Category: News

Trunk or Treat Success!

We were up against some cold and rain this weekend for Trunk or Treat, but our volunteers from SOTC, Grace, and Zion – along with all who participated! – made this event a smashing success! Special thanks to Colleen Bentz from SOTC who served on the planning team.

Last call for help with Soup Fest!

It’s this coming weekend! Right now, we still need help with the following: 

Cooking and Baking

We need help preparing the following food – pie, bread, and soup.

Serving and Clean Up

We need help with set up, serving and clean up.

Contact Kathy in the church office if you’re willing to help. Thanks!

Zion Soup Supper

Tuesday, November 7, 4:30 – 6:30pm

Join our siblings in Christ for a soup supper meal on Election Day night! Menu is chili, chicken noodle soup, ham sandwiches and desserts. Adults $10; seniors $7; Youth $5, under 5 free. All proceeds support Zion youth programming.

Congregational Budget Meeting

Sunday, November 19 following worship

Each year in the fall, SOTC creates a budget to continue serving in the name of Jesus in the coming year. Our Council is meeting this week to review the proposed 2024 budget, which will then be shared with the congregation on Sunday, November 5. 

If you’re looking for a time to discuss the proposed budget and our financial position, Council will host a roundtable discussion following worship on Sunday, November 12. Budget will be voted upon during our Congregational Budget Meeting on Sunday, November 19.

Any questions can be directed to Delene McConnaha, president, or Pastor Aleese. 

ELCA Good Gift Challenge

Last year, our kids put forth $250 from their Children’s Sermon fund toward ELCA Good Gifts and challenged the congregation to match that $250. Your gifts support the sustainable development ministries of ELCA World Hunger, which include training, education, resources (and much more) to help the community care for animals and create new market opportunities like starting a small business selling eggs, meat or dairy products.

We will begin collecting donations on Sunday, November 5 and will set up an option to give through Tithe.ly. Begin considering how this initiative can be a part of your end-of-the-year giving!

Sponsor a Poinsettia

Sign up Nov 5 – Nov 26

Our Altar Guild and Worship and Music Teams are looking forward to a meaningful Advent and Christmas season centered around the theme, “How Does a Weary World Rejoice?” To decorate for the season, we’re asking for the congregation to sponsor poinsettias. If you’d like to purchase a poinsettia in honor/memory of a loved one, sign up in the narthex or email the church office beginning Sunday, November 5.

Cost per poinsettia is $12. Offer your payment via cash or check in the offering plate or turning it into the church office. You can also pay online through Tithe.ly and via a credit card reader starting Sunday, November 5.

Family Faith Night Crew Offers Random Acts of Kindness in Muscatine

Our Family Faith Night crew from SOTC, Grace and Zion did random acts of kindness around Muscatine for their October service night. Groups delivered cookies to the fire department, flowers to a memory care unit at a nursing facility, chalked uplifting messages outside Lutheran Living, made cards for shut in members of congregations, and delivered care packages to MCSA. Thanks for doing God’s Work with your hands!

All Saint Day Names for Litany in Worship

Submit by Sunday, October 29

Each year, the church observes All Saints Day – a day to remember saints who have joined the body of Christ through baptism and saints who have gone before us who now rest in peace.

If you have someone you know who has been baptized or who has died in the past year that you’d like remembered during our All Saints Litany in worship, sign up in the narthex or contact Kathy Dunham. That person’s name will be remembered in worship, and those remembering that individual will be invited to come forward and light a candle.

Trunk or Treat

Sunday, October 29
4:00 – 5:30 pm

Do you have your trunk and/or costumes ready?! We’ve got 15 trunks signed up (thanks so much!) but can always use a few more! Those hosting trunks need to be parked at Grace by 3:30pm at the latest. 

If you have questions, talk to Colleen Bentz, and/or sign up to host a trunk online. Looking forward to seeing many of you that evening as you host a trunk or participate! Share the news with your friends, neighbors and coworkers!

Calling all bakers and cooks!

Sunday, November 5, 4:00-7:00 pm

We need your help! We still need people to prepare soups (Chicken Noodle, Chili, Potato, Taco, and Vegetable Beef), to bake bread, and to make scrumptious pies. Willing to help? Sign up in the narthex, or email Kathy to see how you could help. 

Be sure to spread the news within your circles and invite people to join us! Paper flyers are available in the narthex; online Facebook event can also be shared!

Congregational Budget Meeting

Sunday, November 19 following worship

Each year in the fall, SOTC creates a budget to continue serving in the name of Jesus in the coming year. Our Council is meeting this week to review the proposed 2024 budget, which will then be shared with the congregation on Sunday, November 5. 

If you’re looking for a time to discuss the proposed budget and our financial position, Council will host a roundtable discussion following worship on Sunday, November 12. Budget will be voted upon during our Congregational Budget Meeting on Sunday, November 19.

Any questions can be directed to Delene McConnaha, president, or Pastor Aleese. 

Zion Soup Supper

Tuesday, November 7, 4:30 – 6:30pm

Join our siblings in Christ for a soup supper meal on Election Day night! Menu is chili, chicken noodle soup, ham sandwiches and desserts. Adults $10; seniors $7; Youth $5, under 5 free. All proceeds support Zion youth programming. 

ELCA Good Gift Challenge

Last year, our kids put forth $250 from thier Children’s Sermon fund toward ELCA Good Gifts and challenged the congregation to match that $250. Your gifts support the sustainable development ministries of ELCA World Hunger, which include training, education, resources (and much more) to help the community care for animals and create new market opportunities like starting a small business selling eggs, meat or dairy products.

We will begin collecting donations on Sunday, November 5 and will set up an option to give through Tithely. Begin considering how this initiative can be a part of your end-of-the-year giving!

Sponsor a Poinsettia

Sign up Nov 5 – Nov 26

Our Altar Guild and Worship and Music Teams are looking forward to a meaningful Advent and Christmas season centered around the theme, “How Does a Weary World Rejoice?” To decorate for the season, we’re asking for the congregation to sponsor poinsettias. If you’d like to purchase a poinsettia in honor/memory of a loved one, sign up in the narthex or email the church office beginning Sunday, November 5.

Training for Readers in Worship

Following worship on Sunday, October 22

When we read Scripture in the midst of worship, we’re doing more than reading a history book. We believe that the Bible is the living and active Word of God that has the power and potential to speak directly to us.

So then what does that mean for how we approach God’s Word and also how we share God’s Word in corporate worship? Our Worship and Music Team, along with Pastor Aleese, is asking volunteers who read in worship to stick around for a brief training and conversation following worship on Sunday, October 22. This time will also include an opportunity to practice reading out loud with one another. 

Not able to make it? The Worship and Music Team will host another training opportunity in the new year. Our hope is to spend some time with our readers, along with other worship volunteers, to illuminate how God is at work in what we do…each and every week. Questions? Talk to Delene McConnaha, Joseph Reddy, or Pastor Aleese. 

All Saint Day Names for Litany in Worship

Submit by Sunday, October 29

Each year, the church observes All Saints Day – a day to remember saints who have joined the body of Christ through baptism and saints who have gone before us who now rest in peace.

If you have someone you know who has been baptized or who has died in the past year that you’d like remembered during our All Saints Litany in worship, sign up in the narthex or contact Kathy Dunham. That person’s name will be remembered in worship, and those remembering that individual will be invited to come forward and light a candle.

Trunk or Treat

Sunday, October 29
4:00 – 5:30 pm

It’s comin’ up soon and we’re looking for people to host trunks! Do a search for fun trunk-or-treat ideas, show up at Grace by 3:30pm at the latest, pop open your trunk, decorate it, pass out candy and that’s all that’s to it!

If you have questions, talk to Colleen Bentz, and/or sign up to host a trunk online. Looking forward to seeing many of you that evening as you host a trunk or participate! Share the news with your friends, neighbors and coworkers!

Soup Fest is around the corner!

Sunday, November 5, 4:00-7:00 pm

Soup Fest is back and we’re excited to host the community for a night of fellowship and fundraising. Proceeds from this years’ Soup Fest will go toward a discretionary fund to respond to emergency community needs and Southeastern Iowa Synod Mission Support. Proceeds will be split 50/50. 

To make this year’s event another success, here’s how you can help: 

1. Promote Soup Fest  – Pick up a flyer from the narthex to hang at work/in the community. Take a handful of smaller cards to give to neighbors and friends. Share our event on Facebook!
2. Sign up to cook/bake – we need people to cook a variety of soups and bread and bake pies! Sign up sheet in the narthex. Contact Kathy if you’re interested in more information. 
3. Sign up to set up/serve/clean up – Volunteers make the dream work! Sign up in the narthex or contact Kathy. We will set up most of the fellowship hall on Sunday, Nov 5 after worship. 

If you have any questions, contact Colleen Bentz. 

Congregational Budget Meeting

Each year in the fall, SOTC creates a budget to continue serving in the name of Jesus in the coming year.

Here’s what you can expect:

Sunday, November 5 – distribution of proposed 2024 budget

Sunday, November 12 – Council will host a time of discussion for anyone with questions regarding the proposed budget and our financial position following worship. 

Sunday, November 19 –Congregational meeting to discuss and approve the budget will be held following worship.

Any questions can be directed to Delene McConnaha, president, or Pastor Aleese. 

ELCA Good Gift Challenge

Last year, our kids put forth $250 from thier Children’s Sermon fund toward ELCA Good Gifts and challenged the congregation to match that $250. Your gifts support the sustainable development ministries of ELCA World Hunger, which include training, education, resources (and much more) to help the community care for animals and create new market opportunities like starting a small business selling eggs, meat or dairy products.

We will begin collecting donations on Sunday, November 5 and will set up an option to give through Tithely. Begin considering how this initiative can be a part of your end-of-the-year giving!

Sponsor a Poinsettia

Sign up Nov 5 – Nov 26

Our Altar Guild and Worship and Music Teams are looking forward to a meaningful Advent and Christmas season centered around the theme, “How Does a Weary World Rejoice?” To decorate for the season, we’re asking for the congregation to sponsor poinsettias. If you’d like to purchase a poinsettia in honor/memory of a loved one, sign up in the narthex or email the church office beginning Sunday, November 5.

SOTC Directory and Narrative Directory Update

Send any updates to the church office by October 15

In our ever changing world we sometimes need to change our contact information. If your contact information is out of date or you would simply like to update your picture/story in the Narrative Directory, please send your information to Kathy. 

Estimate of Giving Spiritual Practice 

Throughout October during worship, we’ll hear a variety of individuals share a testimony of how the mission of Jesus through SOTC and our shared ministry has impacted them. In so many ways, lives are being touched by what happens both inside our walls and out in the community. 

As you hear these stories, we hope you’ll consider how you also have been impacted by SOTC and our shared ministry. And, as a second step, we hope you’ll consider your participation in continuing to share the good news of Jesus Christ within our congregation and community – in what you do, and in what you give financially. 

To help you consider these things, we encourage you to use the At-Home Practices as conversation/thought starters. After using those practices, use the Estimate of Giving Worksheet as a spiritual practice. It might seem odd to consider an estimate of your giving a spiritual practice, but the way we use all of the resources entrusted to us is a part of our spirituality and life of faith. 

If you have any questions, or would like a conversation partner as you consider these questions and ideas, contact Pastor Aleese or a Stewardship Team member (Delene McConnaha, Mackenzie Gilbert, Melissa Booth, Heather Allen). 

Trunk or Treat

Sunday, October 29
4:00 – 5:30 pm

It’s gonna be a spooky-good time! Collaborating with Grace and Zion, we’ll gather with those within our congregations and those within the greater Muscatine community! Here’s how you can participate:

1. Host a trunk  – sign up online or in the narthex. Trunks must be set up by 3:30pm.
2. Contribute to our stash of extra candy in the church narthex.
3. Promote and attend the event! Paper flyers are available in the narthex; like and share our event on Facebook! 

Soup Fest is around the corner!

Sunday, November 5, 4:00-7:00 pm

Soup Fest is back and we’re excited to host the community for a night of fellowship and fundraising. Proceeds from this years’ Soup Fest will go toward a discretionary fund to respond to emergency community needs and Southeastern Iowa Synod Mission Support. Proceeds will be split 50/50. 

To make this year’s event another success, here’s how you can help: 

1. Promote Soup Fest  – Pick up a flyer from the narthex to hang at work/in the community. Take a handful of smaller cards to give to neighbors and friends. Share our event on Facebook!
2. Sign up to cook/bake – we need people to cook a variety of soups and bread and bake pies! Sign up sheet in the narthex. Contact Kathy if you’re interested in more information. 
3. Sign up to set up/serve/clean up – Volunteers make the dream work! Sign up in the narthex or contact Kathy. We will set up most of the fellowship hall on Sunday, Nov 5 after worship. 

If you have any questions, contact Colleen Bentz. 

Congregational Budget Meeting

Each year in the fall, SOTC creates a budget to continue serving in the name of Jesus in the coming year.

Here’s what you can expect:

Sunday, November 5 – distribution of proposed 2024 budget

Sunday, November 12 – Council will host a time of discussion for anyone with questions regarding the proposed budget and our financial position following worship. 

Sunday, November 19 –Congregational meeting to discuss and approve the budget will be held following worship.

Any questions can be directed to Delene McConnaha, president, or Pastor Aleese. 

All Saint Day Names for Litany in Worship

Submit by Sunday, October 29

Each year, the church observes All Saints Day – a day to remember saints who have joined the body of Christ through baptism and saints who have gone before us who now rest in peace.

If you have someone you know who has been baptized or who has died in the past year that you’d like remembered during our All Saints Litany in worship, sign up in the narthex or contact Kathy Dunham. That person’s name will be remembered in worship, and those remembering that individual will be invited to come forward and light a candle. 

Estimate of Giving Spiritual Practice 

Throughout October during worship, we’ll hear a variety of individuals share a testimony of how the mission of Jesus through SOTC and our shared ministry has impacted them. In so many ways, lives are being touched by what happens both inside our walls and out in the community. 

As you hear these stories, we hope you’ll consider how you also have been impacted by SOTC and our shared ministry. And, as a second step, we hope you’ll consider your participation in continuing to share the good news of Jesus Christ within our congregation and community – in what you do, and in what you give financially. 

To help you consider these things, we encourage you to use the At-Home Practices as conversation/thought starters. After using those practices, use the Estimate of Giving Worksheet as a spiritual practice. It might seem odd to consider an estimate of your giving a spiritual practice, but the way we use all of the resources entrusted to us is a part of our spirituality and life of faith. 

If you have any questions, or would like a conversation partner as you consider these questions and ideas, contact Pastor Aleese or a Stewardship Team member (Delene McConnaha, Mackenzie Gilbert, Melissa Booth, Heather Allen). 

Trunk or Treat

Sunday, October 29
4:00 – 5:30 pm

It’s gonna be a spooky-good time! Collaborating with Grace and Zion, we’ll gather with those within our congregations and those within the greater Muscatine community! Here’s how you can participate:

1. Host a trunk  – sign up online or in the narthex. Trunks must be set up by 3:30pm.
2. Contribute to our stash of extra candy in the church narthex.
3. Promote and attend the event! Paper flyers are available in the narthex; like and share our event on Facebook! 

Soup Fest is around the corner!

Sunday, November 5, 4:00-7:00 pm

Soup Fest is back and we’re excited to host the community for a night of fellowship and fundraising. Proceeds from this years’ Soup Fest will go toward a discretionary fund to respond to emergency community needs and Southeastern Iowa Synod Mission Support. Proceeds will be split 50/50. 

To make this year’s event another success, here’s how you can help: 

1. Promote Soup Fest  – Pick up a flyer from the narthex to hang at work/in the community. Take a handful of smaller cards to give to neighbors and friends. Share our event on Facebook!
2. Sign up to cook/bake – we need people to cook a variety of soups and bread and bake pies! Sign up sheet in the narthex. Contact Kathy if you’re interested in more information. 
3. Sign up to set up/serve/clean up – Volunteers make the dream work! Sign up in the narthex or contact Kathy. We will set up most of the fellowship hall on Sunday, Nov 5 after worship. 

If you have any questions, contact Colleen Bentz. 

Congregational Budget Meeting

Each year in the fall, SOTC creates a budget to continue serving in the name of Jesus in the coming year.

Here’s what you can expect:

Sunday, November 5 – distribution of proposed 2024 budget

Sunday, November 12 – Council will host a time of discussion for anyone with questions regarding the proposed budget and our financial position following worship. 

Sunday, November 19 –Congregational meeting to discuss and approve the budget will be held following worship.

Any questions can be directed to Delene McConnaha, president, or Pastor Aleese. 

All Saint Day Names for Litany in Worship

Submit by Sunday, October 29

Each year, the church observes All Saints Day – a day to remember saints who have joined the body of Christ through baptism and saints who have gone before us who now rest in peace.

If you have someone you know who has been baptized or who has died in the past year that you’d like remembered during our All Saints Litany in worship, sign up in the narthex or contact Kathy Dunham. That person’s name will be remembered in worship, and those remembering that individual will be invited to come forward and light a candle. 

Baptism of Ainsley Carter

Welcome to the flock, Ainsley! On Sunday we celebrated the boundless generosity and grace of God poured out over Ainsley and committed ourselves to go forth from the font, extending that same generosity to those around us. We pray God’s blessings on little Ainsley as she continues her life in Christ!

September Diaper Drive

Bring any last minute donations to Grace tomorrow!

Last chance! If you’d like to contribute to the September Diaper Drive, bring your donations to Grace tomorrow night for Family Faith Night. Sizes most needed: 1, 2, and 7. Not coming to Family Faith Night? Contact Pastor Aleese to arrange for drop off at SOTC.

Cleaning of the Carpet @ SOTC

October 6 and 7

The Property Team will be cleaning the carpets at SOTC starting the afternoon of October 6th. We need volunteers to move furniture on October 6, do the actual cleaning, and move furniture back on October 7. If you have a carpet cleaner you are willing to let us borrow or are willing to help, contact Kathy 

Got Sneakers?

Don’t throw away those old sneakers! Before you send your old sneakers or running shoes to the landfill, why not help the Wilton Fine Arts Guild lend a hand to the planet, those less fortunate, and clear your clutter!

The Guild has partnered with a non-profit called GotSneakers. Drop off your kids and adult sneakers only, at SOTC. They will be cleaned, and given to others who can’t afford shoes. Even sneakers that have seen better days will be recycled as playground surfaces. Sneakers will be collected through the end of October.

CROP WALK 2023

This year will be 52 years the Muscatine community has walked to raise funds to feed the hungry in our area. All funds collected will go to Church World Service to alleviate hunger in Muscatine and around the world. Interested in helping? Consider one of these three options. For more questions, contact Judy Brotherton. 

Participate in the CROP Walk
Sunday, October 1 @ 2:00 pm

Sponsor envelopes are available at Wesley United Methodist Church, 400 Iowa Ave. weekdays between 8:30 am – 1:00 pm.

Attend the Applebee’s Fundraiser
October 10, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm

When you order from the special Together We Care menu, 50% of the food sales will support the Muscatine CROP Walk.

Donate Online

Donate individually online for your contribution to go toward the total raised in Muscatine. 

Trunk or Treat

Sunday, October 29
4:00 – 5:30 pm

Trunk or Treat is back for another year! Once again, we’re collaborating with Grace and Zion for a night of fun and fellowship for those within our congregations and those within the greater Muscatine community!

Here’s how you can participate:

1. Host a trunk  – sign up online or in the narthex. Trunks must be set up by 3:30pm.
2. Contribute to our stash of extra candy starting October 1.
3. Promote and attend the event! Paper flyers are available in the narthex; like and share our event on Facebook! 

Future Church: God’s Love Made Real

We become church together by listening to and learning from one another – will you help? By filling out a new survey, you can assist the ELCA churchwide organization in learning more about the church, what is strong and what needs to grow, so it can better serve our congregations and the world. Your responses will guide us toward a world experiencing the difference that God’s grace and love in Christ make for all people and creation.

To learn more, check out the God’s Love Made Real website and take the survey to share your views on the church and the world today. Your participation will help us move together as the Spirit leads us. 

Soup Fest is Coming!

Sunday, November 5

Soup Fest is back and we’re excited to host the community for a night of fellowship and fundraising. Proceeds from this years’ Soup Fest will go toward a discretionary fund to respond to emergency community needs and Southeastern Iowa Synod Mission Support. Proceeds will be split 50/50. 

Sign up sheets for bakers, cooks, and volunteers coming soon. Questions? Or, willing to volunteer yourself now? Contact Colleen Bentz. 

Compassion Kits Assembled!

As a part of our God’s Work Our Hands service project, this past Sunday we assembled Compassion Kits to be given to those in our community who need a little extra help, and most importantly, who need to be reminded that they are seen, cared for, and loved by God and by us.

In the picture below, our kids (and some adults) were finalizing the kits by putting in hand warmers, a snack, and a hand-written note. Other tables also put socks, water bottles, hand sanitizer, toothbrush/toothpaste, and band-aids into the kit.

If you weren’t at worship this weekend, or needed to bug out right away, grab your kits next weekend! Distribute the kits to those you encounter in your day-to-day lives. Thanks for doing God’s Work with Your Hands!

September Diaper Drive

Through Wednesday, September 27

This month for Family Faith Nights, in conjunction with our September service project, we are collecting diapers for the Muscatine Community Diaper Bank. The bank is in need of especially sizes 1, 2 and 7.

Bring donations either to Grace when you come to Family Faith Nights, OR to Shepherd whenever you find yourself at church! We’ll make sure all donations get to Grace by Wed, September 27 to package as a part of our service night. Questions? Contact Leslie Eichelberger. 

Cleaning of the Carpet @ SOTC

October 6 and 7

The Property Team will be cleaning the carpets at SOTC starting the afternoon of October 6th. We need volunteers to move furniture on October 6, do the actual cleaning, and move furniture back on October 7. If you have a carpet cleaner you are willing to let us borrow or are willing to help, contact Kathy 

Got Sneakers?

Don’t throw away those old sneakers! Before you send your old sneakers or running shoes to the landfill, why not help the Wilton Fine Arts Guild lend a hand to the planet, those less fortunate, and clear your clutter!

The Guild has partnered with a non-profit called GotSneakers. Drop off your kids and adult sneakers only, at SOTC. They will be cleaned, and given to others who can’t afford shoes. Even sneakers that have seen better days will be recycled as playground surfaces. Sneakers will be collected through the end of October.

CROP WALK 2023

This year will be 52 years the Muscatine community has walked to raise funds to feed the hungry in our area. All funds collected will go to Church World Service to alleviate hunger in Muscatine and around the world. Interested in helping? Consider one of these three options. For more questions, contact Judy Brotherton. 

Participate in the CROP Walk
Sunday, October 1 @ 2:00 pm

Sponsor envelopes are available at Wesley United Methodist Church, 400 Iowa Ave. weekdays between 8:30 am – 1:00 pm.

Attend the Applebee’s Fundraiser
October 10, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm

When you order from the special Together We Care menu, 50% of the food sales will support the Muscatine CROP Walk.

Donate Online

Donate individually online for your contribution to go toward the total raised in Muscatine. 

Trunk or Treat

Sunday, October 29
4:00 – 5:30 pm

Trunk or Treat is back for another year! Once again, we’re collaborating with Grace and Zion for a night of fun and fellowship for those within our congregations and those within the greater Muscatine community!

Here’s how you can participate:

1. Host a trunk  – sign up sheet forthcoming.
2. Contribute to our stash of extra candy starting October 1.
3. Promote and attend the event! Online and paper flyers will be available soon.

Future Church: God’s Love Made Real

We become church together by listening to and learning from one another – will you help? By filling out a new survey, you can assist the ELCA churchwide organization in learning more about the church, what is strong and what needs to grow, so it can better serve our congregations and the world. Your responses will guide us toward a world experiencing the difference that God’s grace and love in Christ make for all people and creation.

To learn more, check out the God’s Love Made Real website and take the survey to share your views on the church and the world today. Your participation will help us move together as the Spirit leads us. 

You’ve Heard It Said…

October Stewardship Emphasis

It’s likely you’ve heard many things said about stewardship. But how many of those things are true? And how many of those things are grounded in Scripture? 

This October, we’re going to unpack what Scripture (and Jesus) have to say about stewardship (and money), and we’re going to unpack church traditions when it comes to stewardship. More information about how you can be involved (even outside of worship) will be shared in the coming weeks. Stay tuned!

GIFT Retreat at Camp EWALU

Our GIFT (Growing in Faith Together, our middle school group) youth and leaders went away on retreat to Camp EWALU this past Friday-Saturday. Together, they explored what is grace and faith are all about and why it all matters. Ask youth and adults who participated (Blaine, Melissa and Bailey Booth) what they took away from the weekend and continue to uplift them in prayer as they join others who weren’t able to join us for the rest of the Family Faith Night year!

Godspell Dinner Theater

Friday, September 29 – Sunday, October 1

New Era Dinner Theater presents GODSPELL, featuring our very own Delene McConnaha! The musical tells the story of Jesus using a wide variety of games, storytelling techniques and a hefty dose of comic timing. With an eclectic blend of songs, ranging in style from pop to vaudeville, the story of Jesus’ life dances across the stage. 

If you’re interested in attending, email the church office to go with your fellow Shepherds! We are coordinating groups to go and enjoy the evening together as a fellowship activity. If you’re going with us as a group, sign up by Wed, September 13 and submit your money/check to the main office. Checks made out to Shepherd of the Cross.

Dates and Times

Friday, September 29 and Saturday, September 30 – 6:00 pm
Sunday, October 1 – 4:00 pm.

Cost

Adults – $30
Children (thru age 12) $20.

Dinner Menu

Tossed Salad, Grilled Chicken, Parsley Potatoes, New Era Green Beans, Roll, Beverage, and a Pumpkin Bar.

God’s Work Our Hands Service Project

Following worship, Sunday, September 17

After celebrating the ELCA’s observance of God’s Work Our Hands in worship this past Sunday, we’re looking forward to putting our hands to work during the fellowship hour this coming Sunday! Together, we’ll compile Compassion Kits – consisting of everyday necessities to distribute to those in need in our community. Come and make your kit to take with you as you do God’s work with your hands!

September Diaper Drive

Through Wednesday, September 27

This month for Family Faith Nights, in conjunction with our September service project, we are collecting diapers for the Muscatine Community Diaper Bank. The bank is in need of especially sizes 1, 2 and 7.

Bring donations either to Grace when you come to Family Faith Nights, OR to Shepherd whenever you find yourself at church! We’ll make sure all donations get to Grace by Wed, September 27 to package as a part of our service night. Questions? Contact Leslie Eichelberger. 

CROP WALK 2023

This year will be 52 years the Muscatine community has walked to raise funds to feed the hungry in our area. All funds collected will go to Church World Service to alleviate hunger in Muscatine and around the world. Interested in helping? Consider one of these three options. For more questions, contact Judy Brotherton. 

Participate in the CROP Walk
Sunday, October 1 @ 2:00 pm

Sponsor envelopes are available at Wesley United Methodist Church, 400 Iowa Ave. weekdays between 8:30 am – 1:00 pm.

Attend the Applebee’s Fundraiser
October 10, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm

When you order from the special Together We Care menu, 50% of the food sales will support the Muscatine CROP Walk.

Donate Online

Donate individually online for your contribution to go toward the total raised in Muscatine. 

Trunk or Treat

Sunday, October 29
4:00 – 5:30 pm

Trunk or Treat is back for another year! Once again, we’re collaborating with Grace and Zion for a night of fun and fellowship for those within our congregations and those within the greater Muscatine community!

Here’s how you can participate:

1. Host a trunk  – sign up sheet forthcoming.
2. Contribute to our stash of extra candy starting October 1.
3. Promote and attend the event! Online and paper flyers will be available soon.

You’ve Heard It Said…

October Stewardship Emphasis

It’s likely you’ve heard many things said about stewardship. But how many of those things are true? And how many of those things are grounded in Scripture? 

This October, we’re going to unpack what Scripture (and Jesus) have to say about stewardship (and money), and we’re going to unpack church traditions when it comes to stewardship. More information about how you can be involved (even outside of worship) will be shared in the coming weeks. Stay tuned!

Godspell Dinner Theater

Friday, September 29 – Sunday, October 1

New Era Dinner Theater presents GODSPELL, featuring our very own Delene McConnaha! The musical tells the story of Jesus using a wide variety of games, storytelling techniques and a hefty dose of comic timing. With an eclectic blend of songs, ranging in style from pop to vaudeville, the story of Jesus’ life dances across the stage. 

If you’re interested in attending, sign up in the narthex (or email the church office) to go with your fellow Shepherds! We are coordinating groups to go and enjoy the evening together as a fellowship activity. If you’re going with us as a group, sign up by Wed, September 13 and submit your money/check to the main office. Checks made out to Shepherd of the Cross.

Dates and Times

Friday, September 29 and Saturday, September 30 – 6:00 pm
Sunday, October 1 – 4:00 pm.

Cost

Adults – $30
Children (thru age 12) $20.

Dinner Menu

Tossed Salad, Grilled Chicken, Parsley Potatoes, New Era Green Beans, Roll, Beverage, and a Pumpkin Bar.

Family Faith Night Kick-Off – Tomorrow Night!

Wednesday, September 6 @ 6pm @ Grace

Join us tomorrow night! ALL are welcome to participate: elementary kids, middle school youth, adults…and even our high schoolers! Each Wednesday we’ll start with a meal (provided) and then break into our separate groups.

For more information about Family Faith Nights (along with a schedule for the year), check out our groups page on our website and like Faith Together Muscatine on Facebook!

God’s Work Our Hands Service Project

Following worship, Sunday, September 17

For the past 10 years, the ELCA has celebrated “God’s Work Our Hands” as an annual day of service across the church. Together we not only remember, but also enact the truth that we are freed by Christ’s grace to live faithfully, witness boldly, and serve joyfully. 

Here at SOTC, we will focus on our witness to community – at Shepherd, in the greater Muscatine community, and across the church – on September 10 (the national God’s Work Our Hands day of service). Then, the following Sunday, September 17, we’ll put our hands to work to compile Compassion Kits during our fellowship time. These kits will consist of everyday necessities to distribute to those in need in our community. 

Elementary Teachers Needed

We need you! Would you be willing to help form our elementary kids from Shepherd, Grace, and Zion? We’re looking for elementary teachers on Wednesdays from 6:00 – 7:30pm. Already signed up for the adult Big Questions course? No problem. We encourage our adults to volunteer as leaders throughout the year. Adults will be floating in and out of our adult group week to week. Curriculum is provided, along with supplies.

Willing to help? Sign up below. Questions? Contact Pastor Aleese. 

EWALU Fall Events for Adults and Youth

Though the summer camp season is complete, EWALU (Strawberry Point, IA) is looking toward a faith-filled fall line-up! Take a look below to see where you or your family might fit in!

Dirty Feet Retreat – October 20-22 for Grades 6-9

If you have a youth who’s in middle school, consider this two-night experience filled with relevant Bible Studies, high ropes course, games, campfires and so much more! Cost is $90/youth. Talk to Pastor Aleese if your youth is interested. 

Fall Quilt Auction – September 16

It’s not only a fundraiser event, but also a day filled with live music, a country store, and a devotional service. 

Fall Work Day – October 14

Join volunteers, families, and church groups to help EWALU get ready for the winter season. Take time to explore camp and meet staff! Come Friday evening and spend the night at EWALU or arrive at 8:00am for work projects to begin at 9:00am on Saturday. If you’re interested in attending, contact Pastor Aleese. We may have a carpool drive north!

Lutheran Disaster Response to Maui Fires

The significant loss of life and damage caused by the wildfires in Hawaii have turned our prayers and attention to mourning those lost, supporting the survivors and how Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) can assist with recovery.

If you’re looking for a way to offer support, consider giving through LDR. LDR is coordinating with the Pacifica Synod and other partners to assess the needs of people impacted by the wildfires. We will work with them to provide for immediate needs and long-term recovery amid the widespread destruction. Give online by clicking the button below.

Ainsley Carter Baptism

Sunday, September 24

In baptism, God publicly declares God’s love for us and knits us together with all people in the communion of saints. 

As we’ve already watched Ainsley begin to grow into the unique person she is created to be, we invite you to join us as we celebrate her baptism into Christ and into the people of God! Fellowship with cake to follow after worship. 

You’ve Heard It Said…

October Stewardship Emphasis

It’s likely you’ve heard many things said about stewardship. But how many of those things are true? And how many of those things are grounded in Scripture? 

This October, we’re going to unpack what Scripture (and Jesus) have to say about stewardship (and money), and we’re going to unpack church traditions when it comes to stewardship. 

More information about how you can be involved (even outside of worship) will be shared in the coming weeks. Stay tuned!

God’s Work Our Hands Service Project

Following worship, Sunday, September 17

For the past 10 years, the ELCA has celebrated “God’s Work Our Hands” as an annual day of service across the church. Together we not only remember, but also enact the truth that we are freed by Christ’s grace to live faithfully, witness boldly, and serve joyfully. 

The ELCA’s first dedicated day of service was celebrated in 2013 as a way to honor the ELCA’s 25th anniversary. Since then, the church has embraced “God’s Work Our Hands” as a way to be church together. 

Here at SOTC, we will focus on our witness to community – at Shepherd, in the greater Muscatine community, and across the church – on September 10 (the national God’s Work Our Hands day of service). Then, the following Sunday, September 17, we’ll put our hands to work to compile Compassion Kits during our fellowship time. These kits will consist of everyday necessities to distribute to those in need in our community.

Family Faith Night Kick-Off – One Week Away!

Wednesday, September 6 @ 6pm @ Grace

We’re one week away! ALL are welcome to participate: elementary kids, middle school youth, adults…and even our high schoolers! Each Wednesday we’ll start with a meal (provided) and then break into our separate groups.

For more information about Family Faith Nights (along with a schedule for the year), check out our groups page on our website and like Faith Together Muscatine on Facebook!

Elementary Teachers Needed

We need you! Would you be willing to help form our elementary kids from Shepherd, Grace, and Zion? We’re looking for elementary teachers on Wednesdays from 6:00 – 7:30pm. Already signed up for the adult Big Questions course? No problem. We encourage our adults to volunteer as leaders throughout the year. Adults will be floating in and out of our adult group week to week. Curriculum is provided, along with supplies.

Willing to help? Sign up below. Questions? Contact Pastor Aleese. 

EWALU Fall Events for Adults and Youth

Though the summer camp season is complete, EWALU (Strawberry Point, IA) is looking toward a faith-filled fall line-up! Take a look below to see where you or your family might fit in!

Dirty Feet Retreat – October 20-22 for Grades 6-9

If you have a youth who’s in middle school, consider this two-night experience filled with relevant Bible Studies, high ropes course, games, campfires and so much more! Cost is $90/youth. Talk to Pastor Aleese if your youth is interested. 

Fall Quilt Auction – September 16

It’s not only a fundraiser event, but also a day filled with live music, a country store, and a devotional service. 

Fall Work Day – October 14

Join volunteers, families, and church groups to help EWALU get ready for the winter season. Take time to explore camp and meet staff! Come Friday evening and spend the night at EWALU or arrive at 8:00am for work projects to begin at 9:00am on Saturday. If you’re interested in attending, contact Pastor Aleese. We may have a carpool drive north!

Lutheran Disaster Response to Maui Fires

The significant loss of life and damage caused by the wildfires in Hawaii have turned our prayers and attention to mourning those lost, supporting the survivors and how Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) can assist with recovery.

If you’re looking for a way to offer support, consider giving through LDR. LDR is coordinating with the Pacifica Synod and other partners to assess the needs of people impacted by the wildfires. We will work with them to provide for immediate needs and long-term recovery amid the widespread destruction. Give online by clicking the button below.

Ainsley Carter Baptism

Sunday, September 24

In baptism, God publicly declares God’s love for us and knits us together with all people in the communion of saints. 

As we’ve already watched Ainsley begin to grow into the unique person she is created to be, we invite you to join us as we celebrate her baptism into Christ and into the people of God! Fellowship with cake to follow after worship. 

Soup Fest 2023

Sunday, November 5

Though fall is still on the horizon, we’ve already set a date for our Soup Fest. 

If you’d like to be a part of the planning and coordination, contact Colleen Bentz. As we get closer to November, we’ll need soup cooks, pie bakers, servers, and a set-up/clean-up crew.

Mark your calendars and start spreading the word.