Embed Size (px)
DESCRIPTION
"How Do We Welcome?"
Citation preview
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ |
2 | FALL 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Saturday, September 12
4:00 - 7:00 PM
SOTV Parking Lot
Free food, music and games!
Sunday, September 20
Registration, details and directions
www.sotv.org or call (952) 432-6351
EVERYONE EATS Sandwich Buffet 12:30PM Lunch only: $15
adults, $10 youth (K-12)
Kids 5 and under are free.
Silent Auction 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Then…
18-hole Golf
Scramble $75 includes cart & lunch
Bowling $30 adults, $20 youth (K-12)
ROLL... Or….
Motorcycle ride $20 - helmets required
Bicycle ride $20 adults, $15 youth
(K-12) helmets required
RIDE...
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 3
An Exciting
Year of Welcome!
Awkwardness. I have felt it visiting churches for the
first time. Like the time I arrived early at one church
and sat down in an empty pew to read the bulletin.
But soon an usher tapped me on the shoulder. “Excuse
me, this is where the Larson’s sit. You’ll have to
move.” Awkward moment number one.
At a different church I once arrived 30 minutes late
for worship. The pastor was giving the sermon. And
the usher had me walk half way down the aisle to a
pew where everyone had to scooch over to make room
for me. It felt like everyone was watching me, the
newcomer. Awkward experience two.
Or finally, at another church I walked from their
parking lot only to the find the church door locked.
So I moved to another door. It was locked. Then heard
a man yell, “Hey you! Those doors are always locked.
You gotta go to the other side of the building.” Awkwardness and that could
equal three strikes! Yikes.
Every worshipper at Shepherd of the Valley has had their first time. Each
person who comes to SOTV for the first time has anticipation and questions,
or perhaps nervousness and uncertainty, wondering if they might end up
having an awkward moment.
Christian faith communities like SOTV are literally the body of Jesus Christ.
We genuinely care about those who are not here yet. Like Jesus, we welcome
with acceptance, warmth and joy.
But the funny thing is that church people like you and me can feel awkward in
welcoming others, even when it is part of our Vision and character. HA! That’s
why it is such a great thing that our church council designated a leadership
team of church members and staff to intentionally lead SOTV in a Year of
Welcome initiatives.
To kick things off, there will be a Neighborhood Block Party on Saturday,
September 12. Our goal is throw a party of joyful celebration and to not have
any awkward attendees. Also this year we will have a renewed effort to recruit
and train greeters of all kinds to be friendly points of first contact as we
graciously welcome and assist everyone who comes through our doors.
Because, isn’t this what Jesus would do? I have a feeling, when each of us sees
Jesus face to face as we are welcomed into the Kingdom of Heaven, that none
of us will feel awkward!
By Randy Brandt
Learn Pastor [email protected]
STORIES
10 The Year of Welcome
11 Racial Justice
12 Growing Through Loss
13 Care Ministries
14 Retired Pastors
15 Endowment Fund
15 We Belong to God
17 Karibu Sana
DEPARTMENTS
4 Children
5 Youth
6 Education
7 Fellowship
8 Support
9 Outreach
18 Milestones
Get weekly updates from SOTV
including a pastoral devotion.
Go to sotv.org/email or send an
e-mail to [email protected]
Life of the Flock
Winter Issue The deadline for submissions
is Tuesday, October 13
Contact Trip Sullivan
(952) 985-7311 or
4 | FALL 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
September begins ”The Year of Welcome” and our programming will
have an added emphasis on welcome. Will you, the people of Shepherd of
the Valley, help to make our church an even more welcoming place?
Invite Others!
As you look through our list of upcoming events beginning on this page – don’t
read them for just yourself. Is there a program that would be good for a friend?
A family member? What about a neighbor or co-worker?
Invitation is the first step to welcome. We have flyers and postcards for many of
our events available at the church. If you’re looking for one in particular, please
e-mail [email protected] or call (952) 985-7311.
Get Involved!
Volunteers are the essential secret ingredient to our many successful ministries.
It’s time that the secret got out! We want all people to find an area of the church
where they can serve using their time and talents for God.
Our website has a robust, interactive, “real time” collection of volunteer needs at
Shepherd of the Valley. You can see specific roles and the dates and times they
are needed. Families and small groups are especially invited to serve together!
To get started, visit SOTV.org and look under “Serve.” Staff and volunteers
will be on hand in church on September 13, 19 & 20 to demonstrate how this
new part of our website works, and answer your questions.
New Member Class with Brunch Sunday, September 27 // 11:00 - 1:00 PM // Cost: Free
Invite a friend or come yourself to learn about the history and vision of
SOTV, and what membership means. Then stay for a delicious brunch!
Childcare is available. Please register online so we can plan for enough food.
Childcare provided in our nursery.
In order to be received into membership, please plan to attend the New
Member Reception in worship, Sunday, October 4.
Questions? Contact Julie Opheim: [email protected] or 952-985-7331
Scholarships are available for our programs.
Unless otherwise noted, register for all programs
with cash or a check at the Welcome Center,
CYF office, or online with a credit or debit card
at www.sotv.org/events
= No registration needed, come as you are!
= Registration required
= Free childcare available
= Volunteers needed!
Staff contact: Jeanne Mikulski
[email protected] or 952-985-7357
Baptism Classes 1st Thursdays, 7:00 - 8:00 PM
Required for families before their first bap-
tism at SOTV. Children must be at least 6
weeks old to attend childcare, and are wel-
come in class. Baptism is celebrated in worship
every 2nd weekend of the month and, as need-
ed, on 3rd weekends as a separate service at
12:30 pm. To schedule a baptism, contact
Merilu Narum at (952) 985-7326 at least one
month in advance. You can get a baptism
form at the Welcome Center or at sotv.org/
baptism.
GodZone PK- Grade 3 begins September 27
Grades 4 & 5 begins September 23
Cost: $50. Scholarships available.
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 activ-
ities to nurture children, age 3 (by 9/1/15)
through Grade 5, in faith and community.
Preschoolers and fourth grade GodZone
students will receive the gift of a new Bible
on Sunday, September 13. The Bibles will
be blessed in worship at 11:00 am.
Crew Leaders are still needed!
Volunteer Leader Training Dates:
Sunday, September 20 (PK-Grade 3)
Wednesday, September 16 (Grades 4-5)
Upcoming Events
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 5
HIGH SCHOOL OPTIONS The Gathering
Wednesdays, 7:00 - 8:00 PM
Each night includes live music by the
worship band and faith conversation
and prayer in small groups led by
high school student ministers. Groups
will sign up to experience 3 different
sessions during the year, with options
such as Yoga Devotions, Leadership
Training, Resting in God, and more!
Video Bible Study
Wednesdays, 7:00 - 8:00 PM
Delve into scripture primarily
through The History Channel’s
“The Bible” mini-series.
Panera Before School (PBS)
Mondays when school is in session,
6:30 - 7:05 AM
Panera Apple Valley (Cedar and CR
42) and Panera Eagan (Promenade
Place). Bring money for breakfast
Kick off your week with a treat:
breakfast, faith friends, scripture and
prayer.
High School Worship Band
Rehearse: 5:45 - 6:45 PM
Lead Worship: 7:00 - 8:00 PM
Do you play an instrument or love to
sing, and want to grow skills in lead-
ing worship? This High School Wor-
ship Band leads worship several times
each month at The Gathering.
Justice Walking
Wednesdays, 5:45 - 8:00 PM
"J-Walkers" will be challenged to
explore personal faith and eye open-
ing issues through a combination of
media, conversation, and service
opportunities.
Cross-Generational Community
Sundays, Noon - 1:30 PM
Discover and use your unique gifts as
you receive leadership training and
form relationships with peers and
older adults, with an emphasis on
active learning/service opportunities.
Staff contact: Barb Schulz
[email protected] or 952-985-7351
6-8th Grade Confirmation
Weekly option: Wednesdays during
school year at 4:30, 5:45, or 7:00 PM
Retreat option: Following a weekend
retreat, monthly on a day chosen by
the small group.
Cost: $75 (Scholarships available)
Experience Jesus through trusting
relationships with peers and adults,
"practicing faith" together in various
ways, and conversations about life and
faith. Please register early. For placement
in a Wednesday small group on the first
night of confirmation, registration needs
to be received by Monday, September 21.
6-8th Grade Kick-off Orientations
for students and parents:
Weekly Wednesday Participants:
Wednesday, September 23,
at the time you are registered
August Retreat Participants:
Sunday, August 16 at noon
September Retreat Participants:
Sunday, September 13 at noon
6-8th Grade Parent Night Wednesday, November 18
Choose one of three hour-long
sessions at 4:30, 5:45 or 7:00 pm
The community is invited to this free,
special program for middle school
families. All 6th-8th Grade Confirmation
students (including retreat option) are
expected to attend with at least one
parent or guardian. Families will have
the opportunity to explore 2 relevant
topics of their choice led by youth staff
and community experts. Topics include
Dealing with Stress, Emotional Health,
Internet Safety, Relationships, and more!
You will leave feeling smarter, fully
equipped and better connected as a
family.
9th Grade Confirmation Wednesdays during the school year,
and a few other select times.
Cost: $75 (Scholarships available)
Kick-off Orientation for students and
parents: Wednesday, September 30
at 7:00 pm
In 9th Grade confirmation, you will
nurture your faith through various faith
practices by taking part in a “Diggers”
small group or participation in “The
Gathering.” See options in the right
sidebar. All 9th grade parents should
have received a letter in June explaining
the different Confirmation options. If
you did not get a letter or have questions
about your options, please contact Katie
Strand at [email protected] or
952-985-7360.
Rite of Confirmation Important Dates to Remember!
10th Grade Worship and Dinner
Sunday, October 4 at 5:00 pm
Breakfast, rehearsal, and Confirmation
services are October 24 and October 31.
Run Ragged ‘Til Midnight 6th-8th Grade Students
Friday, October 23
7:00 pm - midnight // Cost: $30
It’s our biggest, craziest middle school
event at SOTV! Find fun everywhere you
turn: bounce around on giant inflatables,
play games, get a makeover at the hair
salon, rap with Agape, and so much
more. Limited to 150 participants. Bring
a friend who does not belong to SOTV to
get your name put in a drawing for a
special prize!
College Connection
For recent high school graduates
or college students
College Students and other recent High
School Grads: submit your snail mail
address and other contact info by
November 15 so we can keep in touch.
Go to www.sotv.org/events, click on
"College Student Mailing Address."
Upcoming Events
6 | FALL 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
2016 Summer Immersion
Trip Sign-Up Night
6th-12th Grade Students and Parents
Sunday, October 11 // 7:00 PM
Check out the 2016 Summer Trip Booklet
to start making plans for next summer,
and make it official at sign-up night with
a $200 deposit and parent signature! You
can also sign up for fundraising
opportunities at the meeting. No early
registrations. After October 11, any
remaining spaces will be available for
online registration on a first come first
serve basis. The registration for summer
camp will begin January 15th.
Staff contact: Julie Opheim
[email protected] or 952-985-7331
Sunday Adult Forum Sundays at 9:45 AM in the Chapel
Professors, teachers, and members
presenting topics connected to our faith.
Sep. 27, Oct. 4: “Islam” — Rashed
Ferdons, Islamic Resource Center
Oct. 11: “Islam” — Prof. Matt Maruggi,
Augsburg College
Oct. 25: “Race in American Religion”
Prof. Sarah Ruble, Gustavus Adolphus
College
Nov. 1: “Tanzania Microfinancing”
Itweni Luhwago
Nov. 8: “Are Only Christians Saved?
Thinking About Truth and Salvation in a
Pluralist World” — Prof. Sarah Ruble,
Gustavus Adolphus College
Nov. 15: “How Music is Central to
Christian Worship” — Marty Haugen
Nov. 22: “Nepal: I Didn’t Climb the
Mountain but it Touched My Heart and
Soul” —Bridget Harrington & Lee
Peterson
1 Corinthians:
A Middle Eastern View Mornings this fall, dates and times TBA
Cost: Free // Led by SOTV Pastors
1 Corinthians is often seen as a jumbled
letter that jumps in a disjointed way from
one topic to another. But after 30 years
studying the text, Dr. Kenneth Bailey has
discovered a very careful outline for "all
those in every place who call on the name
of the Lord" (1:2). This Ken Bailey video
study will be facilitated by SOTV Pastors.
Men’s Bible & Faith Studies
Tuesday mornings, 6:00 - 7:00 AM
Studying The Book of Hebrews
Contact: [email protected]
Thursday mornings, 6:30 - 8:00 AM
Studying Pastrix by Nadia Bolz-Weber
Contact: [email protected]
Thursday evenings, 7:00 - 8:15 PM
Studying The Life of David.
Contact [email protected]
Sarah Circle Bible Study 2nd Saturdays, 8:30 - 9:30 AM
Studying "Short Stories by Jesus: The
Enigmatic Parables of a Controversial
Rabbi" by Amy-Jill Levine.
Shalom Circle Bible Study 3rd Thursdays, 1:30 pm // Off-site at
the Arbors at Ridges, Burnsville
Contact: Nadine (651) 423-2586
Webcast: Jesus The Savior Mondays, 7:00 - 9:00 PM // Oct. 12 -
Nov. 9 // Cost: $10 // Led by Prof.
Steve Paulson, Luther Seminary
This course will take up salvation by
going through the Three Days of the
Cross, the Descent into Hell and the
Resurrection. We will focus on how the
story Christ’s death and resurrection has
been told throughout history including
the Apostle Paul, Martin Luther, and
preachers today.
On-Purpose Peace: Making
Sense of Your Life Tuesdays, 6:30 - 8:00 PM
Sep. 29 - Nov. 3 // Cost: $38,
includes book and workbook
Do you want a good life to get better?
Is your life filled, yet unfulfilled? Do you
feel pulled in a thousand directions?
Powerfully thought-provoking, this
course equips you to better understand
who you are within God’s design,
purpose, and plan for your life. This class
uses materials written by Kevin W.
McCarthy and is facilitated by Karen
Odegard, an experienced educator who
has facilitated this course for many years
at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church.
Have a New Kid By Friday Mondays, 6:30 - 8:00 PM
Oct. 19 - Nov. 23
Tuesdays, 9:15 - 10:45 AM
Oct. 20 - Nov. 24
Cost: $10, includes workbook
Led by Linda Nelson, Celebrating
Children Preschool Director
In this video series, Dr. Kevin Leman
shows parents how to reverse negative
behavior in their children—fast! With his
signature wit and encouragement, he
offers hope and real, practical, doable
strategies for regaining control and
becoming the parents they always
wanted to be.
Women's Bible Study
Nehemiah: A Heart That
Can Break Tuesdays, 9:30 - 11:30 am
Sep.15 - Dec.8, 2015
(no class on November 24)
Jan. 5 - Jan. 26, 2016
Cost: $15, includes workbook
Nehemiah's heart broke so deeply for
the suffering Jews that he left the comfort
of his Persian palace to restore their
desolate community. Through Kelly
Minter’s seven video sessions and
in-depth, relational Bible study, Nehemiah
will inspire you to listen to what God
has put in your heart to do.
Upcoming Events
= No registration needed, come as you are! = Registration required = Free childcare available = Volunteers needed!
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 7
Finance Workshops For adults thinking about retirement
Thursday nights, 7:00 - 8:00 PM
Cost: Free // Led by Thrivent Financial
representatives
October 1: Social Security Maximization
Strategies – Avoid making costly lifelong
mistakes.
October 8: Retirement Distribution
Planning – Reduce the risk of outliving
your retirement funds.
October 15: Preparing for Long-Term
Care – Preserve your independence by
creating a plan with your family today.
Purposeful Retirement Purposeful Retirement Yoga
Thursdays, Sep. 17 – Nov. 5
4:30 – 6:00 PM // Cost: $80
Want to learn flexibility and relaxation
techniques in a comfortable environment?
All retirees (yes, men too!) are invited to
join our Purposeful Retirement YOGA
class, designed for seniors, and taught by
a professional Yoga instructor.
Registration deadline: September 10.
A minimum of 10 people are needed to
hold the class. All participants are
required to register and pay in advance.
Questions? Call Jane at 952-432-2718.
Life Re-Imagined
Thursday, September 24
10:00 AM or 7:00 PM // Cost: Free
Are you an empty nester with children
graduated, in a career transition, or soon-
to-be retired? Discover your talents,
explore new possibilities, and develop
skills at understanding where you
currently are and how to make the
changes you seek or need.
Senior Tour of Homes
Tuesday, September 29 // Begins at
9:30 AM at SOTV // Cost: $20 per
person or $35 per couple.
Come preview senior living communities
in the Dakota County area in a fun way!
The route will showcase options from
apartment living to assisted living to
high levels of care in various settings.
Know your options should you ever need
them! Transportation, mid morning
refreshments and lunch provided. Seats
are limited. RSVP by calling 651-261-5379
or e-mail [email protected]
Unleashing the Power, Passion and
Potential for Your Retirement
Thursday, October 22 // 10:00 AM
Cost: Free, Please register so we can
plan for food and space.
Off the Beaten Path and Other
Travel Secrets
Speaker: Dave Bredemus
Thursday, November 19 // 10:00 AM
Cost: Free, Please register so we can
plan for food and space.
Staff contact: Lori Bullock
[email protected] or 952-985-7324
Neighborhood Block Party Saturday, September 12 — Free!
4:00 - 7:00 PM // North Parking Lot
All are invited to enjoy free food, fun
activities, and music from our worship
band. There will be bouncy castles, face
painting, and lawn games. The goal of this
party is to connect the congregation with
the community around the church—so
we want to see the congregation there in
full force. There are many volunteer
needs listed at SOTV.org. See you there!
Golf, Gears & Gutters
for the Good Sunday, September 20 // 12:30 PM
Part social event, part fundraiser, this is a
day of fun for the whole family with
proceeds going to benefit children in
need in our community. A silent auction
begins at 8:00 am, Lunch in the Great
Hall at 12:30 pm, followed by golf,
biking, motorcycle riding, and—new this
year—bowling! If you are interested in
volunteering, or are able to donate a
silent auction item, please contact Lisa at
[email protected] or 952-985-7329.
Annual Holiday Boutique Saturday, November 14,
9:00 AM —2:00 PM
Many new and returning unique
vendors, Library Bake Sale, morning
cinnamon rolls and lunch at the Boutique
Cafe, Tanzanian items booth, and vendor
donated items at a silent auction (with
proceeds benefitting Youth, Visual Arts,
Kitchen and Hospitality ministries).
Shepherd Quilters
Mondays, 9:00 am - 4:00 PM
All skill levels welcome to help quilt, cut,
iron, and stitch. Quilts are donated
to charitable organizations. Contact Lois
Pedersen, (952) 236-8993.
The Golden Stitchers 1st & 3rd Thursdays // 9:00 AM - 2:30 PM
All skill levels welcome to quilt, cut, iron,
and stitch. Contact: Shirley Blix at (952)
432-2083.
Coffee for Men Wednesdays, 9:00 AM
All men are welcome. There's no agenda
other than connecting with other guys.
Woodworkers Group Wednesdays, 10:00 AM
Whether you are a beginner or more
advanced woodworker, join us to share
projects, ideas and conversation.
O.K.’s Potlucks (Event for Seniors 55+)
4th Tuesdays at Noon, once a month.
Cost: Free, unless otherwise noted.
Please bring a dish to share.
Dates: Oct. 27, Nov. 17, and Dec. 8.
(Continued on page 8)
Upcoming Events
= No registration needed, come as you are! = Registration required = Free childcare available = Volunteers needed!
8 | FALL 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
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!
Third Sunday Lunch @ Noon
Sundays, Sep. 20, Oct. 18, Nov. 15 and
Dec. 20. We will go out to eat together
after the 11:00 am service. Please bring
money; dining is at your own expense.
Birthday Club
Saturday, September 12 // 2:00 - 4:00 pm
Cost: Free // Meet at SOTV.
Celebrating birthdays from July, August
and September with cake and treats. All
WINK ladies can socialize together.
Bring an unsigned birthday card that we
will fill out for local care home residents.
Plan to attend SOTV’s Block Party
afterwards. Sign up at the WINK table or
contact Lois at [email protected] or
952-236-8993.
Progressive Dinner
Monday, October 5, various restaurants.
Carpool from church at 3:30 pm
We are going to Applebee's for Happy
Hour, then to the Mediterranean Cruise
Café at 5:30 pm for dinner, and then to a
SURPRISE DESTINATION for dessert!
Please bring money; dining is at your
own expense. Deadline: Sep. 25, 2015.
Gerten’s Christmas Display
Thursday, November 5
Carpool from church at 9:30 am.
We will have lunch (at your own
expense) at Applebee’s afterwards.
We have a demo for making a “Fairy
Garden” as part of the trip. (Seating
furnished.)
Christmas Party at Casper's
Sunday, December 6 at 12:15 pm
Bring a gift bag with a $5 gift for a child
or mom at Lewis House. Carpool from
the church at noon or meet at Casper's,
4625 Nicols Rd, Eagan, off Cliff Road.
Please bring money; dining is at your
own expense.
Adult Retreat at Camp Wapo September 15-18
Lake Wapogasset Camp, Amery, WI
Cost: $175. Registration forms at the
Welcome Center.
Pastor and Artist Paul Oman will lead
Bible studies and incorporate his artwork
into teaching worship time. Plenty of free
time to enjoy nature and fellowship too.
Contact Becky at [email protected]
or (715) 268-8434.
SAVE THE DATE! Couples Fall Event
Saturday, Oct. 3 // 6:30 PM
Cooking Class with Dannelle Bautista
Women’s Fall Breakfast
Saturday Oct. 10 // 9:00 - 11:00 AM
Men’s Breakfast
Saturday Nov. 7 // 8:00 - 10:00 AM
Women’s Holiday Brunch
Saturday, Nov. 21, 9:00 - 11:00 AM
Staff contact: Julie Opheim
[email protected] or 952-985-7331
ADHD, Autism, & Other
Disabilities on the Spectrum Select Mondays, 6:45 – 9:00 PM
Cost: Free // Resumes September 28
More dates and topics TBA.
Pre-registration is required for
Childcare only (6 weeks - 12 years old).
Challenged by Cancer 2nd Tuesdays, 7:00 - 9:00 PM
For women living with cancer to gather
and support each other.
Compassionate Friends
South of the River 3rd Tuesdays at 7:00 PM
For all parents who are grieving the loss
of a child of any age from any cause.
Depression Support Coalition
Monthly Speakers 7:00 - 8:30 PM on the dates below
Cost: Free // Host: Church of the Risen
Savior, 1501 E. County Road 42,
Burnsville, MN 55306
Wednesday, September 9:
“Medications: What You Need to
Know” Tim Dulac, RPh and Rosemary
Dulac, RPh, PharmD
Monday, October 5: “Caregiving for a
Person with Depression” Fran Laufle, MS,
RN-GNP, Geriatric Nurse Practitioner
Monday, November 2: “The Holidays
and Depression” Lynne Silva-Breen,
MDiv, MA, LMFT, Therapist
Monday, December 7: “Grief and
Depression: How to Tell the Difference”
Bob Bartlett, MA, Specializing in Marriage
and Family
Depression Support Coalition
Weekly Support Groups
Tuesdays // 6:30 PM Prince of Peace Lutheran Church,
13901 Fairview Dr, Burnsville, Christian
Life Center, Rm 160
In addition to depression support, there is
also a support group at this time for family
members and loved ones of those with
depression.
Contact: Leu Killion (952) 898-9320
Thursdays // 6:30 - 8:00 PM Easter Lutheran Church
on the Hill, 4200 Pilot Knob Road,
Eagan, Room 6-8
Contact: Bob Lawrence (612) 845-9481
Down Syndrome
Parent Support Group 3rd Sundays, 5:00 - 7:00 PM
For additional information, contact
Suzy Runkel at (952) 334-2132 or
DivorceCare Tuesdays, 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Sep. 8 – Dec. 15
Cost: $20, includes workbook
(Continued on page 9)
Upcoming Events
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 9
DivorceCare is a video series featuring
some of the nation’s experts on divorce
and recovery topics. Each meeting
includes support group discussion. Don’t
go through separation or divorce alone.
Join a friendly, caring group of people
who will walk alongside you through
one of life’s most difficult experiences.
Growing Through Loss Tuesdays, 7:00 – 9:00 PM
Registration at 6:30 // Sep 15 - Oct. 6
Hosted by Shepherd of the Valley
Freewill offering
Growing Through Loss provides support
for various types of loss, including death,
divorce, job, health, and life changes.
Read the article and see the full list of
speakers on page 12.
Job Connection Group Tuesdays, 6:30 - 8:15 PM
Hosted by: Prince of Peace Christian
Life Center, Burnsville
This group provides job search support
for anyone who is in transition, seeking a
new job, or a new career , with speakers
on specific topics like resume writing,
interviewing, networking, and more.
For more information: (952) 898-9388 or
popmn.org/gethelp/jobs
NAMI Parent Resource Group 2nd & 4th Tuesdays
6:00 PM (pizza dinner) 6:30 - 8:00 PM
(group meeting) // Cost: Free
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.
Pursuing Peace in Al-Anon Tuesdays, 7:00 - 8:00 PM
Contact: Rebecca (612) 202-4370
We who live, or have lived, with the
problem of alcoholism were lonely and
frustrated, but in Al-Anon we discover
that no situation is really hopeless and
that it is possible to find contentment,
and even happiness. If this speaks to you,
please try our program. It has helped
many find solutions that lead to serenity.
Suicide Bereavement 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.
Wings to Fly: RESOLVE Tuesdays, Sep. 15 and Nov. 17
6:30 - 7:30 PM // Cost: Free
Contact: Melissa Tapper at 612-207-1722
A new, peer-led support group for those
having difficulty conceiving or who have
experienced miscarriage or loss. This
group meets on the third Tuesday of
every other month (January, March, May,
July, September and November). All are
welcome, individually or as couples.
Staff contact: Lisa Hegerman
[email protected] or 952-985-7329
Winter Outerwear Each winter, SOTV collects and
distributes gently used winter outerwear,
primarily to local Dakota County
families, but also to families in the Twin
Cities area. The need in our community
is great and grows every year. Please
remember these families as you go
through your winter clothing and donate
items you no longer use. Winter
outerwear collection accepts items that
are clean and in good repair during the
months of November and December. The
Mitten Tree accepts new hats, gloves/
mittens, scarves, etc... during the month
of December.
Christmas Gift Giving Here are two ways to share God's
abundance this holiday: 1) Shop for gifts
to be distributed to people through local
partners or 2) make monetary donations
to programs such as Heifer International,
Tanzania Partnership, Ajyal Senior Care,
Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, Our
Daily Bread Food Shelf, or “SOTV’s
Choice” (depending on where it is
needed the most). Look for full details
in November.
Fall Diaper Drive We are collecting newborn and size 1
disposable diapers for Bundles of Love
during the fall—exact dates TBA.
Bundles of Love is a local nonprofit that
assists Minnesota families in need by
providing handmade baby clothing,
bedding and basic care items for their
newborns. They offer peace of mind for
families and provide important, essential
and practical supplies to show that
someone cares.
Tanzanian Scholarships SOTV provides scholarships to over 150
secondary and university students each
year. As we travel around Iringa and to
Tungamalenga and Makifu, we are
often met by students or former
students, or we meet their parents.
Your gifts to the Tanzania Scholarship
Fund change lives and make a
difference for whole communities.
You can be part of that! A gift of $400
is the average cost of one secondary
school scholarship, including tuition,
room and board for one year. You can
make a contribution by check or online
at SOTV.org/give. Please designate “TZ
Scholarships” in the check’s memo line
and in the designation line on our
website.
(Continued from page 8)
Upcoming Events
= No registration needed, come as you are! = Registration required = Free childcare available = Volunteers needed!
10 | FALL 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
S hepherd of the Valley’s Vision is to
invite all people to experience the
Welcome, Transformation, and
Sending of Jesus Christ. We want to have
a community where people feel safe,
welcomed, and changed by what is hap-
pening here, and joyful to spread the
message to others. In a large church, we
may feel a tendency sometimes to blend
into the crowd and be a little anonymous.
This coming year, we are challenging our
faith community to be more visible and
intentionally present.
This fall is the start of a three-
year cycle to put the words
Welcome, Transform, and Send
into action. 2015-16 has been
named the “Year of Welcome”
and for the past year, I have
been the chair of the Welcome
Leadership Team. Our team
struggled with how to define
welcome, and eventually
settled on three simple words:
Invite, Include, and Encourage.
Any program or event at SOTV
should be able to answer these
questions:
1. Who is invited?
2. Do they feel included?
3. How can we encourage their
participation going forward?
We also believe that welcome is as much
of an action word as it is a descriptive
word. For all programs to be welcoming,
people need to take action, and in order
for people to feel welcomed, they need to
be part of the church heartbeat too.
Your first thought might be, “I can be
more active, but how much do I have to
commit?” Since we are all busy people, is
there a way to be more active through
the things we are already doing at SOTV?
Yes, there are many ways to be part of
the church heartbeat! Volunteer to greet
or usher at the service you attend. Sit in a
different part of the sanctuary and chat
with the people around you. Introduce
yourself to people you don’t know dur-
ing fellowship time. Attend a one-time
program like a class or fellowship event.
Drop in at an ongoing program like a
weekly or monthly Bible study.
There are bigger ways to get involved as
well. They include joining a leadership
team, volunteering in a regular rotation
as an usher, greeter, lector, or preparing
coffee or breakfast on weekends, joining
a music choir or ensemble, be a mentor
for a GodZone or
Confirmation
class, and many
more.
It’s amazing how many opportunities are
available, during times you might al-
ready be at church. If you are already
coming to worship, it’s a piece of cake to
come 15 minutes early to greet. If you are
already waiting for your child in Confir-
mation, why not sing in the choir? Our
staff is thoughtful about creating oppor-
tunities so the hours you’re available
to be at church each week will feel
well spent.
Together We Can Do More is the
slogan for our 2015 capital cam-
paign. What if we applied it to make
our church more welcoming? If eve-
ryone regularly gave an hour of
their time in service to our faith
community, we could meet all our
volunteer needs. You will find that
when you personally invest your
time, you will feel the church’s
heartbeat, and you’ll want to share it
with others, too!
You are invited into our faith
community. You are included in what
goes on here. You are encouraged to ask
questions, try something new, and make
connections with others. Listen for that
church heartbeat. It’s the sound of a
fulfilling, faithful life serving Jesus
Christ. Welcome home to Shepherd
of the Valley.
THE YEAR OF WELCOME
Listen for the Heartbeat!
By Linda Nelson
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 11
F or 25 years, Shepherd of the
Valley pastors, staff and fellow
members have helped guide me
in times of joy and times of despair.
Through worship services, Bible studies,
mission trips, newsletters, Facebook and
e-newsletters, my life has been enriched,
my spirits lifted and my convictions
encouraged and supported. When I
received the weekly SOTV email on April
25, with a subject line of “How Do We
Respond?” I was overjoyed. My trusted
spiritual advisors would have sugges-
tions for responding to the escalating
racial unrest in Boston, Minneapolis and
across our nation. Certainly this was the
most important topic on everyone’s mind
today, wasn’t it?
When I opened the message and read
about an earthquake in Nepal, my spirit
sank. Although I’m proud of the way
Lutheran Social Services, the ELCA and
SOTV respond to natural disasters, I real-
ized at that moment that my beloved
Lutheran Church is not so good at
addressing manmade tragedies and
injustices in our own community and
nation, preferring not to look in the
mirror and ask ourselves how we might
be contributing to the problem or, at the
very least, what we can do to help. What
biases and misperceptions do we hold
and even spread? How DO we respond
to racial unrest in our country?
I believe the answer lies in working
hard to understand other people’s life
experience. And, once we begin to truly
understand, reaching out to teach others,
one person at a time.
Although our nation was “desegregated”
decades ago, and our schools and work-
places are somewhat integrated, our so-
cial networks, including churches, are
still very homogenous. According to a
survey conducted by the Public Religion
Research Institute last year, 75% of white
Americans have only white friends and
65% of Black Americans have only Black
friends.
Like most Minnesotans my age, for most
of my life I knew very few people of col-
or and only very casually as coworkers
or classmates. My experience began to
change when I took a Black Women’s
literature course in college at age 39.
Soon afterward I met a Canadian-
American man raised in Iowa by his
India-born parents. A few years later, I
became friends with a black woman who
was raised in Georgia by a single mother
in a mostly white suburb. Although both
have since moved away from Minnesota,
they are still among my handful of clos-
est friends. Honest conversations with
them, and with other Black, Asian and
Latino people I have met since, have
helped me understand the perennial na-
tional standoff known as “race relations”.
“I have never
burned or looted
buildings,” my
black friend said when we talked about
the escalating racial tension recently.
“I’ve never killed anyone or gone to jail.
Black people have a branding problem.”
Indeed! Her comment struck me as
particularly ironic, since I now own a
company that specializes in helping
brand small businesses and nonprofits,
including churches. What ideas can I
offer for “rebranding” the image many
whites have of the Black community
and, perhaps, vice versa?
In my class at St. Catherine University
and a graduate school class I later took at
The Humphrey School of Public Affairs,
three African American teachers helped
me see our nation’s culture in a new
light. The readings, films and discussions
were frank and enlightening. I later
attended the annual “Overcoming
Racism-Why Is It So Hard?” in St. Paul,
where I learned about Anti-Racism Study
Dialogue Circles. Recently, SOTV staff
began researching various programming
options for our own congregation.
Although details are still being decided
as this issue goes to press, I invite you to
contact me if you are interested in find-
ing out more about how we CAN
respond as Lutherans and Christians to
this disturbing, entrenched challenge in
our communities, states and nation.
E-mail [email protected] or call
651-470-3937 after 5 pm or on weekends.
SOCIAL JUSTICE
How Do We Respond to Racial Unrest?
By Carolyn Sampson
12 | FALL 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
I f you (or someone you know) has
recently experienced a significant
loss, it’s important to remember
that you’re not alone. In fact, it’s best to
go through the grieving process with
the support of others, and that’s what
Growing Though Loss ministry is all
about.
Growing Though Loss (GTL) is a
support group for grieving individuals
and families based in the suburbs south
of the Twin Cities. Each year there is a 4
-week series in the fall and a 5-week
series in the spring (concluding with a
Service of Remembrance). The evening
begins with a professional speaker,
followed by support groups for various
types of loss, including death, divorce,
loss of job, loss of health, mid-life
changes, etc.
Following the speaker, a trained facili-
tator comes to each table to lead discus-
sion and offer support through conver-
sation among the participants. One-on-
one listeners are also on hand. Because
not everyone grieves in the same way,
the program is flexible in nature and
allows for the sharing of memories and
feelings in a confidential and safe envi-
ronment. The small group element is
especially important to help partici-
pants find common ground and com-
fort in each other.
When GTL began in 1994, it didn’t go it
alone either. Thirteen area congrega-
tions banded together to launch the
inter-denominational program.
Shepherd of the Valley, one of the
founding churches, is proud to once
again host a 4-week series this fall
(see right sidebar).
In addition to taking turns hosting,
supporting churches each provide
financial support for operational
expenses, such as stipends for speakers
and facilitator training, and provide
representatives for coalition meetings.
Pooling resources from so many
churches has been a huge part of GTL’s
continued endurance and success.
SOTV member Barb Korman was there
at the very beginning of GTL, and has
served as the volunteer “administrative
assistant” for 20 years. “It’s been so
beneficial to so many people over the
years,” Barb reflects, “I don’t want to
give it up!”
When asked what the best part of hav-
ing an interdenominational coalition is,
Barb replied, “We all grieve. Helping
people who are experiencing grief is
bigger than just one church.”
Growing Through Loss is currently
supported by 13 churches:
All Saints, Catholic, Lakeville
Augustana Lutheran, West St. Paul
St. John Neumann, Catholic, Eagan
St. John the Baptist, Catholic, Savage
St. Joseph, Catholic, Rosemount
St. Peter, Catholic, Mendota
St. Thomas Becket, Catholic, Eagan
Church of the Assumption, Catholic,
St. Paul
Mary, Mother of the Church, Catholic,
Burnsville
Prince of Peace Lutheran, Burnsville
St. James Lutheran, Burnsville
St. Paul's United Methodist Church,
Mendota Heights
St. Stephen's Lutheran, West St. Paul
Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran,
Apple Valley
CARE & SUPPORT A Place to Grieve Together
Growing Through Loss Tuesdays, Sep. 15 - Oct. 6
7:00 – 9:00 PM Register at the door: 6:30 - 7:00 PM
Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church
Freewill offering
$3 suggested donation
September 15
“Uncommon Sense About
Change, Loss & Grief”
Brenda DeMotte, MSW, LICSW
Founder and Director
Professional Counseling & Grief Services
September 22
“Growing Through Guilt and Grief:
Our Family’s Story”
Jonathan and Amanda Markle
Bereaved Parents
September 29
"Dealing with Grief During the Holidays”
Paul Johnson, M.A.
Consultant & Trainer
Woodbury, MN
October 6
“Sensing the Presence of
Our Loved Ones After Death:
How God Comforts and Reassures Us”
Pastor Candee Moser
Ordained Lutheran Pastor, ELCA
Each session is complete in itself.
You are welcome to attend one or all.
For Further Information:
952-890-0045
www.growingthroughlosstcsouth.com
By Trip Sullivan
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 13
O ur goal at Shepherd of the
Valley is to have a pastor on
staff for each of the four core
ministries of our mission: Worship,
Learn, Connect, and Care. Pastor Randy
Brandt’s focus is Learn and my new area
of responsibility is Care. We plan to call
two more pastors in the coming year.
Care has always been a hallmark of this
congregation, with pastors, staff, and
volunteers spending untold hours each
week calling and visiting members. Did
you know that your pastors meet twice a
week just to touch base on prayer con-
cerns and congregational care?
We have a wonderfully capable and com-
mitted Care Ministries team: Julie
Opheim (Support Ministries), Susan Fer-
ber (Parish Nurse), Jill Johnson (Pastoral
Care Coordinator), Visitation Pastors
Leland Johnson and Chuck Tindell, and
volunteer members in a variety of roles.
Care at SOTV is defined as showing the
love and compassion of Jesus Christ to
people who are in difficult situations. As
Christians, we are taught to share
Christ’s love anywhere we go with eve-
ryone we meet. At SOTV, we have creat-
ed programs to channel our care in spe-
cific, intentional ways. Here are some
examples:
Prayer Chain: a confidential list of
people and their concerns (updated
weekly), who are prayed for by
pastors, staff, and volunteers. You
can submit a prayer request at the
Welcome Center or online at
SOTV.org/prayer.
Prayer Shepherds: volunteers who
regularly pray for members with
specific concerns.
Funeral Ministry: volunteers in
charge of funeral luncheons.
Prayer Shawls: volunteers who knit
shawls for others who need care.
Meals Ministry: short term meal
coordination for those who have an
illness or injury.
Parish Nurses: Led by Susan Ferber,
our volunteer nurses are Becky
Wilken, Lori Henke, Gale Thomsen,
Pat Drake, and Sharon Mertz. A
parish nurse is a licensed registered
nurse (RN) who helps congregation
members to maintain mental, physi-
cal, and spiritual health by serving
as an educator, advocate, counselor,
and other roles.
Support Groups: people who gather
to support one another with con-
cerns including:
divorce, grief and
loss, depression,
cancer, infertility,
ADHD/Autism,
Down Syndrome, Al Anon, and mental
illness. Please see page 7 for upcoming
meeting times.
We are very proud of these ministries,
and the care and compassion they bring
to others. That said, we have identified
some ways they might be even better in
the future. Here are just a few ways we
plan to improve Care at SOTV:
1. Reboot Friendly Visitors—
volunteers who regularly visit
members one-on-one.
2. Raise the awareness and
participation in the congregation
of our prayer chain.
3. Meet regularly with all leaders
involved in Care Ministries.
We welcome your involvement in any of
these care ministries. If you’re interested,
simply give me a call (952-432-6351) or
email me at [email protected].
My prayer for SOTV in the coming years
is that we all might learn how to better
reach out and show compassion for our
neighbors - so that Our Lord’s love might
reach people when they need it most in
times of need.
CARE & SUPPORT Sharing The Love of Christ
By Duane Paetznick, Care Pastor
Care has always been
a hallmark of SOTV,
with pastors, staff, and
volunteers spending
untold hours each
week calling and
visiting members.
14 | FALL 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Shepherd of the Valley is very blessed
to have a number of retired pastors as
members of our congregation. They
have joined the church over the years
and added their wisdom, experience,
talent, counsel, and passion to the vari-
ous ministries of our church. Presently
there are 12 retired pastors in our con-
gregation. In total, these pastors account
for over 600 years of ordained ministry.
One of these pastors, Richard Nelson, is
in the midst of celebrating 70 years of
ordained ministry. Richard, by the way,
is 94 years old and going strong!
On Wednesday, June 10, in order to
honor these retirees and to help them
get to know each other better, SOTV put
together a luncheon for them. After the
meal, each of the retirees and their
significant others shared stories about
their ministries.
Above is a photo taken after the lunch.
If you get a chance some time, please
greet these folks and say thanks for their
years of service to Our Lord and the
church.
Pictured: Bob Berndt, Joanne Berndt,
Leland Johnson, Chuck Tindell, Barney
Friesth, Bea Friesth, Paul Harrington,
Richard Nelson, Paul Hunsinger, Jim
Voelker, Inga Voelker, Marv Ketterling,
Avis Halvorson, Richard Wiekert,
Arlene Wiekert, Duane Paetznick,
Randy Brandt, Chris Smith
Not pictured: Huck Usgaard, Lynnette
Usgaard, Margaret Harrington, George
Thronson, and Jan Thronson
A Haven for Retired Pastors
By Duane Paetznick
“I thank my God every
time I remember you.”
Philippians 1:3
As I read Paul’s letter to
the Philippians, I feel
that in several ways, it
could have been written
by me, addressed to you, people of
Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church.
For in this letter, Paul has expressed his
thankfulness and his joy for the support
he’s been given and for having been part-
ners in sharing the Gospel. So it has been
between us, at least as I see it!
And so with joy and a heart filled with
gratitude, I thank you for inviting me into
your church home. I thank you for
welcoming me with open arms, for being
patient with me as I learned the SOTV
way of leading worship, for challenging
me to grow spiritually and technologically
(!), for reminding me that God’s grace and
love are unconditional and endless, and
for gifting me with the opportunity to
serve a healthy, Spirit filled, God loving
congregation. For all of these and more,
I say, “thank you.”
Though I do not know where my next call
will take me, I do know that fond memo-
ries and your many gifts will forever be a
part of my life and my ministry. And so in
parting I say, thanks be to God and to God
be the glory. May God bless you and keep
you, now and forever. Amen.
Love and Peace,
Pastor Candee Moser
Pastor Candee served as an interim associate
pastor from April to July, 2015.
Thank You
By Pastor Candee Moser
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 15
M embers at the Shepherd of the Valley annual congrega-
tional meeting on June 7, 2015 voted to re-energize the
church’s Endowment Fund with a brand new charter that will
increase its visibility and broaden its purpose.
The Endowment Fund was created in 1997 to receive dona-
tions, bequests, and gifts with the purpose of establishing new
ministries apart from the church’s general operation. Assets
were held in segregated accounts and interest income could be
used to fund grants. “The fund has been operating at a very
low visibility during the past 10 years,” says David Kuhnau, a
longtime member of SOTV. The last fundraising efforts were in
2002. A few grants have been made over the years, primarily
for camp scholarships, and the current balance is $126,000. The
changes will give the fund more robust direction and inspire
more contributions.
David helped spearhead the effort to update the Endowment
Fund Charter, and delivered the presentation at the annual
meeting. “We know that as our congregation ages more of our
members are paying attention to their estate plans,” said
David. “We want our Endowment Fund to be considered as
part of the estate planning process for our members as well
as their general giving.”
Many other congregations have endowment funds that
provide their church with a permanent base of capital to fund
church activities. The newly approved charter will do just that.
Instead of only supporting new missions, the fund will now
support the general mission of the church. The new charter
establishes three general areas that can be designated for gifts:
General Mission of Shepherd of the Valley
Education
Outreach Ministries
Watch for more on the Endowment Fund in the months to
come. In the meantime, questions can be directed to David at
[email protected] or church finance staff.
Endowment Gets Reboot
By Robert (Chap) Milis
A s the new chair of the Stewardship team, I wanted
to share a few thoughts on what it means for us to
belong to God. One might think that the Stewardship team
would focus on driving annual pledges, increasing weekly
giving, or maximizing volunteer participation. But did you
know that our Stewardship team’s key goal is to help the
people of SOTV grow in their understanding that we
belong to God?
Stewardship is not about making a pledge once a year or
donating a certain percentage of your income to the
church. Rather, because God created us in His image and
we belong to Him, everything that we are and that we have
belongs to God: our selves, our time, our talents, our
bodies, our relationships, and our possessions. The list
could go on, but the key is that it’s never ours to begin
with, rather it all belongs to Him who created us and we
are simply meant to be managers – or stewards – of what
has been entrusted to us!
A steward, therefore, is someone who belongs to God.
Giving of ourselves is an expression of faith, whether we
give at church, at work, at home, or anywhere else. As
followers of Jesus we are called to love the Lord our God
with all our heart, and with all our soul, and with all our
mind, and with all our strength. And we are called to love
our neighbor as ourselves. What better way to do this than
to mindfully and judiciously manage what has been
entrusted to us for the benefit of all of God’s people?
Dear friends, I ask you to prayerfully consider what it
means to you personally “to belong to God.” What special
gifts have you been entrusted with and how will you best
manage them as a good and faithful servant?
In God’s peace,
Bernie Zimmermann
We Belong to God
By Bernie Zimmermann
16 | FALL 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
As a Volunteer Godzone
Leader, I Have Learned
that…
*I am living out the pledge from my Baptism. The way I do
that is through teaching GodZone and affirming children.
*My experience from years of teaching enriches how I
continue to work with children at Shepherd of the Valley.
*I experience the light of the Lord shining through children
into my life (I show them God’s love and through them I
experience God’s love)
*Scripture invites us to do something: to take a risk, to
share our gifts and our love. Leading a group of children
is the way that I have done that.
*I have never been on my own. Shepherd of the Valley
staff has provided weekly plans, support, prayers and
encouragement.
*My relationships have deepened with others at Shepherd
of the Valley, building connections and bonds that have
lasted years.
*God is the one who teaches through me, giving growth
and faith to children.
*I wish so many more would just try out being part of the
joy and reward of Children’s Ministry in leading a small
group of GodZone children. There are people to mentor
and support them. And the importance of building faith in
children is something Jesus himself encouraged.
*Will you join me? God can use you!
Welcome Back
to Preschool
T he 21st year of Celebrating Children Preschool is
going to be a great one. We are so happy to have our
whole wonderful staff back. They have spent the summer
looking for fun new ideas to use in the classroom. And
they miss the kids so it will be great to have them back.
A new thing we are offering this year is classes for the
parents. We are offering a kind of ECFE experience within
our program. We are working with the church to offer
a series called "Have a New Kid by Friday" starting in
October which will be led by our Director Linda Nelson.
After that series is completed, we will then offer stand
alone classes once a month on topics of interest for families.
We are also excited to be offering a new afternoon High
Five class. I know this will be a wonderful addition to our
program and community. It is for students who are five
years old but not attending Kindergarten. There is still
some space if you are interested.
We still have limited space available in our 3/4 and 4/5
classes as well. Contact Linda Nelson at 952-985-7370 or
[email protected] if you would like more information
or a tour.
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 17
K aribu is the Swahili word for
welcome, and time and time again,
our brothers and sisters in Tanzania have
proven that we have much to learn about
Welcome from them. Here are a few
short stories from travelers.
“Entering Jerusalem”
The welcome is always warm when we
visit the village congregations of Tunga-
malenga Parish, but I can't think of a
warmer welcome than we receive from
the village of Makifu.
Our bus pulls to the side of the road
near a grove of mango trees, the congre-
gation members lead us down a path,
singing and dancing and waving palm
branches. It feels like Palm Sunday and
we are riding the donkey into Jerusalem.
“You Greet Them”
Habari, Kamwene, How are you? One
of the small but telling details about Tan-
zanian culture is the attention and care
that is given to greeting people. Some-
times I am walking about with my Tan-
zanian friends and I watch them greet so
many people they pass and find out only
later that they barely know the person.
But each person they pass or meet is
greeted with the same respect and
warmth.
It's an interesting contrast to our Amer-
ican culture that teaches its children not
to speak to strangers, and that emphasiz-
es moving forward to the goal rather
than enjoying the journey. Think about
the time I spend in the grocery store at
home. I'm focused on my list, on getting
in and out in as short a time as I can. I
don't stop for conversation with other
shoppers. Yet here in the market we all
stop for 'how are you' and to exchange a
word or two or three.
When I was at Idodi Secondary School
last week, I had a young woman walk me
across campus a couple times. She would
hold my hand to guide me toward the
cleanest path, and she would introduce
me to people as we walked. If we passed
someone and I forgot to say 'habari' she
would tug my hand and gently remind
me: 'you greet them.'
—Kirsten Levorson, partnership coordinator
(from blogposts in 2011 and 2010)
“A Tangible Reminder”
When our bus arrived at the village of
Tungamalenga, there was a vibrant
group of men, women and children
waving branches by the side of the road,
singing and dancing. Stepping off the
bus, we were immediately encompassed
by smiling faces eager to greet us with
hugs and handshakes. Together we
walked, danced, and sang our way to the
church. I was only a few steps down the
road before my eyes welled with tears
and our partners blurred into an abstract
watercolor. Who was I to receive such a
greeting? I had done nothing and yet I
was received with an outpouring of love.
I did not deserve such treatment. They
didn't even know me. And yet, there
were people on every side, holding my
hand, hugging me, and
encouraging me with
their bright smiles. And
my fear of the unknown
turned to an overwhelm-
ing feeling of welcome
and love.
I was struck by this tan-
gible reminder of God's
love for me: I have done
nothing to deserve it—in
fact, I often don’t take
the time I should to
cultivate my faith--and yet, His love is
poured over me. I am unworthy. I am a
sinner. And still, I am saved.
If this were all I experienced, all I
learned from my journey, it would be
more than enough. It was a priceless gift
to experience God's love on this trip.
But, I hope, I pray, that I wasn't the only
one receiving such a blessing. The reason
I was in Tanzania in the first place was to
meet the other side of our partnership.
Yes, we brought t-shirts, and books, and
scholarships, but I hope it wasn't the
material things or the money we brought
with us that made the biggest difference
to those we met. I pray that our presence,
our bumbling attempts at communication
and our genuine smiles were evidence of
God's love for them, too.
—Jenny Buckley, traveler in 2014
TANZANIA PARTNERSHIP
Karibu Sana, You Are Warmly Welcomed
18 | FALL 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Milestones
God’s blessings to these families who
celebrated the Sacrament of Baptism
in May, June, and July
Rowan Gary Thomas, son of
Kristi Luebke and Andrew McCluskey
Callie Rae Holweger, daughter of
Jennifer and Jeremy Holweger
Margaret Josephine Reinders, daughter of
Angela and Michael Reinders
Payton Marie Robideau, daughter, and
Maxime James Robideau, son of
Kathryn and Timothy Robideau
Violet May Vaughan, daughter of
Stacy and Shawn Vaughan
Olivia Eileen Blake, daughter of
Nicky and Eric Blake
Reese Monroe Casey, daughter of
Haley and Andy Casey
Lauren Grey Reiner, daughter of
Heather and Gregory Reiner
River William Trivette, son of
Kathleen Gehring and Nathan Trivette
Eli Roger Kyllo, son of
Amanda and William Kyllo
Madison Marie Hoogheem, daughter of
Victoria and Ryan Hoogheem
Ava Lola Lindell, daughter of
Karri and James Lindell
Elle Louise Woodard, daughter of
Katie and Chris Woodard
Adam Thomas Hoffman and
Cameron Jay Hoffman, sons of
Ashley and Christopher Hoffman
Cole Matthew Kaiser, son of
Beth and Matthew Kaiser
Oscar Harold Rassmussen, son of Jilliaen
Fiebelkorn and Matthew Rassmussen
Freya Jeanne Gibson, daughter of
Kathleen and Jeffrey Gibson
Grace Marie Gossman, daughter of
Nicole and Ben Gossman
Austin Stanley Hartmann, son of
Jon and Jody Hartmann
Kensia Ksusha Harrison
Charleigh Kraemer Quam, daughter of
Jill and Daniel Quam
Jared Anthony Tranberg, son of
Allison and Eric Tranberg
Isaac Scott Bruns and
Calvin Thomas Bruns,
sons of Rachel and Scott Bruns
Addison Irene Nemitz,
daughter of Katie and Jason Nemitz
Aryah Autumn Olin,
daughter of Sarah and Jesse Olin
Zoë Mae Kittelson, daughter of Ashley
and Brian Kittelson
Our prayers are with these members who
have recently experienced the death of a
loved one.
Brian Bauman upon the death of his
grandfather, William Bauman
Susan Van De Bogart upon the death of
her brother, Gary Bakke
Wendy Dougherty upon the death of
her friend, Janice Keller
Aldrea Malo upon the death of her
father, Horace Grant
Betty Stevanus upon the death of her
nephew, Scott Wollschlager
Stephanie Goede upon the death of her
husband, Pete Goede
Kimberly Werner upon the death of her
grandmother, Rosalyn Hill
Norm Zurfluh upon the death of his
wife, Julie Zurfluh
Dorothy McClard upon the death of her
daughter-in-law, Julie Zurfluh
Rose Johnson upon the death of her
sister-in-law, Julie Zurfluh
Rachel Walstad upon the death of her
father, Hugh Brown
Bob Zingler upon the death of his
mother, Jane Zingler
Doug Nelson upon the death of his
wife, Barb Nelson
Melanie Vincent upon the death of her
mother, Edna Berquist
Gavin Carlson upon the death of his
father, Dale Carlson
Nancy Dahlin upon the death of her
brother, Dale Carlson
Lori Haggerty upon the death of her
brother, Dale Carlson
Eric Wilson upon the death of his
father, Robert Wilson
Kathy Larson upon the death of her
mother, Arlene Bush
Erik Nielsen upon the death of his
wife, Carol Nielsen
Lillian Peterson upon the death of her
husband, Dave Peterson
Roger Rebling upon the death of his
mother, Gladys Rebling
Jeff Bloomquist upon the death of his
father, Dennis Bloomquist
Joyce Gustafson upon the death of her
friend, Dee Holland
Jay Boekhoff upon the death of his
mother, Betty Crofoot
Gary Anderson upon the death of his
mother, Eldora Anderson
Dan Ferber upon the death of his
father, Daniel Arthur Ferber
Dawn Stree upon the death of her
brother, Bruce Anpijunti
Jenni Berg upon the death of her
grandfather, Bjarne Berg
Chuck & Becky Tomek upon the death of
their friend, Barb Shannon
Bill Wyss upon the death of his
mother, Janet Wyss
Tim Jacobson upon the death of his
father, Gene Jacobson
Karen Ballweber upon the death of her
father, Gene Jacobson
Greg Leean upon the death of his
father, Don Leean
Lori Henke upon the death of her
mother, Beverly Olson
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 19
Dear SOTV...
Connect with us!
Church Council
Jenny Buckley, President
Paul Keller, Vice President
Arlen Wilson, Secretary
Troy Nelson, Treasurer
William (Bill) Bosch
Chad Dahlke
LaVon Dennistoun
Shalom Ewald
Julie Fries
Michael Kelly
Ken Syverson
Admin Office: (952) 432-6351
Children, Youth & Family (CYF):
(952) 432-6385
All other numbers:
(952) 985 (+ ext)
Pastors
Randy Brandt - 7302
Duane Paetznick - 7304
Parish Nurses - 7365
Baptisms
Merilu Narum - 7326
Weddings
Jill Johnson - 7381
Preschool
Linda Nelson - 7370
Finance
Beth Karlson - 7314
Dawn Della Paolera - 7315
Funerals
Jill Johnson - 7381
E-mail addresses
Full staff directory online
sotv.org/staff
May 3, 2015
Scott and Linda (Van Sant) Devitt
May 16, 2015
Mitchell and Lauren (Grant) Nelsen
May 24, 2015
Colin and Ashley (Osterhues) Johnson
May 31, 2015
Mark and Sara (Olson) Siegel
June 6, 2015
Jason and Annie (Reid) Emanuel
June 13, 2015
Jamie and Justine (Nelson) Kolb
June 19, 2015
Matthew and Kjersten (Bratvold)
Schaffran
June 28, 2015
Peter and Jennifer (Buckley) Harrits
July 3, 2015
Justin and Tiffani (Nielson) Schweigart
July 11, 2015
Tyler and Meghan (Williams) Rittmaster
Weddings Congratulations to the following couples
on their recent nuptials. To schedule a
wedding, please contact Jill Johnson at
(952) 985-7381 or [email protected].
Here are just a few of the many written
thank you notes we received from local
organizations that benefitted from our
Final Shepherd’s Sale which raised $23,500
(before expenses) for children in need.
"Just wanted to thank you, again, for
your recent donations of winter gear
from your sale to Greenleaf
Elementary. We are so very thankful
for your support in so many ways
throughout the year! Thank you for
your help and support and for all you
do to serve kids in our community!"
"Thanks again for allowing our
program to come and shop for bingo
prizes. I am sorry that this is the last
year but realize how much work goes
into the sale."
—District 196 Project Explore
"I just spoke with [name withheld] and
she told me how happy she is. She said
that you were so helpful and she thanks
you a lot! I am really glad that she was
able to find a ride and got the items she
needed. Thank you so much for all your
work!"
—Family mentor, Dakota County
Public Health
"Thank you... I know SOTV has been a
blessing to so many Karen Refugees.
...she returned with more families from
her apartment building that needed
clothing. Thank you so much for
accommodating them. SOTV has been
such a blessing to this group of people
and they are truly grateful. Say Htoo
was especially touched that one of the
pastors took the time to help her carry
bags to the car. This made a BIG
impression on her. "
—MCC Refugee Resettlement
“Thank you for partnering with US to
meet the physical needs of those in the
inner city of South Minneapolis.”
—Marie Sandvik Center
20 | FALL 2015 | 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
Worship Hours:
Saturdays, 4:00 & 5:30 PM
Sundays, 8:30, 9:45 & 11:00 AM
www.sotv.org
(952) 432-6351
Pine Ridge Reservation
Florida Beach Camp
Everest VBS
Tanzania
OH THE PLACES WE WENT!
SUMMER 2015
