Category: News

Ash Wednesday Worship

Wednesday, March 2 @ 7:00 pm

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

Lenten Midweek Meals and Worship

Starting Wednesday, March 9

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

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

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

Can you help make laundry soap? 

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

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

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

Sewing Machines Needed

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

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

Join us Wednesdays @ 12:00 pm @ Geo Johnz

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

Making Sense of the Cross Adult Education

Beginning Sunday, March 6

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

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

Panda Express Fundraiser

March 6

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

Here’s what you need to do:

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

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

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

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

Chocolate Fest!

Sunday, February 27 

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

Lent is Coming!

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

Ash Wednesday Worship

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

Lenten Midweek Meals and Worship

Starting Wed, March 9, our schedule will be: 

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

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

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

Join us Wednesdays @ 12:00 pm @ Geo Johnz

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

Recognition of Team Members in Worship

Sunday, February 27

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

Panda Express Fundraiser

March 6 and April 10

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

Summer Camp Registration at EWALU

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

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

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

Lenten Midweek Schedule Finalized!

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

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

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

Christians Underground to Resumes this Week!

Wednesdays @ 12:00 pm, February 16

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

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

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

Sunday, February 20

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

Panda Express Fundraiser

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

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

Summer Camp Registration at EWALU

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

Chocolate Fest!

Sunday, February 27

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

Lenten Midweek Schedule Feedback

We need to hear from you!

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

Christians Underground to Resume!

Wednesdays @ 12:00 pm, starting February 16

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

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

Souper Bowl of Caring Drive

Sunday, February 6 and 13

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

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

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

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

Sunday, February 20

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

Pastor Aleese Continuing Education

February 11 – 14

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

Summer Camp Registration at EWALU

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

Tone Chime Rehearsals to Resume 

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

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

Lenten Midweek Schedule Feedback

We need to hear from you!

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

Shepherding Team Sign Up

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

SOTC Game Night

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

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

Souper Bowl of Caring Drive

Sunday, February 6 and 13

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

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

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

Narrative Directory Now Available!

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

Pastor Aleese Continuing Education

Feb 11 – 14

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

Tone Chime Rehearsals to Resume 

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

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

2021 SOTC Year in Review

This past Sunday we held our Annual Meeting following worship. As a part of that meeting, we compiled a video highlighting some moments from 2021. Take a look, and listen to our invitation given to the congregation going into 2022.

Narrative Directory Now Available

Ever want to know a bit more about your fellow Shepherds? Thanks to our Social Team, we have a new Narrative Directory that helps us get to know one another! Check it out to put a name to a face (thanks to your awesome pictures!) and learn more about our church family! To access the SOTC directories contact Kathy Dunham.

Shepherding Team Sign Up

For the past few years, each Jan/Feb we have asked the congregation to consider being a part of a Shepherding Team (Worship and Music, Education, Social, etc.). Per our organizational structure, team members are not elected. Instead, all are welcome to serve on whatever team(s) they feel they are being called to based on your skills/gifts. 

In the narthex, we have transformed our Advent “Close to Home” bulletin board into a giant sign-up board. If you would like to serve on a Shepherding Team, sign up at the church or using this Sign Up Genius link

Currently serving on a team and would like to continue? Please re-sign up so we know your intent to continue serving. 

If you have any questions, contact Kathy Dunham or Delene McConnaha

Adult Education to Resume

Sunday, January 30

Adult Education will resume on Sundays following worship/a time of fellowship. Tentative topic is an overview of the Gospel of Luke. This year, we will hear primarily from the Gospel of Luke in worship. Our hope is that in getting a birds-eye view of this Gospel, we will be better able to engage in Scripture as it is read in worship. All are welcome to join us!

SOTC Game Night

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

Take a break from the winter cold and join your Shepherds for a game night! Bring your favorite games and an appetizer to share for our meal. If you’re willing to bring a liter of pop and/or help in the kitchen during the evening, contact Colleen Bentz or Kathy Dunham. 

Southeastern Iowa Anti-Racism Network Conversation and Study

Tuesdays in February @ 7:00 pm

The Southeastern Iowa Synod invites you to join with communities of faith across Southeastern Iowa in faithful conversations about The 1619 Project. Slavery in the United States has been referenced as our “original sin.” Given that context and the fact that many communities of faith justified enslavement and benefited materially from it, or, on the flipside, worked for its elimination, it is critical the faith community intentionally study slavery and its lasting impact on the generations during and after.

Beginning on Tuesday, February 1, participants will gather at 7 pm for a 30-minute video, prepared by interfaith leaders from across the state, and end with 30-minutes of conversation. There is selected reading from the 1619 Project for each week, and the essay is available for free online. To view the 6-week structure, visit the Faithful Conversations on The 1619 Project site. If you need to miss a week (or 2) the videos are all available on YouTube and will be sent each week as a recap along with the assigned reading for the next week.

Register here to join in this important conversation. For questions, contact Pastor Erika Uthe, Assistant to the Bishop. 

Souper Bowl of Caring Drive

Sunday, February 6 and 13

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

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

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

Chocolate Fest 

Sunday, February 27

It’s still over a month away, but it’s definitely something to get excited about! We missed Chocolate Fest for the past two years, but are excited to bring this tradition back! The Sunday before Ash Wednesday, join us for a time of fellowship with nothing but chocolate! All members are invited to bring thier favorite chocolate delicacy. There will be no Sunday School or Adult Education this Sunday. Start getting your recipes ready now!

Annual Meeting

Sunday, January 23 following worship

Each year we gather in an annual meeting of the congregation. We use this time to elect new leaders for the coming year and attend to congregational business. But we also use this time as a chance to look back in reflection and forward in hope. Join us for our annual meeting and take a look at our 2021 Annual Report!

Shepherding Team Sign Up

For the past few years, each Jan/Feb we have asked the congregation to consider being a part of a Shepherding Team (Worship and Music, Education, Social, etc.). Per our organizational structure, team members are not elected. Instead, all are welcome to serve on whatever team(s) they feel they are being called to based on your skills/gifts. 

In the narthex, we have transformed our Advent “Close to Home” bulletin board into a giant sign-up board. If you would like to serve on a Shepherding Team, sign up at the church or using this Sign Up Genius link

Currently serving on a team and would like to continue? Please re-sign up so we know your intent to continue serving. 

If you have any questions, contact Kathy Dunham or Delene McConnaha

SOTC Game Night

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

Take a break from the winter cold and join your Shepherds for a game night! Bring your favorite games and an appetizer to share for our meal. If you’re willing to bring a liter of pop and/or help in the kitchen during the evening, contact Colleen Bentz or Kathy Dunham. 

Not able to join us in-person for worship? 
Join us via our livestream!

In the past few years, as a congregation, we have grown accustomed to providing a digital opportunity for people to join us in our worship. This fall, we needed to temporarily stop our livestreaming as we were having technological issues. In the meantime, we still recorded worship and uploaded those videos to our church YouTube channel. 

Since then, thanks to our Technology Team, our technological issues have been resolved. Because of this, and because our Worship and Music Team is mindful that people may not be able to attend in-person worship because of quarantining from COVID and/or winter weather concerns, we are resuming our livestream of worship. 

Livestream link is always available on our website and in our weekly email announcements. 

If you have any questions regarding this decision, talk to one of your Worship and Music Team members: Matt Bentz, Delene McConnaha, Amy Bakke, Joseph Reddy, Bob Danner and Becky DeBlaey. 

Lenten Opportunities

This year, the season of Lent begins on Wednesday, March 2. That evening, we will observe Ash Wednesday in worship at 7pm. On each Wednesday following, our Worship and Music Team and Education Team are considering various options to offer to the congregation. So as to have a sense of what the congregation is interested in participating this year, we are seeking your input. Please complete this survey or complete the paper copy found in the narthex. 

Adult Education to Resume

Sunday, January 30

Adult Education will resume on Sundays following worship/a time of fellowship. Tentative topic is an overview of the Gospel of Luke. This year, we will hear primarily from the Gospel of Luke in worship. Our hope is that in getting a birds-eye view of this Gospel, we will be better able to engage in Scripture as it is read in worship. More details to come soon. 

Annual Reports are Ready!

We are pleased to shared with you our 2021 Annual Report! Take a look to get a recap of how and where we dwelled with Christ in the past year. Look for a video recap to be shared at our Annual Meeting, scheduled for Sunday, January 23 following worship.

Worship Feedback Form

During the Advent-Christmas season, in order to embrace our theme of “Close to Home,” we adapted our worship and space set-up. Later this January, our Worship and Music Team will be meeting to review what was effective throughout the Advent-Christmas season, and what might “stick” into the new year. To help us get a broader perspective, we’re looking for your feedback. Fill out a paper copy (found in the narthex) or fill out the form here. We thank you in advance for your feedback as we seek to connect to Christ and to each other in our worship!

Poinsettias Available for Pick Up

If you ordered a poinsettia in honor/memory of someone, feel free to pick it up at the church.  Poinsettias are outside of the fellowship serving window. Thank you for helping us celebrate Christmas at Shepherd!

SOTC Game Night

Saturday, February 5 @ 4-6 pm

Take a break from the winter cold and join your Shepherds for a game night! Bring your favorite games and an appetizer to share for our meal. Soda provided.

Shed Update 

We’ve received some questions about when we will be able to move things into our shed. Thanks to the work of the Gilberts, the shed now has electricity hooked up. We need to wait for building inspection before building shelves. Once inspection is complete, along with shelves being built, we will begin moving things into the shed. Anticipate early spring as the soonest we will be ready for anything to be moved. Thanks for your patience and support of this project!

Dear Shepherds and friends of our community:

In the past few days, our news feeds have been spouting headlines about COVID-19. Day by day, even minute by minute, we have been finding ourselves reacting to an ever-changing reality. Here at SOTC, we have been attentive to the situation, and have been making decisions by stages.

To that end, following the CDC’s recommendations for mass gatherings that were published on the evening of Sunday, March 15, Pastor Aleese called a council meeting to determine our next steps forward. On Monday, March 16, our council met, reviewed the situation and recommendations of the CDC and state officials. In light of that discussion, the church council has voted to suspend all in-person activities at SOTC through Sun., April 12. This follows the proposed suspension of our local Muscatine Community School District.

To be clear, this decision was not made out of fear, and was not made as a reaction based on how other community groups are responding. Rather, this decision was made out of deep love for our neighbor – for those most vulnerable in our community at SOTC and for those most vulnerable in the greater Muscatine community. It was the decision of our council that it is at such a time as this that we must make the sacrifice of physically gathering together to benefit the greater population.

To that end, effective immediately, the building is closed to all members and visitors. Though we are aware that many may still be “well,” if we – as an organization – were to follow the recommendations laid before us from the CDC to maintain a clean/sanitized environment, it would simply be too much to expect of our paid staff and/or custodian to maintain. Pastor Aleese, Kathy (office manager) and our custodian will continue to have access as needed to the building. We will not be maintaining regular office hours; Pastor Aleese and Kathy will work only as is needed in the church building and will do much of their work remotely.

Though we will be suspending all in-person activities, THIS DOES NOT MEAN THAT MINISTRY WILL STOP! Instead, based on a plan Pastor Aleese presented to council last evening, much of what we do together as a community WILL continue through virtual means. Look for a LiveStream video (on Facebook, later uploaded to our website) from Pastor Aleese later today outlining the 5 core areas that we are working on to ensure that we:

• sustain the community that is here at SOTC
• sustain the role/mission we have as a congregation in the greater community

We encourage all members to check their email for continued updates, and we encourage EVERYONE to frequently return to this website for continued updates. Bookmark our site and check it often! We will be developing various pages in the next few days to facilitate community, even if we cannot be physically together.

In short, a few immediate notes:

• Worship will be held virtually on 9 am on Sundays. Although we cannot gather in our sanctuary, I ask us to gather together with each other across the community at a common time of prayer as is our current practice. Information pertaining to how to access our streamed worship service is forthcoming. You will receive an email update; also check back at our webpage and Facebook.
• Offerings can be sent via mail. We are in the process of setting up an option for online giving and/or bank draft (hopefully by end of this week). Though our ministry will look different for the next few weeks, we stress that our ministry is NOT suspended. We need your support, even during these times.
• Lenten small groups will also not meet in person; we are encouraging small group leaders to contact their groups to help facilitate a virtual meeting that is appropriate for each group.
  • It will be crucial for us to continue to interact together and build relationships, even if we are not in person. To that end, if you are not a part of a Lent Small Group, but would like continued support and contact with a small group from our congregation, please contact Pastor Aleese via email or cell. She will be either adding members to existing groups and/or creating more groups. It is the intent that these groups will not only continue with our Wednesday Lenten practice, but that these groups can be places for “check ins”  (aka: sharing highs and lows) especially in the midst of much uncertainty around us.
• Pastoral care needs are to be directed to Pastor Aleese. Text/call her on her cell phone ONLY (319-427-0600). Please do not contact the church office if you need to reach Pastor Aleese! Situations will be handled on a case-by-case basis to provide care. This also applies if you, or someone you know, is in need of food or other assistance.
• All outside groups (Weight Watchers and Wonder Years Preschool) will also not be using the church building during this time.
• All offsite gatherings (including Christians Underground) are also suspended.
• Our church council will virtually meet during their regularly scheduled time on Monday, March 30, to reassess the situation.  

In the coming days and weeks, you will receive information about how we will continue to live together – as SOTC, and as the greater Muscatine community. There is no question about it: we are living in an unprecedented time. However, that does not mean that we stop being the church. Though the ways we form faith and community in the next few weeks will look and feel different, we will not abandon the call to be the people God created us to be: people living on purpose for a purpose in the name of Jesus Christ.

So as we continue through Lent, let us continue to remember that Christ is with us. Let us continue to focus on the cross, where Jesus destroyed the power of death and gives us abundant life. And let us care for one another as one in the body of Christ.

Shepherds, we uphold you in prayer, and we ask that you continue to uphold one another in prayer. We’re in this together, and we trust that Christ will continue to guide our ministry during this time.

Peace,

Pastor Aleese and the SOTC Council

Lent 2020:
Every Wednesday 6-8:00 p.m.
6:00-6:30 meal
6:30-7:00 evening prayer worship service
7:00-8:00 small group

FIND OUT MORE

Ecumenical Prayer and Lunch
Looking for an opportunity to gather with others from the Muscatine community? Or, looking for a mid-day pause for prayer? The Muscatine Ministerial Association has organized a series of midweek prayer and lunch events at area churches. See the schedule on the bulletin board in the narthex.

MCSA Needs Lunch Servers
Requesting help serving lunch on Thursdays starting February 27. Food will be provided and prepared; they simply need volunteers to serve. Volunteers arrive by noon, serve from 12:15-12:45, and wrap up by 1:00. This is not something new, but they are finding they need help to continue this service. Sign up in the narthex if you are able to help. Pastor Aleese can answer any questions.

Allen Family Meal Assistance
Thank you to all who provided meals for the Allens. A sign-up sheet is in the narthex for the upcoming weeks. Kathy or Pastor can answer any questions.