emphasis Listen, God is Calling

Think of the last invitation you received. Perhaps it was for an event, a coffee date with a friend, or a meeting. Often, invitations are given by someone we have a relationship with and are given with the opportunity for a response. 

In the same way, God also offers us so many invitations. And, throughout our stewardship emphasis (Sept 29 – Oct 13) we’ll listen for God’s invitation to receive, to steward, and to serve. 

To participate even more fully in the invitations that are before us, our Stewardship Team invites you to consider the following opportunities: 

Saturday, September 28 | Bonfire, 6:30 – 8:30 pm 

Kick off our stewardship focus by celebrating our community! Bring your own lawn chair and any outdoor games you enjoy playing.

Sunday, October 6 & 13 | Return Pledge Cards and Posters

On Sunday, September 29, we will distribute a pledge card and a pledge poster. The pledge poster is meant as an exercise for an entire family/household. Consider, and pray over, how God is calling you in your lives, in our congregation, and in our community. Reflect on your responses, write them on the poster, and then bring it back to SOTC to tape to our window wall in the narthex. 

Financial pledge cards will also be distributed this year as an encourage to consider our commitment to fostering the mission of Jesus through Shepherd of the Cross. Though stewardship is more than money, money is also a part of the resources that God has entrusted to us. 

Sunday, October 6 | Sock-tober Drive begins

Live out your response to God’s generosity by serving others! We’ll collect socks for Laundry Love, an initiative that offers low-cost laundry services to Muscatine families and basic essentials. 

Sunday, October 13 | Celebration Breakfast Potluck

Celebrate the invitations God has given us and our collective response of praise! To have a good spread, sign up to bring something! We’re looking for breakfast casseroles, muffins, fruit, and drinks. Sign up in the narthex or contact the church office. 

Muscatine CROP Hunger Walk

Sunday, October 6, @ 2:00pm, at the Riverfront

Muscatine is excited to host another CROP Hunger Walk, funding hunger initiatiatives close to home and domestically (25% of the money collected is returned to the Muscatine Community Food Pantry and Bag of Blessings at the Muscatine Community Schools). If you’re interested in joining the cause against hunger, here are some ways to participate:

1. Donate to Shepherd’s Team | Give online any amount! Click the orange “Make a Donation” button on the side of the page. Enter your information and make sure to include that your donation is in support of Shepherd of the Cross. 
2. Walk on October 6 | Contact Kathy or Pastor Aleese if you’d like to represent Shepherd and our contribution!
3. Dine at Applebee’s on September 24, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm | Eat from the special menu and 50% of the meal price plus any tips/donations go to the Crop Walk. 

Z Book Club

September 30, @ 5:30pm, @ Diamond Daves

Zion’s book club is offering an invitation for others to join them! This month, they are reading  “Sorry Not Sorry,”a perfect laugh-out-loud romantic comedy by Sophie Ranald. The book is free right now on Kindle Unlimited.

If you’d like to join, contact Denise at Zion Lutheran Church (563-263-5074).

Shepherd Kid Days

October 18, January 20,
April 18

Last spring, our Shepherd kids gathered on Good Friday to learn about communion. This school year, we’re expanding that to offer three days throughout the school year. We’ll meet at SOTC from 9:00 – 11:00 am, each time focusing on a different topic (October: Stewardship and Service; January: Justice; April: Baptism)

For now, mark your calendars…and families – be on the look out for more information soon! If you know someone from outside SOTC that would like to participate, talk to Pastor Aleese.

Soup Fest

Sunday, November 3

As we look to fall, we’re also looking forward to SOTC’s (nearly) annual Soup Fest event. Once again, SOTC will host Soup Fest on the first Sunday of November. In time, we’ll be seeking bakers, cooks, servers, dish washers, and the like. For now, mark your calendars and let others know if they ask about this event!

Re:Storied Begins this Sunday!

Sunday, September 15 @ 6:30 @ Zion

It’s here! Our last adult faith formation group begins this coming Sunday at Zion! Re:Storied is a course intended to introduce participants to the whole of the Biblical narrative while also providing opportunities to tangibly practice dwelling in God’s Word.

If you indicated interest in this group, be sure to come on Sunday evening to learn more. Curious about the group but didn’t sign up? Show up to learn more. Questions? Contact Pastor Aleese or Andy Christy. 

Bedding and Pillows for Sleep in Heavenly Peace

Bring by Sunday, September 15

Last chance! Bring your donations of kids bedding (twin sheets, blankets) and pillows to church by this Sunday. Then, we’ll share our collection with our fellow Muscatine ELCA congregations as we help out Sleep in Heavenly Peace – a local organization whose mission is to ensure no child sleeps on the floor. Thank you in advance for your help!

Seeking Food Donations!

The SOTC council is excited to reboot our weekly food drive to help support our local MCSA food pantry! As the needs in our community grow, this is a great opportunity to come together and help those in need. 

Simply grab a non-perishable food item from your pantry and place it in the green tote found in the narthex. A volunteer will make sure items are delivered to MCSA in a timely manner. Some needed items are (pop top cans preferred):

Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant difference in the lives of families facing hunger in the Muscatine area.

Stewardship Kick Off Bonfire

Saturday, September 28; 6:30-8:30 pm

This fall – starting Sunday, September 29 – we will begin a stewardship emphasis during Sunday morning worship. We’ll dwell in the theme, “Stewarding God’s Call” by considering how God is calling us to steward God’s call in our lives (Sept 29), in our congregation (Oct 6) and in our community (Oct 13). More details about the various ways you can be involved coming soon!

In the meantime, mark your calendars for a special kick off bonfire the night before! Our hope is to create an open, casual space for fellowship as we celebrate our community. S’more supplies and some lawn games will be on hand. Bring your own lawn chair and any outdoor games you enjoy playing! Stay the whole time or pop in for just a bit! 

Stewardship Celebration Breakfast Potluck

Sunday, October 13 after worship

At the end of our stewardship series, we’re hosting a potluck. As we gather our offerings to God’s mission through Shepherd of the Cross, we’ll also gather in celebration around food. To have a good spread, sign up to bring something! We’re looking for breakfast casseroles, muffins, fruit, and drinks. Sign up in the narthex or contact the church office. 

Financial Position Update

This past Sunday, Council shared a financial update as we look to the fall. Numbers reported were:

General Funds Income (including rent payments): $81,028.33
General Funds Expenses: $86, 525.69
Difference between income and expenses: -$5,497.36

Since we began the summer, we have closed the gap of income to expenses by about $4000 (started the summer at -$9,518). Thank you for your support! Additionally, we have not taken money from savings this calendar year to cover expenses. 

However, we still need your support. As we return to our fall patterns, we encourage you to consider your giving and support the ministry of Jesus through Shepherd of the Cross. If you have any questions, talk to your Council members (Delene McConnaha, Gladys Reif, Erin Jorgensen, Kathy Dunham, Linda Adams, Melissa Booth, Joanne Drinkall, Connie Hoekstra). 

Shepherd Kid Days

October 18, January 20,
April 18

Last spring, our Shepherd kids gathered on Good Friday to learn about communion. This school year, we’re expanding that to offer three days throughout the school year. We’ll meet at SOTC from 9:00 – 11:00 am, each time focusing on a different topic (October: Stewardship and Service; January: Justice; April: Baptism)

For now, mark your calendars…and families – be on the look out for more information soon! If you know someone from outside SOTC that would like to participate, talk to Pastor Aleese.

Soup Fest

Sunday, November 3

As we look to fall, we’re also looking forward to SOTC’s (nearly) annual Soup Fest event. Once again, SOTC will host Soup Fest on the first Sunday of November. In time, we’ll be seeking bakers, cooks, servers, dish washers, and the like. For now, mark your calendars and let others know if they ask about this event!

God’s Work Our Hands Service Project

Sunday, September 15

Each year, the ELCA uplifts a Sunday in September as “God’s Work Our Hands” Sunday as an annual day of service. This year, we’re joining with our ELCA congregations to sponsor a drive benefitting Sleep in Heavenly Peace – a local organization whose mission is to ensure no child sleeps on the floor.

Through September 15, we’re collecting kids bedding (twin sheets, blankets) and pillows. Monetary donations also accepted. 

Bring your donations to the tote in the church narthex and we’ll get it delievered. Thanks for being God’s living bread for the sake of the world!

Seeking Food Donations!

The SOTC council is excited to reboot our weekly food drive to help support our local MCSA food pantry! As the needs in our community grow, this is a great opportunity to come together and help those in need. 

Starting immediately, simply grab a non-perishable food item from your pantry and place it in the green tote found in the narthex. A volunteer will make sure items are delivered to MCSA in a timely manner. Some needed items are: Soup, peas, mixed veggies, meats, pineapple, oranges, peaches, toilet paper and bottled water. Pop top cans are preferred. 

Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant difference in the lives of families facing hunger in the Muscatine area. Let’s fill the shelves and bring hope to those who need it most. Questions: See Gladys Reif, Melissa Booth, or Kathy Dunham.

Stewardship Kick Off Bonfire

Saturday, Sept 28; 6:30-8:30 pm

This fall – starting Sunday, September 29 – we will begin a stewardship emphasis during Sunday morning worship. We’ll dwell in the theme, “Stewarding God’s Call” by considering how God is calling us to steward God’s call in our lives (Sept 29), in our congregation (Oct 6) and in our community (Oct 13). More details about the various ways you can be involved coming soon!

In the meantime, mark your calendars for a special kick off bonfire the night before! Our hope is to create an open, casual space for fellowship as we celebrate our community. S’more supplies and some lawn games will be on hand. Bring your own lawn chair and any outdoor games you enjoy playing! Stay the whole time or pop in for just a bit! 

Stewardship Celebration Breakfast Potluck

Sunday, Oct 13 after worship

At the end of our stewardship series, we’re hosting a potluck. As we gather our offerings to God’s mission through Shepherd of the Cross, we’ll also gather in celebration around food. To have a good spread, sign up to bring something! We’re looking for breakfast casseroles, muffins, fruit, and drinks. Sign up in the narthex or contact the church office. 

Shepherd Kid Days

October 18, January 20,
April 18

Last spring, our Shepherd kids gathered on Good Friday to learn about communion. This school year, we’re expanding that to offer three days throughout the school year. We’ll meet at SOTC from 9:00 – 11:00 am, each time focusing on a different topic (October: Stewardship and Service; January: Justice; April: Baptism)

For now, mark your calendars…and families – be on the look out for more information soon! If you know someone from outside SOTC that would like to participate, talk to Pastor Aleese.

Soup Fest

Sunday, November 3

As we look to fall, we’re also looking forward to SOTC’s (nearly) annual Soup Fest event. Once again, SOTC will host Soup Fest on the first Sunday of November. In time, we’ll be seeking bakers, cooks, servers, dish washers, and the like. For now, mark your calendars and let others know if they ask about this event!

Family Faith Night Kick Off!

Wednesday, August 28 @ 6:00 pm @ Grace

It’s tomorrow night! Everyone – lower elementary, upper elementary, middle school, high school, AND adults – are invited to join us!

Especially for the kick off, parents of kids/youth participating are highly encouraged to attend. Got a toddler/preschooler? Let us know and we’ll arrange for childcare and/or figure out something unique for them!

Reminder: meal is provided each night. Meal for kick off is hot dogs, veggies, chips and desert. If you are willing to assist with meals throughout the school year, we need you! Add your name to the spreadsheet, sign up in the narthex, or contact the church office. 

Full schedule will be handed out at the Kick-Off and can also be found at our webpage highlighting various faith formation groups for kids and adults. 

God’s Work Our Hands Service Project

Sunday, September 15

Each year, the ELCA uplifts a Sunday in September as “God’s Work Our Hands” Sunday as an annual day of service. This year, we’re joining with our ELCA congregations to sponsor a drive benefitting Sleep in Heavenly Peace – a local organization whose mission is to ensure no child sleeps on the floor.

Through September 15, we’re collecting kids bedding (twin sheets, blankets) and pillows. Monetary donations also accepted. 

Bring your donations to the tote in the church narthex and we’ll get it delievered. Thanks for being God’s living bread for the sake of the world!

Support Kids Going Back to School through ELCA Good Gifts

Periodically, Shepherd has supported ELCA Good Gifts, an organization that uplifts individuals and families domestically and abroad. As we look to the school year, the ELCA has issued a special request for support for school supplies. For just $10 you can provide a child with school supplies or fill a backpack with nutritious food. With an ELCA Good Gift you have the power to introduce a child to a world of possibilities, grow the church, fight hunger and transform lives.

Your ELCA Good Gifts help share God’s love in Christ far and wide. Thank you for your support of the mission and ministry we share!

Listen, God is Calling Stewardship Emphasis and Events

Bonfire:
Sat, Sept 28; 6:30-8:30 pm

Breakfast Potluck:
Sun, Oct 13 after worship

Stewardship and listening. The two might not seem to go hand-in-hand. But we’ll investigate in late September and early October, as we listen to God’s call for ourselves, for our congreation, and for the community, we are stewarding God’s gifts entrusted to us. 

To cap our stewardship emphasis this fall, we’re beginning and ending in celebration and community. Mark your calendars to join us for a bonfire night and a breakfast potluck during fellowship! We look forward to celebrating what God has entrusted into our care and listening to how God is calling us to use what we’ve been given for the sake of God’s Kingdom!

Shepherd Kid Days

October 18, January 20,
April 18

Last spring, our Shepherd kids gathered on Good Friday to learn about communion. This school year, we’re expanding that to offer three days throughout the school year. We’ll meet at SOTC from 9:00 – 11:00 am, each time focusing on a different topic (October: Stewardship and Service; January: Justice; April: Baptism)

For now, mark your calendars…and families – be on the look out for more information soon! If you know someone from outside SOTC that would like to participate, talk to Pastor Aleese.

Soup Fest

Sunday, November 3

As we look to fall, we’re also looking forward to SOTC’s (nearly) annual Soup Fest event. Once again, SOTC will host Soup Fest on the first Sunday of November. In time, we’ll be seeking bakers, cooks, servers, dish washers, and the like. For now, mark your calendars and let others know if they ask about this event!

Blessing of Backpacks and Work Bags

Sunday, August 25

Remember to have your kids bring their backpacks to worship for a special blessing, and adults – bring your bags too! We’ll have a keychain for everyone as a reminder that you are loved by God and as a reminder of your call to live as a servant of Christ.

Family Faith Night Kick Off!

Wednesday, August 28 @ 6:00 pm @ Grace

We are PUMPED for another year of Family Faith Nights! Everyone – lower elementary, upper elementary, middle school, high school, AND adults – are invited to join us!

Especially for the kick off, parents of kids/youth participating are highly encouraged to attend. Got a toddler/preschooler? Let us know and we’ll arrange for childcare and/or figure out something unique for them!

Reminder: meal is provided each night. Meal for kick off is hot dogs, veggies, chips and desert. 

Full schedule will be handed out at the Kick-Off and can also be found at our webpage highlighting various faith formation groups for kids and adults. 

Help Needed for Family Faith Night Meals

Food gathers us. It provides a space to talk, to share our lives, and to learn more about one another. 

To continue providing this environment as a part of Family Faith Nights, we need your help. We’re looking for teams of people to plan, prep, serve, and clean up Family Faith Night meals. Funding for food costs may be available. 

If you’re willing to assist, sign up your name on the spreadsheet or contact the church office. If you have a full team to sign up with, great! If you just want to sign up yourself, that’s also ok! No need to include a meal menu right now. Once teams are established we will circle back to groups for coordination. 

If you have any questions, contact Pastor Aleese. 

God’s Work Our Hands Service Project

Sunday, September 15

Each year, the ELCA uplifts a Sunday in September as “God’s Work Our Hands” Sunday as an annual day of service. This year, we’re joining with our ELCA congregations to sponsor a drive benefitting Sleep in Heavenly Peace – a local organization whose mission is to ensure no child sleeps on the floor. Through September 15, we’ll collect physical donations (list of needed items coming soon!) and monetary donations. More information coming soon!

Support Kids Going Back to School through ELCA Good Gifts

Periodically, Shepherd has supported ELCA Good Gifts, an organization that uplifts individuals and families domestically and abroad. As we look to the school year, the ELCA has issued a special request for support for school supplies. For just $10 you can provide a child with school supplies or fill a backpack with nutritious food. With an ELCA Good Gift you have the power to introduce a child to a world of possibilities, grow the church, fight hunger and transform lives.

Your ELCA Good Gifts help share God’s love in Christ far and wide. Thank you for your support of the mission and ministry we share!

Shepherd Kid Days

October 18, January 20,
April 18

Last spring, our Shepherd kids gathered on Good Friday to learn about communion. This school year, we’re expanding that to offer three days throughout the school year. We’ll meet at SOTC from 9:00 – 11:00 am, each time focusing on a different topic (October: Stewardship and Service; January: Justice; April: Baptism)

For now, mark your calendars…and families – be on the look out for more information soon! If you know someone from outside SOTC that would like to participate, talk to Pastor Aleese.

Listen, God is Calling Stewardship Emphasis and Events

Bonfire:
Sat, Sept 28; 6:30-8:30 pm

Breakfast Potluck:
Sun, Oct 13 after worship

Stewardship and listening. The two might not seem to go hand-in-hand. But we’ll investigate in late September and early October, as we listen to God’s call for ourselves, for our congreation, and for the community, we are stewarding God’s gifts entrusted to us. 

To cap our stewardship emphasis this fall, we’re beginning and ending in celebration and community. Mark your calendars to join us for a bonfire night and a breakfast potluck during fellowship! We look forward to celebrating what God has entrusted into our care and listening to how God is calling us to use what we’ve been given for the sake of God’s Kingdom!

Help Needed Building Ramp

Saturday, August 17, starting 8:00 am

Recently we got a call from Habitat for Humanity about a project they are doing in collaboration with Rebuild Together. A family needs a wheelchair ramp for their son, who uses a wheelchair. They’re looking for 4-5 people to assist with the build. Youth are also encouraged to participate, but must have a parent present during the build. Lunch is provided. Build will likely take about 3-4 hours. If you’re interested, contact Pastor Aleese as soon as possible.

Blessing of Backpacks and Work Bags

Sunday, August 25

It’s almost back-to-school time! To send our kids (and teachers, and parents, and everyone who works in various capacities) into the academic year, we will offer a blessing of backpacks and work bags on Sunday, August 25. Bring your bag to worship and we’ll gather them at the altar to bless the various vocations that we all live out as a part of the body of Christ. 

Family Faith Night Kick Off!

Wednesday, August 28 @ 6:00 pm @ Grace

As you begin to slot in fall activities, be sure to mark your calendars for our Family Faith Night Kick Off Night! Similar to last year, we (members from Shepherd, Grace, Zion, and New Era) will meet at Grace each Wednesday (meal included!) Opportunities for kids, youth, and adults! Looking for more information about what is being offered? Check out  shepherdofthecross.org/groups

Help Needed for Family Faith Night Meals

Food gathers us. It provides a space to talk, to share our lives, and to learn more about one another. 

To continue providing this environment as a part of Family Faith Nights, we need your help. We’re looking for teams of people to plan, prep, serve, and clean up Family Faith Night meals. Funding for food costs may be available. 

If you’re willing to assist, sign up your name on the spreadsheet or contact the church office. If you have a full team to sign up with, great! If you just want to sign up yourself, that’s also ok! No need to include a meal menu right now. Once teams are established we will circle back to groups for coordination. 

If you have any questions, contact Pastor Aleese. 

Collaborative Announcement from Worship

This past Sunday, Nick Gilbert – on behalf of the SOTC Council (Delene McConnaha, Gladys Reif, Erin Jorgensen, LInda Adams, Kathy Dunham, Connie Hoekstra, Melissa Booth, Joanne Drinkall) and volunteers serving on a joint ELCA team (Mackenzie and Nick Gilbert, Andy Christy) shared an announcement regarding our continued work together in the body of Christ. Miss worship but want to hear more? Check out this announcement and reach out to any of the above leaders for further conversation. 

God’s Work Our Hands Collection

Sunday, September 15

Each year, the ELCA uplifts a Sunday in September as “God’s Work Our Hands” Sunday as an annual day of service. This year, we’re joining with our ELCA congregations to sponsor a drive benefitting Sleep in Heavenly Peace – a local organization whose mission is to ensure no child sleeps on the floor. Through September 15, we’ll collect physical donations (list of needed items coming soon!) and monetary donations. More information coming soon!

Shepherd Kid Days

October 18, January 20,
April 18

Last spring, our Shepherd kids gathered on Good Friday to learn about communion. This school year, we’re expanding that to offer three days throughout the school year. We’ll meet at SOTC from 9:00 – 11:00 am, each time focusing on a different topic (October: Stewardship and Service; January: Justice; April: Baptism)

For now, mark your calendars…and families – be on the look out for more information soon! If you know someone from outside SOTC that would like to participate, talk to Pastor Aleese.

Info for those Attending the River Bandits Game

Saturday, August 10, 6:00pm (Gametime)
Carpool from SOTC @ 5:00pm

Those who’d like to carpool should arrive no later than 5:00pm. 

If you’re driving yourself, meet us at Modern Woodman Park. Park and then meet the group at Will Call. Tickets will be picked up as a group.

Looking forward to a night of fellowship!

Family Faith Night Kick Off!

Wednesday, August 28 @ 6:00 pm @ Grace

Can you believe it!? We’re about a month out from another Family Faith Night year! As you begin to slot in fall activities, be sure to mark your calendars for our Family Faith Night Kick Off Night! Similar to last year, we (members from Shepherd, Grace, Zion, and New Era) will meet at Grace each Wednesday (meal included!) Opportunities for kids, youth, and adults! Looking for more information about what is being offered? Check out  shepherdofthecross.org/groups

Help Needed for Family Faith Night Meals

Food gathers us. It provides a space to talk, to share our lives, and to learn more about one another. 

To continue providing this environment as a part of Family Faith Nights, we need your help. We’re looking for teams of people to plan, prep, serve, and clean up Family Faith Night meals. Funding for food costs may be available. 

If you’re willing to assist, sign up your name on the spreadsheet or contact the church office. If you have a full team to sign up with, great! If you just want to sign up yourself, that’s also ok! No need to include a meal menu right now. Once teams are established we will circle back to groups for coordination. 

If you have any questions, contact Pastor Aleese. 

Collaborative Announcement from Worship

This past Sunday, Nick Gilbert – on behalf of the SOTC Council (Delene McConnaha, Gladys Reif, Erin Jorgensen, LInda Adams, Kathy Dunham, Connie Hoekstra, Melissa Booth, Joanne Drinkall) and volunteers serving on a joint ELCA team (Mackenzie and Nick Gilbert, Andy Christy) shared an announcement regarding our continued work together in the body of Christ. Miss worship but want to hear more? Check out this announcement and reach out to any of the above leaders for further conversation. 

Z Book Club

Monday, August 12 @ 5:30pm (Diamond Daves) Meets Monthly

Zion Lutheran Church is inviting those interested in joining their Z Book Club as they read The Wise Women: A Novel by Gina Sorell. If you are interested call the Zion office @ 563-263-5074 to sign up. More information may be found on the bulletin board in SOTC fellowship area.

Blessing of Backpacks and Work Bags

Sunday, August 25

It’s almost back-to-school time! To send our kids (and teachers, and parents, and everyone who works in various capacities) into the academic year, we will offer a blessing of backpacks and work bags on Sunday, August 25. Bring your bag to worship and we’ll gather them at the altar to bless the various vocations that we all live out as a part of the body of Christ.

Celebration of Bailey Booth Confirmation

In Paul’s prayer to the church at Ephesus, he prays: “I pray that you may have the power to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.”

This past Sunday, Bailey affirmed her faith in the Triune God and committed herself to following Jesus as a disciple. We continue to pray that she is filled with all the fullness of God on her journey of faith!

Interested in an Adult Faith Formation Group?

Sign Up by Sunday, August 4

Interested in nurturing your faith this coming school year? We want to hear from you! 

This fall we are offering three groups geared for adults: Sojourners, Companions in Christ and Re:Storied. A brief synopsis is below, and a more detailed description can be found in the narthex and at our website.

To effectively plan for the number of groups and leaders, we ask you to indicate your interest by Sunday, August 4 by signing up in the narthex or by submitting an online form.

If you have further questions, contact Andy or Aleese. We look forward to walking together this year in faith!

Description of Groups

Sojourners is a small group that seeks to deepen participants relationship with God and with one another to foster individual and communal spiritual growth. Sojourners will most likely meet on Wednesday nights as a part of Family Faith Nights.

Companions in Christ is a spiritual formation group that focuses on how God is present within all human experiences, learns and practices various forms of prayer, and reflects on our call as disciples of Jesus.  Because of the time commitment, Companions will not meet during Family Faith Nights, but will be dependent on the schedule of those within the group.

Re:Storied is a small group that introduces participants to the whole of the Biblical narrative while providing opportunities to tangibly practice dwelling in God’s Word. Scheduling of this group will be determined based on schedule of interested participants.

Family Faith Night Kick Off!

Wednesday, August 28 @ 6:00 pm @ Grace

Can you believe it!? We’re about a month out from another Family Faith Night year! As you begin to slot in fall activities, be sure to mark your calendars for our Family Faith Night Kick Off Night! Similar to last year, we (members from Shepherd, Grace, Zion, and New Era) will meet at Grace each Wednesday (meal included!) Opportunities for kids, youth, and adults! Looking for more information about what is being offered? Check out  shepherdofthecross.org/groups

Toys Needed for Youth Room

Have some old kids’ toys underneath the stairs or in a closet that you don’t use anymore? We’re looking for some gently used kids toys (and furniture) to keep in the youth room for toddlers and lower elementary kids. We’re looking specifically for the following, but if you have something else in mind, talk to Jamie Vircks or Pastor Aleese. We’ll likely be able to use it!

Baby dolls
Small bookshelf
Building toys (legos, lincoln logs)
Younger puzzles (big pieces)

Financial Support for Western Iowa Flooding

Earlier in July, Western Iowa experienced significant flooding. In response, the Western Iowa Synod of the ELCA has come together to funnel funds to areas most impacted. If you’d like to be a part of this relief effort, go to “Lutheran Disaster Response.” All donated funds to the synod will be given directly to those in need. 

Z Book Club

Monday, August 12 @ 5:30pm (Diamond Daves) Meets Monthly

Zion Lutheran Church is inviting those interested in joining their Z Book Club as they read The Wise Women: A Novel by Gina Sorell. If you are interested call the Zion office @ 563-263-5074 to sign up. More information may be found on the bulletin board in SOTC fellowship area.

Interested in an Adult Faith Formation Group?

Sign Up by Sunday, August 4

Did you miss our meeting last week, but you are still interested in being a part of a group this fall? We want to hear from you! 

This fall we are offering three groups geared for adults: Sojourners, Companions in Christ and Re:Storied. A brief synopsis is below, and a more detailed description can be found in the narthex and at our website.

To effectively plan for the number of groups and leaders, we ask you to indicate your interest by Sunday, August 4 by signing up in the narthex or by submitting an online form.

If you have further questions, contact Andy or Aleese. We look forward to walking together this year in faith!

Description of Groups

Sojourners is a small group that seeks to deepen participants relationship with God and with one another to foster individual and communal spiritual growth. Sojourners will most likely meet on Wednesday nights as a part of Family Faith Nights.

Companions in Christ is a spiritual formation group that focuses on how God is present within all human experiences, learns and practices various forms of prayer, and reflects on our call as disciples of Jesus.  Because of the time commitment, Companions will not meet during Family Faith Nights, but will be dependent on the schedule of those within the group.

Re:Storied is a small group that introduces participants to the whole of the Biblical narrative while providing opportunities to tangibly practice dwelling in God’s Word. Scheduling of this group will be determined based on schedule of interested participants.

Toys Needed for Youth Room

Have some old kids’ toys underneath the stairs or in a closet that you don’t use anymore? We’re looking for some gently used kids toys (and furniture) to keep in the youth room for toddlers and lower elementary kids. We’re looking specifically for the following, but if you have something else in mind, talk to Jamie Vircks or Pastor Aleese. We’ll likely be able to use it!

Baby dolls
Small bookshelf
Building toys (legos, lincoln logs)
Younger puzzles (big pieces)

Last Call!: Night Out at the River Bandits

Saturday, August 10, 6:00pm (Gametime)
Carpool from SOTC @ 5:00pm
Sign up by July 28 if interested

Last call! If you want tickets, sign up in the narthex or email the church office by Sunday, July 28. Tickets are $13 each. Ticket price does not include a food/drink voucher. 

We will carpool from Shepherd at 5:00pm. Others are welcome to join us at Modern Woodman Park as is helpful. Tickets will be picked up as a group. Looking forward to a night of fellowship!

Bailey Booth Confirmation

Sunday, July 28 

It’s this weekend! Come and witness Bailey confess her faith and affirm the promises God made to her in the sacrament of baptism!  A special time of fellowship will follow after worship. Be sure to join Bailey as we support her on her walk of faith!

Financial Support for Western Iowa Flooding

Earlier in July, Western Iowa experienced significant flooding. In response, the Western Iowa Synod of the ELCA has come together to funnel funds to areas most impacted. If you’d like to be a part of this relief effort, go to “Lutheran Disaster Response.” All donated funds to the synod will be given directly to those in need. 

Family Faith Nights Returning in Sept!

We’re looking forward to another Family Faith Night year, and are also looking to expand the groups we offer to include upper middle school and high school youth. Keep your eye out for more ways that your kids and youth can be involved, and look for a calendar soon!

Z Book Club

Monday, August 12 @ 5:30pm (Diamond Daves) Meets Monthly

Zion Lutheran Church is inviting those interested in joining their Z Book Club as they read The Wise Women: A Novel by Gina Sorell. If you are interested call the Zion office @ 563-263-5074 to sign up. More information may be found on the bulletin board in SOTC fellowship area.