Upcoming Companions in Christ Spiritual Formation Groups this fall
This past weekend in worship, we emphasized the importance, and power, of prayer. We pray collectively in worship as a microcosm of the world on behalf of the entire world. And, in our personal prayer, we pray to connect to God as the source of our energy and our life.
If this weekend’s service inspired you to consider your prayer life, we are looking forward to offering a spiritual formation small group this coming school year called Companions in Christ. This series is intended to help small groups open themselves to God’s presence and guidance through both individual and communal practices, exploring themes like Scripture, prayer, discerning God’s will, and the nature of Christian community.
Companions groups are about 6-8 people in size, so we are anticipating forming several groups this year. Meetings are 2 hours in length. Due to timing, those interested in Compaions will determine the best day/time to meet.
The entire sequence is 28 weeks. However, to offer alternatives to those who have seasonal obligations, individuals can complete one part (about 4-5 weeks) and then take a break as needed. Then, when people are ready to jump start again, we’ll reform groups based on interest.
If you’d like to learn more about Companions, we encourage you to talk to anyone who has participated, or is participating, in these groups: Gladys Reif, Marlys Grete, Leslie Eichelberger, Connie Hoekstra, Mackenzie and Nick Gilbert, Andy Christy, Pastor Aleese. Willing to learn more and interested in being a part of a group? Contact Pastor Aleese.
Welcome to Maddy Carroll, New Era and Faith Together Muscatine Intern
Sunday, August 24
New Era, along with Faith Together Muscatine, is excited to announce that Maddy Carroll, a student from Wartbury Seminary, has been assigned as a deacon intern to our area! She will officially begin on Tuesday, August 19.
How does this impact us?
- As a part of Faith Together Muscatine, we will benefit from Maddy’s leadership among us. She comes with experience in children, youth, and family ministry, and also is interested in non-profits.
- Pastor Aleese has been named Maddy’s internship supervisor. This will take some of Pastor Aleese’s time, but it’s highly likely that she – and Shepherd – will also learn and grow from Maddy!
How can we support Maddy?
Join us for a special joint worship and fellowship weekend on Sunday, August 24. Shepherd of the Cross will worship at New Era (11:00 am). Previously we advertised that Voices of Peace, a mission organization, would be leading worship. Because of health complications of those in the band, Voices of Peace will not be joining us. But, Deacon Jodi Schumann from the Southeastern Iowa Synod Office will join us for worship, preach, and officially install Maddy as intern.
After worship, stick around for a joint potluck with all 4 congregations. Bring a dish to pass, catch up with friends from other congregations, and meet Maddy!
ELCA Churchwide Assembly
Currently taking place in Phoenix, Arizona
Hundreds of lay and rostered leaders from the across the ELCA are gathered in Phoenix under the theme “For the Life of the World” from July 28 – August 2. And, our very own Leslie Eichelberger is taking part as a voting member!
But what is Churchwide Assembly? Similar to Synod Assemblies, the Churchwide Assembly makes decisions about the work of the ELCA, spends time in worship, and engages in opportunities for networking.
This year, two key action items are the election of the ELCA presiding bishop and secretary. Voting members will also consider a proposed social statement on Faith and Civic Life, editorial changes on the social statement addressing Human Sexuality, budget proposals for the upcoming three years, and a report from the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church.
A lot will be happening! To stay in the loop, check out a list of all the things the assembly has before them. Questions? Talk to Pastor Aleese or Leslie Eichelberger when she returns!
Cooling System for Pearl City Outreach
Last week we alerted the congregation to a need that Pearl City Outreach, a haven for many who need immediate assistance in the downtown Muscatine area, needs a new air conditioner. Because of the size of their space, they need a large commercial unit.
Thank you to all those who already contributed this past weekend. Together we offered $1,500.00. If you weren’t able to give, but would like to offer a donation, mail your donations directly to Pearl City Outreach (513 Mulberry Ave Muscatine IA 52761) marked “Air Conditioner.” Thank you for following the love of Jesus by living in community and being merciful to our shared neighbors!
Family Faith Nights Resume Soon!
Wednesday, September 3
We are excited to look toward another Family Faith Night year between our four ELCA congregations! Once again we will have a lower elementary group (K-3), upper elementary group (4-6) and middle school group (7-8). We will also host an adult group. More information about the adult group coming soon!
First night will be Wed, Sept 3. Meal included! Family Faith Nights are hosted at Grace and run from 6:00 – 7:30pm. Interested in taking part? Or, interested in helping teach or serving food? Talk to Pastor Aleese!
MCSA Food Pantry
Summer is here and with kiddos home all day the MCSA Food Pantry is looking for non-perishable/kid friendly items to help support local families. Some suggestions are: canned fruit, canned protiens (fish, chicken, beans), peanut butter, etc. Place items in marked box at SOTC or deliver directly to MCSA.