Category: News

Night Out at The Lighthouse

Saturday, June 28, 5:30pm

Looking for a chance to catch up with your Shepherds? Our Social Team is hosting an outing at The Lighthouse (2142 Water Street, Muscatine) for a time of food and fellowship. Interested in joining? Sign up in the narthex so we have an estimated count of how many will join us.

River Bandits Game and Fellowship

Saturday, July 19, 5:30 pm

Join Shepherd of the Cross, AND our fellow ELCA congregations, in an outing to the ball park as the River Bandits take on the Peoria Chiefs! We will be in the Pepsi box, allowing for more room to mingle, along with seating and tables. Cost is $32/person, covering the cost of the ticket and a $20 Bandit card (to be used for food, drink, ride tickets, and merchandise.) 

Game time is 5:30pm. If you’d like to carpool, we’ll meet at SOTC at 4:40pm. We’ll leave the parking lot by 4:45pm. . 

SIgn up by Sunday, July 13 to attend! Sign up in the narthex or contact the church office. Payment due when you sign up.

Ride with the Bishops for RAGBRAI!

Thursday, July 24

Bishop Current, Bishop Jones, and Bishop Halaas (bishops from the three Iowa Synods of the ELCA) are teaming up once again to ride RAGBRAI (the Register’s Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa) on Thursday, July 24, from Iowa Falls to Cedar Falls. They rode the full RAGBRAI in 2023 for ELCA World Hunger and raised $92K!

Why a reprise this year? Bishops Current and Jones will ride together in celebration of their partnership with Bishop Halaas as she concludes her term; the 2025 route travels through our own Northeastern Iowa, and once again, it’s a great opportunity to raise funds for local anti-hunger ministries! Stay tuned for more details or make a donation today by clicking here. 

Following in the Love of Jesus Bulletin Board

Summer often sends us in many directions, but that doesn’t mean we need to be disconnected from one another in faith! As you move through the summer, keep an eye out for opportunites to follow in the love of Jesus. Perhaps it’s acts of service; perhaps it’s volunteering for something through SOTC; or perhaps it’s nurturing your relationship the love of Christ within you. Whatever it is, take a picture, and add it to our growing collage of how together we are following the love of Jesus.  

Baptism of Jessica Bartosh

Sunday, July 13

We celebrate Jessica’s desire to be baptized into the body of Christ! Join us as we witness God’s grace poured out through the waters of baptism and for a special time of fellowship!

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: cereal, granola bars, fruit cups, mac & cheese, juice boxes, peanut butter and jelly… Place items in marked box at SOTC or deliver directly to MCSA.  

Can you help clean up a few things around the church?

We made a good dent in some projects around the church last weekend but we still have two things remaining! If you can help, simply come and do it on your own timetable! Be in touch with Kathy or Pastor Aleese if you’re interested in helping so we know things are covered. 

1. Finish cleaning windows – the inside of the windows need to be cleaned throughout the church except for the main office and Pastor’s office. The outside of the windows needs to be cleaned just in the fellowship area. 
2. Weeding, clean up outside – just as there’s perpetual yard work around our homes, there’s also consistent work to be done around the church building. Feel free to grab a pair of gloves and give a lil’ love to the beds, flowers, and landscaping around the church whenever you had some spare time!

No Christians Underground This Week

Wednesday, June 11

 Because of Christian Day Camp, there is no Christians Underground this week. Underground picks up again on June 18 with Pastor Willie leading. Pastor Aleese will resume leadership on June 25.

Synod Assembly Recap

Sunday, June 15

In May, Leslie, Blaine, and Pastor Aleese joined 225 others from across the synod under the theme “Spirit, Open My Heart.” To hear more about the assembly, and actions that were taken that impact our local community, join us for worship on June 15! 

Following in the Love of Jesus Bulletin Board

Summer often sends us in many directions, but that doesn’t mean we need to be disconnected from one another in faith! As you move through the summer, keep an eye out for opportunites to follow in the love of Jesus. Perhaps it’s acts of service; perhaps it’s volunteering for something through SOTC; or perhaps it’s nurturing your relationship the love of Christ within you. Whatever it is, take a picture, and add it to our growing collage of how together we are following the love of Jesus.  

Thrivent Action Teams

Are you a Thrivent member? Throughout the year, we utilize member’s “action teams” to help fund various projects, events, and meals. If you’re willing to share one of your action teams with Shepherd, contact Colleen Bentz. 

Night Out at The Lighthouse

Saturday, June 28, 5:30pm

Looking for a chance to catch up with your Shepherds? Our Social Team is hosting an outing at The Lighthouse (2142 Water Street, Muscatine) for a time of food and fellowship. Interested in joining? Sign up in the narthex so we have an estimated count of how many will join us.

Women’s Group

Saturday, June 14 @ 8:30 am

Women’s Group continues to meet during the summer! Join them this weekend, or throughout the summer on the second Saturday of the month!

Wear Read for Pentecost Sunday!

Sunday, June 8

The day of Pentecost falls 50 days after Easter Sunday. On Pentecost, we remember the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the crowd in Jerusalem, and we also pray for the decent of the Spirit upon us. To mark the occassion, wear red to worship!

Can you help clean up a few things around the church?

We made a good dent in some projects around the church last weekend but we still have two things remaining! If you can help, simply come and do it on your own timetable! Be in touch with Kathy or Pastor Aleese if you’re interested in helping so we know things are covered. 

1. Finish cleaning windows – the inside of the windows need to be cleaned throughout the church except for the main office and Pastor’s office. The outside of the windows needs to be cleaned just in the fellowship area. 
2. Weeding, clean up outside – just as there’s perpetual yard work around our homes, there’s also consistent work to be done around the church building. Feel free to grab a pair of gloves and give a lil’ love to the beds, flowers, and landscaping around the church whenever you had some spare time!

Pastor Aleese at New Era

Sundays June 1, June 8

Pastor Aleese will be leading worship at New Era the next two weeks. To be clear: Pastor Aleese will still be at SOTC as normal for 9:00 am worship! During camp weeks and through the July 4 weekend, Pastor Willie and Pastor Susan will pick up worship at New Era. 

Feel free to join Pastor Aleese and our friends from New Era when you’d like! Worship at New Era is at 11:00 am. 

Synod Assembly Recap

Sunday, June 15

In May, Leslie, Blaine, and Pastor Aleese joined 225 others from across the synod under the theme “Spirit, Open My Heart.” To hear more about the assembly, and actions that were taken that impact our local community, join us for worship on June 15! 

Thrivent Action Teams

Are you a Thrivent member? Throughout the year, we utilize member’s “action teams” to help fund various projects, events, and meals. If you’re willing to share one of your action teams with Shepherd, contact Colleen Bentz. 

Night Out at The Lighthouse

Saturday, June 28, 5:30pm

Looking for a chance to catch up with your Shepherds? Our Social Team is hosting an outing at The Lighthouse (2142 Water Street, Muscatine) for a time of food and fellowship. Interested in joining? Sign up in the narthex so we have an estimated count of how many will join us.

Following in the Love of Jesus Bulletin Board

Summer often sends us in many directions, but that doesn’t mean we need to be disconnected from one another in faith! As you move through the summer, keep an eye out for opportunites to follow in the love of Jesus. Perhaps it’s acts of service; perhaps it’s volunteering for something through SOTC; or perhaps it’s nurturing your relationship the love of Christ within you. Whatever it is, take a picture, and add it to our growing collage of how together we are following the love of Jesus.  

Can you help clean up a few things around the church?

We made a good dent in some projects around the church last weekend but we still have two things remaining! If you can help, simply come and do it on your own timetable! Be in touch with Kathy or Pastor Aleese if you’re interested in helping so we know things are covered. 

1. Finish cleaning windows – the inside of the windows need to be cleaned throughout the church except for the main office and Pastor’s office. The outside of the windows needs to be cleaned just in the fellowship area. 
2. Weeding, clean up outside – just as there’s perpetual yard work around our homes, there’s also consistent work to be done around the church building. Feel free to grab a pair of gloves and give a lil’ love to the beds, flowers, and landscaping around the church whenever you had some spare time!

Ice Cream Social

Sunday, June 1

Dive into summer with a special treat during fellowship! Indulge in some ice cream sundaes on Sunday, June 1!

Wear Read for Pentecost Sunday!

Sunday, June 8

The day of Pentecost falls 50 days after Easter Sunday. On Pentecost, we remember the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the crowd in Jerusalem, and we also pray for the decent of the Spirit upon us. To mark the occassion, wear red to worship!

Pastor Aleese at New Era

Sundays June 1, June 8

Pastor Aleese will be leading worship at New Era the next two weeks. To be clear: Pastor Aleese will still be at SOTC as normal for 9:00 am worship! During camp weeks and through the July 4 weekend, Pastor Willie and Pastor Susan will pick up worship at New Era. 

Feel free to join Pastor Aleese and our friends from New Era when you’d like! Worship at New Era is at 11:00 am. 

Christian Day Camp Breakfast

Friday, June 27

Shepherd of the Cross will be furnishing breakfast for the Middle School campers on Friday morning after their sleepover at Saulsbury. If you are able  help serve (8:00 – 9:30 am), please a sign up in the narthex or contact the office.

Thrivent Action Teams

Are you a Thrivent member? Throughout the year, we utilize member’s “action teams” to help fund various projects, events, and meals. If you’re willing to share one of your action teams with Shepherd, contact Colleen Bentz. 

Synod Assembly Recap

Sunday, June 15

In May, Leslie, Blaine, and Pastor Aleese joined 225 others from across the synod under the theme “Spirit, Open My Heart.” To hear more about the assembly, and actions that were taken that impact our local community, join us for worship on June 15! 

Night Out at The Lighthouse

Saturday, June 28, 5:30pm

Looking for a chance to catch up with your Shepherds? Our Social Team is hosting an outing at The Lighthouse (2142 Water Street, Muscatine) for a time of food and fellowship. Interested in joining? Sign up in the narthex so we have an estimated count of how many will join us.

Bridal Shower for Raquel Pejchl & Joseph Reddy

Thank you to those who showered Raquel and Joseph as they prepare for marraige! We look forward to celebrating their marriage in a few short weeks, and supporting them on their continued journey!

Synod Assembly Recap

This past weekend, Leslie, Blaine, and Pastor Aleese gathered with about 225 other voting members across the Southeastern Iowa Synod under the theme “Spirit, Open Our Hearts.” Together, we worshipped, heard reports from within the synod and across the church, and voted on synod budget, minimum compensation guidelines, and constitutional updates. Later this June we will be sharing more with you about how various updates in the synod impact us right here in Muscatine! 

Outdoor Property Clean Up

Thank you to all who stuck around to help outside after worship on Sunday! We appreciate you! Together, we were able to get Easter bulbs in the ground, pick up some sticks, and clean some windows! (Not all faces and hands who helped are pictured!) Still willing to help? We’ll be sharing a list of odd jobs that need attention. Take a look and come into the church at a time that fits your schedule! 

Thrivent Action Teams

Are you a Thrivent member? Throughout the year, we utilize member’s “action teams” to help fund various projects, events, and meals. If you’re willing to share one of your action teams with Shepherd, contact Colleen Bentz. 

Pastor Aleese at New Era

Sundays May 25, June 1, June 8

As we move to the end of the month, note that Pastor Aleese will be leading worship at New Era three weeks in a row. This is due to the demands of camp in the month of June. During camp weeks and through the July 4 weekend, Pastor Willie and Pastor Susan will pick up worship at New Era. 

Feel free to join Pastor Aleese and our friends from New Era when you’d like! Worship at New Era is at 11:00 am. 

Ice Cream Social

Sunday, June 1

Dive into summer with a special treat during fellowship! Indulge in some ice cream sundaes on Sunday, June 1!

Pentecost Sunday

Sunday, June 8

The day of Pentecost falls 50 days after Easter Sunday. On Pentecost, we remember the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the crowd in Jerusalem, and we also pray for the decent of the Spirit upon us. To mark the occassion, wear red to worship!

High School Graudate Recognition

This weekend we had the privilege of honoring Kinsey and Violet as they both graduate from Wilton High School next weekend. They received a blanket, made by Products of the Flock, as a reminder of God’s love that surrounds them and the care of this congregation. They also were gifted a book, signed by our Education Team, and a devotional. After sharing in a blessing for their road ahead, together we celebrated them during fellowship. Go shine your light, ladies! Your future is so, so bright!

Women’s Group May Date

Saturday, May 17 @ 8:30 am

Because of numerous May events, the Women’s Group meeting was moved from the second Saturday to this coming weekend. Join them as they dive into an exploration of spiritual gifts and what that means for church communities!

Bridal Shower for Raquel Pejchl & Joseph Reddy

Saturday, May 17 @ 1:00 pm

Please join us in honoring Raquel Pejchl as she prepares to say “I Do!”
There is a RSVP sheet in the narthex or send your intent to attend to the office. Raquel and Joseph are registered at The Knot  Let’s shower Raquel and Joseph with love and best wishes!

Synod Assembly Coming Up Soon!

Saturday, May 17

Each year, the Southeastern Iowa Synod hosts a synod assembly for the purpose of worship, learning, and to attend to the business items of the synod. This year’s theme is “Spirit, Open My Heart.” Leslie Eichelberger and Blaine Booth will be attending with Pastor Aleese as representatives from SOTC. Please hold the synod in your prayers, and stay tuned for what happened during the assembly!

Outdoor Property Clean Up

Sunday, May 18 – Post Worship

Stick around after worship to help us clean up Shepherd’s property! We’ll be picking up sticks, weeding, trimming, and anything else that needs attention. Questions? Talk to Nick Gilbert. 

Thrivent Action Teams

Are you a Thrivent member? Throughout the year, we utilize member’s “action teams” to help fund various projects, events, and meals. If you’re willing to share one of your action teams with Shepherd, contact Colleen Bentz. 

Pastor Aleese at New Era

Sundays May 25, June 1, June 8

As we move to the end of the month, note that Pastor Aleese will be leading worship at New Era three weeks in a row. This is due to the demands of camp in the month of June. During camp weeks and through the July 4 weekend, Pastor Willie and Pastor Susan will pick up worship at New Era. 

Feel free to join Pastor Aleese and our friends from New Era when you’d like! Worship at New Era is at 11:00 am. 

Ice Cream Social

Sunday, June 1

Dive into summer with a special treat during fellowship! Indulge in some ice cream sundaes on Sunday, June 1!

Pentecost Sunday

Sunday, June 8

The day of Pentecost falls 50 days after Easter Sunday. On Pentecost, we remember the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the crowd in Jerusalem, and we also pray for the decent of the Spirit upon us. To mark the occassion, wear red to worship!

High School Graudate Recognition

Sunday, May 11

This spring we have the honor of celebrating Kinsey Drake and Violet LeGrand, both of whom are graduating from high school. Join us for worship and fellowship as we offer them our prayers and blessings and have an opportunity to wish them well! Feel free to bring cards if you desire; we’ll have baskets for both girls!

Bridal Shower for Raquel Pejchl & Joseph Reddy

Saturday, May 17 @ 1:00 pm

Please join us in honoring Raquel Pejchl as she prepares to say “I Do!”
There is a RSVP sheet in the narthex or send your intent to attend to the office. Raquel and Joseph are registered at The Knot  Let’s shower Raquel and Joseph with love and best wishes!

Synod Assembly Coming Up Soon!

Saturday, May 17

Each year, the Southeastern Iowa Synod hosts a synod assembly for the purpose of worship, learning, and to attend to the business items of the synod. This year’s theme is “Spirit, Open My Heart.” Leslie Eichelberger and Blaine Booth will be attending with Pastor Aleese as representatives from SOTC. Please hold the synod in your prayers, and stay tuned for what happened during the assembly!

Outdoor Property Clean Up

Sunday, May 18 – Post Worship

Stick around after worship to help us clean up Shepherd’s property! We’ll be picking up sticks, weeding, trimming, and anything else that needs attention. Questions? Talk to Nick Gilbert. 

Women’s Group May Date

Saturday, May 17 @ 8:30 am

Because of conflicts that many of our women have with the second Saturday of the month, Women’s Group is being moved from May 10 to May 17. Mark your calendars!

Pentecost Sunday

Sunday, June 8

The day of Pentecost falls 50 days after Easter Sunday. On Pentecost, we remember the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the crowd in Jerusalem, and we also pray for the decent of the Spirit upon us. To mark the occassion, wear red to worship!

Family Faith Night Service Night

We had an amazing time at our latest Family Faith Night! Our members learned about the incredible work of Wine to Water and participated in a filter build, making a real difference in the lives of those in need. We also included special messages of love to the future recipients of the water filters. Additionally, our youngsters built their very own homemade water filter and learned why they are needed in areas affected by natural disasters and used all over the world where safe and clean water isn’t easily accessible. It was a night filled with learning, teamwork, and fun! Find out more about what a difference you and they can make in the world at Wine to Water’s website!

High School Graudate Recognition

Sunday, May 11

This spring we have the honor of celebrating Kinsey Drake and Violet LeGrand, both of whom are graduating from high school. Join us for worship and fellowship as we offer them our prayers and blessings and have an opportunity to wish them well! Feel free to bring cards if you desire; we’ll have baskets for both girls!

Bridal Shower for Raquel Pejchl & Joseph Reddy

Saturday, May 17 @ 1:00 pm

Please join us in honoring Raquel Pejchl as she prepares to say “I Do!”
There is a RSVP sheet in the narthex or send your intent to attend to the office. Raquel and Joseph are registered at The Knot  Let’s shower Raquel and Joseph with love and best wishes!

Women’s Group May Date

Saturday, May 17 @ 8:30 am

Because of conflicts that many of our women have with the second Saturday of the month, Women’s Group is being moved from May 10 to May 18. Mark your calendars!

Last Chance to Register for Christian Day Camp!

We’re on the final stretch to register for Christian Day Camp! We have a handful of spots remaining for our elementary camps (June 10-13 and 17-20) and ample room to welcome middle schoolers (June 24-26) and preschoolers (June 9, 16, 23)! Register online by Friday, May 9

Holy Week Worship

After celebrating Palm Sunday this weekend, we look toward Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Vigil, and Easter Sunday.

Maundy Thursday, April 17 – 7:00 pm worship with Holy Communion

Good Friday, April 18 – 7:00 pm worship

Easter Vigil, April 19 (New Era) – 4:00 pm worship; 5:30 pm meal
Bring a dessert to share!

Easter Sunday, April 20 – 9:00 am festival worship

Holy Week Worship Times @ Grace, Zion, New Era

Unable to make the worship time at Shepherd? Consider joining one of our fellow Faith Together Muscatine churches! Please note the time change for Good Friday worship for Zion. 

Easter Breakfast and Egg Hunt

Sunday, April 20

Join us for Easter Breakfast starting at 8:00 am! Breakfast will wrap up by 8:45 am so we can transition to worship. 

Have kiddos? All are welcome to partake in an Easter Egg Hunt at 8:30am. Bring your basket if you’d like! We’ll also have extra bags on hand.

Communuity Easter Egg Hunt @ Lutheran Living

Friday, April 18 @ 1:30 pm

Lutheran Living (2421 Lutheran Drive, Muscatine) is hosting a community-wide Easter Egg Hunt complete with pictures with the Easter bunny, prizes, and refreshments! There will be three search areas: for ages 1-5, 6-8, and 9-12. Join the fun!

Shepherd Kids’ Day

Friday, April 18, 9:00 – 11:00 am

Lower and upper elementary youth are invited to join us for a morning exploring what is worship, why we worship, and how we can participate in worship. If you have questions, or if your kids have friends they’d like to bring with them!, contact Pastor Aleese.

Renewal Christian Women’s Retreat

Saturday, May 3
9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Muscatine Community College

Join women for a one-day retreat, designed to inspire women to find joy and hope amidst the chaos of everyday life. This event will provide a supportive environment for spiritual growth, Christian fellowship, and personal rejuvenation. 

Check out the event website to learn more and register. Register by April 26. 

UNI Choir and Orchestra Concert

Saturday, April 26 @ 7:00 pm
Wesley United Methodist

The UNI Concert Chorale and Northern Iowa Symphony will perform Mozart’s Requiem right here in Muscatine! The choir also includes some Muscatine natives.Doors open at 6:00 pm. Concert is free to attend.

LAST NIGHT!

Midweek Worship, Meal, Family Faith Nights

Wednesday, April 9

We’ve made our way through much of Holy Week, and in this last evening, we’ll consider not only the joy of Easter Sunday, but the fredom given to us through Christ. Whether you’ve joined us once, twice, or not at all yet this season, join us for worship at 5:30, meal at 6:00, and Family Faith Nights at 6:30. Meal is pulled pork, mac and cheese, coleslaw and dessert.

Holy Week Worship

Our last leg of Lent brings us to Holy Week with the celebration of Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Vigil, and Easter Sunday. 

Palm Sunday, April 13 – 9:00 am worship with procession of palms

Maundy Thursday, April 17 – 7:00 pm worship with Holy Communion

Good Friday, April 18 – 7:00 pm worship

Easter Vigil, April 19 (New Era) – 4:00 pm worship; 5:30 pm meal
Bring a dessert to share!

Easter Sunday, April 20 – 9:00 am festival worship

Holy Week Worship Times @ Grace, Zion, New Era

Unable to make the worship time at Shepherd? Consider joining one of our fellow Faith Together Muscatine churches!

Help Needed for Easter Breakfast and Egg Hunt

We need your help! 

1. Help provide food for Easter Breakfast (8:00 am) – donuts, muffins, yogurt, fruit, juice and coffee. Sign up in the narthex or contact the church office. 
2. Bring bags of individually wrapped candies to church for the Easter Egg Hunt (8:30 am). Bring donations by April 13. 
3. Help fill eggs during fellowship on Palm Sunday (April 13)

Thanks in advance for your help in our celebration of our Lord’s resurrection!

Communuity Easter Egg Hunt @ Lutheran Living

Friday, April 18 @ 1:30 pm

Lutheran Living (2421 Lutheran Drive, Muscatine) is hosting a community-wide Easter Egg Hunt complete with pictures with the Easter bunny, prizes, and refreshments! There will be three search areas: for ages 1-5, 6-8, and 9-12. Join the fun!

Shepherd Kids’ Day

Friday, April 18, 9:00 – 11:00 am

Lower and upper elementary youth are invited to join us for a morning exploring what is worship, why we worship, and how we can participate in worship. If you have questions, or if your kids have friends they’d like to bring with them!, contact Pastor Aleese.

Upcoming Opporutnities to Support Our Youth!

Check out how and where our Shepherd youth are performing later this spring and mark your calendars! Thanks for supporting one another!

The Adams Family Muscatine High School Musical
April 24 & 25, May 1 & 2 @ 7:00 pm

Join us for a night of hilarity and drama as we support Elyse Eichelberger! Tickets are $9 online and $12 at the door. Tickets can be purchased through the Muscatine Box Office. Tickets will be sold online up to 15 minutes before each show. Performance is at the Muscatine High School auditorium.

Dance Recital
May 9 & 10 @ 7:00 pm

Support the Vircks girls as they dance! Recital takes place at the Muscatine High School.

Wesley Youth Choir Concert
May 11 @ 4:00 pm

Amelia Vircks will be performing as a part of the youth choir for this concert.

Renewal Christian Women’s Retreat

Saturday, May 3
9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Muscatine Community College

Join women for a one-day retreat, designed to inspire women to find joy and hope amidst the chaos of everyday life. This event will provide a supportive environment for spiritual growth, Christian fellowship, and personal rejuvenation. 

Check out the event website to learn more and register. Register by April 26. 

UNI Choir and Orchestra Concert

Saturday, April 26 @ 7:00 pm
Wesley United Methodist

The UNI Concert Chorale and Northern Iowa Symphony will perform Mozart’s Requiem right here in Muscatine! The choir also includes some Muscatine natives.Doors open at 6:00 pm. Concert is free to attend.