Life of the Flock: Summer 2014
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Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, ELCA
SUMMER 2014
2 | SUMMER 2014 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
T his past year has seen a lot of excitement
at SOTV! Not only have we tried new things,
but we’ve also been doing a lot of listening. You may wish to never see another survey from SOTV, but those surveys – in
combination with small-group discussions, feedback on the comment cards and
online, volunteer task forces, and individual conversations – have given a lot of
perspective and direction for how we can best live out Our Vision.
You will see more in the coming weeks and
months, but this is what we are up to now:
Looking Back & Looking Ahead...
Saturday Worship 3
Results of our CAT Survey 4
Survey Findings on Giving 6
Capital Campaign for 2014-15 7
Faith Pathways 9
GodZone 19
Confirmation 21
What To Do This Summer...
Bible Studies & Fellowship 8
School Supply Drive 13
Habitat for Humanity 14
Shepherd’s Sale 15
Gifts for Tanzania Partners 17
Volunteer at VBS 19
Our Vision: invite all people to experience
the Welcome, Transformation, and Sending
of Jesus Christ
Shepherd of the Valley is…
Pastors Christopher Smith, Senior Pastor
Randy Brandt, Executive Pastor
Duane Paetznick
Mary Lund
Diane Sponheim
Chuck Tindell, Visitation Pastor
Leland Johnson, Visitation Pastor
Church Council
Steve Mueller, President
Jenny Buckley, Vice President
Arlen Wilson, Secretary
Troy Nelson, Treasurer
Lynn Askew, Past President
Ann Boekhoff
Shalom Ewald
Julie Fries
Paul Keller
Angela Zielinski
Main Contact Info Church Office: (952) 432-6351
Fax: (952) 432-6917
Website: www.sotv.org
Parish Nurses (952) 985-7365
Children, Youth & Family Office number: (952) 432-6385
Weddings Jill Johnson (952) 985-7381
Baptisms Merilu Narum (952) 985-7326
Funerals Jill Johnson (952) 985-7381
Most importantly,
Shepherd of the Valley is…
YOU! Thank you for supporting our mission and vision with your gifts of time and finances.
In This Newsletter...
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 3
Worship
B eginning September 13, we
will offer two worship
opportunities on Saturdays. 4:00
PM worship will be band-led, and
we will shift the organ/piano-led
worship to 5:30 PM (these times
were determined by feedback
from the November Worship
Survey).
We will also be adding GodZone sessions
on Saturday at 4:00 and 5:30 pm for age 3
(by Sep. 1) to Grade 3. GodZone sessions
for Grades 4 & 5 will now be aligned with
middle school Confirmation (see page 21) on Wednesdays at
4:30 or 5:45 pm.
Since we moved all worship into the Sanctuary, we have more
people experiencing band-led worship than ever before. We’re
excited to add another option for our existing worshipers, and
to invite more people to Experience Jesus in a casual, come-as-
you-are environment.
This summer, there will be three band-led previews at 5:00 pm
worship, to introduce current Saturday worshipers to band-led
worship. Those Saturdays are May 31, July 5, and August 2.
Here’s what else you can expect
this fall on Saturdays:
More “Sunday” music will be offered at
the 5:30 organ/piano-led service including
Sounds of Praise (1st Saturday of the
month), hand bells (3rd Saturday), and
Senior Choir (4th Saturday). Some options
for children’s or youth choirs are being
considered.
In addition to adding Saturday GodZone,
we’ve also planned a “Saturday Sampler,”
something new each week in the narthex
at 5:00 pm in-between worship services.
A large group of volunteers met to brainstorm ideas so that
each week’s sampler is welcoming, interactive, casual and
appealing to all ages.
Options we’re considering include:
Bible studies or devotions
Service opportunities for all ages
A special theme fellowship like “Oktoberfest”
A community meal
Look for a full schedule of activities closer to fall. Have ideas
you want to share? E-mail [email protected] or
New Saturday
Schedule
Beginning September 13
4:00 PM Band-Led
5:30 PM Organ/Piano-Led
GodZone will be offered both
hours for PK* - Grade 3.
*Age 4 by Sep. 1, 2014
Summer Worship Focus
Ephesians: June 14 & 15 - July 5 & 6
Ruth: July 12 & 13 - August 2 & 3
1 John: August 9 & 10 - August 30 & 31
Get a Taste of Band-Led Worship
3 Saturdays this Summer:
May 31, July 5, and August 2
Get Saturday Worship Fever! By Kari Slotten
sotv.org/worship
Photo: Patty Zwiefel
4 | SUMMER 2014 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Survey Results
Thank You!
T he Church Assessment Tool (CAT)
Survey was completed by 927 people
between January 19 and February 16, 2014.
This is fantastic! The large sample provides
results which have high validity and yield
reliable insights. Thank you for taking the
time to complete the survey. Below is a
summary of key findings from the survey.
A full copy of the report with an explanatory
DVD is available at the Welcome Center for check-out.
A High Energy Church The people of Shepherd of the Valley (SOTV) report that the
church is a high energy center of ministry in the name of Jesus
Christ. SOTV is a transformational church where people express
overall high satisfaction with their experience of its ministry
and appreciate the diverse opportunities for worship and
growth that our church offers.
An Adaptable Church SOTV people also report that they experience the church as a
flexible, adaptable place of mission and ministry. We are willing
to adapt our worship and our programs in order to meet the
changing needs of our current members as well as to reach out
to others in our local community. We are also a theologically
diverse community of faith. We think and talk about God in a
variety of ways and make room for others with differing
viewpoints.
Particular Strengths The CAT survey highlighted a number of areas of strength in
SOTV’s ministry:
Music and Worship – Worship at SOTV is characterized
by music and other worship elements that are outstanding
and inspiring for faith
Educational Offerings – SOTV provides opportunities for
education that are high quality and suit the needs of our
community.
All Called to Ministry – SOTV does a good job of
equipping its people for ministry and helping them know
that they make a difference.
Energetic Spirit – At SOTV, people experience the
presence of God in ways that impact their faith and how
it connects to other aspects of their lives.
High Morale – People at SOTV are energized and
transformed by their experience of the church so that they
invite others to experience the church as well.
Of course just because these are strengths of SOTV does not
mean that these same aspects of our ministry do not need
attention and improvement. CAT results also point to ways we
can build on our strengths to enhance the experience of the
ministry and mission of SOTV.
Places for Improvement The CAT survey also revealed a number of areas where SOTV
can improve:
Governance – CAT results suggest that the Church
Council and other governance teams at SOTV do two
things: First, include broader representation from the
congregation and, second, make information about key
decisions more accessible for review and comment.
Transformation and Meaning – While people experience
an energetic spirit and high morale at SOTV, they also
seek greater meaning from their experience in worship
and beyond to apply to their lives every day.
Conflict Management – SOTV has gone through a variety
of changes in recent years. Changes like these will happen
more effectively through broader engagement and
excellent communication in the process of making
decisions and implementation.
Invitation and Welcome – SOTV needs to explore new
ways to welcome and engage the diverse community
around us.
Activity Level Beyond Worship – While the people of SOTV
affirm worship as a key priority in their faith development,
their involvement beyond worship is at a lower level than
most churches. How can we inspire greater participation?
Opportunities to Give – The people of SOTV on average give
1.28% of their household income to support the mission and
ministry of SOTV. A giving increase of just one-half of one
percent of household income would fully fund our mission
and enable us to be far more generous with those in need.
Chris Smith
Senior Pastor
CAT Survey Results Provide Helpful Insights A Summary by Pastor Chris Smith
sotv.org/CAT
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 5
Survey Results
Your Priorities The CAT survey provided the opportunity to name priorities and
hopes for SOTV. The results ranked four as high or very high
priorities:
Serve Our Community – The people of SOTV want to do
much more to reach out and serve those living on the margins
of society. This means that our church needs to develop
ministries that bring healing to those broken by life
circumstances.
Reach Out – The people of SOTV want to develop and
implement new ways to invite others to engage in the life and
ministry of SOTV.
Build Relationships – The people of SOTV want to form new
relationships with others in our community of faith. This
priority means that we need to create new and diverse ways
for people to meet one another and build relationships.
Worship that Transforms – Worship and music are already
key strengths of SOTV. The people of SOTV want these
experiences to deepen their connection to God and one
another and to bring greater meaning to their faith in daily
living.
The Vision and the CAT It’s exciting to see how the results of the CAT survey align with the
vision of SOTV. Our vision is to invite all people to experience the
welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ. This vision
supports devoting more energy to reaching out, building
relationships and community, and creating transformational
worship experiences, all priorities for SOTV. These efforts would
also build on our strengths as a church. As an adaptable, high
energy church we have the capacity to put into action much that the
CAT survey results suggest.
Ideas Please! Your leaders on the church council and on the church staff will
be discussing the CAT results in the weeks and months to come.
If you have ideas about putting insights from survey results into
action, please share them. We need good ideas! And, thanks
again for completing the survey!
More Survey Findings
Compared to benchmarking from other congregations
who have completed the CAT Survey, Shepherd of the
Valley has high energy and high satisfaction. This is
known as the “transformation” quadrant.
Compared to other congregations, Shepherd of the
Valley is a progressive-adaptable church.
To view the full report or watch a hour-long video
analysis by our consultant, visit the Welcome Center
or go to www.sotv.org/CAT.
Adaptable
Settled
Conserv
ativ
e
Pro
gre
ssiv
e
High Energy
Low Energy
Hig
h S
atis
factio
n
Low
Satisfa
ctio
n
sotv.org/CAT
6 | SUMMER 2014 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Giving
T he Church Assessment Tool
(CAT) survey has provided a
comprehensive look at SOTV’s mission
and ministry (see previous pages). The
CAT survey also provided quite a bit of
information about giving and finances
in the SOTV faith community:
1. More than two-thirds of the SOTV community agree or
strongly agree that the church does a good job of providing
information that enables people to give joyfully to support
the work of its ministries. Another 27% “tend to agree”
with that same affirmation.
2. The people of SOTV on average give 1.28% of their
household income to support the mission and ministry of
SOTV. That percentage is about half of what households
in the typical ELCA church community give. The CAT
showed that average annual household income in our
community is almost $126,000, with average gifts to
SOTV of about $1,612.
3. Giving at SOTV has decreased, along with worship
attendance, between 1% and 3% each year for a number of
years, beginning back in 2003. Church leadership began to
address this back in 2005 and in a more sustained way
beginning in 2008. The result of their work was a reduction
in budgets and creating a leaner organization. Careful
budgeting resulted in a surplus which has been used to
invest in initiatives related to the vision and address facility
maintenance needs. The coming fiscal year will include
additional budget cuts.
4. Almost 22% of households indicate that they will increase
their giving in the coming year, while two-thirds intend to
give about the same amount of money. Only 5% of
households indicated that they would likely give less in
the coming year. Your church is very grateful for your
continued generosity. Thank you!
Why Give to SOTV?
Your Giving Matters
Excellent worship and an array of inspiring educational
offerings that shape faith are a hallmark of our church.
Well-supported and dynamic children’s ministries and
confirmation and youth ministries programs are essential to
our mission as a church. In addition, SOTV has multiple
ministries that serve those in need and seek to reach to a
hurting world. CAT results indicate that our community wants
to do even more to serve our neighbors in need. To continue
our vibrant mission and to grow it well, we need your help
and support. Thanks to all of you as we continue to move
forward in faith!
Transparency Desired
CAT survey results suggest that your church leadership be
more transparent in their governance and in reporting financial
information. Your church council is already discussing ways
to accomplish these goals. On the finance side, the Finance
Committee recently decided to begin publishing year-to-date
giving information in the weekly worship bulletin. The Church
Council and Finance Committee will keep the congregation
posted on a more consistent basis.
Always Available for Questions
Do you have questions about giving or finances at SOTV?
Your church leadership is always available to answer your
questions. Send an e-mail to [email protected].
“CAT” Facts: Finances and Giving
sotv.org/giving
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 7
S hepherd of the Valley will
undertake a capital campaign
from the fall of 2014 through early
spring of 2015. SOTV completed its last capital campaign in 2004, with pledges
received through 2007. Some of you may remember that fund
appeal as the Imagine Campaign. It was the church’s most
successful campaign to date.
The time has come to complete another capital campaign. For
more than a year two groups of SOTV volunteers have worked
hard to prepare for a capital campaign:
1. The Capital Campaign Strategy Team has worked to
determine the best partner to help us conduct the campaign
and also to propose key goals of the campaign.
2. The Kairos Stewardship Team has gathered information
from you, participants in the life of SOTV, to learn how you
think about giving to the church’s mission and what is
important to you for the future. A big part of this group’s
work was conducting the Church Assessment Tool (CAT)
Survey.
The Strategy Team’s work concluded in May when they
completed interviews with potential fund appeal partners who
will help guide this work. Their choice will be announced at the
SOTV Annual Meeting on Sunday, June 8. They also identified
three key goals for the fund appeal:
Mortgage Debt Reduction –SOTV continues to service a
mortgage debt of about $4.5 million. It’s time to reduce this
debt very significantly. By reducing debt, we can devote
more resources to causes that make a difference for many.
Serving Others – For the first time, a significant portion of a
capital campaign at SOTV will be devoted to serving others
in our own community, regionally, and in other parts of the
world. The Benevolence Committee conducted a process of
proposals and assessment that resulted in an exciting list of
partnerships and ministries that serve others in need and
bring healing and wholeness to those who are struggling.
Facility Improvements – Parts of SOTV’s facility are aging
rapidly and need attention. Two examples are SOTV’s
parking lot, which needs redesign and renovation, and the
north end of the building, which needs prompt attention
inside and out.
Through the work of the Kairos Stewardship Team and the
CAT survey, the people of SOTV affirmed these priorities.
We owe a debt of gratitude to our dedicated volunteers for
their time and energy preparing for SOTV’s next fund appeal:
Capital Campaign Team: Lynn Askew, Greg Carlson,
Mark Dean, Julianne Fries, David Kuhnau, Troy Nelson,
Suzy Schrader, and Lynne Schulz
Kairos Team: Sara Althoff, Jenny Buckley, Scott Erickson,
David Kuhnau, and Karla Williams
Benevolence Committee: Ann Boekhoff, Patricia Buss,
Doug Franzen, Steve Lokensgard, and Dale Reed
At the SOTV annual meeting on June 8, council leaders will
share more details about the fund appeal. Mark your calendar
and plan to attend.
This is an exciting time in the life of SOTV as we prepare for the
future by reducing debt, serving others, and preparing our
facilities for the next generation. Thanks be to God for all the
gifts he entrusts to us for the sake of his mission!
Giving
Providing for the Next Generation Capital Fund Appeal 2014-2015
sotv.org/giving
8 | SUMMER 2014 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Bible Studies
Small Groups
Men’s Tuesday Morning
Bible Study Group
Weekly, 6:00 - 7:00 AM
Join us for engaging conversation
and an early morning foundation
for the day. Currently watching
parts of the History Channel’s
series The Bible, followed by Bible
research.
Contact: Denny Ofstedahl at
Please note:
The Men’s Wednesday Night
Bible Study will resume in the fall.
Sarah Circle Women’s Group will
return in the fall, meeting on the 2nd
Saturdays of the month.
The Shalom Circle and Men’s
Friday Morning Studies will meet
this summer, with dates and times
TBA. Please see our weekly newsletter
for more information.
Sunday Summer Studies Sundays at 9:45 AM in the Chapel
Each week features 20-30 minutes of video, followed by discussion and other
learning activities. Leaders will include Pastor Mary Lund, Pastor Duane Paetznick,
Tim Braun, Mark Gamm, and Ken Loher.
From Jesus to Christ: The First Christians
Sundays, June 1 – July 27(No class July 6)
This 8-week series features video from the PBS Frontline series From Jesus to Christ, that
tells the epic story of the rise of Christianity. It explores the life and death of Jesus, and
the men and women whose belief, conviction, and martyrdom created the religion we
now know as Christianity.
Making Sense of the Bible
Sundays, August 3 - September 14 (No class August 31)
This 6-week series was put together by Adam Hamilton, United Methodist Pastor in one
of the largest churches in North America. In this study, you are invited into an honest
conversation about the Bible. The series includes foundational questions such as: “How
and when was the Bible written?” and also considers questions that divide Christians,
including: “Why would Paul command women to "keep silent in the church"?”
John Ortberg Book Discussion
Who is This Man? The Unpredictable Impact of the Inescapable Jesus Led by Pastor Duane Paetznick // No cost; Bring your own copy of the book.
5 weeks — Choose a Wednesday evening or Thursday morning session time:
Wednesdays, July 16 – August 13, 7:00 - 8:30 PM
Thursdays, July 17 – August 14, 10:00-11:30 AM
Jesus is history’s most familiar figure. His impact on the world has been immense. In
Who is This Man, author John Ortberg shows how Jesus’ influence has swept over history,
bringing his inspiration to art, science, government, medicine, and education. Come and
talk about this book with others.
Women’s Bible Study A Modern Girl's Guide to Bible Study:
A Refreshingly Unique Look at God's Word Monday mornings, 9:00 - 11:00 AM // June 9-30 // Led by Sanna Ellingson
No cost; Bring your own copy of the book.
Looking for a light and fun summer bible study? Join this one! The book offers user-
friendly advice on how to get the most from your personal Bible study time. Like a funny
conversation between friends, A Modern Girl’s Guide by Jen Hatmaker will make you laugh
out loud as it transforms study into a fresh, simple format that will radically change the
way you interact with Scripture forever.
REGISTRATION INFO
= Register with cash or a check at the Welcome Center, CYF office, or online with a credit or debit card at www.sotv.org/events.
Scholarships are available for our programs. Download an application at www.sotv.org/events
= Childcare is available for this program. You must register ahead of time at www.sotv.org/events. There is no registration fee
sotv.org/adults
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 9
Bible Studies
O ver the past year, the congregation has shared a desire for
more focus on faith development. People want to dig
deeper. They want meaningful connections. They want to be
supported and challenged along their faith journey.
The original concept has evolved significantly through
discussions with pastors, staff, a prayer team, and an advisory
group. At this point, there are four main components to Faith
Pathways: 1) Entry Points, 2) Guides, 3) Balanced offerings on a
quarter system, and 4) Clear communication.
There are four main times when someone may be looking for an
“entry point” at SOTV: 1) when they are brand new to SOTV, 2)
when they have had some connection to SOTV, but haven’t
really gotten connected, 3) when they are in a life transition, or
4) when they are questioning faith. The “Entry Points” category
meets these people where they are, through one of the following
methods:
First Contact: Have a volunteer be stationed at the
Welcome Center after every worship service. They would
give a tour to any interested visitors, provide them with
basic information, and note contact information if follow-
up is desired (beginning fall 2014).
New Member Class: This is for people comfortable with the
Lutheran Faith, and intentionally looking to affirm that
faith through a commitment to SOTV (already exists).
About SOTV: This class highlights all of our different
ministries and opportunities for involvement. After the
presentation, there would be opportunities for participants
to ask questions of representatives in areas they’d like to
get involved, and to sign up (beginning fall 2014).
Roots: This class looks at existing perceptions of God and
Faith, Christianity, Jesus, the Word, and the Church; then
explains how SOTV views these areas. We expect this
discussion-based course to have both large group and small
group elements and have discussions with each pastor
(beginning fall 2015).
Let’s Talk: This class focuses more on questions and
discussions (versus Biblical instruction) in a comfortable,
small group setting (beginning fall 2015).
Guides are people who help others find the right fit. They would
be available to help people understand their gifts, discuss ways
to get connected (education, service, social opportunities, etc.),
and facilitate those connections. Although anyone can sign up
for opportunities themselves, a Guide can help people who
have questions or uncertainty, and can foster connections in a
way registration doesn’t. Guides would be connected to Entry
Point classes, and available upon request (beginning fall 2015).
The key theme of Faith Pathways is to meet people where they
are along their personal faith journey. Our goal is to have
balanced offerings throughout the year that appeal to people at
different stages of faith development. In addition to our varied
Bible studies, we will consider life application courses and
discussion groups at times that match busy lifestyles. We are
also looking to make natural links between worship, education,
and service to help us live out Our Vision of “Welcome,
Transform, and Send.”
Finally, Faith Pathways strives for clear communication about
all of these opportunities. We want to use consistent formats,
language, and categories so people can compare options and
easily identify opportunities that appeal to their preferred styles
and interests. In addition to quarterly course options, we will
update our website and other communication tools for easy
navigation and registration.
Faith Pathways By Kari Slotten
sotv.org/adults
10 | SUMMER 2014 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Ongoing…
Coffee for Men Wednesdays, 9:00 AM
Men who would like to get together to
visit over a cup of coffee or tea are
encouraged to join us. There's no agenda
other than connecting with other guys.
Woodworkers Group Wednesdays, 10:00 AM // Open to all
Whether you are a beginner or more
advanced woodworker, join us to share
projects, ideas and conversation.
Shepherd Quilters Mondays, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Summer schedule: Meeting on 6/2, 6/9,
6/30, 7/7, 7/28 and Mondays in August.
All skill levels are welcome to help quilt,
cut, iron, and stitch. Quilts are donated
to Target House and other organizations.
For more information contact Lois
Pedersen, (952) 236-8993.
The Golden Stitchers 1st & 3rd Thursdays // 9:00 AM - 2:30 PM
We will not meet the following days:
June 19, July 3, and July 17
All skill levels welcome to quilt, cut, iron,
and stitch. Contact: Shirley Blix at (952)
432-2083.
GIGGLES
(Girls in God Growing Loving
Eating Sharing) 1st Thursdays, 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Cost: Free
Women of all ages: Come join us once a
month for an evening of fun and
fellowship at SOTV. Come meet new
friends and keep in touch with old friends.
Bring your knitting, scrapbooking, or
whatever craft project you're working on.
Or, just come and talk, laugh, play games,
eat, and pray with fellow SOTV women.
We'll take turns bringing treats to share.
Fellowship & Enrichment
Men’s North Shore Retreat June 26-29, 2014 // Chateau Leveaux (near Tofte, MN)
Cost: $225, $100 non-refundable deposit due at registration
Join Pastor Chris Smith for a three-day weekend on the North Shore of Lake
Superior. There will be a variety of activities including hiking, fly fishing,
kayaking, and golfing. Please contact the church office for availability.
Men’s Black Hills Hiking Retreat September 3-7, 2014 // Estimated Cost: $300-400
$100 non-refundable deposit due at registration
Visit a land of legends. Walk in the footsteps of history.
Experience a place regarded as sacred, a place where
stone emerges dramatically from the Prairie and seems to
reach for the sky. Take in some of the greatest vistas in North America. This is an
important opportunity to deepen your faith and build connections with a small
group of like-minded men. We will stay at Custer State Park and spend three
days hiking and in Christian study. Expand your horizons and your faith. For
more information, contact Pastor Randy Brandt at (952) 985-7302 or Gary Lorenz
(952) 423-3771 with any questions.
Adult Retreat at Camp Wapo September 16-19, 2014
Lake Wapogasset Camp, Amery, WI
Led by Pastors Paul Oman and Duane Paetznick
Cost: $165 per person for 3 nights and 7 meals
Travel to Camp Wapo and enjoy the beautiful outdoors, great food, and get to
know your church friends better. Paul Oman is a pastor and artist who has
painted worshipful masterpieces during three past worship services at Shepherd
of the Valley, most recently at our Thanksgiving worship. Paul will lead our Bible
studies and will incorporate his artwork into the teaching and worship we have
together. His theme will be “The Freedom of a Christian” with a focus on the
book of Galatians. To register, pick up a brochure at the Welcome Center.
Retreats
sotv.org/adults
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 11
Fellowship & Enrichment
Women’s Fall Retreat Friday, September 19 - Sunday, September 21
Heartwood Retreat Center, Trego, WI - Space limited!
Cost: $225 (all inclusive) $100 non-refundable deposit
Make plans to attend the annual retreat. The retreat center
is nestled in 700 acres of breathtaking natural woodlands,
has two private lakes and direct access to the Namekagon River.
Pastor Mary Lund will be leading us through a study of the book of Ecclesiastes,
Seasons: A Time For Every Matter Under Heaven. The Bible has a message for each of
us no matter what season of life we are experiencing. Take heart in the Word and
enjoy the support and fun that can only be experienced when a group of Christian
women gather together to pray and play, study and serve. Women of all ages
are welcome - invite a friend or family member! For more information about the
retreat, requests for financial assistance or other questions, please contact
Financial Peace University Thursdays, 6:30 - 8:30 PM // June 19 - August 21,
No class July 3 // Cost: $95 for a member kit
Millions of people have gone through Dave Ramsey's Financial
Peace University. They've worked a plan, rewritten their stories,
and changed their futures. This class meets for nine weeks, one
night a week. It incorporates small-group discussions that help encourage accounta-
bility and discipleship.
SOTV Has a Men’s Softball Team! And they’re looking for a few more players to join the team.
Games are Tuesday evenings at Johnny Cake Ridge Park from
May 6 - July 22. Contact [email protected] if
you’re interested. You and your family can come and cheer them
on too as they compete against other local churches. The full schedule will be post-
ed at Facebook.com/SOTVorg.
O.K.’s a.k.a. “Older Kids” All seniors (55+) are welcome to the
following events:
Museum of Broadcasting
Wednesday, June 11
Carpool from SOTV at 9:00 AM to
St. Louis Park. Lunch afterwards at
Olive Garden in Bloomington.
Cost: $18 per person.
Must sign up and pay in advance.
OK's Minnesota Centennial Showboat
"Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde"
Tuesday, July 1 at 2:30 PM. Cost: $18
Carpool from SOTV. There will be a
lunch prior to the performance, details
TBD. Lunch will be an additional cost.
OK’s Picnic & Raptor Center
Monday, July 14 // 11:30 AM
Picnic at the church followed by a
unique experience of a demonstration
by a handler of an Eagle and raptors in
the Atrium. Cost is $11.
Please note the EARLY time and sign
up and pay in advance.
O.K.’s Ribfest
Saturday, August 16
Time and Cost: TBD
Travel by bus from SOTV to Emanuel
Lutheran Church in Hamburg, MN.
More details in weekly newsletter
Women in New
Konnections (WINK) Join the WINK women each Sunday,
beginning at 10:30 am at the round tables
near the patio doors for coffee and
fellowship. All are welcome to join us!
Upcoming event:
WINK Picnic at Alimagnet Park
Friday, June 27 // 1:00 – 4:00 pm
Join us for an afternoon of conversation
and games. Alimagnet Park is located at
211 Ridgeview Drive in Apple Valley.
Bring your own bag lunch and beverage.
REGISTRATION INFO
= Register with cash or a check at the Welcome Center, CYF office, or online with a credit or debit
card at www.sotv.org/events.
Scholarships are available for our programs. Download an application at www.sotv.org/events
= Childcare is available for this program. You must register ahead of time at www.sotv.org/
events. There is no registration fee
sotv.org/adults
12 | SUMMER 2014 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Care & Support sotv.org/support
Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM,
Room 160
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church
13901 Fairview Dr, Burnsville
Contacts: Randy Goeke (952) 240-2754
Richard Erickson (651) 788-0275
Thursday evenings at 6:30 PM,
Classroom 1-3
Easter Lutheran Church on the Hill
4200 Pilot Knob Road, Eagan
Contact: Bob Lawrence at (612) 845-9481
NEW AL-ANON Meeting “Pursuing Peace in Al-Anon” Every Tuesday, 7:00 - 8:00 PM // Questions? Keli (651) 335-5763
We who live, or have lived, with the problem of alcoholism understand as perhaps few
others can. We, too, were lonely and frustrated, but in Al-Anon we discover that no
situation is really hopeless and that it is possible for us to find contentment, and even
happiness, whether the alcoholic is still drinking or not. If this message speaks to you,
please try our program. It has helped many find solutions that lead to serenity.
NAMI Parent Resource Groups Every 2nd & 4th Thursday // 6:00 - 8:00 PM at SOTV // Cost: Free
NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, presents an opportunity for parents
and caregivers of children with challenging behaviors to get together to share similar
experiences, discover resources and learn coping skills. Pizza and childcare are
available. Contact NAMI Minnesota at (651) 645-2948 for more information.
Challenged by Cancer
Second Tuesdays, 7:00 - 9:00 PM
An opportunity for women living with cancer to gather and support one another.
Support groups have helped thousands of people cope with cancer, and no matter
where you are in your journey, we encourage you to come. Contact Susan Ferber at
(651) 683-9236 or [email protected].
Suicide Survivor Support Group
2nd Tuesdays & 4th Thursdays // 7:00 – 8:30 PM
Mary Mother of the Church, 3333 Cliff Road, Burnsville
Park in West parking lot, enter main door, and look for sign.
The Depression Support Coalition
Monthly Educational Speakers Select Tuesday evenings, 7:00 PM
Mary, Mother of the Church, 3333 Cliff Road, Burnsville The Depression Support Coalition has developed a program of monthly informational talks by leading
healthcare professionals and clergy educated and experienced about depression and related diseases.
Aug. 5: “Coping with Anxiety and Depression: My Story”
Presented by Ben Swanson, Pastor of Edina Covenant Church
Sep. 9: “Teen Depression: A Family Experience”
Presented by Jamie, Daniel & Shaela Moloney
Weekly Support Group Meetings For individuals who suffer from depression, as well as their loved ones and caregivers:
Job Connections Group
Are you in job transition?
Shepherd of the
Valley and Prince
of Peace Luther-
an Church (POP)
collaborate on a
support group
for individuals in job transition and run a
meeting every Tuesday evening from 6:30
to 8:15 pm at POP in the Christian Life
Center Building at 13901 Fairview Drive,
Burnsville, MN 55337.
For scheduled topics please go to:
popmn.org/gethelp/jobs
For questions or comments, please
call the Job Connections Hotline at
(952) 898-9388.
Down Syndrome
Parent Support Group Sunday, August 17 // 5:00 - 7:00 PM
For additional information, contact
Suzy Runkel at (952) 891-5082 or
Compassionate Friends
South of the River Third Tuesdays at 7:00 PM
For all parents who are grieving the loss
of a child of any age from any cause.
Contact Susan Ferber at (651) 683-9236
Support Groups
Returning in the Fall…
ADHD, Autism, & Other
Disabilities on the Spectrum
DivorceCare
GriefShare
Growing Through Loss
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 13
Local Outreach
S OTV has been collecting and
distributing school supplies to
area students for 20 years.
Here are some of the reasons why:
“ We are so grateful for the supplies we get each year. The kids
and moms are so appreciative and excited to get new school
supplies for the year. Often the kids will get their school sup-
plies and want to label or organize their things right away.”
—Dakota Woodlands
“ We love the school supplies that we get from SOTV. We give
away a lot of supplies during the year – especially to kids that
move in during the middle of the year. We’ve been using the
supplies to help some of our “organizationally challenged”
students – who may never come to school with a good
organizational system.”
—Falcon Ridge Middle School
“ Apple Valley has a large number of students who need help
with meals, supplies, and transportation. Your wonderful
church delivered a huge number of school supplies. My guess is
around 200 students benefited in some way from your generous
donation. We can’t thank you enough; what a tremendous
blessing you have been to our schools and community.”
—Apple Valley Middle School
“ Shepherd of the Valley made a big difference for some of the
single moms in the M.O.M.S. Program. Six children received
backpacks filled with the specific supplies according to their
school and grade. Three of those children are in the same family
and it was not possible for mom to provide this need herself.
The children were delighted to get their backpacks and it gave
them an excitement about starting school. The mothers of these
children were both relieved and thankful.”
—M.O.M.S. Program, Dakota County
“ Going back to school can be a stressful time for parents, when
the household cannot afford supplies and other required items
for school. You have helped relieve that stress for many grateful
families. We offer our heartfelt thanks to you for your
partnership and support with this annual drive. We hope we
can continue to provide this support for our families in the
years to come.
— Lutheran Social Services of Minnesota
Almost 100% of the families served by our programs live
below the poverty level so these families value this support.
Without your generous donations of 340 backpacks with
required supplies, we could not provide these needed items
to our families.
Your donations to the SOTV school supply drive make a big
difference in the ability of students to participate and be
successful in school. There is a great need in District 196,
in addition to the other organizations that receive supplies
from SOTV. In 2013, donations were supplemented with
almost $9000, designated from the Shepherd's Sale, to
purchase needed supplies.
Your donations are needed and greatly appreciated. This
year's school supply collection begins in July through mid
August. Please pick up an information sheet/list of needed
supplies, watch for sales and consider donating to this
important ministry.
This outreach would not be possible without volunteers
(families with children welcome) to pack and deliver
supplies. Watch the weekly newsletter for specific dates.
School Supplies Help Students Succeed By Lisa Loher
sotv.org/outreach
14 | SUMMER 2014 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Local Outreach
2014 Shepherd’s Sale Wed. June 25 – Fri. June 27
Volunteers Needed:
Mon. June 16 – Fri. June 27
Donations Accepted:
Sun. June 22 – Mon. June 23
This year marks the 21st year that SOTV is holding our annual Sale. As you do your
spring/summer cleaning, please set aside your gently used items for our Sale.
Our Shepherd’s Sale benefits many in our congregation and community. We offer gently
used items to those in our community who could not otherwise afford them, we provide
gifts in kind (sale items are given to those in need), and the money we raise goes to local
children’s charities including Lutheran Social Services Safe Homes, Bundles of Love,
Dakota Woodlands, Lewis House, school supplies, college scholarships and more. We
build our church community with volunteers who generously give their time and talents,
we build friendships and have lots of fun! We also offer a place to recycle and reuse
items, helping us to be more green in our community.
There are many opportunities to help make our sale a success. Consider volunteering to
help in the set-up, sale and clean-up in June. We also need donations of gently used items
and food for the volunteers. See the opposite page for full details, and use the form on
page 16 to sign up for volunteer hours. You may also sign up at www.sotv.org/sale.
If you have any questions, please contact Lisa Hegerman at (952) 985-7329.
Golf and Gears
for the Good Sunday, September 7 — Times TBA
Golfing! Biking! Motorcycling! Join us for
our annual day of fun outdoor activities
followed by a delicious dinner together and
silent auction. Last year, we raised over $4,900
for 360 Communities!
All of this year’s proceeds will benefit S.A.I.L
Ministries (Showing All Individuals Love) at
SOTV. This ministry works to support
individuals and families touched by physical,
developmental and emotional disabilities.
If you are interested in volunteering, or want
to help plan the event, contact Lisa Hegerman
at (952) 985-7329. Watch the weekly News for
the Flock for more information.
Habitat for Humanity/
Thrivent Builds Join our work
crews as we work
to construct new
homes in Cottage
Grove on two
different weeks:
July 7-11 and
August 18-22
The workday is Monday - Friday,
8:30 am - 4:00 pm and we have space
for 15-18 volunteers/day (Must be
16 years and older, and one adult
supervisor for every four youth).
You can work a whole week, or a
few days as your schedule permits.
All skill levels are welcome - no
prior experience is needed.
Questions? Please contact Lisa
Hegerman at (952) 985-7329 or
Red Cross Blood Drive Thursday, July 31
12:00 - 6:00 PM
Wanted: Donors (double red too)
16+yrs. with one hour and a desire
to make a life changing difference in
someone's life. Register online at
www.sotv.org/redcross.
Volunteers we need you too!
Teens/adults, and adult with chil-
dren, needed to work the day of the
blood drive (2 hour shifts) or to call
donors and make appointments.
Serve others, have fun, make a
difference!
Questions? Please contact Lisa Loher
at (651) 683-9127.
sotv.org/outreach
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 15
16 | SUMMER 2014 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 17
Global Missions
Holy Land Shepherds
Recently, Shepherd
of the Valley was
honored to host
Dr. Mitri Raheb,
an acclaimed
theologian and
peace advocate and
pastor of Christmas
Lutheran Church
(ELCA) in Bethle-
hem, Palestine.
He provided a new
perspective on the
Bible looking
through the lens of a Christian living
in Palestine.
Palestinians have been under occupation
much of the time for tens of centuries
including the time when the Bible was
written. Rev. Raheb shared insights from
his new book about how the Bible speaks
to all of us during difficult times and
brings us hope. He examined how
Christians can see God in the powerless,
the poor, and the oppressed. He
described the programs that are part of
the mission of Christmas Lutheran
Church that seek to bring hope to
Palestine and to help Christianity thrive
in the Holy Land. These programs are
partially supported through the Holy
Land Shepherds at SOTV and Bright
Stars of Bethlehem, a US charity.
A copy of his book, Faith in the Face of
Empire The Bible Through Palestinian Eyes,
is in our library as well as a DVD
highlighting the work of Christmas
Lutheran Church.
Holy Land Shepherds is an SOTV group that
is dedicated to helping and raising awareness
of the plight of Palestinian Christians living
in Bethlehem. For more information, contact
Tanzania Partnership
Prayers, Gifts & Letters for
Our Tanzanian Partners This summer, 27 SOTV members will
travel to Tanzania to visit our partners in
Tungamalenga and Makifu Parishes.
You can help fill their suitcases with
tangible gifts:
Solar calculators with scientific
functions (TI 30X or TI 36X)
Tote bags for students
Pens
Toothbrushes
Large size latex gloves for
medical use
Newborn caps, knitted or crocheted
SOTV t-shirts
$20 to purchase one indestructible
soccer ball from oneworldfutbol.com
Paperback Bibles, Revised Standard
Version only. These are used in the
Bible Knowledge course offered at
the secondary school.
Monetary gifts will be used to purchase
gifts in country, including bikes, food for
the orphanage, and medicines for the
dispensary. Please write checks to SOTV
with “TZ trip gifts” in the memo.
Travelers will also carry the prayers of
the congregation. This summer travelers
will invite you to have a photo taken in
the narthex between services, and prayer
cards will be created to distribute in
Tanzania.
Finally, we invite sponsors to send a letter
to their sponsored student. Small, light-
weight gifts can be included if they fit in a
quart size Ziploc bag.
Please bring all gifts to the church by
July 20, 2014 for packing.
Plan Ahead: Safari 2015 Our Tanzanian partner congregations at
Tungamalenga and Makifu invite you to
visit, walk together, and learn how God
is changing lives through our partnership
and its ministries of evangelism,
education, health care and economic
development. Join Pastor Diane Sponheim
and Kirsten Levorson on this journey,
early August 2015.
Informational meetings:
Sunday, May 18 at 11:00 am
Wednesday, May 21 at 7:30 pm
Commitment deadline: Sep. 15, 2014
For more information on our Tanzania
Partnership, please contact Kirsten
Levorson at [email protected]
Rehema Visima, holding a prayer card given
by 2010 travelers, promises to pray for
SOTV member Clarice Morrison and for the
partnership between our congregations
The Rev. Dr. Mitri
Raheb, spoke at
SOTV on Sunday,
March 30
18 | SUMMER 2014 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Children & Families
C an you remember the last time you
were sitting around a crackling’
campfire roasting a s’more… or watched
a fiery sunset? Camping experiences
are full of unique sights and sounds.
The same is true at Bible Camp.
What is Bible Camp? Bible Camps fuel our self-confidence,
independence, friendships and faith by providing a place set
apart, intentional Christian community and opportunities for
fun and adventure. It is also a great evangelism opportunity
for you. Think about how easy it is to invite someone to come
to camp with you or your child. Try it out sometime! It will be
a great experience for you and the person you reach out to.
For many, going to Bible Camp is a life-changing experience.
Here are 3 reasons why.
1. Bible Camp is a “place apart.”
This is important for all Christians. Just as Jesus sought quiet
places throughout his ministry, we also must seek a place
apart to recharge. Bible Camp offers us a place to step away
from the usual routine and into fellowship with other
believers (and explorers) actively seeking to follow Jesus
more closely. We need extended doses of outdoor life and
healthy, real Christian community.
2. Supported by Authentic, Affirming & Available Adults
At Bible Camp, caring adults, counselors and mentors come
alongside campers. Most of us go to camp talking about
adventure and fun, which we find, but we go home talking
more about our camp counselors—the young adults who –
although they are also still maturing – love campers, love
God, and love articulating their Christian faith through face
to face conversations with campers. Many campers point back
to these positive role models as the ones who gave their life
direction. When encouraged by these role models and peers,
youth are able to more deeply identify with Christian beliefs.
3. Nurtures Faith through Holy Play.
A recent study by the ACA (the largest accreditation agency
for all kinds of camps) showed that Bible Camps are more
successful than any other kind of camp (including sports,
music, and academic) in achieving their goals – namely,
growth in lifelong faith. This means an active faith is
strengthened more effectively by Bible camp than soccer skills
are at soccer camp! Through a wide variety of structured
conversations, games, Bible Studies, interactive worship,
camp outs, crafts and music children are inspired to grow in
faith and friendship together. Bible Camp nurtures the seeds
of faith that God plants in us.
How You Can Help
SOTV partners with Camp Wapo in Amery, WI. This summer
please keep all our campers who are attending WAPO One
Day, Weekend & Weeklong Camps or are serving on WAPO
staff in your prayers. There are also opportunities for people
of all ages to attend this summer and year round (Check out
CampWapo.org for the full list).
Great faith experiences don’t have to be confined to camp
either. Every year, the church looks for adults and confirmed
youth to serve as Crew leaders in our weekly GodZone
(PK-Grade 5) education program , or Guides in weekly
Confirmation (Grades 6-9). For more information, please
e-mail [email protected] (GodZone) or
[email protected] (Confirmation).
Brianna Iverson is the Program Coordinator
for Grades 4-5 at Shepherd of the Valley
Getting Fired Up through Bible Camp By Brianna Iverson
sotv.org/children
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 19
Children & Families
GodZone Expanding with New Session Times GodZone is Shepherd of the Valley’s fun, creative and totally interactive Christian
education program! It maximizes an hour of highly relational large and small group
activities to nurture children, age 3* through Grade 5, in faith and community.
It considers a partnership with parents a priority through ongoing communication
and special events.
Age 3* - Grade 3
An expanded worship schedule (see schedule below)
will provide more opportunities for this age group to
worship with their families and/or go to GodZone.
Grade 4 & 5
Learning experiences for this age group are
specifically designed to prepare them for
Confirmation. Aligning these sessions with middle
school confirmation will give them opportunities
to associate with a maturing faith community. The
program will also include resources for intentional
worship with their families on weekends.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Mim Campbell, Director for
Children and Family Ministries at (952) 985-7350 or [email protected].
*Age 3 by September 1, 2014
Vacation Bible School For children entering PK* - Grade 5
July 14-17 or 21-24 // 9:30 AM - Noon
Cost: $40 (until 6/1) $45 (after 6/1) PLEASE NOTE: Registration closes 7 days before
each session begins. *Age 4 by Sep. 1, 2014
This year we will celebrate how the
ordinary becomes extraordinary with
God. Children will experience the love
of Jesus as they use imagination and
creativity to build their faith. They will
join in games, crafts, music, Bible activities
and creative opportunities for reaching
out to others. Incoming Grades 4 & 5 will
have a special day camp of their own that
will take them offsite to respond to crea-
tive ways to serve God and God's people.
Youth and Adult Volunteers Needed
Share your time and care for children
through one of the many opportunities to
lead and serve in GodZone! You may
partner with a friend in leading a small
group or assist on a prep team. Check-in
with Mim or scan through the list of roles
on the registration form online, in the
Children, Youth and Family Ministry
office or at the Welcome Center.
“WAPO-Get-Set” Orientation Sunday, June 8, 9:45 AM
No registration necessary
Children and parents are invited to come
and get last minute info about camp, along
with bus or potential ride-share options.
The event will include a camp snack and a
drawing for free camp t-shirts. Families
will share a camp snack and play a "get-to-
know-you" activity along with a quick
scan through daily camp schedules and
lists of “what-to-bring.”
Registration begins
Sunday, June 15 Early Bird: $40
After August 1: $50
Register at
www.sotv.org/GodZone
or pick up a form at
the Welcome Center
or Children, Youth and
Family (CYF) Office.
Age 3* - Grade 3
Saturdays:
4:00 PM
5:30 PM
Starts September 13
Sundays:
8:30 AM
9:45 AM
11:00 AM
Starts September 14
Grades 4 & 5
Wednesdays:
4:30 PM
5:45 PM
Starts September 17
REGISTRATION INFO
= Register with cash or a check at the Welcome Center, CYF office, or online with a credit or debit card
at www.sotv.org/events.
Scholarships are available for our programs. Download an application at www.sotv.org/events
= Childcare is available for this program. You must register ahead of time at www.sotv.org/events.
There is no registration fee
sotv.org/children
20 | SUMMER 2014 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Youth
I was in for a surprise when I took Money and
the Mission of the Church as an elective for
my Masters of Arts study degree at Luther
Seminary. What I thought would be a class on
budgeting and fundraising turned out to be a
revelation in how I tend to my various
relationships.
I learned that “stewardship” is
not just a topic to be discussed
once a year when it’s time for
parishioners to make their
annual pledge to the church.
Stewardship is more than what I
am willing to give away; rather
it is a means of self-awareness
that shapes how we see the
world through a lens of faith.
The church has traditionally
geared stewardship messages
around the concept of tithing,
meaning to set aside 10% of your
income for the church. We know
from Psalm 24 that everything
we have belongs to God: “The
earth is the Lord’s and all that is
in it, the world, and those who live in it; for he has founded it
on the seas, and established it on the rivers” (Psalm 24:1-2).
Because God is the owner of everything we have and
everything we are, then that includes how we care for
our relationships.
Thinking of relationships through stewardship is problematic
for people. The consumerist culture we live in socializes
certain desires in us, like excessive competition, most
poignantly observed during adolescence. Young people learn
to buy this and not that in order to fit in, to participate in this
program and not that one for personal advancement, and to
go here and not there to someday become marketable.
The church even falls prey to sending a similar message of
consumerism to its young people by using youth ministry as
a way to entice participants. This is done through the guise of
“join our youth group to be a good Christian kid” to lure in or
fix fringe youth. Rather than teaching practices for grateful
living, the church invites young people to be consumers of
programs. I believe stewardship is the antithesis of
consumerism. This contradiction, however, opened a window
for me: What could youth ministry look like if stewardship
living were its guide?
The families I encounter through youth ministry are stretched
to the max for time. Sacred days and events for church
activities are becoming relics of the past as other activities
compete for precious time. My concern is not that youth
participate in activities outside of church; sports, music and
other clubs are great and honor a young person’s giftedness.
Rolf Jacobson, associate professor of Old Testament at Luther
Seminary writes: “[Church workers] are mistakenly telling
people that what they give to church—both in terms of time
and in terms of treasure—matters to God; but what they give
at home—in terms of time and in terms of treasure—does not
matter to God.”
A starting point for stewardship living is to discuss Sabbath.
How do we prioritize holy rest and renewal for ourselves and
for our families? The church can support families in however
they feel called as a family to steward their time, keeping
them accountable to their respective Sabbath practices.
It is my belief that when the church recognizes how
influential consumerism is for its young people and starts
authentically examining how to live out our Christian
identity, stewardship living offers a meaningful structure
for families and churches to form robust and hopeful young
adults.
Excerpted with permission from: Living Well Together: Stewardship as the
Paradigm for Youth Ministry by Sarah L. Bane. This thesis, submitted to
the faculty of Luther Seminary (St. Paul, MN) in 2013, was a requirement
toward Sarah’s Master of Arts degree, and was a finalist for the Annual
CYF Prize. To read the whole thesis, please e-mail [email protected].
Sarah Bane grew up at Shepherd of the
Valley, and joined the youth staff in 2013.
Stewardship as Relationships By Sarah Bane
sotv.org/youth
Student Nick Dolan and adult
guide Sheryl Olson assembling
hospice kits. Confirmation is a
great time for youth to build
relationships with adult
mentors and with each other.
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 21
Katie Strand
Director of Youth & Family Ministries
(952) 985-7360 // [email protected]
Erin Swenson-Hatzung, Youth Director
(952) 985-7367
Sarah Bane, Youth Director
(952) 985-7362 // [email protected]
Barb Schulz, Administrative Assistant
(952) 985-7351 // [email protected]
YOUTH STAFF
Youth
High School Bonfires Youth completing grades 8-12
Wednesdays, June 18 - August 6 (no Bonfire July 2)
8:00 - 10:00 PM in the SOTV backyard
Cost: Free; No registration
Enjoy summer evenings with friends around the
bonfire! Camp songs, faith conversation, “play”
time, and s'mores are all part of the night. In case of
bad weather, festivities will move indoors. Adults,
we need volunteers! Contact: Katie
High School Guitar Jam High School Students (grades 9-12)
Wednesdays: June 18 - August 6, 7:15 - 8:00 PM
Cost: Free; No registration
An open invitation for guitar players and singers of
ALL skill levels to learn, play/sing, and practice
songs. Stick around following the jam session for
the High School Bonfire and use your gifts and
love for music to help lead songs! Contact: Erin
Summer Commissioning Sunday, June 8, 9:45 or 11:00 AM Worship
All Summer Stretch and Summer Service Trip
participants and leaders, attend worship to receive
prayers and blessings for your upcoming
adventures in faith! Arrive early to pick up your
t-shirts from a table in the Narthex. Contact: Sarah
Summer Trip Schedule Pray for us this summer in our travels!
Camp Luther Dell – June 15-20
Disaster Relief: Gifford, IL – June 21-28
Intergenerational BWCA – July 17-21
Heartwood Family Service – July 6-9
Haiti – July 10-18
DOOR Denver – July 12-18
YouthWorks! Rapid City – July 27-August 1
Summer Stretch – Tuesdays in June & July
sotv.org/youth
T he Confirmation program at Shepherd of the Valley is for
students in Grades 6-9, with the Rite of Confirmation
celebrated in the fall of 10th Grade. During each year, students
experience Jesus through trusting relationships with peers and
adults, digging into scripture, and conversations about life and faith.
Confirmation Options for Grades 6-8 (For information on Grade 9, please visit sotv.org/youth)
Each participant registers for either:
Confirmation Gr. 6-8 must also:
Worship regularly and
complete 18 worship notes
Attend 3 Parent Nights
(Wednesday evenings)
Participate in 2 Service
Opportunities (various days)
Registration opens
Sunday, June 15, 2014 Forms available at sotv.org/youth
and the church office.
Weekly Sessions One Weekend Retreat
Wednesdays
Through the School Year
A typical Wednesday session
includes a Large Group teaching
time and a small group reflection,
discussion or activity.
4:30 PM
5:45 PM
7:00 PM
Retreat
+ Monthly Small Group
An overnight (Friday-Sunday)
experience centered in worship,
prayer, scripture, conversation, and
fun powerfully impacts faith and
Christ-centered relationships. Small
groups will decide which day they
will hold their monthly gathering.
August (dates TBD)
September (dates TBD)
A OR B
22 | SUMMER 2014 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Barb Schulz upon the death of her father,
Douglas Hansen
Maren Swanson upon the death of her
mother, June Swanson
Elaine Reynolds upon the death of her
brother, Keith Erickson
Nancy Sunder upon the death of her
father, Douglas Hansen
Eric Schulz upon the death of his
grandfather, Douglas Hansen
Amy Schulz upon the death of her
grandfather, Douglas Hansen
Carrie Erickson upon the death of her
grandfather, Douglas Hansen
Marne Donnelly upon the death of her
grandfather, Douglas Hansen
Joyce Angerhofer upon the death of her
husband, David Angerhofer
Jason Schulberg upon the death of his
father, Gerald Schulberg
Carol Saunders upon the death of her
mother, Florence Watson
Curt & Diana Highet upon the death of
their grandmother, Lorraine Highet
Arlen & Jan Wilson upon the death of
their nephew-in-law, Don Rollins
Nancy Bauernfeind upon the death of
her cousin-in-law, Don Rollins
Andrea Mandel upon the death of her
cousin-in-law, Don Rollins
Sarah Allan upon the death of her
brother, Robert Allan
Matt Schlosser upon the death of his
father, LaVerne Schlosser
Andrea Parish upon the death of her
father, William McNeill
Lowell Gunderson upon the death of his
mother, Connie Gunderson
Don Leidner upon the death of his
father-in-law, Pete Johnson
Tabby Casey upon the death of her
father, David C. Sparrow
Joni Fredrickson upon the death of her
mother, Lucille Slininger
Tom Karlson upon the death of his
father, Bob Karlson
Priscilla Flom upon the death of her
husband, Martin Flom
Erin Rowe upon the death of her
father, Martin Flom
Linda Nelson upon the death of her
cousin, Korey Stromstad
Erin Swenson-Hatzung upon the death of
her grandfather, Bob Welter
Gale Thomsen upon the death of her
father, Robert Kamrath
Delaine Jacobs upon the death of her
brother, Jerry Hansen
Jan Murphy upon the death of her
brother, Jim Batten
Brad Zielinski upon the death of his
grandmother, Rosemary Kapuscinski
Kim Dahlen upon the death of her friend,
Dale Lehrke
Ron Lee upon the death of his father,
Ralph Lee
Barb Nelson upon the death of her
friend, Marion Scott
Dan Sidla upon the death of his mother,
Donna Sidla
Susan Schmiel upon the death of her
mother, Dorothy Minerich
Jan Ausland upon the death of her father,
Dick Heidenson
Pat Buss upon the death of her aunt,
Dorothy Tutewohl
Diana Mueller upon the death of her
friend, Cooper McKinnon
Michael Hall upon the death of his
brother, John Hall
Gary Olson upon the death of his aunt
Rick & Cindy Hatch upon the death of
their friend, Harry Junjak
Doug & Joyce Gustafson upon the death
of their friend, Shelley Gifford
Milestones
Our prayers are with these members
who have recently experienced the
death of a loved one.
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 23
Milestones
God’s blessings to these families who
celebrated the Sacrament of Baptism
in February, March, and April.
Emma May Baden, daughter
of April and Jonathan Baden
Sally Isabelle Lauer, daughter
of Erin and Eric Lauer
Violet Jane Kalin, daughter
of Beth and Michael Kalin
Michael Thomas Ranney, son
of Lori and Scott Ranney
Braeden Andrew Stone, son
of Katie and Erik Stone
Sawyer Michael Salay, son
of Jessalin and Chad Salay
Landon David Buss, son
of Megan and Julian Buss
Alyssa June Ruhsam, daughter
of Emily and Craig Ruhsam
Allie Lynn Swanson, daughter
of Jennifer and Dwight Swanson
Ethan James Kaul, son
of Sarah and James Kaul
Karina Ann Bentley, daughter
of Ingrid and Erik Bentley
Ella Frances Iverson, daughter
of Kristine and Derek Iverson
Pyper Jase Schulberg, daughter
of Jessica and Jason Schulberg
Hudson Edwin Stewart, son
of Lindsey and Ryan Stewart
Malorie Moon DeRock, daughter
of Amanda and Justin DeRock
Brady Timothy Moynihan, son
of Abbey and Jonathan Moynihan
Madelyn Grace Keene, daughter
of Christine and Sean Keene
Graden Todd Lian, son
of Jocelyn and Patrick Lian
Morgan Renee Ruf, daughter
of Kirsten and Robert Ruf
Liliana Laura Huber, daughter
of Patti and Troy Huber
Isabel Marion Novak, daughter
of Anna and Todd Novak
Jonah Glen Rautio, son
of Andrea Rautio and Brandon Olson
Noah Charles Boekhoff, son
of Deanna and Brian Boekhoff
Olivia Maria Smith, daughter
of Crystal and Donnell Smith
William Christopher Ahlberg, son
of Kirsten and Jason Ahlberg
Colton William Tapper, son
of Melissa and Russell Tapper
Thomas Ryan Sullivan, son
of Carri and Ryan Sullivan
Caleb Blake Pederson, son
of Karin and Blake Pederson
Mason Lee Schabert, son
of Sara and Ryan Schabert
Colin Beau Shultz, son
of Trista and Brett Shultz
Baptism Classes 1st Thursdays, 7:00 - 8:00 PM // No class July 3 // Cost: Free
This class is required for families preparing for their first baptism at SOTV. Babies are
welcome in class, as children must be at least 6 weeks old to attend childcare. The
Sacrament of Baptism is celebrated every 2nd weekend of the month in worship and,
as needed, on 3rd weekends as a separate service at 12:30 pm. To schedule a baptism,
please complete the form (available at the Welcome Center or at sotv.org/baptism) and
contact Merilu Narum at (952) 985-7326 at least one month in advance.
Preschool Adds Class This Fall
In the Fall, Celebrating Children Preschool will offer two
“High Five” classes. In addition to our morning class, we
are adding an afternoon class M-Th from 12:30 - 3:00 pm.
High Five is a preschool class with an emphasis on Kinder-
garten readiness for children who will be five by Sep.1, 2014
but are attending Kindergarten in the fall of 2015, as well as
children who will be five by December 31, 2014.
We are still accepting applications for our 3 & 4 year old and 4 & 5 year old classes. Check
us out at www.sotv.org/preschool for full details. Contact Linda Nelson at (952) 985-7370
or e-mail [email protected] if you want to register or set up a tour.
24 | SUMMER 2014 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church
12650 Johnny Cake Ridge Road
Apple Valley, MN 55124
Non-Profit Org U.S. Postage
PAID Permit 2692
Twin Cities, MN
Office Hours:
Monday - Thursday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Closed Fridays (as of May 16)
Worship Hours:
Saturdays, 5:00 PM
Sundays, 8:30, 9:45 & 11:00 AM
www.sotv.org
(952) 432-6351
Serve Others This Summer!
Annual Shepherd’s Sale p.15 June 16-27 (Sale is June 25-27)
Vacation Bible School p.19 July 14-17 or July 21-24
Habitat for Humanity p.14 July 7-11 or August 18-22
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