Category: News

Get Ready for Pentecost Sunday!

Sunday, June 5

The Day of Pentecost marks the end of the season of Easter. Referencing Acts 2, together we will remember the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples in Jerusalem, and will open ourselves in worship to receive that same Spirit. So as to mark the occasion, here are three ways to participate:

1. Wear Red to Church | Red is traditionally the color representing the Spirit, so help us deck our sanctuary in the color of the Spirit!

2. Color a flame to add to our windows | We all have been gifted the power of the Holy Spirit, so help us out by coloring your own flame and adding it to our collage on the windows between the narthex and sanctuary. Print out your own coloring sheet (here) or pick up one in the narthex. Bring your colored flame on Sunday, June 5. 

3. Welcome New Member, Connie Hoesktra | Stick around for a special time of fellowship as we welcome Connie as a part of our flock!

Sending of Thoma Family

Sunday, June 12

Once a Shepherd…always a Shepherd! This summer, the Thoma family will be departing our community this summer to move to Ames. To send them off, we will offer them a blessing as a part of worship during their last Sunday with us. Be sure to join us as we bless the Thoma’s, and as we wish them well with a special fellowship hour to follow!

Summer Book Group

Interested in gaining a new perspective as you grow as a follower of Jesus? Consider joining us this summer for fellowship and conversation as a part of a book group. We will be reading Til We Have Faces by C.S. Lewis and/or Sacred Fire: A Vision for a Deeper Human and Christian Maturity by Ronald Rolheiser.  For a description of each book, click the link. Frequency of book group meetings, along with scheduling, will be dependent on the participants of each group. We will do our best to accommodate schedules so as to include as many people as possible.

If you are interested in participating, please complete this short Google form by Thursday, June 2. If you have any questions, contact Pastor Aleese.

Ukraine Prayer Vigil and Advocacy Workshop

Thursday, June 2, 7:30-8:15 pm (EST)

Even as we grieve the realities of violence in our own country, we also remember the continued violence in Ukraine. If you are seeking an opportunity to pray for our siblings in Christ in Ukraine, and if you are seeking to learn more about advocacy opportunities, consider joining Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services for Stand Up, Speak Up: An Interfaith Prayer Vigil for Ukraine. Featuring speakers from diverse backgrounds and faith traditions, testimonies from local Ukrainians, and advocacy opportunities, the vigil offers an opportunity for all to gather together and demonstrate support for our Ukrainian neighbors.

To register for the livestream of this in-person event (hosted in Baltimore, MD) register here.

Take Flat Jesus with you this summer!

Throughout the season of Easter, we have been “finding” Jesus in our sanctuary. But just because the Spirit has come on Pentecost doesn’t mean that Jesus has gone away!

For that reason, we are inviting the congregation to take Jesus with them this summer! Figuratively – we hope that you take Jesus with you wherever you go! But also literally – we are inviting you to take “flat Jesus” with you over the summer. Help us track where our Shepherds are throughout the summer, and take a picture with your flat Jesus. Either bring your pictures to the church, or send them to Kathy, and we’ll add them to our growing “Journey with Jesus” summer bulletin board. Outside of pictures, we also encourage the congregation to share a brief blurbs of where you’ve encountered Jesus throughout the summer. Add your blurb using paper by the bulletin board starting June 12.

Growing Younger Initiative 

Did you know? The Southeastern Iowa Synod, along with the ELCA, has started an initiative to help congregations think about how congregations can be authentic places of faith formation – especially for young adults ages 15-29. To help think about this, the Southeastern Iowa Synod is encouraging congregations to engage with the book Growing Young. This book, backed by research from Fuller Seminary, outlines current realities for young adults and realities of the church.

if you’re at all interested in the formation of faith in young adults, and/or find yourself in that age group, we encourage you to join a group at Shepherd who will be reading through this book this summer. Each week on Tuesdays (starting June 14) at 6pm we have the opportunity to gather with others from across our synod to learn more and also to join in conversation. Not able to make every Tuesday? No problem.

If you’re interested in joining such a conversation, talk to Mackenzie or Nick Gilbert or Pastor Aleese. Thank you for uplifting people of every age in our church, and within the greater church, Shepherds!

Outdoor Worship @ SOTC

July 17 and August 28

Mark your calendars to join us outside on the grass (and under a tent!) as we worship in God’s creation! Worship will feature some camp songs that our youth learn this summer!

Ice Cream Social and Fundraiser

Sunday, July 17 following worship

Who doesn’t like ice cream in the summer?! This time will not only be a time of fellowship, but also a chance for us to offer our financial resources to one of the local organizations that our Stewardship Team has been highlighting this summer. Stay tuned for more details.

Graduate Recognition
Kelsey Drake

Sundays, May 29

As the school year draws to a close, we will be honoring Kelsey Drake as she graduated from Wilton High School. Be sure to join us for worship as we offer a blessing to her, offer her a gift on behalf of the congregation, and join in a special time of fellowship following worship!

Summer Book Group

Interested in gaining a new perspective as you grow as a follower of Jesus? Consider joining us this summer for fellowship and conversation as a part of a book group. We will be reading Til We Have Faces by C.S. Lewis and/or Sacred Fire: A Vision for a Deeper Human and Christian Maturity by Ronald Rolheiser.  For a description of each book, click the link. Frequency of book group meetings, along with scheduling, will be dependent on the participants of each group. We will do our best to accommodate schedules so as to include as many people as possible.

If you are interested in participating, please complete this short Google form by Thursday, June 2. If you have any questions, contact Pastor Aleese.

Participate in the Spirit this Pentecost Sunday!

Sunday, June 5

The Day of Pentecost marks the end of the season of Easter. Referencing Acts 2, together we will remember the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples in Jerusalem, and will open ourselves in worship to receive that same Spirit. So as to mark the occasion, here are three ways to participate:

1. Wear Red to Church | Red is traditionally the color representing the Spirit, so help us deck our sanctuary in the color of the Spirit!

2. Color a flame to add to our windows | We all have been gifted the power of the Holy Spirit, so help us out by coloring your own flame and adding it to our collage on the windows between the narthex and sanctuary. Print out your own coloring sheet (here) or pick up one in the narthex. Bring your colored flame on Sunday, June 5. 

3. Welcome New Member, Connie Hoesktra | Stick around for a special time of fellowship as we welcome Connie as a part of our flock!

Sending of Thoma Family

Sunday, June 12

Once a Shepherd…always a Shepherd! This summer, the Thoma family will be departing our community this summer to move to Ames. To send them off, we will offer them a blessing as a part of worship during thier last Sunday with us. Be sure to join us as we bless the Thoma’s, and as we wish them well with a special fellowship hour to follow!

Ice Cream Social and Fundraiser

Sunday, July 17 following worship

Join us for an ice cream sundae fellowship hour! This time will not only be a time of fellowship, but also a chance for us to offer our financial resources to one of the local organizations that our Stewardship Team has been highlighting this summer. Stay tuned for more details.

Camp Out Date Solidified!

Sat-Sun, August 27-28

Thanks for your responses! We have nailed down a date for later in the summer and are looking forward to an evening of hot dogs and s’mores around the fire along with other games throughout the night! All are welcome to join us on Saturday evening, even if you don’t want to spend the night at the church! Mark your calendars and plan to join us!

Graduate Recognition
Kelsey Drake and Grant Jorgensen 

Sundays, May 22 and 29

As the school year draws to a close, we have the privilege of honoring two graduates within our congregation! Due to scheduling, we will be honoring Kelsey and Grant on two separate Sundays. Be sure to join us for worship as we offer a blessing to our grads, offer them a gift on behalf of the congregation, and join in a special time of fellowship following worship! Congrats Kelsey and Grant on your achievements!

Interested in a Camp Out @ SOTC this Summer?

In previous years, we’ve hosted a camp out on SOTC grounds. Remembering how much fun it was, it’s been suggested to have a campout again this summer! 

If you’re interested in participating (or even joining us for a bonfire and games night), please fill out this form by Tuesday, May 17 so we can set up a date. Thanks!

Final Family Faith Night this Week!

Wednesday, May 18, 6:30pm @ Grace

It’s this week! Join us as we celebrate the confirmation of youth completing thier confirmation sequence! Though Shepherd is not confirming youth this year, Grace is excited to confirm 4 of thier youth. So as to include leaders and families who have been a part of the joint Family Faith Nights throughout this year, Grace has elected to host confirmation on a Wednesday evening rather than during Sunday morning worship. ALL are welcome for worship at 6:30 followed by a dessert reception.

Did You Spot Jesus this Sunday?

Jesus ascended to new heights this past weekend as he was “hidden” on top of our projector! Remind your kids to look for where Jesus is hidden each week through June 5. Then, tell Pastor Aleese where you found Jesus. Make plans to join us this weekend for worship!

Sending of Thoma Family

Sunday, June 12

Once a Shepherd…always a Shepherd! This summer, the Thoma family will be departing our community this summer to move to Ames. To send them off, we will offer them a blessing as a part of worship during thier last Sunday with us. Be sure to join us as we bless the Thoma’s, and as we wish them well with a special fellowship hour to follow!

Pentecost and Welcome of New Member!

The Day of Pentecost marks the end of the season of Easter. Referencing Acts 2, together we will remember the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples in Jerusalem, and will open ourselves in worship to receive that same Spirit. As this Sunday focuses on the work of the Spirit, we invite the congregation to wear red!

To make the Sunday even more festive, we will also be welcoming Connie Hoekstra as a new member during worship. Join us as we gather with one another, by the power of the Spirit, and join us as we welcome Connie into our flock! 

Panda Express Youth Fundraiser

Sunday, May 15

Get your Panda Express fix this weekend! Order online or go there and help support our youth group. 

Here’s what you need to do:

• order food (eat in/order online) at Panda Express on May 15
• present our coupon code: 334977
• enjoy your food and watch SOTC Youth get fundraising dollars!

Please make sure to use this month’s coupon code. Each month the code changes. For more information, and for a page that reminds you of our fundraising code, bookmark this page. Questions? Talk to Leslie Eichelberger. 

Interested in a Camp Out @ SOTC this Summer?

In previous years, we’ve hosted a camp out on SOTC grounds. Remembering how much fun it was, it’s been suggested to have a campout again this summer! 

If you’re interested in participating (or even joining us for a bonfire and games night), please fill out this form by Tuesday, May 17 so we can set up a date. Thanks!

Mairet Farms Fundraiser

Looking for some fresh produce this summer? Consider being a part of the Mairet Farms CSA bag program and receive fresh, local produce for six weeks! Starting July 11, you’ll receive a bag of produce each week. 

Better yet? By participating, SOTC will receive a portion of these proceeds! 

Interested? Complete the order form. Paper copies are also in the SOTC narthex. Thanks for your support!

Can You Help Find Where Jesus is Hidden?

Each Sunday through June 5

For the past two Sundays, we’ve been playing a little game on Sunday morning with our kids! Each week during the season of Easter, our Jesus figure will be hidden somewhere in the sanctuary. Kids are invited to look for Jesus, but to keep it a secret! Then, tell Pastor Aleese where you found it.  She’ll be keeping a tally of who’s found Jesus each week. Make plans to join us this weekend for worship!

Special Invitation to Final Family Faith Night

Wednesday, May 18, 6:30pm @ Grace

To close out the Family Faith Night year, we will be celebrating the confirmation of youth completing thier confirmation sequence. We do not have any confirmands from Shepherd this year, but Grace is excited to confirm 4 of their youth. So as to include leaders and families who have been a part of the joint Family Faith Nights throughout this year, Grace has elected to host confirmation on a Wednesday evening rather than during Sunday morning worship.

Whether you’ve been a part of Family Faith Night or not this year, consider yourself invited to join us as we witness the faith of our young people and as we are collectively sent to be Christ’s disciples into the world. We’ll have a short worship service at 6:30pm followed by a dessert reception. 

Hymn Festival with Organ and Choir

Thursday, June 16, at 7:30pm

Wesley United Methodist Church will be hosting a Hymn Festival with Organ and Choir. Tom Trenney will be leading this free event. The choir will be singers from the Muscatine area. If you are interested in singing contact Wesley music director Dan Laaveg. Whether interested in singing, or simply enjoying the music, all in the community are invited! For more information, visit Wesley’s music page of thier website. 

Vacation Bible School

July 10-14, 5:30-8:00

Mark your calendars now! This summer, SOTC is excited to join with 6 other congregations to provide an opportunity for kids to experience God’s love and have some fun all at the same time! We will be collaborating with Zion Lutheran, Grace Lutheran, First Presbyterian, Trinity Episcopal, First Christian and Faith United Church of Christ.

VBS is open to all kids PreK-grade 6. VBS will be hosted at Zion Lutheran July 10-13 and the final night will be hosted at Grace Lutheran so as to provide time outside. ALL families are invited to join us for the final evening! A meal will be provided each night.

Questions? Contact Melissa Booth. 

Southeastern Iowa Synod Assembly

May 20-21

Each year, the synod gathers for an assembly for the purposes of attending to the business of the synod, creating networking opportunities for rostered and lay leaders, and providing a space for worship and spiritual renewal. This year, Mackenzie and Nick Gilbert will be attending as voting members along with Pastor Aleese. 

Portions of the assembly will be livestreamed on the Southeastern Iowa Synod’s Facebook page. Looking for more information of what is coming before the synod this year? Check out the landing page for the synod assembly. 

Later in May/June, the congregation will receive a report of key actions of the assembly. Please hold the synod in your prayers in the coming weeks!

Forming Faith in Families

This past week, our families had two unique opportunities to dive deeper into thier faith. On Wednesday, as a part of our Family Faith Nights hosted at Grace Lutheran, our middle school confirmation kids were learning about the impact of media and materialism on our lives. Noting that advertisements often target areas of our lives in which we feel as though we are lacking something, we talked about “voids” in our lives and discovered the promise that it is only Christ that can fill us to the brim with fullness of life and meaning. To illustrate, we did a science experiment in which the egg on top of the bottle in the picture below actually fell into the void of the glass bottle!

Later in the week, several families gathered for our monthly Family Nights. Together we enjoyed a meal, had some friendly competition in a game of “marshmallow bowling” with kids and adults, and our parents had a chance for some intentional conversation while the kiddos played outside. 

Looking for more opportunities to connect with others at Shepherd? Stay tuned as we coordinate opportunities for the coming summer!

Mairet Farms Fundraiser

Looking for some fresh produce this summer? Consider being a part of the Mairet Farms CSA bag program and receive fresh, local produce for six weeks! Starting July 11, you’ll receive a bag of produce each week. 

Better yet? By participating, SOTC will receive a portion of these proceeds! 

Interested? Complete the order form. Paper copies are also in the SOTC narthex. Thanks for your support!

Camp EWALU Work Day 

Saturday, May 7, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

Camp EWALU (Strawberry Point) is looking toward a full summer of campers! To help get ready, volunteers will be gathering to attend to some projects. There are projects for all skill levels: splitting wood, trial upkeep, building benches, replanting the butterfly garden, construction of a screened-in shelter, and many other jobs. Lunch is provided. 

For more information, check out the EWALU event page. If you’d like to volunteer your time, contact Paul Frantsen, property manager of EWALU.

Special Invitation to Final Family Faith Night

Wednesday, May 18, 6:30pm @ Grace

To close out the Family Faith Night year, we will be celebrating the confirmation of youth completing thier confirmation sequence. We do not have any confirmands from Shepherd this year, but Grace is excited to confirm 6 of thier youth. So as to include leaders and families who have been a part of the joint Family Faith Nights throughout this year, Grace has elected to host confirmation on a Wednesday evening rather than during Sunday morning worship. Though on a different day, this will be just as much of a celebration, and we want to invite others to join us as well!

Whether you’ve been a part of Family Faith Night or not this year, consider yourself invited to join us as we witness the faith of our young people and as we are collectively sent to be Christ’s disciples into the world. We’ll have a short worship service at 6:30pm followed by a dessert reception. 

Hymn Festival with Organ and Choir

Thursday, June 16, at 7:30pm

Wesley United Methodist Church will be hosting a Hymn Festival with Organ and Choir. Tom Trenney will be leading this free event. The choir will be singers from the Muscatine area. If you are interested in singing contact Wesley music director Dan Laaveg. Whether interested in singing, or simply enjoying the music, all in the community are invited! For more information, visit Wesley’s music page of thier website. 

Vacation Bible School

July 10-14, 5:30-8:00

Mark your calendars now! This summer, SOTC is excited to join with 6 other congregations to provide an opportunity for kids to experience God’s love and have some fun all at the same time! We will be collaborating with Zion Lutheran, Grace Lutheran, First Presbyterian, Trinity Episcopal, First Christian and Faith United Church of Christ.

VBS is open to all kids PreK-grade 6. VBS will be hosted at Zion Lutheran July 10-13 and the final night will be hosted at Grace Lutheran so as to provide time outside. ALL families are invited to join us for the final evening! A meal will be provided each night.

Questions? Contact Melissa Booth. 

Southeastern Iowa Synod Assembly

May 20-21

Each year, the synod gathers for an assembly for the purposes of attending to the business of the synod, creating networking opportunities for rostered and lay leaders, and providing a space for worship and spiritual renewal. This year, Mackenzie and Nick Gilbert will be attending as voting members along with Pastor Aleese. 

Portions of the assembly will be livestreamed on the Southeastern Iowa Synod’s Facebook page. Looking for more information of what is coming before the synod this year? Check out the landing page for the synod assembly. 

Later in May/June, the congregation will receive a report of key actions of the assembly. Please hold the synod in your prayers in the coming weeks!

Thanks for supporting our youth heading to camp!

Thank you for helping us raise $157 in support of our youth through our Easter breakfast! At this point, we have 5 youth attending camp this summer, with a potential for a total of 8 youth. A week of camp costs about $500, and Shepherd provides a scholarship of $250 per youth attending a full week. With your help, we can provide an opportunity for youth to experience a sacred moment with Christ in a new and adventurous way. Thank you for your partnership with us as we support ways for our youth to experience the transformative love of Jesus!

Laundry Soap Making = A Success! 

Throughout the season of Lent, we gathered supplies to make laundry soap. Between Grace and Shepherd, we were able to make 20 batches of laundry soap! As one batch lasts for months for one family, this work has the potential to impact 20 families in our community. Thank you for your contributions, and thank you to those who joined us for our Family Faith Night to mix our ingredients!

Easter Sunday Adult Education

Begins Sunday, May 1
Study Focus: Acts

Following Easter, our Adult Education group will begin a new study on the book of Acts. Often titled “the Acts of the Apostles”, together we’ll discover that the book of Act more clearly points to “the Acts of the Holy Spirit”!

Throughout the season of Easter, we’ll be hearing readings from the book of Acts. So join us as we dive a little deeper, gain a better context of our Scripture readings and open ourselves to the work of the Spirit in the church today.

Camp EWALU Work Day 

Saturday, May 7, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

Camp EWALU (Strawberry Point) is looking toward a full summer of campers! To help get ready, volunteers will be gathering to attend to some projects. There are projects for all skill levels: splitting wood, trial upkeep, building benches, replanting the butterfly garden, construction of a screened-in shelter, and many other jobs. Lunch is provided. 

For more information, check out the EWALU event page. If you’d like to volunteer your time, contact Paul Frantsen, property manager of EWALU.

Looking to hear more from our synod?

After Bishop Current’s visit with us on Palm Sunday, if you’re looking to stay up to date on various synod events, subscribe to the weekly Southeastern Iowa eNews. Pastor Aleese often shares information from these messages, but if you’d like to dive deeper into our connection with the churches we walk together with in our synod and the entire ELCA, subscribe now!

Inclusive Dialogue: Journey through Uncertainty

Monday, May 23 @ 6:30pm

What is it like to grow up in a refugee camp? The Stanley Center invites you to join a special event as author Omar Mohamed tells his story of living in a refugee camp in Kenya through his book When Stars are Scattered. Omar will be joined by Victoria Jamieson, artist and writer. 

This event will be held both in person at the Merrill Hotel and virtually. Registration is required to attend, and either option is free and open to the public. This event is recommended for students 5th grade and up. This is a great opportunity to read an illuminating graphic novel with a child in your life and attend the event together!

Family Night @ SOTC

Sunday, May 1 @ 6:00 pm

Attention all young adults and families with youth grade 12 and below!

You are invited to join us for a night of fellowship, food, fun, and a brief devotional activity.  For a few months, our families have been gathering to mutually support one another and to grow in faith together, and we’d love to have you!

Meal is provided as a part of our evening together. We wrap up by 7:30 pm. 

Questions? Contact Pastor Aleese. Note that Mackenzie Gilbert will be reaching out to families about one week prior to our event to confirm your attendance and to plan a joint potluck-ed meal. 

Christ is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!  

What a celebration of Christ’s resurrection this past weekend!  It was a joy to gather with you all, and your extended families, as we ate together, searched for eggs, and offered our worship to our risen Lord! 

Looking to hear more from our synod?

After Bishop Current’s visit with us on Palm Sunday, if you’re looking to stay up to date on various synod events, subscribe to the weekly Southeastern Iowa eNews. Pastor Aleese often shares information from these messages, but if you’d like to dive deeper into our connection with the churches we walk together with in our synod and the entire ELCA, subscribe now!

Family Faith Nights Resume

Wednesday, April 20 @ 6:30 pm @ Grace

After a hiatus for the season of Lent, we pick back up with our Family Faith Nights in collaboration with Grace this week. This week, our elementary, middle school and adult groups will be all together for a service night. Join the fun as we mix laundry soap with the materials that you all helped provide through Lent! All are welcome!

Beginning Wednesday, April 27, elementary, middle school, and adult groups will resume their schedule of content. 

Christians Underground Resumes

Wednesday, April 20 @ 12:00 pm, Geo Johnz Pizza

The Easter season has only just begun! Join us as we begin our journey through 50 days of basking in the light of the resurrection. We meet each week to discuss our upcoming Sunday’s Scripture readings. All are welcome!

Women’s Group Bible Study

Saturday, April 23 @ 8:30 am

After rescheduling earlier this month, we are excited to complete our four-month series on the Kingdom of God! In March, we learned that the Gospel of John often refers to “eternal life” as life that is not only eternally long, but also eternally deep – life that is endless in value and meaning. 

But what about what happens when we die? In our final session, we’ll learn about the “glory that awaits us” according to Scripture. Make plans to join us for conversation, prayer, and fellowship!

Easter Sunday Adult Education

Begins Sunday, May 1
Study Focus: Acts

Following Easter, our Adult Education group will begin a new study on the book of Acts. Often titled “the Acts of the Apostles”, together we’ll discover that the book of Act more clearly points to “the Acts of the Holy Spirit”!

Throughout the season of Easter, we’ll be hearing readings from the book of Acts. So join us as we dive a little deeper, gain a better context of our Scripture readings and open ourselves to the work of the Spirit in the church today.

Camp EWALU Work Day 

Saturday, May 7, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

Camp EWALU (Strawberry Point) is looking toward a full summer of campers! To help get ready, volunteers will be gathering to attend to some projects. There are projects for all skill levels: splitting wood, trial upkeep, building benches, replanting the butterfly garden, construction of a screened-in shelter, and many other jobs. Lunch is provided. 

For more information, check out the EWALU event page. If you’d like to volunteer your time, contact Paul Frantsen, property manager of EWALU.

Inclusive Dialogue: Journey through Uncertainty

Monday, May 23 @ 6:30pm

What is it like to grow up in a refugee camp? The Stanley Center invites you to join a special event as author Omar Mohamed tells his story of living in a refugee camp in Kenya through his book When Stars are Scattered. Omar will be joined by Victoria Jamieson, artist and writer. 

This event will be held both in person at the Merrill Hotel and virtually. Registration is required to attend, and either option is free and open to the public. This event is recommended for students 5th grade and up. This is a great opportunity to read an illuminating graphic novel with a child in your life and attend the event together!

Family Night @ SOTC

Sunday, May 1 @ 6:00 pm

Attention all young adults and families with youth grade 12 and below!

You are invited to join us for a night of fellowship, food, fun, and a brief devotional activity.  For a few months, our families have been gathering to mutually support one another and to grow in faith together, and we’d love to have you!

Meal is provided as a part of our evening together. We wrap up by 7:30 pm. 

Questions? Contact Pastor Aleese. Note that Mackenzie Gilbert will be reaching out to families about one week prior to our event to confirm your attendance and to plan a joint potluck-ed meal. 

Let my prayer rise up…

Throughout the season of Lent, we gathered for worship as a time to pause, to pray, to praise, and to dwell in God’s Word. This past Wednesday during worship, we were guided through a meditation on John 12:1-8, in which Mary anoints Jesus feet with oil. As Mary offered herself as a gift of thanksgiving, love, worship, and mourning, we were encouraged to offer ourselves to Christ in our prayer. After a time of meditation, the congregation was invited to write one word/phrase on a piece of paper and place them on a nail on a wooden cross.

Following worship, we ventured outside and lit these prayers on fire. Why? So as to offer our prayers to God as an offering of incense, and so as to offer our prayers as a brazen act of beauty. Though the wind played with our plans, the papers on the cross were to turn into a rose. 

As you enter into Holy Week, offer yourself to Jesus as a brazen act of beauty, and offer your prayers as incense. However we offer ourselves, Christ receives us as we are. 

Holy Week at SOTC

Come and worship with us as we experience the only story that can fill us to the brim: Christ’s death and resurrection.

Maundy Thursday Worship
Thursday, April 14 @ 7:00 pm

Good Friday Worship
Friday, April 15 @ 7:00 pm

Easter Sunday Worship
Sunday, April 17 @ 9:00 am

Easter Breakfast and Egg Hunt

Breakfast | 8:00 am
Egg Hunt | 8:30 am

Join us on Easter morning for fellowship and fun before worship!

We’ll start the morning with a breakfast of egg bakes, fruit, and muffins. Still looking to help bring food or serve? Contact Leslie Eichelberger

In the midst of breakfast, we’ll host our annual Egg Hunt (outside, weather permitting). Please be mindful that the egg hunt will begin promptly at 8:30 so we can transition to worship starting at 9:00 am.

No Christians Underground during Holy Week

Christians Underground will not meet this Wednesday, April 13. We will resume on Wednesday, April 20 at 12:00 pm at Geo Johnz Pizza. Join us for conversation around our upcoming Sunday’s Scripture readings!

Inclusive Dialogue: Journey through Uncertainty

Monday, May 23 @ 6:30pm

What is it like to grow up in a refugee camp? The Stanley Center invites you to join a special event as author Omar Mohamed tells his story of living in a refugee camp in Kenya through his book When Stars are Scattered. Omar will be joined by Victoria Jamieson, artist and writer. 

This event will be held both in person at the Merrill Hotel and virtually. Registration is required to attend, and either option is free and open to the public. This event is recommended for students 5th grade and up. This is a great opportunity to read an illuminating graphic novel with a child in your life and attend the event together!

Sunday Adult Education 

Study Focus: Acts

Following Easter, our Adult Education group will begin a new study on the book of Acts. Often titled “the Acts of the Apostles”, together we’ll discover that the book of Act more clearly points to “the Acts of the Holy Spirit”!

Throughout the season of Easter, we’ll be hearing readings from the book of Acts. So join us as we dive a little deeper, gain a better context of our Scripture readings and open ourselves to the work of the Spirit in the church today. 

Sessions will begin Sunday, May 1.

Palm Sunday and Bishop Current Visit

Sunday, April 10

This coming Sunday we have two reasons to celebrate! Bishop Current will be joining us and we also will begin our journey through Holy Week. Make sure to stick around after a time of fellowship to have a conversation with Bishop Current during our education hour. 

Note that Palm Sunday worship will begin in the narthex. From the narthex, we will enact the procession of Jesus into Jerusalem by processing through the sanctuary, out the side door, onto the sidewalk and around the parking lot. In case of inclement weather, we will process inside

Find out more about Bishop Current.

Panda Express Fundraiser

Sunday, April 10

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 April 10
• present our coupon code: 334976
• 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. 

Family Night @ SOTC

Sunday, April 10 @ 6:00 pm

This February, a small group of families gathered together for a meal and fellowship to help welcome some of our new member families. Since then, it’s clear that there is a hunger for more fellowship among young adults and families with youth PreK-High School. 

Therefore, so as to continue providing an opportunity to gather in fellowship and a time for intentional conversation with parents, we will be gathering this coming Sunday evening.  Can’t make it this month? We aim to gather each month, so stay tuned for more information.

Easter Breakfast and Egg Hunt

Breakfast | 8:00 am
Egg Hunt | 8:30 am

Join us on Easter morning for fellowship and fun before worship!

We’ll start the morning with a breakfast of egg bakes, fruit, and muffins. Youth and families attending Camp EWALU this summer will be helping serve/provide food, but we also need a bit extra help! If you can help provide food, serve, or clean up, sign up here. Questions? Contact Leslie Eichelberger

In the midst of breakfast, we’ll host our annual Egg Hunt (outside, weather permitting). Please be mindful that the egg hunt will begin promptly at 8:30 so we can transition to worship starting at 9:00 am. Questions about the egg hunt? Contact Colleen Bentz. 

Willing to help gather candy and assemble eggs? Congregation members are invited to bring candy and put it in the box in the narthex. We’ll assemble eggs on Sunday, April 10 during fellowship. 

April 6 Lenten Midweek Meals and Worship

Join us for our last Lenten midweek meal and worship! This week we will hear again the story of Mary washing Jesus’ feet and will be invited into a practice of prayerful meditation.

April 6 Menu is: Pulled Pork Sandwiches, Mac & Cheese, Veggies, and Dessert 

Holy Week at SOTC

Be sure to mark your calendars to join us as we remember the final week of Christ’s life. All are welcome!

Palm Sunday Worship
Sunday, April 10 @ 9:00 am

Maundy Thursday Worship
Thursday, April 14 @ 7:00 pm

Good Friday Worship
Friday, April 15 @ 7:00 pm

Easter Sunday Worship
Sunday, April 17 @ 9:00 am

Christians Underground Update

Our Christians Underground group has been meeting weekly on Wednesdays at noon at Geo Johnz and we’ve been having great conversations! All are welcome to join us!

Note that we WILL meet this coming Wednesday, April 6 but we will NOT meet Wednesday, April 13 due to Holy Week.

Bishop Current is coming to SOTC!

Sunday, April 10

We have an awesome opportunity in a couple of weeks to welcome Bishop Amy Current, bishop of the Southeastern Iowa Synod, to SOTC! In an effort to better connect with congregations in the synod, members of the synod staff have been visiting congregations in person. 

At the same time, Bishop Current has been meeting (via Zoom) with over 100 congregations in the synod in an effort to learn the hopes, fears, and sense of mission within various congregations. Though completely separate from Bishop Current’s visit on April 10, Shepherd recently had the opportunity to participate in this virtual conversation as well.  For this conversation, Pastor Aleese was asked to bring together our Council president (Delene McConnaha) and two other lay leaders. To round out the conversation, Pastor Aleese asked Heather Allen (previous Council president) and Mackenzie Gilbert (current Council liaison) to join the conversation.  Ask any one of these people how the conversation went and they can assure you that the conversation was incredibly positive and affirming of Shepherd!

If you’d like to hear more about this conversation, stop Delene, Heather, Mackenzie, or Pastor Aleese when you see them. And, if you’d like to help us welcome Bishop Current in true Shepherd form, join us on April 10 as we celebrate Palm Sunday!

Find out more about Bishop Current.

Easter Breakfast and Egg Hunt

Breakfast | 8:00am
Egg Hunt | 8:30 am

Join us on Easter morning for fellowship and fun before worship! Families of youth attending camp will be serving breakfast starting at 8:00 am. We likely will need some help from other families to provide egg casseroles, fruit, and muffins. If you are willing to help, here is the link to sign up. Questions, contact Leslie Eichelberger or Colleen Bentz. 

Our annual Egg Hunt will be outside (weather permitting). All are welcome to join us! Please be mindful that the egg hunt will begin promptly at 8:30 so we can transition to worship starting at 9:00 am. 

Willing to help gather candy and assemble eggs? Congregation members are invited to bring candy and put it in the box in the narthex. We’ll assemble eggs on Sunday, April 10 during fellowship. 

March 30 Lenten Midweek Meals and Worship

A reminder that we continue to gather for a meal from 5:30-6:15 pm and worship from 6:30-7:15 pm. This Wednesday we will take another look at our Gospel reading and consider God’s role and our role in repentance and bearing fruit.

March 30 Menu is: Baked potato bar, mac, and cheese, dessert

Supplies needed to make laundry soap? 

We need you, Shepherds! We’re joining with Grace this Lent to collect items to make laundry soap for families in our community.  Challenge yourself to bring one of these items each week between now and the end of Lent! 

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

Holy Week at SOTC

Be sure to mark your calendars to join us as we remember the final week of Christ’s life. All are welcome!

Palm Sunday Worship
Sunday, April 10 @ 9:00 am
(note: we will process outside, weather permitting. We will begin in the narthex, process out the side door, onto the sidewalk, and around the church parking lot.)

Maundy Thursday Worship
Thursday, April 14 @ 7:00 pm
(note: will NOT include a meal as has sometimes been the case in previous years)

Good Friday Worship
Friday, April 15 @ 7:00 pm

Easter Sunday Worship
Sunday, April 17 @ 9:00 am

Family Night @ SOTC

Sun, April 10 @ 6:00 pm

This February, a small group of families gathered together for a meal and fellowship to help welcome some of our new member families. Since then, it’s clear that there is a hunger for more fellowship among young adults and families with youth PreK-High School. 

This group is not meant to be exclusive; rather, the goal is to bring together people of similar life experiences to grow together in relationship and in faith. 

If you haven’t been able to join us yet, mark your calendars for our April gathering. Know that Pastor Aleese will be in touch via email with further details.