Last Sunday, we shared with the congregation an invitation to embark on a 30 day prayer journey. The intent of this prayer journey is two-fold:
to ask for God’s guidance as we discern if God is calling us to further collaborative ministry with our fellow ELCA congregations,
and to ask for God’s guidance as we nominate people to serve on a joint ELCA team.
To get the full scoop of what opportunities lay before us, review the video that was shared on August 1 or take a look at the summary pdf below. Mark your calendars now for Sunday, August 22 (after worship) as a chance to offer your feedback, questions, concerns, and how the Spirit has been working in you throughout August.
Looking to nominate someone for the joint ELCA team? Offer nominations in writing in the narthex or using this Google form.
Questions? Talk with your Council members, Visioning team members and/or Pastor Aleese. Thank you, in advance, for helping us invoke the Spirit as we consider our call to the greater Muscatine community!
Based on the feedback we received from the congregation, the Property Team has elected to proceed with the purchase of a storage shed. Shed has been ordered and is expected to arrive late September at the earliest. If you have any questions regarding our coming storage shed, talk to Nick Gilbert.
Fall Family Faith Formation Opportunities
Last year, we experimented with a Family Faith Night model – inviting parents, kids and youth of all ages to join us. This year, we are continuing a similar model, but are excited to announce we will be collaborating with both Grace and Zion!
So as to plan ahead effectively, each congregation’s Education Team is asking families with kids PreK- grade 12 to complete the following family feedback form. Hope is to have a group for elementary kids, middle school youth (aka: FINK, our confirmation ministry program), high schoolers, and adults. Exact time, dates, and locations are TBD based on interest.
Please fill out this survey to the best of your ability by Sunday, Aug 15 so our teams can make plans for the coming year. If you have any questions, talk to Pastor Aleese, Mackenzie Gilbert, or Jamie Vircks.
Plans are in the making for possible God’s Work Our Hands service projects and a jump-start to our fall program year! Stay tuned for further details. Bibles for 3-year-olds, 3rd graders, and incoming confirmation/FINK students will be distributed on Rally Day.
It feels like fall…so let’s enjoy it! Join us with a lawn chair and we’ll provide the rest. We’ll have some s’mores packets already pre-assembled for you (graham cracker, chocolate, and a marshmallow). These packets will be pre-assembled so as to ensure safe food handling. Given that we will be gathering outside, we feel confident that we can maintain a safe environment while we briefly remove our masks to enjoy some s’mores.
Family Faith Nights
Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
We’re trying something a bit different this school year, and we want to be sure that EVERYONE feels included! On Wed evenings we will have an hour together to connect with Christ and with each other. Most weeks, we’ll break into age specific groups (elementary, junior and senior high students and adults). However, some weeks, we’ll stay together as a large group and do some cross-generational activities. If you’re looking for more information, check out this video that Pastor Aleese put together. Join us for a night, and see what we’re talking about!
SOTC at Halloween “Magic in Motion”!
Friday, October 30, 6:30-8:00 p.m., Saulsbury Campground
If you haven’t heard already, the Muscatine County Conservation Board will be hosting a drive-through Halloween experience at Saulsbury for kids and adults of all ages! Free admission, but a donation for the Muscatine Food Pantry or the Muscatine Humane Society is requested. Support this event!
But here’s the deal: we’re looking for your help! We (as a congregation) have the opportunity to decorate a campsite as participants drive through the campground for a Halloween experience. We need people to set up, be at the site from 6:30-8, and tear down. If you’re interested in helping, contact Dave Bakke (563-299-8967).
Halloween/All Saints Day Fellowship
Sunday, November 1 following worship
In lieu of a Trunk-or-Treat this year, we will be having a time of fellowship and games on Sun, Nov 1 for both kids AND adults! The intent of the day will be to celebrate both Halloween and All Saints Day (Did you know? They’re actually connected a bit!) Make sure to come in costume and stick around for games and activities!
Names for All Saints Day Litany
By Wednesday, October 28
As is our custom, we remember saints who have been baptized and who have died in the past year in a litany during worship for All Saints Day. If you have a family member or close friend that you would like remembered as a part of the litany, contact Kathy with their name by Wednesday, October 28. Questions? Talk to Pastor Aleese or Kathy.
Bible and Breakfast?
Recently, we have gathered that our Christians Underground group is not working for people’s schedules. Therefore, we are CANCELLING Christians Underground until further notice, and are considering trying something different. So, if you are looking for a fellowship opportunity, while also spending a bit of time in the previous or upcoming Sunday Scripture readings, over some coffee/breakfast, contact Pastor Aleese. We are considering gathering on a Thursday morning, but are open to the schedules of those who are interested in attending. Time TBD; likely around 7am.
The church building is now open to the congregation for office hours and small group events. For further information regarding safety, disinfecting, and any restrictions, click here.
Pastor Aleese – Tuesdays (1-3pm), Wednesdays (9-11am), Thursdays (3-5pm)
God’s Work Our Hands Volunteer Opportunity
Looking for a way to help those impacted by the derecho? We are aiming to have a day of service in the Cedar Rapids/Marion area on Sunday, September 13. Pastor Aleese is working with a colleague in that area. It is likely that there will still be work needed to be done for individuals/families and for some of the churches that were hit the hardest. More details to come, but if you’re interested, mark off Sunday, September 13 and let Pastor Aleese know of your interest. We will need tools to take along with us.
For those not able to help with the heavier service projects, note that we will be in touch in the coming weeks as to what supplies we could collect and bring north for those in need.
Our aim is to gather Sunday morning for a brief devotion/prayer and collection of supplies before sending our crew north. Plan to join us if you have the morning free!
Combined Total Contribution to Muscatine Food Pantry!
We’ve received totals from Grace! Grace raised $524.07. Added to our collection of $341.54, between the two congregations, we contributed a total of $865.61. Way to go Shepherds, and thank you for your support of our community!
Women’s Group
Women’s Group meets on the second Saturday of the month at 8:30 a.m. Women of all ages are welcome to join us as we share in fellowship and Bible Study.
Dear Church Book Club
This fall, we are continuing our reading of Dear Church by Rev. Lenny Duncan. Rev. Duncan is an African American pastor in the ELCA and writes from his perspective calling the church to action today. Contact Pastor Aleese if you are interested in joining our discussion. We meet again Thursday, September 15 at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom.
Here at Shepherd, we are looking toward the beginning of fall. Typically that means anticipating another “program” year. Though the coming months will look different, we look forward to continued opportunities to remain connected to Christ and to each other.
Back to School Blessing
This school year, our students, teachers, and parents are heading into unknown territory. To support them, and offer our prayers, we will have a blessing/prayer for students, teachers, and parents during worship on Saturday, August 22. Kids – make sure to join us as we’ll have something to give you! And parents and teachers, be sure to join us as we include you in prayer as well!
Family Bible Adventures
We are wrapping up our final installment of our adventures by finishing up with the story of Jesus feeding the 5000. Be sure to check out our final adventure and bring your offering for the food pantry to church by Monday, August 17!
Coin and Cash Collection for Muscatine Food Pantry
Thanks to your help, we have collected quite a bit of money for the food pantry! Help us finish strong and bring in your last offerings by Monday, August 17. Then, we’ll combine our offerings with Grace Luthearn and cut a check. Want to give more than a quarter or two? Send a check via mail to the church, made out to “Shepherd of the Cross” with “Food Pantry” in the memo line.
Kayaking-Swimming at Deep Lakes Park | August 16, 3:00-5:00 p.m.
Join us for a late afternoon of kayaking/swimming down at Deep Lakes! Those who desire to kayak can do so around 3, and then cool off in the water before heading home. Not interested in kayaking, but just want to swim? Go for it!
The Muscatine Community School District (MCSD) Choral Department is flying to make sure they have what is needed to have safe environments for their students to not only come back to the classroom, but have the opportunity to sing. Time singing in the classroom will be limited and regulated, but regardless, the department is looking for help from the community in making specific masks. They have a specific pattern and fabric, but simple need A) people to help cut the pattern, and B) people to assemble the mask. If you are interested and willing to help, contact Pastor Aleese for more information.
Information re Fall Worship and Education Schedule Coming Soon
With the return of many students to school, and with the beginning of things like choral rehearsals (though still restrained), many have begun asking what we are doing at Shepherd. Our Council will be meeting on Wed, August 19 to make decisions for the coming months. In the meantime, know that teams like Worship and Music, Education, etc. are meeting and beginning to make plans to best accommodate what is needed to continue our mission as a congregation. If you have questions or concerns about our road forward, you are encouraged to reach out to a Council member (Heather Allen, Daryl Eichelberger, Alice Pittman, Connie Stalheim, Barb Williams, Mackenzie Gilbert, Amy Bakke) or Pastor Aleese.
Women’s Group
Women’s Group meets on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month at 8:30 a.m. We continue with our series on “Just Love.” To date, we have looked at the stories of the raising of Lazarus, Zaccheaus, the Good Samaritan, and Esther. Women of all ages are welcome to join us! We meet outside while physical distancing. Bring your own lawn chair.
Dear Church Book Club
This summer we are reading Dear Church by Rev. Lenny Duncan. Rev. Duncan is an African American pastor in the ELCA and writes from his perspective calling the church to action today. Contact Pastor Aleese if you are interested in joining our discussion. We meet again Thursday, August 13 at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom.
Welcome Bishop Elect Current!
On Friday, August 7, congregational representatives and Pastor Aleese attended our synod’s assembly via Zoom. Though we attended to various matters, our primary task was to elect a new bishop. As of the close of our assembly, the Southeastern Iowa Synod has elected Pastor Amy Current, current Vice-President of Admissions and Student Services at Wartburg Theological Seminary. She will be installed later this fall. We encourage you to continue to hold the synod and incoming synod staff in prayer as transitions are being made.
Though summer is nearly over, we are still looking forward to a few opportunities to remain connected to each other and to Christ. Take a look below for what’s coming up, and stay tuned for more information about our plan for fall!
Family Bible Adventures
Though we are not hosting a formal Vacation Bible School this summer, we hope that families will take up the challenge to go on their own adventures! Adventures consist of a story from the Bible (shared in video format) and a suggested activity and prayer model. Be sure to check out the Family Bible Adventures tab for more information throughout the summer!
Coin and Cash Collection for Muscatine Food Pantry
As a part of the Family Bible Adventures challenge, families are being encouraged to collect coins and cash to bring together for our last Family Bible Adventure. Our hope is that by Wednesday, August 12, we can have a physically distant get-together for families of SOTC and Grace. That night, we will be looking at the story of the feeding of the 5000 and how the disciples gathered what they had to feed the crowd. So…why don’t we do the same?
For the next few weeks, when we gather for worship, there will be a cash box by the “entrance” to our outdoor worship space. Challenge yourself – and your kids! – to bring some spare coins/cash. Funds collected will then be given to the Muscatine Food Pantry.
Kayaking-Swimming at Deep Lakes Park | August 16, 3:00-5:00 p.m.
Join us for a late afternoon of kayaking/swimming down at Deep Lakes! Those who desire to kayak can do so around 3, and then cool off in the water before heading home. Not interested in kayaking, but just want to swim? Go for it! Note that there will be a small cost for use of a kayak, since we will be renting from the Conservation Board. Cost to be shared after we determine the number of kayaks that are needed.
We will be encouraging physical distancing between family units at Deep Lakes, but hope that this is an opportunity for families to gather in a safe, fun way. Families are encouraged to bring a drink and snack for themselves that we can munch on later during our block of time. Out of concern for safety, we will NOT be providing food for the whole group.
Women’s Group meets on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month at 8:30 a.m. We continue with our series on “Just Love.” To date, we have looked at the stories of the raising of Lazarus, Zaccheaus, the Good Samaritan, and Esther. Women of all ages are welcome to join us! We meet outside while physical distancing. Bring your own lawn chair.
Dear Church Book Club
This summer we are reading Dear Church by Rev. Lenny Duncan. Rev. Duncan is an African American pastor in the ELCA and writes from his perspective calling the church to action today. Contact Pastor Aleese if you are interested in joining our discussion. We meet again Thursday, Aug 13 at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom.
Youth Group June-July Schedule
An updated summer schedule has been emailed to youth and their families. Youth Group is intended for youth grades 4 and up. Though we need to be creative this summer due to restrictions, we are doing our best to provide ways for our youth to remain connected to each other and to Christ. Contact Pastor Aleese if you have any questions.
Although our life together looks different this summer, we are still committed to helping each other remain connected to Christ and to each other. All, members and guests, are invited to join us!
Dear Church Book Club
This summer we are reading Dear Church by Rev. Lenny Duncan. Rev. Duncan is an African American pastor in the ELCA and writes from his perspective calling the church to action today. Contact Pastor Aleese if you are interested in joining our discussion. Once we determine our group, we will determine meeting location and time, and how much of the book we will discuss at once. Those interested must order their own book.
Women’s Group
Women’s Group meets on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month at 8:30 a.m. We continue with our series on “Just Love.” Women of all ages are welcome to join us! We currently meet outside while physical distancing. Bring your own lawn chair.
Family Bible Adventures | July 1, 15, 29, Aug 12
We’ve been sharing information about an alternative way for families to engage in faith practices this summer…and we’re almost ready to share our first “adventure” with you! Adventures consist of a story from the Bible (shared in video format) and a suggested activity and prayer model. Be sure to check back for more information throughout the summer!
Youth Group June-July Schedule
An updated summer schedule has been emailed to youth and their families. Youth Group is intended for youth grades 4 and up. Though we need to be creative this summer due to restrictions, we are doing our best to provide ways for our youth to remain connected to each other and to Christ. Contact Pastor Aleese if you have any questions.
Each Wednesday, in hopes to connect our kids to Christ and to each other, we will be sharing Children’s Chat videos and accompanying resources for kids to engage with the upcoming Sunday’s Gospel story. Also found here are Children’s Bulletins for each week. Feel free to use these children’s bulletins during the week for an extra activity, or as something to keep your kids occupied during our Zoom worship services.
Resources are intended for children 5th grade and under. Blessings to you as you live into the promise of Christ’s life this season!
Wednesday, June 3
As we head into the summer, we will be phasing out of our scheduled Children’s Chat. So, this will be our last “formal” Children’s Chat. But don’t worry! Other resources will be shared for in-person and family activities throughout the coming weeks. To finish out today, tune in with the Sparkhouse Sunday School Team as they dive into the story of creation and how it relates to Holy Trinity Sunday, coming up this Sunday! All resources noted in the video can below.
Acts 2: 1-21 | It’s almost here! Throughout the entire season of Easter, we have been counting down the days until Pentecost Sunday. Join Pastor Aleese, and the Sprkhouse Digital Team, as they explore the day of Pentecost through song, story, and activities. Be sure to get your best celebratory gear out to celebrate with Pastor Aleese and the whole church! And bring your doves and flames to the church on Thursday, May 28 from 5:30-6:30 so we can use them in worship on Sunday!
Dove Coloring Page – color this and bring it to Pastor Aleese on Thurs., May 28!
Flame Coloring Page – color this and bring it to Pastor Aleese on Thurs., May 28!
Wednesday, May 20
Acts 1:1-11 | This weekend we celebrate the last Sunday of the Easter season, and remember the Ascension of Our Lord. But now, as we wait – in between when our Lord ascended into heaven and when the promised Spirit will come – what are we to do as disciples of Jesus? We ALL have been “waiting” for many things in these past weeks. Well, let’s take a lesson from the early church of how they spent their time waiting. Dive into the story with Pastor Aleese and utilize the accompanying resources below as is appropriate. Music and use of the Spark Storybook Bible covered by Sparkhouse Digital subscription.
Dove Coloring Page – color this and return to Pastor Aleese by May 28 for use in our Pentecost worship service!
Flame Coloring Page – color this and return to Pastor Aleese by May 28 for use in our Pentecost worship service!
Wednesday, May 13
John 14: 15-21 | It’s time for another Children’s Chat with Pastor Aleese and our Sparkhouse team! For today’s story, we turn to the night before Jesus began his walk to the cross. There with his disciples, he had a commandment and a promise for them. To learn what that commandment and promise is, and how it is appropriate for us today, take a listen. As always, you can find the corresponding resources that accompany this video below. Music and use of Spark Storybook Bible covered by Sparkhouse Digital subscription.
John 14:1-14 | We’ve all been spending more time in our “houses” these days. Have you ever wondered what God’s House is like? Tune into Children’s Chat with Pastor Aleese to learn more about God’s House…and how YOU are a part of God’s house! Be prepared to find Pastor Aleese in some odd places this week! Music and use of Spark Storybook Bible covered by Sparkhouse Digital subscription.
John 10:1-10 | We belong to a church called “Shepherd of the Cross.” But what does it mean that Jesus is our shepherd? And who are we as God’s little lambs? Dive in with Pastor Aleese for song, story, and an activity. Music and use of Spark Storybook Bible covered by Sparkhouse Digital subscription.
Luke 24: 13-35 | As we continue through the Easter season, we learn in Scripture that Jesus appeared to many of his disciples…in many different places! Watch along with Pastor Aleese to learn about the “Road to Emmaus” story. We’ll sing together, hear the story, and participate in some activities. And…don’t forget to send your pictures of being in a “disguise” to Pastor Aleese! Music and use of Spark Storybook Bible covered by Sparkhouse Digital subscription.
John 20:19-31 | On this first Wed after Easter, Children’s Chat is brought to you by Sparkhouse, the company from which we teach Sunday School at SOTC. Dive in with the Rundman family as they explore the story of “Doubting Thomas.” Similar to Children’s Chats with Pastor Aleese, the video will offer a song, a story, and some activities. If you’re interested in any of the activity sheets that accompany this lesson, check out the link in the comment section to this video. And, if you’re interested in following along with the story in your Spark Storybook Bibles, turn to pages 492-495. Blessings to your families as you explore the GOOD NEWS of Jesus Christ who has risen from the dead!
Each week, to help you remain connected to Christ and to each other, we’ll continue to share daily video devotionals. Consider this a way to connect with Pastor Aleese, with the greater church, and with what’s happening in your church family!
June 9-12 | Life as Disciples of Jesus
Tuesday, June 9 | Just think for a moment: what do you “know” about God? Looking back to last Sunday, we might “know” that God is Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. And we might “know” that God is love. But to “know” something goes beyond intellectual knowledge. To “know” something is to internalize it and let it direct our lives. So then, what does it mean to “know the Lord our God” during times such as this? Consider this as you listen in for today’s Faith-on-the-Go.
June 2-5 | Life in the Spirit
Tuesday, June 2 | This past Sunday as we celebrated Pentecost Sunday, we noted that there are times in which it seems as though the world goes from 0-60 in a matter of seconds. Well, in these past weeks, and even in the past days, our world has seen much…leaving many of us wondering what is going on, and what is coming next. So how are we to respond as Christ’s living body on earth today? Hear a response from Pastor Aleese as we consider our role as “church” in these days ahead, and join us as we listen, love, and pray together.
May 26 – 29 | Looking to Pentecost
Thursday, May 28 | As we look to Pentecost Sunday, we confess that the Spirit has knit us together as one body in Christ. But if that is the case, we can no longer live for ourselves. Instead, we have been given the duty, the right, the freedom, and the joy to live as though we are always connected to ALL humanity. What does that mean? Well, listen in as Pastor Aleese considers events of the past few days and highlights our shared responsibility to uplift justice and life for all people.
Tuesday, May 26 | Recently, a lot of places have been “re-opening.” Though we haven’t opened our physical doors yet, the truth is that we have never been “closed.” As we look to the coming of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost Sunday (this coming Sun!), we wait in hope for the Spirit to blow through us…wherever we are. So how has the Spirit been at work in your life during this time apart? Wherever and however it has been active, that is also where the church has been active. Take a listen, and continue to consider that work of the Spirit this coming week.
May 19-22 | Week of Easter 7
Thursday, May 21 | “Now what?” might be the question that many of us are thinking as we consider where we are at and what a “road forward” might look like for us – as a church, as a community, and as individuals. Take a listen as Pastor Aleese gives an update on what is coming soon at SOTC and also as she gives an encouragement as we wait for what is to come.SHOW LESS
Tuesday, May 19 |Hey Shepherds! To jump start our week, our Tuesday Faith-on-the-Go comes from Tory Thompson. Tory just finished her first year at UNI and is now working an internship with United Way this summer. During this time of quarantine, many of you have likely been finding creative ways to engage with your faith. For Tory, she’s been turning to her ukulele. Take a listen as she offers two songs, and consider it a time of prayer as you re-center yourselves for another week. Tune back in on Thursday for our second Faith-on-the-Go for the week!
May 12-15 | Week of Easter 6
Thursday, May 14| As a follow up to yesterdays Faith-on-the-Go, in which we were asked to consider what has changed during this time that we have been apart, today we’re asked the follow up question: in looking back in these weeks, and in looking back on your life, what has the Lord done for you? Where has the Spirit been at work? And what might it be like to offer praise to your Lord for those marvelous works? Consider these questions along with Pastor Aleese, and be sure to join us for worship via Zoom this weekend as we come together to offer our praise for all that God has done.
Wednesday, May 13 | It’s been a while since the reality of COVID-19 began impacting our lives, and even our community life together at SOTC. Since then, what we need to remain connected to each other and to Christ has shifted. In addition to that, it’s likely, though, that how we see ourselves, each other, the world around us, and even God has also changed. So for today’s Faith-on-the-Go, consider: where are you now? And how has your perception shifted during this time? Hear a bit from Pastor Aleese and take a listen to hear how what we will be doing at Shepherd will be shifting to help meet each other where we are at.
Tuesday, May 12 | Have you been finding yourself not quite sure what to hope for lately? With so many things shifting and with uncertainty before us, we might be fighting “hope fatigue” – that is, getting our hopes up for various things, only to have those hopes dashed. So what do we do? Take a listen as Pastor Aleese provides a brief reflection on hope, and offers an update on what we have to “hope for” and “look forward to” as a congregation.
May 5-8 | Week of Easter 5
Friday, May 8 | At Shepherd of the Cross, our community life together is central to who we are. Even during this time apart, we continue to be a community of people bound together by the Spirit and bound in our baptism. But what makes us unique as a community? Two things: 1) we are led by Christ, and 2) we are transformed by his love and grace. So what does it mean to love? As simple as it sounds, love can be tough. Take a listen and consider how you might be called to share the love of Christ this weekend.
Thursday, May 7 | For today’s Faith-on-the-Go, we jump back to our synod partners in ministry and highlight what some congregations are doing while physically apart from one another. Though what we are doing at Shepherd is different than what you’ll see here, we are #inthistogether in sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ in the world today. Go and BE the church this week, Shepherds!
Wednesday, May 6 | Today for Faith-on-the-Go, we have the privilege of hearing from one of our Shepherds as he responds to the question “what does new life mean to you?” We have all been given this new life in Jesus Christ…and it isn’t just something given to us on Easter Sunday. It goes with us throughout the Easter season and throughout our lives. Listen to what Joseph has to say, and then ponder the question for yourself: What does new life mean to you?
Tuesday, May 5 | What the church has looked like during this time of COVID-19 has certainly been “different.” One likely would’ve never imagined doing “church” in these capacities before this outbreak. However, regardless of what we are “doing” as church, it hasn’t changed how we ARE the church, and how we can BE the church. Listen in, and then go BE the risen body of Christ where you go.
April 28 – May 1 | Week of Easter 4
Friday, May 1 | Being apart from each other isn’t easy, especially as we feel the loss of experiencing significant life transitions for either ourselves or those we know. Made in God’s image, we were made to live in community. But for many weeks, we have needed to remain separated, in order to show our love for one another. So then, what does it mean at such a time as this to “dwell in the house of the Lord” as one body? Hear what Pastor Aleese has to say for our Friday Faith-on-the-Go, and be sure to have your communion elements ready for Sunday as we gather around the banquet that has been prepared for us.
Thursday, April 30 | At Shepherd of the Cross, we have been experimenting with different ways of doing ministry in these days. Take a look at what is happening around our synod, and how congregations are taking similar – and different – approaches. However we are engaged in ministry these days, as one in the house of the Lord, we are “in this together.”
Wednesday, April 29 | Throughout this week, we will be hearing voices from the greater church for our Faith-on-the-Go. Though we are separate, using the words from Psalm 23, we continue to gather as one “in the house of the Lord.” Today, hear from the presiding bishop of the ELCA, Bishop Eaton.
Tuesday, April 28 | For our Faith-on-the-Go today, we find Pastor Aleese “on the road again” (sing it in a sing-song voice and it makes more sense!) Dive into Psalm 23 along with her as she considers what it means to be led along right path ways with our Lord, and what it means to “get in the groove” with Jesus.
April 21 – 24 | Week of Easter 3
Friday, April 24 | Ever experience those moments that are just too good to put words to? Sometimes that might be our experience as Christ is revealed to us. For today’s Faith-on-the-Go, hear Pastor Aleese’s encouragement to savor those moments of Christ’s presence with you. And be sure to prepare your communion elements for worship this Sunday!
Thursday, April 23 | For today’s Faith-on-the-God, join Pastor Aleese as she offers a reflection of Psalm 116. Be sure to prepare your communion elements this weekend for worship as communally, we offer our thanks and praise to God, and challenge yourself to offer thanks to God today for 3 things/situations as we all exclaim in our hearts “I love you, Lord.
Wednesday, April 22 | Happy Earth Day! For today’s Faith on the Go, we find Pastor Aleese in the MIDDLE of God’s good creation. Take a listen, and then get out in God’s creation….or at the least, take a look outside. Then, ponder God’s good creation and your connection to the very breath of all that surrounds you.
Tuesday, April 21 | After a quick run, Pastor Aleese had some musings about what that “breath of life” that God gives us is really all about. But at the same time that she sensed that breath of life within and around her, she also recognized that sometimes, life – and the situations we find ourselves – just kind of hurt. As we move through these days of quarantine, and whenever we rejoin each other again, there may be scars…and there may be things that we carry going forward. Taking a breath might remind us of God’s gift that’s been given to us, but taking a breath and slowing down might ALSO reveal to us the realities of pain and brokenness that lie around us. But those two things? They CAN coexist this Easter. So wherever you find yourself on that continuum, take a listen. And please…be gentle with Pastor Aleese and the video; her phone cut out mere seconds from being done so we have two recordings spliced together today. And perhaps that’s a reminder to be gentle with yourselves, as we inhale that peace of Christ that fills us…no matter what.
April 14-17 | Week of Easter 2
Friday, April 17 | Thanks to YOUR faith on the go, we had an incredible Holy Week! Take a look at what life looked like from Palm Sunday through Easter Sunday! Continue to live in the life of Christ’s resurrection, Shepherds!
Thursday, April 16 | Yesterday, Pastor Aleese encouraged us to pick up our Easter glasses as we look at the world through the lens of Christ’s resurrection. But that also changes the way we act, and the way we live. Today, take a listen as she offers a piece of Scripture encouraging us to clothe ourselves in Christ as we live and serve in His name.
Wednesday, April 15 | Welcome back to our daily Faith-on-the-Go! Easter Sunday may have come and gone, but now, we are called to LIVE in Easter for the next 50 days. What does that mean? Take a listen as Pastor Aleese encourages us to grab our “Easter glasses”
Tuesday, April 14 | Though Easter Sunday has come and gone, we still live in the promise of Christ’s resurrection each and every day. For our Faith-on-the-Go for this Tuesday, hear Bishop Burk, bishop of our Southeastern Iowa Synod, offer his reflection on what Easter means for us and for our world. Be sure to check back here Wednesday, April 15, for Faith-on-the-Go and Children’s Chat as we resume our regular virtual schedule!
To inspire some hope and life, even amidst separation, we share music videos here each Monday. We hope these videos inspire you to find a space of prayer and reflection and to dwell in the life that Christ offers us, even now.
Monday, May 11
This past Sunday, we heard in worship of how Jesus has gone ahead of us to prepare many “dwelling places” for us – in this life and in the next. This week, you all were encouraged to be aware of those “thin places” – places in which the distance between heaven and earth seemingly grows closer. Because of Christ’s death and resurrection, those “thin places” are EVERYWHERE and we have the comfort of abiding with Jesus wherever we find ourselves. For our Music Monday reflection today, hear the King’s College Choir’s rendition of “Abide with Me,” a beloved old hymn. If you’re looking for further time to dwell with Jesus, revisit John 14-15 to hear Christ’s invitation to draw near to him as our source of life. Blessings to you Shepherds, as we begin another week, together by God’s grace.
Monday, May 4
This past weekend, we were supposed to welcome a crew of college students from Luther College, a college of the ELCA, located in Decorah, IA. They were going to lead us in worship, have song time with our kids, and host an evening Youth Group.
For obvious reasons, that trip was cancelled. But, instead, we want to share a song put together by the Luther College Cathedral Choir, a mixed choir of sophomore students. They sing “We Are Called” arranged by Mark Hayes.
The lyrics speak of uniting the world through the various ways we are called to bring light into the world, which is a much needed reminder right now. What are the ways in which you are being called today?
Monday, April 27
For our music break this evening, we hear from Pastor Zechariah Shipman. Pastor Zechariah and Pastor Aleese overlapped a few years while attending Wartburg Seminary in Dubuque. At many bonfires (which happened QUITE often during these spring days) Pastor Zechariah, Pastor Aleese, and others would grab whatever instrument they had around and would jam around the fire. To be sure, this piece is not what one would classify under the “sacred music” label. That said, Pastor Zechariah’s words before he performs this song connect this otherwise “secular” piece to our walk with Jesus and our walk with each other as Christians. Take a listen, and take heart, knowing that Christ has walked with you into the dark and promises to never, ever leave you or forsake you.
Monday, April 20
MUSIC MONDAY is back! While Pastor Aleese is drumming up some music for weeks to come, take a listen to one of her friends and colleagues from her college days. Phuc (the cellist) was the principal cellist of the Luther College Symphony Orchestra while Aleese was in school…for very obvious reasons once you take a listen. Phuc recorded this piece with two of his family members….recording with two of them in America, and one in Korea. Though time and space might separate us these days, some things bind us together. Music is one of those things. And God’s breath – giving us life and peace – is another. Listen, enjoy, and recall God’s breath that brings us together despite all odds.
