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!