Category: News

Engaging in God’s Covenant to Us

This past weekend we had some fun in worship! We learned about God’s covenant with all of creation (the rainbow) and as we learned that God is closer than it may appear – in Jesus’ baptism, in the widlerness, and as Jesus began proclaiming that the Kingdom of God was at hand. As you go into the week, keep alert for where God is breaking into your life and into our world; keep alert for how and where God is offering provision – even in the midst of seemingly the desert; and keep alert for God’s Kingdom that is among us and that we are being invited to become co-workers within. And make sure to join us for worship next weekend (and this coming Wed for Lenten Midweek Gatherings!) as we make our journey through this sacred season of Lent.

Crosses during the Season of Lent

On Sunday, Barb Swanson brought crosses that her husband, Mel, made to church as an offering to the congregation for the season of Lent.  These crosses are made of nails with colored wiring added. Barb is not requesting money for the crosses; instead, she requests that people offer a donation to SOTC.

Based on the response this past weekend, and knowing that some people were gone from worship, Barb will bring the crosses back this coming Sunday, February 25. Consider purchasing one as a cross to wear or keep with you during the season of Lent!

Susan Clark Junior High Musical – Junie B. Jones Jr.

February 23 & 24 @ 7pm
February 24 and 25 @ 2pm

Support our own Elyse Eichelberger in the Susan Clark Junior HIgh Musical! Tickets are $7 online and $10 at the door. Get your tickets fast as there are only 100 seats available for each performance. Performance is at the MCC Little Theater (152 Colorado Street). 

Lent Midweek Gatherings

Wednesday, February 21 – March 20,
5:30 – 7:00 pm Hosted at Wesley Family Life Center (114 W 7th Street)

It’s tomorrow night! We’ll gather at the Wesley Family Life Center from 5:30-7 (meal included!). Together we’ll eat, hear Scripture, discuss questions in groups, have an intergenerational activity, and pray. Throughout the season, we’ll reflect on the treasures that matter to us, why we store treasures, and the power these treasures have in our lives. 

To help us accurately plan, RSVP using this link or in the narthex if you’re planning on joining us! Even if you don’t RSVP, you’re welcome to drop in!

Lent Opportunities at Grace and Zion

We’re mindful that each of us are on our own distinct spiritual journeys and therefore may need different opportunities to nurture our lives of faith. If participating in the Lenten Midweek Gatherings isn’t what you’re looking for, consider joining in what Grace or Zion are doing this Lent. 

Grace – Worship on Wednesdays @ 6:00pm (starting February 21)
Midweek worship will be a series on Christian community. No meal served.

Zion – Worship on Wednesdays @ 5:30pm (starting February 21) with meal to follow
Midweek worship will be a series on Holy Lament using Holden Evening Prayer. Meal will follow worship. 

Giving during the Season of Lent

Support Organizations on Wednesdays and Sundays

Each week for our Lenten Midweek Gatherings we will welcome a leader of a community organization to share about thier organization’s work and how we can be partners with them. To support these organizations, each Wednesday we will encourage participants to bring a donation as a part of thier Lenten discipline to share thier treasures with others. See the list below to get a glimpse who who we’re supporting and the donations needed. 

Not able to join us on Wednesday evenings? Bring your donation the Sunday before to church and place it in the appropriate box in the narthex. We’ll make sure your donation makes it to the Wesley Family Life Center. 

February 28 – Senior Resources
Donations – Hygiene items (soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, deoderant, Kleenex, laundry detergent)

March 6 – Sleep in Heavenly Peace
Donations – twin bed sheets and pillows

March 13 – MCSA
Donations – socks and underwear (adults and kids)

March 20- Community Diaper Bank
Donations – size 4-7 diapers (all sizes welcome, sizes 4-7 most needed)

Worship Volunteers

Our life together takes many hands…especially in worship! If you’re willing to serve as a worship volunteer (reader, usher, song leader, etc.) or as a counter, sign up online or in the narthex. Even if you are currently serving in one of these volunteer roles, please re-sign up to indicate your continued willingness to serve. Thank you in advance!

Holy Week Schedule

Though we are just starting our Lenten journey, take note of Holy Week services on your calendar. Also note that we will not have a formal Easter breakfast this year, but we will still have a time for fellowship before worship and we will still have an egg hunt for the kids!

Palm Sunday Worship: 
March 24 – 9:00 am

Maundy Thursday Worship: 
March 28 – 7:00p pm

Good Friday Worship: 
March 29 – 7:00 pm

Easter Sunday Fellowship:
March 31 – 8:00 – 8:45am

Easter Egg Hunt:
March 31 – 8:30 am

Easter Sunday Worship:
March 31 – 9:00 am

Good Friday Day with the Kids!

Our Education Team has been working on an event for our kids on Good Friday to learn more about Christ’s passion and the sacrament of holy communion. More details forthcoming. Save the day to spend time at church with Pastor Aleese and others!

Lent Midweek Gatherings

Wednesday, February 21 – March 20,
5:30 – 7:00 pm Hosted at Wesley Family Life Center (114 W 7th Street)

After gathering together at Shepherd for Ash Wednesday worship, we will gather with participants from Wesley United Methodist, Faith United Church of Christ, Island United Methodist, and First Presbyterian to journey through Lent. 

Starting on Wed, Feb 21 we’ll gather from 5:30-7 (meal included!). Together we’ll eat, hear Scripture, discuss questions in groups, have an intergenerational activity, and pray. Throughout the season, we’ll reflect on the treasures that matter to us, why we store treasures, and the power these treasures have in our lives. 

To help us accurately plan, RSVP using this link or in the narthex if you’re planning on joining us!

Lent Opportunities at Grace and Zion

We’re mindful that each of us are on our own distinct spiritual journeys and therefore may need different opportunities to nurture our lives of faith. If participating in the Lenten Midweek Gatherings isn’t what you’re looking for, consider joining in what Grace or Zion are doing this Lent. 

Grace – Worship on Wednesdays @ 6:00pm (starting February 21)
Midweek worship will be a series on Christian community. No meal served.

Zion – Worship on Wednesdays @ 5:30pm (starting February 21) with meal to follow
Midweek worship will be a series on Holy Lament using Holden Evening Prayer. Meal will follow worship. 

Giving during the Season of Lent

Support Organizations on Wednesdays and Sundays

Each week for our Lenten Midweek Gatherings we will welcome a leader of a community organization to share about thier organization’s work and how we can be partners with them. To support these organizations, each Wednesday we will encourage participants to bring a donation as a part of thier Lenten discipline to share thier treasures with others. See the list below to get a glimpse who who we’re supporting and the donations needed. 

Not able to join us on Wednesday evenings? Bring your donation the Sunday before to church and place it in the appropriate box in the narthex. We’ll make sure your donation makes it to the Wesley Family Life Center. 

February 28 – Senior Resources
Donations – Hygiene items (soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, deoderant, Kleenex, laundry detergent)

March 6 – Sleep in Heavenly Peace
Donations – twin bed sheets and pillows

March 13 – MCSA
Donations – socks and underwear (adults and kids)

March 20- Community Diaper Bank
Donations – size 4-7 diapers (all sizes welcome, sizes 4-7 most needed)

Crosses for Sale

Recently, Barb Swanson has offered to sell crosses that her husband, Mel, made. These crosses are made of nails with colored wiring added. Crosses will be available after worship on Sunday, February 18 and into the coming weeks of Lent. Proceeds will benefit SOTC. Consider purchasing one as a cross to wear or keep with you during the season of Lent!

Worship Volunteers

Our life together takes many hands…especially in worship! If you’re willing to serve as a worship volunteer (reader, usher, song leader, etc.) or as a counter, sign up online or in the narthex. Even if you are currently serving in one of these volunteer roles, please re-sign up to indicate your continued willingness to serve. Thank you in advance!

Christian Day Camp Registration 2024

Christian Day Camp was such a hit last summer that it’s coming back again this summer with camps for elementary kids (K-5th), middle school (6th-8th) and preschool mini days! Dates for each camp are:

Elementary: June 11-15 (9:00 am – 4:00 pm; optional overnight from Friday into Saturday)
Middle School: June 25 -27 (9:00 am – 4:00pm; optional overnight Wednesday into Thursday)
Preschool: June 17, July 1, July 15 (5:30 – 7:30pm; meal included!)

Registration will begin in mid-February. In the meantime, take a look at our website for more information about dates and times.

Interested in volunteering? We’ll need you! An online sign up will be available by mid-February. 

Holy Week Schedule

Though we are just starting our Lenten journey, take note of Holy Week services on your calendar. Also note that we will not have a formal Easter breakfast this year, but we will still have a time for fellowship before worship and we will still have an egg hunt for the kids!

Palm Sunday Worship: 
March 24 – 9:00 am

Maundy Thursday Worship: 
March 28 – 7:00p pm

Good Friday Worship: 
March 29 – 7:00 pm

Easter Sunday Fellowship:
March 31 – 8:00 – 8:45am

Easter Egg Hunt:
March 31 – 8:30 am

Easter Sunday Worship:
March 31 – 9:00 am

Good Friday Day with the Kids!

Our Education Team has been working on an event for our kids on Good Friday to learn more about Christ’s passion and the sacrament of holy communion. More details forthcoming. Save the day to spend time at church with Pastor Aleese and others!

Chocolate Fest!

Sunday, February 11 during fellowship

Following SOTC tradition, we will feast on chocolate the Sunday before Lent begins! ALL are invited to bring a chocolate delicacy to share during fellowship.

Ash Wednesday

Wednesday, February 14, 7:00 pm

After celebrating the glory of Jesus transfigured on the mountain on Sunday, February 11, we turn ourselves to the wilderness of Lent. Ash Wednesday begins this sacred season with worship at 7:00 pm. Plan to join us as we return to the Lord our God who is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. 

Giving during the Season of Lent

Support Organizations on Wednesdays and Sundays

Each week for our Lenten Midweek Gatherings we will welcome a leader of a community organization to share about thier organization’s work and how we can be partners with them. To support these organizations, each Wednesday we will encourage participants to bring a donation as a part of thier Lenten discipline to share thier treasures with others. See the list below to get a glimpse who who we’re supporting and the donations needed. 

Not able to join us on Wednesday evenings? Bring your donation the Sunday before to church and place it in the appropriate box in the narthex. We’ll make sure your donation makes it to the Wesley Family Life Center. 

February 28 – Senior Resources
Donations – Hygiene items (soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, deoderant, Kleenex, laundry detergent)

March 6 – Sleep in Heavenly Peace
Donations – twin bed sheets and pillows

March 13 – MCSA
Donations – socks and underwear (adults and kids)

March 20- Community Diaper Bank
Donations – size 4-7 diapers (all sizes welcome, sizes 4-7 most needed)

Lent Midweek Gatherings

Wednesday, February 21 – March 20,
5:30 – 7:00 pm Hosted at Wesley Family Life Center (114 W 7th Street)

This year we have the privilege of joining with Wesley United Methodist, Faith United Church of Christ, Island United Methodist, and First Presbyterian as we journey through the season of Lent!

Starting on Wed, Feb 21 we’ll gather from 5:30-7 (meal included!). Together we’ll eat, hear Scripture, discuss questions in groups, have an intergenerational activity, and pray. Throughout the season, we’ll focus on the spiritual discipline of evaluating what the heart treasures.

To help us accurately plan, RSVP using this link or in the narthex if you’re planning on joining us!

Lent Opportunities at Grace and Zion

We’re mindful that each of us are on our own distinct spiritual journeys and therefore may need different opportunities to nurture our lives of faith. If participating in the Lenten Midweek Gatherings isn’t what you’re looking for, consider joining in what Grace or Zion are doing this Lent. 

Grace – Worship on Wednesdays @ 6:00pm (starting February 21)
Midweek worship will be a series on Christian community. No meal served.

Zion – Worship on Wednesdays @ 5:30pm (starting February 21) with meal to follow
Midweek worship will be a series on Holy Lament using Holden Evening Prayer. Meal will follow worship.

Crosses for Sale

Recently, Barb Swanson has offered to sell crosses that her husband, Mel, made. These crosses are made of nails with colored wiring added. Crosses will be available after worship on Sunday, February 18 and into the coming weeks of Lent. Proceeds will benefit SOTC. Consider purchasing one as a cross to wear or keep with you during the season of Lent!

Shepherding Team Sign Up – 2024

Sign Up through Sunday, February 11

Each year in January and February we ask Shepherds to consider how they may be called to serve on a Shepherding Team in the coming year. If you’re feeling called to serve on one of our Shepherding Teams this year, click here to be taken to an online sign up, or sign up on the bulletin board in the narthex. 

Even if you are currently on a team, please re-sign up. If you are currently on a team but would no longer like to be on that team, simply do not sign up. As a courtesy, reach out to either Pastor Aleese or your team lead to indicate your desire not to continue so we do not follow up with you. 

Thanks for your contributions as a part of our faith community! 

Worship Volunteers

Our life together takes many hands…especially in worship! If you’re willing to serve as a worship volunteer (reader, usher, song leader, etc.) or as a counter, sign up online or in the narthex. Even if you are currently serving in one of these volunteer roles, please re-sign up to indicate your continued willingness to serve. Thank you in advance!

Camp EWALU this summer!

We have a crew of kids and youth excited to go to Camp EWALU this summer!

To organize with youth from Grace and Zion as well, if your child is interested in camp this summer, contact Pastor Aleese by Wednesday, February 14. With several programs being offered on the same week, we can take kids of all ages at once!

For more information, check out the camp website. Note: please refrain from registering at this time if you are interested so we sign up together as a whole group from Muscatine. 

Christian Day Camp Registration 2024

Christian Day Camp was such a hit last summer that it’s coming back again this summer that it’s coming back again this summer with camps for elementary kids (K-5th), middle school (6th-8th) and preschool mini days!

Registration will begin in mid-February. In the meantime, take a look at our website for more information about dates and times.

Interested in volunteering? We’ll need you? An online sign up will be available by mid-February. 

Ash Wednesday

Wednesday, February 14, 7:00 pm

Yep, the date is correct! Ash Wednesday falls on Valentine’s Day this year! Make sure to mark your calendars as a part of your Valentine’s Day celebrations as you remember and give thanks for the greatest gift of love.

Lent Midweek Gatherings

Wednesday, February 21 – March 20,
5:30 – 7:00 pm

This year we have the privilege of joining with Wesley United Methodist, Faith United Church of Christ, Island United Methodist, and First Presbyterian as we journey through the season of Lent!

Starting on Wed, Feb 21 we’ll gather from 5:30-7 (meal included!). Together we’ll eat, hear Scripture, discuss questions in groups, have an intergenerational activity, and pray. Throughout the season, we’ll focus on the spiritual discipline of evaluating what the heart treasures.

To help us accurately plan, RSVP using this link or in the narthex if you’re planning on joining us!

Shepherding Team Sign Up – 2024

Sign Up through Sunday, February 11

Each year in January and February we ask Shepherds to consider how they may be called to serve on a Shepherding Team in the coming year. If you’re feeling called to serve on one of our Shepherding Teams this year, click here to be taken to an online sign up, or sign up on the bulletin board in the narthex. 

Even if you are currently on a team, please re-sign up. If you are currently on a team but would no longer like to be on that team, simply do not sign up. As a courtesy, reach out to either Pastor Aleese or your team lead to indicate your desire not to continue so we do not follow up with you. 

Thanks for your contributions as a part of our faith community! 

Game Night

Sunday, February 4, 4:30 – 6:30 pm

Before joining with others for the Super Bowl weekend on the following weekend, join your Shepherds for a game night! Bring an appetizer to share and your favorite games.

Grief Share Support Group

Beginning Sunday, February 4 @ 12:30 pm @ Wesley 

Have you lost a loved one and are grieving his/her death? Or, do you know someone who has? 

Wesley is beginning a Grief Share Support Group in early February. At GriefShare you’ll watch a weekly video with counsel and insights from respected grief experts and relatable personal stories—followed by a time of sharing and support. Session topics include what’s normal in grief; how to handle difficult emotions; and what to do with regrets, questions, and worries. For more information, contact Jessica Hall at 563-263-1596 or visit griefshare.org. 

Camp EWALU this summer!

Last Wednesday during Family Faith Night we welcomed Emily Tull, program director of Camp EWALU to share about camp this summer! If your child/youth is interested in camp, contact Pastor Aleese. It is likely that we (along with Grace and Zion) will be taking a group to camp this summer. With several programs being offered on the same week, we can take kids of all ages at once! Check out the camp website for more information. Please refrain from registering at this time if you are interested so we sign up together as a whole group from Muscatine.

Christian Day Camp Registration 2024

Christian Day Camp was such a hit last summer that it’s coming back again this summer with camps for elementary kids (K-5th), middle school (6th-8th) and preschool mini days! Take a look at our website for more information about dates and times, and be on the look out for registration information by mid-February!

Annual Report and Meeting

Sunday, January 28

This coming Sunday we’ll gather for our annual meeting follow worship. Click here to access our annual report and/or pick up a copy in the narthex next time you’re at church. 

After the meeting, we WILL have a potluck! If you signed up to bring a dish, you’ll receive a reminder email later this week. If you did not sign up to bring a dish to share, but you will be able to join us, consider bringing something to contribute!

Shepherding Team Sign Up – 2024

Sign Up through Sunday, February 11

Each year in January and February we ask Shepherds to consider how they may be called to serve on a Shepherding Team in the coming year. If you’re feeling called to serve on one of our Shepherding Teams this year, click here to be taken to an online sign up, or sign up on the bulletin board in the narthex. 

Even if you are currently on a team, please re-sign up. If you are currently on a team but would no longer like to be on that team, simply do not sign up. As a courtesy, reach out to either Pastor Aleese or your team lead to indicate your desire not to continue so we do not follow up with you. 

Thanks for your contributions as a part of our faith community!

Winter Outerwear Drive

Through Sunday, January 28

Last week to bring in your warm winter outerwear!  Coats, hats, boots, warm socks, gloves, scarves, etc. all welcome. Thanks for sharing God’s love to our neighbors in the greater Muscatine community! 

Game Night

Sunday, February 4, 4:30 – 6:30 pm

Before joining with others for the Super Bowl weekend on the following weekend, join your Shepherds for a game night! Bring an appetizer to share and your favorite games.

Lent Midweek Gatherings

Wednesday, February 21 – March 20,
5:30 – 7:00 pm

This year we have the privilege of joining with Wesley United Methodist, Faith United Church of Christ, Island United Methodist, and First Presbyterian as we journey through the season of Lent!

Starting on Wed, Feb 21 we’ll gather from 5:30-7 (meal included!). Together we’ll eat, hear Scripture, discuss questions in groups, have an intergenerational activity, and pray. Throughout the season, we’ll focus on the spiritual discipline of evaluating what the heart treasures.

To help us accurately plan, RSVP using this link or in the narthex if you’re planning on joining us!

Grief Share Support Group

Beginning Sunday, February 4 @ 12:30 pm @ Wesley 

Have you lost a loved one and are grieving his/her death? Or, do you know someone who has? 

Wesley is beginning a Grief Share Support Group in early February. At GriefShare you’ll watch a weekly video with counsel and insights from respected grief experts and relatable personal stories—followed by a time of sharing and support. Session topics include what’s normal in grief; how to handle difficult emotions; and what to do with regrets, questions, and worries. For more information, contact Jessica Hall at 563-263-1596 or visit griefshare.org. 

Ash Wednesday

Wednesday, February 14, 7:00 pm

Yep, the date is correct! Ash Wednesday falls on Valentine’s Day this year! Make sure to mark your calendars as a part of your Valentine’s Day celebrations as you remember and give thanks for the greatest gift of love.

Luther College Nordic Choir in Davenport

Saturday, January 27, 7:30 pm

Luther College Nordic Choir, the flagship choir of Luther, will be performing at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church (2136 N Brady St., Davenport) on Sat, January 27 @ 7:30pm. Tickets ($20 adult / $10 student) may be purchased in advance and will also be available at the door one hour prior to the concert.

Annual Report and Meeting

Sunday, January 28

Even though we weren’t able to share our annual report in person with you on Sunday, we’d still like to share our report for 2023 – highlighting what God has been up to through us at Shepherd! Click below to access the report and pick up your copy next time you’re at church. 

Note that our annual meeting will be on Sunday, January 28 following worship. Agenda for our meeting is within the annual report. 

After the meeting, we will have a potluck. Please sign up in the narthex with what you’d like to share! (main dish, side, salad, dessert)

Winter Outerwear Drive

Through Sunday, January 28

Have you noticed the pile of winter outerwear that’s growing in the narthex? Add your contribution of coats, hats, boots, warm socks, gloves, and scarves! Bring your donations to the box in the narthex by Sunday, January 28. 

Game Night

Sunday, February 4, 4:30 – 6:30 pm

Before joining with others for the Super Bowl weekend on the following weekend, join your Shepherds for a game night! Bring an appetizer to share and your favorite games.

Family Faith Night Schedule Update

Because of our cancellation last week, we’ve adapted the schedule a bit to allow for some exciting upcoming events! 

• On Jan 24, we’re exicted to welcome Camp EWALU. Elementary and GIFT Youth will be with Emily Tull from EWALU, along with parents who’d like to learn more about camp. Big Questions will still meet separately.
• On Jan 31, we have cancelled our Service Night to allow for more time in our separate groups before Lent.
• Our final night together before the Lenten season will be Feb 7.

A revised pdf schedule, with an updated food menu, can be found on the groups page of our website. 

Adaptations to Fellowship

Because of varied schedules of our Shepherds, along with families who are taking winter trips, our Social Team is adapting our practice of fellowship after worship. Rest assured: each week after worship we will still have fellowship of some sort!

To help us out as we move into a new year, our Social Team is looking for the following volunteers:

1. People to serve every other week for full fellowship
2. People to prepare cookies/bars in advance that can be frozen
3. People who are willing to start coffee and set up tables on weeks we have simple fellowship. Quick clean up!

If you are willing to help in any of these ways, check out the sign up sheets in the narthex and/or contact Colleen Bentz. 

Ash Wednesday

Wednesday, February 14, 7:00 pm

Yep, the date is correct! Ash Wednesday falls on Valentine’s Day this year! Make sure to mark your calendars as a part of your Valentine’s Day celebrations as you remember and give thanks for the greatest gift of love.

Lent Midweek Gatherings

Wednesday, February 21 – March 20, 5:30 – 7:00 pm

This year we have the privilege of joining with Wesley United Methodist, Faith United Church of Christ, Island United Methodist, and First Presbyterian as we journey through the season of Lent!

Starting on Wed, Feb 21 we’ll gather from 5:30-7 (meal included!). Together we’ll eat, hear Scripture, discuss questions in groups, have an intergenerational activity, and pray. Throughout the season, we’ll focus on the spiritual discipline of evaluating what the heart treasures.

To help us accurately plan, RSVP using this link or in the narthex if you’re planning on joining us!

Winter Outerwear Drive

Through Sunday, January 28

In conjunction with our Women’s Epiphany Party, the entire congregation is invited to donate new or gently used winter outerwear to be shared with those in our community. Coats, hats, boots, warm socks, gloves, scarves, etc. are all needed!

Bring your donations to the box in the narthex by Sunday, January 28

Family Faith Nights

Resume January 10

Reminder that Family Faith Nights do not meet for the next two weeks. We resume on January 10. For a full calendar, with assigned meals for each week, check out those resources at our Groups page. 

Adaptations to Fellowship

Because of varied schedules of our Shepherds, along with families who are taking winter trips, our Social Team is adapting our practice of fellowship after worship. Rest assured: each week after worship we will still have fellowship of some sort!

Every other week, starting January 7, we will have regular, full fellowship (what you’re used to!)

On the off weeks, starting January 14, we will have a simple fellowship. The hope is to have some cookies/bars in the freezer that we can pull out and serve with just a napkin. 

Know that we will still observe days like Chocolate Fest, baptisms, etc. with a special fellowship time as they arise. 

With that in mind, here’s what our Social Team is looking for:

1. People to serve every other week for full fellowship
2. People to prepare cookies/bars in advance that can be frozen
3. People who are willing to start coffee and set up tables on weeks we have simple fellowship. No clean up required!

If you are willing to help in any of these ways, check out the sign up sheets in the narthex and/or contact Colleen Bentz. 

Annual Meeting

Sunday, January 28

Each January we set aside a Sunday to celebrate our shared ministry together at SOTC during our annual meeting. During this time, we will review the year, vote on nominated leaders, and hear reports from our president and treasurer. All are welcome to join us as we give thanks for the ways God has been at work in and through our Shepherds in the past year!

Note that after the meeting, we will have a potluck. Please sign up in the narthex with what you’d like to share! (main dish, side, salad, dessert)

Game Night

Sunday, February 4, 4:30 – 6:30 pm

Before joining with others for the Super Bowl weekend on the following weekend, join your Shepherds for a game night!

Bring an appetizer to share and your favorite games.

Ash Wednesday

Wednesday, February 14, 7:00 pm

Though it may seem strange to be thinking about Lent after we just celebrated Christmas, we have an early Lent coming up this year!

Make sure to mark your calendars to join us as a part of your Valentine’s Day celebrations!

Women’s Epiphany Party

Sunday, January 7, 5:00 – 7:00 pm

Join us for a night of celebrating Christ’s light to the nations! This year, in lieu of a candle exchange, bring a white elephant gift.

Also, to give back to our community, bring winter outerwear that will be donated to those in need in our community. New or gently used accepted. Gloves, hats, scarves, boots, coats…whatever you so please! We’ll invite the whole congregation to join this initiative through January. 

Winter Outerwear Drive

Through Sunday, January 28

In conjunction with our Women’s Epiphany Party, the entire congregation is invited to donate new or gently used winter outerwear to be shared with those in our community. Coats, hats, boots, warm socks, gloves, scarves, etc. are all needed!

Bring your donations to the box in the narthex by Sunday, January 28

Family Faith Nights

Resume January 10

Reminder that Family Faith Nights do not meet for the next two weeks. We resume on January 10. For a full calendar, with assigned meals for each week, check out those resources at our Groups page. 

Adaptations to Fellowship

Because of varied schedules of our Shepherds, along with families who are taking winter trips, our Social Team is adapting our practice of fellowship after worship. Rest assured: each week after worship we will still have fellowship of some sort!

Every other week, starting January 7, we will have regular, full fellowship (what you’re used to!)

On the off weeks, starting January 14, we will have a simple fellowship. The hope is to have some cookies/bars in the freezer that we can pull out and serve with just a napkin. 

Know that we will still observe days like Chocolate Fest, baptisms, etc. with a special fellowship time as they arise. 

With that in mind, here’s what our Social Team is looking for:

1. People to serve every other week for full fellowship
2. People to prepare cookies/bars in advance that can be frozen
3. People who are willing to start coffee and set up tables on weeks we have simple fellowship. No clean up required!

If you are willing to help in any of these ways, check out the sign up sheets in the narthex and/or contact Colleen Bentz. 

Annual Meeting

Sunday, January 28

Each January we set aside a Sunday to celebrate our shared ministry together at SOTC during our annual meeting. During this time, we will review the year, vote on nominated leaders, and hear reports from our president and treasurer. All are welcome to join us as we give thanks for the ways God has been at work in and through our Shepherds in the past year!

Note that after the meeting, we will have a potluck. Please sign up in the narthex with what you’d like to share! (main dish, side, salad, dessert)

Opportunities to Serve at Lutheran Living

Recently Pastor Aleese has learned of several opportunities to serve residents at Lutheran Living. If you are interested in serving in any of these capacities, contact Pastor Aleese. 

Volunteer Visitor: seeking volunteers to offer 1 hour per week (or every 2 weeks) to visit with residents. Training would be provided for volunteers. 

Volunteers to transport residents to chapel worship services: seeking volunteers to assist on Sundays from 1:45-2:45pm to transport residents desiring to attend worship from their rooms to the chapel. 

Game Night

Sunday, February 4, 4:30 – 6:30 pm

Before joining with others for the Super Bowl weekend on the following weekend, join your Shepherds for a game night!

Bring an appetizer to share and your favorite games.

Ash Wednesday

Wednesday, February 14, 7:00 pm

Though it may seem strange to be thinking about Lent after we just celebrated Christmas, we have an early Lent coming up this year!

Make sure to mark your calendars to join us as a part of your Valentine’s Day celebrations!

Year End Giving

Last day for 2023 Contributions: December 27

If you are planning to make a year end donation, please do so by Wednesday, December 27. All gifts received after December 27 will be deposited in 2024.

Office Hours @ SOTC after Christmas

Kathy will be in the office on Wednesday, December 27 from 9:00 am – 12:00pm. If you need something from the church office at other times during the week of Christmas, contact Kathy. 

Pastor Aleese will be on vacation Monday, December 25 – Monday, January 1. Worship on Sunday, December 31 will be lay led. For pastoral emergencies, contact Pastor Susan Bantz (563-554-9213).

Women’s Epiphany Party

Sunday, January 7, 5:00 – 7:00 pm

Join us for a night of celebrating Christ’s light to the nations! This year, in lieu of a candle exchange, bring a white elephant gift.

Also, to give back to our community, bring winter outerwear that will be donated to those in need in our community. New or gently used accepted. Gloves, hats, scarves, boots, coats…whatever you so please! We’ll invite the whole congregation to join this initiative through January. 

Winter Outerwear Drive

Through Sunday, January 28

In conjunction with our Women’s Epiphany Party, the entire congregation is invited to donate new or gently used winter outerwear to be shared with those in our community. Coats, hats, boots, warm socks, gloves, scarves, etc. are all needed!

Bring your donations to the box in the narthex by Sunday, January 28

Family Faith Nights

Resume January 10

Reminder that Family Faith Nights do not meet for the next two weeks. We resume on January 10. For a full calendar, with assigned meals for each week, check out those resources at our Groups page. 

Adaptations to Fellowship

Because of varied schedules of our Shepherds, along with families who are taking winter trips, our Social Team is adapting our practice of fellowship after worship. Rest assured: each week after worship we will still have fellowship of some sort!

Every other week, starting January 7, we will have regular, full fellowship (what you’re used to!)

On the off weeks, starting January 14, we will have a simple fellowship. The hope is to have some cookies/bars in the freezer that we can pull out and serve with just a napkin. 

Know that we will still observe days like Chocolate Fest, baptisms, etc. with a special fellowship time as they arise. 

With that in mind, here’s what our Social Team is looking for:

1. People to serve every other week for full fellowship
2. People to prepare cookies/bars in advance that can be frozen
3. People who are willing to start coffee and set up tables on weeks we have simple fellowship. No clean up required!

If you are willing to help in any of these ways, check out the sign up sheets in the narthex and/or contact Colleen Bentz. 

Opportunities to Serve at Lutheran Living

Recently Pastor Aleese has learned of several opportunities to serve residents at Lutheran Living. If you are interested in serving in any of these capacities, contact Pastor Aleese. 

Volunteer Visitor: seeking volunteers to offer 1 hour per week (or every 2 weeks) to visit with residents. Training would be provided for volunteers. 

Volunteers to transport residents to chapel worship services: seeking volunteers to assist on Sundays from 1:45-2:45pm to transport residents desiring to attend worship from their rooms to the chapel. 

Annual Meeting

Sunday, January 28

Each January we set aside a Sunday to celebrate our shared ministry together at SOTC during our annual meeting. During this time, we will review the year, vote on nominated leaders, and hear reports from our president and treasurer. All are welcome to join us as we give thanks for the ways God has been at work in and through our Shepherds in the past year!

Note that after the meeting, we will have a potluck. Please sign up in the narthex with what you’d like to share! (main dish, side, salad, dessert)

Ash Wednesday

Wednesday, February 14, 7:00 pm

Though it may seem strange to be thinking about Lent after we just celebrated Christmas, we have an early Lent coming up this year!

Make sure to mark your calendars to join us as a part of your Valentine’s Day celebrations!

Family Faith Night Participants Carol at Pearl City Place and Addington Place

For our December service night, our Family Faith Night crew caroled at area nursing home facilities. Thanks to Leslie Eichelberger for coordinating and for all who lended thier voices to provide some Christmas cheer!

Reminder: Family Faith Nights resume on Wednesday, January 10.

Christmas Party Fun!

On Sunday morning we were encouraged to be on the lookout for awe and joy, and then later that night we embodied it! Thanks to those who joined us for fun as we played Christmas bingo and Christmas pictionary!

Introducing our newest Shepherd!

We rejoice with Nick and Mackenzie Gilbert on the birth of thier daughter, Gracelynn Marie, on Wednesday, December 13. 8 lbs 2 oz; 21 in long. Mom, dad, and baby are all healthy and well!

Support Muscatine Youth Performing this Season

We have one last performance from one of our SOTC youth performing this holiday season! Support Elyse this Tuesday and be sure to congratulate her after the concert!

Susan Clark Junior High Choir Concert – 
Tuesday, December 19 @ Susan Clark @ 6:30 pm
Featuring Elyse Eichelberger

Opportunities to Serve at Lutheran Living

Recently Pastor Aleese has learned of several opportunities to serve residents at Lutheran Living. If you are interested in serving in any of these capacities, contact Pastor Aleese. 

Volunteer Visitor: seeking volunteers to offer 1 hour per week (or every 2 weeks) to visit with residents. Training would be provided for volunteers. 

Volunteers to transport residents to chapel worship services: seeking volunteers to assist on Sundays from 1:45-2:45pm to transport residents desiring to attend worship from their rooms to the chapel. 

Christmas Eve greeters: SOTC is leading a brief, 30-minute worship service on December 24 at 2:00pm. To extend our hospitality to those outside our flock, we’re looking for some additional people to help lead portions of worship, help residents, and visit. Time commitment: 1:45 – 2:45pm. 

Office Hours @ SOTC after Christmas

To offer time for our staff to spend time with family, the church office will be closed on Christmas Day – Monday, December 25. 

Pastor Aleese will be on vacation Monday, December 25 – Monday, January 1. Worship on Sunday, December 31 will be lay led. 

Following Christmas, the office will be open on Wednesday, December 27 from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm. If you need something from the church office at other times during the week of Christmas, contact Kathy.

Women’s Epiphany Party

Sunday, January 7, 5:00 – 7:00 pm

Join us for a night of celebrating Christ’s light to the nations! This year, in lieu of a candle exchange, bring a white elephant gift.

Also, to give back to our community, bring winter outerwear that will be donated to those in need in our community. New or gently used accepted. Gloves, hats, scarves, boots, coats…whatever you so please! We’ll invite the whole congregation to join this initiative through January. 

Year End Giving

Last day for 2023 Contributions: December 27

As you look to the end of the calendar year, note that if you are planning to make a year end donation, please do so by Wednesday, December 27. All gifts received after December 27 will be deposited in 2024.

Annual Meeting

Sunday, January 28

Each January we set aside a Sunday to celebrate our shared ministry together at SOTC during our annual meeting. During this time, we will review the year, vote on nominated leaders, and hear reports from our president and treasurer. All are welcome to join us as we give thanks for the ways God has been at work in and through our Shepherds in the past year!