Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ |
2 | WINTER 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
On the cover Owen Saintey (parents Richard and
Chelsie) received a visit from Jesus
last winter. Jesus visited many
other children, including some of
our friends in Tanzania (above).
You can read more about his
travels on page 8.
Meet Your 2014-15
Church Council If you have questions for council,
please e-mail [email protected]
Top row: Jenny Buckley, President;
Paul Keller, Vice President; Troy
Nelson, Treasurer; Arlen Wilson,
Secretary; Steve Mueller, Past
President. Bottom row: Ann
Boekhoff, LaVon Dennistoun,
Shalom Ewald, Julianne Fries,
Ken Syverson, Angela Zielinski
Welcome
FEATURES
8 When Jesus Came to Visit Me
9 Retiring with a Purpose
12 Celebrating Children Preschool
18 Exploring England
DEPARTMENTS
4 Financial Summary
13 Upcoming Events
17 Serving Others
20 Global Missions
22 Milestones
I t is a joy and a privilege
to share these stories of
people in our community
experiencing Jesus. I invite
you to share your faith
stories with us as well.
The deadline for the spring
Life of the Flock is
Tuesday, January 13.
Trip Sullivan, Editor [email protected]
(952) 985-7311
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 3
Pastor’s Devotion
Connect with us!
Admin Office: (952) 432-6351
Children, Youth & Family (CYF):
(952) 432-6385
All other numbers:
(952) 985 (+ ext)
Pastors
Christopher Smith - 7305
Randy Brandt - 7302
Duane Paetznick - 7304
Mary Lund - 7303
Diane Sponheim - 7307
Parish Nurses - 7365
Baptisms
Merilu Narum - 7326
Finance
Beth Karlson - 7314
Dawn Della Paolera - 7315
Funerals
Jill Johnson - 7381
Preschool
Linda Nelson - 7370
Weddings
Jill Johnson - 7381
E-mail addresses
Full staff directory online
sotv.org/staff
“Teach us to number our days that we
may gain a heart of wisdom.”
—Psalm 90:12 (NIV)
W hat is wisdom? How do we obtain it? The verse from Psalm 90
suggests an answer to the second question: we obtain wisdom by
becoming deeply aware of how short life is. When we become truly
aware of how limited our time on earth really is, we will prioritize our lives to
focus on what is really important.
That is the very idea at the heart of a sermon that Pastor Duane and I shared at
the end of October. We preached about Solomon, who became the best king of
God’s people for a thousand years precisely for his wisdom.
In our sermon we proposed this definition: wisdom is knowing what really
matters. Better still, wisdom is knowing what really matters and living your life
accordingly. Solomon has traditionally been considered the author of Psalm 90
and that makes sense. He knew he would live wisely, when he was fully aware
of life’s brevity.
I was talking to a member of SOTV recently. He has a friend who worked very
hard her entire career. She seldom used vacation time and almost never missed a
day of work. She was invariably the first in the office in the morning and the last
to leave. Soon after retirement, she was diagnosed with cancer, and now faces the
end of her life at a relatively young age. Now in hospice care, she is reconsidering
the way she lived her life. Now she enjoys getting to know her caregivers and
reacquainting herself with old friends. Now she values her family more than ever
before. Now she knows what really matters and is living her life accordingly. She
has discovered true wisdom.
Over the years I have listened to many people facing the end of their days and
have discovered this definition of wisdom: people matter more than things. Love
matters more than money. As you receive this Life of the Flock newsletter, the
holidays are upon us. Christmas is coming soon and then a new year will be here.
My prayer for us all is that we may discover that the greatest gift of all is the Lord
Jesus who came to give us abundant life. That life is defined by godly wisdom:
Knowing what really matters. Jesus reshaped that definition this way: “Love one
another as I have loved you.” God sent his Son because you matter more than
anything to God. Let’s prioritize our lives so that the people in them know the
same thing: they matter to us more than the stuff and the demands of life. This
holiday season, let’s shop less and love more. It’s a wise choice.
See You in Church,
Pastor Chris Smith
Chris Smith Senior Pastor
4 | WINTER 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Financial Summary
A look at the opposite page reveals two things: how much money the people
of SOTV generously provided for the church to do its ministry and how that
money was spent.
But that spreadsheet won’t tell you the whole story.
Like the story of walking into the food shelf on Tuesdays and Thursdays and
seeing dozens of bags carefully packed with groceries and a bunch of very
enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers. SOTV’s food shelf gives away about
10,000 pounds of food per month.
Like the anticipation on the faces of hundreds of parents as they begin the
confirmation year with their 9th grade students. They are there because time is
flying, their kids are growing up, and they want faith to matter. We confirmed
more than 141 students this past fall.
Like the smiles of hundreds of children who are receiving an education at the
Idodi Secondary School in Tanzania because of the generosity of SOTV families.
The students speak of a future when they will be nurses, doctors, and commu-
nity leaders in their developing country. More than two dozen people traveled
from SOTV to Tanzania this past summer to continue building relationships
and monitor projects.
Like the wonderful energy of the sanctuary on Sunday morning, full and
vibrant, as you worship and praise God and receive a Word for your week of
faithful living. The Holy Spirit is at work!
Like the laughter and tears at a funeral luncheon supported by dozens of
SOTV volunteers so that family members and friends discover hope and
healing. This happened more than 30 times during the year.
I’m just getting started! There are so many more great stories.
A big part of the 2013-2014 fiscal year was the story of how SOTV experienced a
drop in giving and how you all have responded.
The council noted a reduction in giving beginning in late winter and into the
spring. Your church’s finance leadership team responded responsibly, reducing
current expenses and adjusting the budget for the coming fiscal year. At the same
time, church leaders communicated in detail about the shortfall with all of you.
The response from the people of SOTV has been wonderful. Giving began to
rebound immediately and your generosity has continued. For the first two
months of the current fiscal year giving has been ahead of budget. Giving at
SOTV is stabilizing and gaining strength. It is never too late to add your support.
THANK YOU! That is the continuing refrain of the bigger story. Thank you for
your generous giving. Thank you for volunteering tens of thousands of hours of
your time and skills and talents. Thank you for your prayers and your enthusiasm.
Thank you for helping our vision take action, as we continue to be the church that
invites all to experience the welcome, the transformation, and the sending of Jesus
Christ.
A Note
About
Giving
By Pastor Chris Smith
2015 Capital Campaign
Thank you to those who attended
the Campaign Dialogues or partici-
pated in the online survey! We
have received a very positive
response overall to the campaign
with great feedback to help priori-
tize our needs as we move forward
in the process.
Next steps will include individual/
family visits and continued work
with leaders in the campaign
process. More information will
be available in January 2015!
The Together We Can Do More
Campaign Kick Off Weekend is
scheduled for Jan. 31 - Feb. 1!
Please plan to attend worship and
learn of our progress at that point.
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 5
Financial Summary
August 2013- August 2012-
General Fund July 2014 July 2013 Variance
Income:
Tithes, Offerings and Interest $ 2,479,205 $ 2,651,243 $ (172,038)
Tuition & Preschool Income 193,480 203,277 (9,797)
Total Income 2,672,685 2,854,520 (181,835)
Expenses:
Adult Ministries 11,831 10,479 (1,352)
Benevolences - Tithed 97,695 103,422 5,726
Building & Grounds 221,439 234,265 12,826
Capital 154,050 235,030 80,980
Children's Ministries 46,813 53,669 6,856
Confirmation 18,452 21,880 3,428
Fellowship 12,118 6,670 (5,447)
Outreach 14,329 15,235 907
Personnel 2,126,863 1,995,766 (131,098)
Preschool 84,374 84,320 (54)
Stewardship & Administration 161,354 159,141 (2,213)
Unbudgeted - 9,824 9,824
Worship/Music/Arts 16,963 20,540 3,576
Youth 12,902 10,869 (2,033)
Total Expenses 2,979,182 2,961,109 (18,073)
Net Change $ (306,497) $ (106,590) $ (199,908)
Building Fund
Income $ 382,903 $ 401,338 $ (18,435)
Expenses 525,552 452,115 (73,437)
Net Change $ (142,649) $ (50,776) $ (91,873)
Campership & Endowment Funds
Income $ 11,526 $ 20,090 $ (8,564)
Expenses 150 150 -
Net Change $ 11,376 $ 19,940 $ (8,564)
Cash Balances
Balance August 1 $ 1,680,944 $ 1,793,200 $ (112,256)
FY Net Change (437,770) (137,426) (300,344)
FY Donor Designated Funds Net Change (32,551) 25,170 (57,721)
Balance July 31 $ 1,210,623 $ 1,680,944 $ (470,321)
Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church Financial Recap
6 | WINTER 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Financial Summary
360 Communities $ 4,928
363 Days Ministries 739
Armful of Love 1,003
Birthday Bags 282
Bright Stars of Bethlehem 3,156
Bundles of Love 2,400
Camp Noah 3,780
Camp Wapogasset 3,000
Coffee Project 2,831
Congolese Refugee Project
(CEEDS) 1,000
Dakota Woodlands 330
Easter Dinner Baskets 1,029
ELCA Disaster Relief 5,440
ELCA Global Missions 2,000
Faith Lutheran Church,
Rosemount 200
Feed My Starving Children 690
Gas Vouchers 4,907
Habitat for Humanity 5,669
Haiti Outreach 1,104
Heifer International 1,075
Hug Bags 98
Just Faith Ministries 325
Kaleidoscope 300
Kids 'n Kinship 1,000
Lewis House 600
Local/Individual Needs 405
Lutheran Campus Ministries 6,500
Lutheran Social Services 13,981
Lutheran World Relief 1,530
M.O.M.S. 300
Metro Lutheran 150
Metropolitan Interfaith Council
on Affordable Housing (MICAH) 500
MN Adult & Teen Challenge 3,583
Mothers of Preschoolers
(MOPS) 2,819
Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church -
Community Meals Ministry 900
Northern Champaign & Vermillion Counties L.T.
Recovery Committee 2,025
Our Daily Bread Food Shelf 47,585
People Inc. 300
Pine Ridge Reservation 2,331
Prayer Shawls 301
Preschool Scholarships 4,745
Prince of Peace -
Dental Ministry 1,000
Prison Congregations
of America 1,000
Quilters 759
Rosemount Elementary School 300
School Supplies 9,680
Seminary Support 1,000
Senior Adults Learning Together
(SALT) 150
Serve Together
(various projects) 210
Shepherd Sale 8,696
Shepherd Sale
College Scholarships 3,000
Showing All Individuals Love
(SAIL) 416
Social Concerns 145
St. Mary's Health Clinic 10,000
St. Paul Area Synod - General 42,500
St. Paul Area Synod - Hunger 15,000
Tanzania 88,788
Think & Wear Pink 200
Urban Ventures 1,000
Wingspan 1,117
Payment Made to: Amount Payment Made to: Amount Payment Made to: Amount
Outreach & Mission Benevolence
Total: $320,799 Paid Out: August 2013 - July 2014
At Shepherd of the Valley, the word “benevolence” refers to monetary donations given to
charitable organizations outside our church walls. Just as we ask our members to give a
portion of their gifts to the church, SOTV tithes a portion of our budget, based on the
offerings we receive. The Benevolence Committee meets monthly to discern what causes
to support on behalf of the congregation. Take a look at the list of benevolence giving.
Isn’t it amazing? Thank you for enabling us to be benevolent!
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 7
Financial Summary
23 volunteers committed to serving as Homework Help
mentors at Greenleaf Elementary.
135 Birthday Bags assembled and delivered to various
locations in the metro area.
208 units of blood collected at two blood drives for the
American Red Cross.
39 Easter dinners and 66 cookie/beverage baskets
donated to All Nations Church, Pueblo de
Fe, and SOTV families.
824 combined hours worked by 40 adult volunteers on
Habitat for Humanity homes in August
2013 and July 2014.
34 HUG Bags distributed to uplift various women
during times of sorrow and joy.
6 Community Meals prepared and served at Mt. Calvary.
41 middle schoolers prepared meals at Feed My Starving
Children.
176 volunteers served at SOTV making sandwiches,
ornaments, Easter baskets, and toiletry kits
while others headed out into the community to serve at Ebenezer Ridges, Lutheran Social Services, and the Salvation Army.
93 Prayer Shawls distributed to people in need of comfort.
1,108 families received 8,572 bags of groceries
from Our Daily Bread Food Shelf.
64 twin quilts, 63 kids quilts, 81 small quilts, 3 lap quilts,
14 receiving blankets, and 7 pillows
created by the Golden Stitchers and
donated to the Burnsville Senior Center,
Camp Noah, Golf & Gears, Lewis House, Lutheran Social Services, and several special people.
154 quilts made by the Shepherd Quilters for Target
House (83), Lewis House (41), Camp Noah
(30), and 19 receiving blankets to a neo-natal
care unit and 2 for SOTV children in need.
131 youth and 47 adults sent out around the country on mission
service trips this past summer.
21 suitcases were sent with travelers to Tanzania in July
& August, including soccer balls, textbooks,
medical supplies, solar calculators and
many SOTV logo t-shirts.
1,160 items of winter outerwear collected in the
narthex were donated to nine nonprofit
agencies, SOTV Food Shelf families, and
many local schools.
133 care packages were sent out to SOTV college kids
104 youth “stretched” themselves through various
service projects over the year to help clean
up yards for the elderly, serve at Eagan
Open Door, Feed My Starving Children,
Global Health Ministries, Second Harvest
Heartland, and the Shepherd Sale.
Senior High Youth served at the LSS Holiday Store assisting and shopping as well as creating gingerbread houses for congregational care visits.
Middle Schoolers helped make blankets, caring cards, play
dough, laundry detergent, baby diaper
cakes, and did cleaning and organizing
projects in the church which benefited
Camp Noah, Children's Hospital, Meals
on Wheels, Family Partnership, Tapestry,
and SOTV.
GodZone’s Gifts Projects in GodZone this year included
collecting items for The Sandwich Project
Minnesota, Our Daily Bread Food Shelf, Meals
on Wheels, Birthday Bags, Books for Gillette
Children’s Hospital, School Supplies, Ronald
McDonald Breakfast Bags, Bandages for
Global Health Ministries,
Over 400 Christmas Gifts given to families in need, disabled adults,
and homeless youth through five nonprofit
local agencies.
Gas Vouchers Donated to CAP Agency, The Link, People
Inc., Rosemount Elementary, Salvation
Army, and members in need.
Furniture Trinity Lutheran in Owatonna, Eagle Lake
Lutheran in Willmar, and Kaposia, Inc. were
gifted multiple tables, choral, folding and
sanctuary chairs that were no longer being
used.
1,300 students were supplied with backpacks and supplies
distributed to Dakota Woodlands, Lewis
House, Lincoln Place, LSS, M.O.M.S.,
People Incorporated, Rosemount Family
Resource Center, MRD/363 Days
and several local schools.
Following the Shepherd’s Sale,
numerous items went to 22 nonprofit
agencies, 4 local schools, several SOTV
ministries and many local families in need.
Gifts in Kind refer to non-monetary donations given by Shepherd of the Valley members
to individuals, the church itself, and charitable organizations outside our church walls.
These gifts can include service time, food, clothes, and more. It is a wonder to behold how
our members give selflessly for the well-being of their brothers and sisters in Christ. Thank
you to all who serve!
Gifts in Kind
August 1, 2013 - July 31, 2014
8 | WINTER 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Faith Formation
I n this day and age, you go to an expert for almost every-
thing. You take your car to a mechanic, you take your
taxes to an accountant, and you take yourself to a doctor if
you’re sick. So where do you take children to grow in faith?
“To GodZone at Shepherd of the Valley!” you might say.
We are blessed to have GodZone, a fun and creative
curriculum for age 3 – Grade 5 that meets weekly during
the school year, and is powered by amazing and dedicated
volunteers who nurture children’s faith through close
relationships. (See info on p. 12)
But there’s more. “One hour in GodZone is not enough,”
says Pam Tschida, Program Coordinator for Pre-K and
Kindergarten, “If you want your child to grow into a
lifelong Christian, you have to practice in the home too.”
Making faith an intentional part of the daily life of young
children implants an important seed for faith in God and
something bigger then themselves. Starting faith practices
at home might sound intimidating, but families with
children enrolled in GodZone have many there resources
available to them over the program year.
A favorite “take home” resource over recent years is Jesus
himself. What better way to bring faith into the home then
to have Jesus (in doll form) come and visit? Pre-K and
Kindergarten children can take turns hosting Jesus during
the year. Families also receive copies of the book If Jesus
Came to Visit Me by Jill Roman Lord and an invitation to
record highlights from Jesus’ visit in a journal. At the end
of the visit, families learn that although we can’t see him,
Jesus is always with us.
Simple, everyday faith practices in the home can include
mixing in a Spark Bible story at bedtime, saying a prayer
before a meal together, and pointing out God’s hand in
creation. Parents can get creative. The important thing is
to remember to stop and thank God every day, says Pam.
“Whenever kids see something cool, like a sun rise,” she
says, “I want them to say, ‘Wow, look what God made!’”
-T.S.
When Jesus Came to Visit Me...
Tanner Kurth
Parents: Shawn & Shann
Jesus and I had a great time
working on our hockey
skills and the fellowship
with teammates and parents
was enjoyed by all.
Lexie Mathews
Parents: Brian & Amy
When Jesus came to visit, he
bowled with me on the Wii.
I also played the piano for
him.
Owen Saintey
Parents: Richard & Chelsie
We went to my cousin’s
house and I showed him all
the snow!
Abby Scott
Parents: Zack & Tamara
Abby loved having Jesus
here at our house for
Halloween. He helped
Abby’s dad pass out candy
and even dressed up to take
a picture with Abby.
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 9
W hile much is said
about financial
planning for
retirement, little is often
said about what to do during
retirement. Many retirees
will have freedom and lon-
gevity unlike generations of
the past and be able to do
things they want to do, not
just what they have to do.
Purposeful Retirement is a new minis-
try at Shepherd of the Valley designed
to provide guidance to retirees as they
enter their second half of life. All
events are free and open to the public.
Monthly meetings have varied in for-
mat and have included guest speak-
ers, roundtable discussions, and book
reviews. Topics have ranged from
strengthening family relationships to
seeking out volunteer opportunities.
Launched in early spring, Purposeful
Retirement is already a runaway suc-
cess, drawing large crowds of church
and community members at each
gathering. Participants are gaining
valuable advice on how to best live
their golden years. They have also
shaped a new community that has
begun to grow together in faith,
health, and ability.
(Continued on page 10)
By Robert (Chap) Milis
Ten retirees biked the Dakota Rail
Regional Trail (with a stop for lunch)
on Friday, October 10.
Joh
n E
ide
m
10 | WINTER 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Purposeful Retirement
The concept of retirement is chang-
ing for the baby boomer generation.
Today’s retirees are healthier, have
more energy, and are driven by
different values than previous gener-
ations. Many see retirement not as
an escape, but an opportunity to
connect more deeply with friends,
family and their neighborhoods.
Jim Winslow, already an active
volunteer, put it this way. “For those
of us fortunate enough to be able to
retire, I believe that retirement is a
gift from God. It is a special time to
serve others and enrich ourselves
and our families.”
The sheer number of retirees in the
south metro suburbs has surprised
many participants. At Shepherd of
the Valley alone, over 1,500 members
are age 55 and older. “Every meeting
of this group amazes me!” Jane
Stubblefield declared. “We are so
blessed to have a large group of
retired (or almost retired) people
eager to contribute their talents and
energy to the church, and also will-
ing to grow and take some risks at
this stage of their lives.”
Linda Prince, who has helped plan
the Purposeful Retirement meetings,
has been impressed with people
in attendance and the great
conversations. “People are living
vital, purposeful lives already in
retirement,” she said, “I am
learning a lot from them."
Kristi Kuhnau, an energetic retiree
who has taken a lead role in getting
Purposeful Retirement off to a fast
start, noticed how hungry retirees
are for connections and a sense
of community. “Replacing one’s
social career network is one of the
hardest things about retirement,”
she reflected. “Our hope is that
Purposeful Retirement events give
us a way to create that very needed
community.”
The programs have produced some
real results. Carol Guse attended a
“Volunteering 101” program in
October where panelists from five
different charitable organizations
told about their volunteer opportuni-
ties. Our own Lisa Hegerman was
one of those panelists and described,
among other opportunities, the
Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS)
program hosted by SOTV. It hit
home with Carol, who decided to
become a MOPS mentor.
Another great result has been
retirees getting to make new friends
and connect with one another in the
community. Jean Radke acknowl-
edged how Purposeful Retirement
(Continued on page 11)
Make your retirement purposeful! Learn something new, start a
hobby or begin a new routine. Here are just a few new groups
that have started recently and are waiting for YOU to join them:
Affinity Groups
Soul Steppers (Walking Group): Judy Hartfiel, [email protected]
Biking: Ardell Bengtson
Gardening: Dave Kuhnau
Cross Country Skiing: Cindy & Jim Winslow
Lunch or Dinner: Joanne Smith
Wellness: Karen Schraan
Travel: Mary Ann Brown
Spanish Class: Linda Prince
Spring 2014 Meeting
Na
ncy
No
nin
i
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 11
Purposeful Retirement
has given her the opportunity to meet people who share a commitment to
SOTV and are also making the transition from a busy work life.
Participants have also bonded over shared interests. Over the summer,
several “affinity groups” began meeting for social outings and activities
based on many of these common interests (see sidebar on p. 10).
Judy Hartfiel is helping coordinate the Soul Steppers (pun intended!). This
walking group began meeting mid-summer to get exercise while building
relationships with new friends. It has gone so well, that the group plans to
continue through the winter months.
The programs have generated such positive feedback that four January
meetings will be held during hours convenient for pre-retirees (those who
still have to deal with a work schedule). Unlike our earlier programs, these
January sessions will discuss issues with more of a financial and legal focus.
The hope for the coming year is to reach more people who have yet to
attend Purposeful Retirement. A full slate of monthly events is already in
the works including a book discussion (February), a volunteer activity
(March), presentations on end of life (April) and relationships (May).
What makes Purposeful Retirement so valuable is best summed up by a
recent attendee: “It helps us realize the great potential for making a
contribution in our retirement and what our contribution could be. I hope
it motivates us to go out and accomplish these contributions and that it
opens up our eyes to a whole new bright and beautiful retirement.”
PRE-RETIREE SEMINARS
JANUARY 2015 AT SOTV
Are you retired or thinking about
retiring? Come and learn and share ideas
about what retirement can be. These
sessions are geared toward those who
are retired or thinking about retirement.
All sessions are free and open to all.
The Next Frontier Saturday, Jan. 10 // 9:00 AM - Noon
Calling all newly retired or want-to-be
retirees! This is an encore presentation
of our very first meeting from Spring
2014—a great jumping on point if you
are new to retirement or planning a
retirement.
Social Security
and Medicare Thursday, Jan. 15 // 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Resources for 55 & older. Representa-
tives from Thrivent Financial will be
on hand to answer questions.
Legal Issues Thursday, Jan. 22 // 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Wills, health care directives, power of
attorney and trusts, long term care
issues, charitable giving and wealth
transfer strategies resources for 55 &
older.
Investing Thursday, Jan. 29 // 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Conservative vs. growth strategies,
required minimum distributions,
IRAs, reverse mortgages and tax
efficiency planning resources for
55 & older.
See our February event on p. 15.
To learn about future meetings at
www.sotv.org/adults or subscribe to
our e-mails at www.sotv.org/email
Soul Steppers (Walking Group)
12 | WINTER 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Celebrating Children
Preschool
is 20 Years Old!
S ince 1994, Shepherd of the Valley has been proud
to host a preschool for children ages 3-5. For twenty
years Celebrating Children Preschool (CCP) has
been a partner with parents and the community to nurture
the total child: emotionally, intellectually, physically and
spiritually. Over 980 children have expe-
rienced the welcome and transformation
of nurturing at SOTV’s preschool!
CCP started with 34 students split into
two classes using one classroom and has
grown to 86 students split into five
classes using three classrooms. In the
beginning CCP classroom spaces were
shared with other church programs, but
now there are three dedicated spaces
designed specifically for preschoolers
and their needs.
The three grade levels actively engage children for devel-
opmentally appropriate growth: among other things,
three year olds learn shapes and colors, four year olds
learn letters and sounds along with sign language phrases,
and five year olds focus on pre-reading, site words and
kindergarten readiness. Music, snack time prayers, play,
crafts, story time and monthly chapel worship lead by
SOTV pastors all enrich children’s experiences at CCP.
Families of our preschoolers
participate in CCP through-
out the year at events like the
Fall Open House, cooking
and enjoying Stone Soup, a
Halloween parade, field trips,
end-of-the-year celebrations
and family Advent parties.
CCP recognizes the importance
of sharing the school experience with the whole family.
The 20th Anniversary of SOTV’s Celebrating Children
Preschool will be observed in early January at weekend
worship. Registration for the 2015-2016 school year begins
January 5, 2015. Pass the word so others can benefit from
this exceptional preschool experience right here at SOTV!
Linda Haugen, Sandy Glessing and Margaret Harrington, 1999/2000
Grandma Sylvia,1995/96
Pastor Duane at the 2010 Family Advent Party telling the Nativity Story.
Mrs. Stenbom and Mrs. Baxter End of Year, 2005/06 High Fives Class meeting real sled dogs, Jan. 2014 Miss Andrea playing with the 3/4 year old class, 2013
Rick Hanson loved to read to the students
By Linda Nelson, CCP Director
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 13
Upcoming Events
Scholarships are available for our programs.
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
4 = Webcast from Luther Seminary in St.
Paul; class meets at Shepherd of the Valley
New Member Class Sunday, Jan. 11 // 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Invite a friend or come yourself to learn
about the history and vision of SOTV,
and what membership means. 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, January 18.
Baptism Classes 1st Thursdays, 7:00 - 8:00 PM
Cost: Free
Required for families before their first
baptism at SOTV. Children must be at
least 6 weeks old to attend childcare, and
are welcome in class. Baptism is celebrated
in worship every 2nd weekend of the
month and, as needed, on 3rd weekends
as a separate service at 12:30 pm. To
schedule a baptism, complete the form
(at the Welcome Center or at sotv.org/
baptism) and contact Merilu Narum at
(952) 985-7326 at least one month in
advance.
GodZone Age 3 - Gr. 3: Sat. 4:00 or 5:30 PM;
Sun. 8:30, 9:45 or 11:00 AM
Gr. 4 & 5: Wed. 4:30, 5:45 or 7:00 PM
GodZone is a fun and engaging
Christian education program for age 3
(by 9/1/14) through Gr. 5. It utilizes a
highly relational large and small group
model to nurture children in faith and
community.
For information on mid-year
registration, please call (952) 985-7357
or e-mail [email protected].
GodZone Christmas Program Saturday, December 13
11:00 AM (Sun. 9:45 or Wed. 4:30
sessions)
1:00 PM (Sat. 4:00/5:30, Sun.
8:30/11:00, and Wed. 5:45/7:00
sessions)
The final GodZone sessions of 2014 will
be December 6, 7 & 10. Classes will then
be on break until the first week of 2015:
January 3, 4 & 7. Children are welcome
in worship each week with their family,
especially on Christmas Eve!
GodZone Family Movie Night Sunday, January 25 // 6:00 - 9:00 PM
Cost: TBD
Children, Preschool – Grade 5, and their
families are invited to SOTV to enjoy
popcorn, movies and family time.
Several different films will be shown.
Wear your snuggly jammies and bring a
blanket!
First Communion Classes
Tuesday, Jan. 27 at 7:00 PM
First Communion: Any worship service,
Jan. 31 or Feb. 1.
Tuesday, Mar. 31 at 7:00 PM
First Communion: Maundy Thursday,
Apr. 2 at 7:00 pm.
Children and at least one parent or
guardian must attend this one-night
to support readiness for this holy
sacrament. During class will be
discussion, role-playing, bread and
wine tasting, prayer, and time to ask
questions.
The Gathering Wednesdays, 7:00 - 8:00 PM
Cost: Free; No registration required
Make space in life to worship, pray, and
play! We gather each week to experience
Jesus in music, connections with other
teenagers, and renewal of body, mind,
and soul. Student-led, the Gathering is a
place where EVERYONE is welcome.
Come and see for yourself!
Panera Before School (PBS) Mondays, 6:30 - 7:00 AM
While school is in session
Two locations:
Apple Valley Panera (Cedar & CR 42)
Eagan Panera (Promenade Place)
Cost: Free (bring money for breakfast)
Kick off your week with a treat:
breakfast, faith friends, scripture and
prayer. Youth staff and volunteers will
meet you early at Panera and guarantee
you will be at school on time, wide
awake, and ready for anything!
Confirmation Wednesdays during the school year.
Gr. 6-8: 4:30, 5:45, or 7:00 PM
Gr. 9: various times
Students experience Jesus through
trusting relationships with peers and
adults, digging into scripture, and
conversations about life and faith.
For information on mid-year
registration, please call (952) 985-7351
or e-mail [email protected].
Special dates to note:
Dec. 24 and Dec. 31: Christmas Break
Jan. 14: 9th Grade Parent Night, 7:00 pm
February 11: 6th-8th Grade Parent Night
(4:30, 5:45 or 7:00 pm)
Feb. 18: Ash Wednesday Soup Supper
(5:00 - 7:30 pm) & Worship (4:30, 5:45,
7:00 pm). Small Groups resume Feb. 25
Mar. 25: Spring Break
(Continued on page 14)
Children
Youth
14 | WINTER 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Upcoming Events
Confirmation Christmas
Celebration Wednesday, December 17
4:30, 5:45 & 7:00 PM
A special night of Confirmation
celebrating Christmas. It's a regular
Confirmation night, but the theme will
be Christmas and you are invited to
bring friends!
Chuck E. Cheese (Grades 9-12)
Monday, December 29
Noon - 2:00 PM
Meet at Chuck E Cheese at Burnsville
Center. Bring your own money for pizza
and games. Register online to let us
know that you are coming.
Feed My Starving Children (Grade 6-8 & families)
Saturday, January 31
5:00 - 9:30 PM
Cost: $10 per person for bus
transportation and pizza supper.
It is also recommended that each
person give a $10 donation to Feed
My Starving Children.
Meet at SOTV at 5:00 pm for pizza
dinner, worship at 5:30 pm, and then
board the bus to head to Feed My
Starving Children to package meals for
children who are hungry in body and
spirit. We will return to church around
9:30 pm. Parents and siblings are also
invited to register.
Youth Ski Retreat (Grades 6-12)
Friday-Monday, February 13-16
Whitecap Mountain, Montreal, WI
(transportation from SOTV included)
Cost: $295 ($100 deposit will hold
your spot - rentals $40 extra)
9th Graders can use their $75
"9th Grade Confirmation Discount"
In addition to great skiing or boarding, it
is a full weekend of worship, devotion
and prayer. Any skill level is welcome.
March Mystery Madness
(Grade 6-8 )
Friday, March 6 - Saturday, March 7
7:00 PM - 12:30 AM
Meet at SOTV // Cost: $35
Bring your friends to SOTV experience
the “mystery” before we load the buses
for the “madness:” Last year, we went to
Nickelodeon Universe. Where will we go
this year? It is a secret for now, but be
assured, it will be great.! We want you to
invite all of your friends to join us.
2015 Summer Immersion Trips
and Summer Camp (Grades 6-12) Registration forms can be picked up in the
CYF Office. The form and a $200 deposit
will hold a spot in a trip. Camp registration
begins January 15 at www.campwapo.org
Experience Jesus in a powerful way by
traveling and serving with other youth
and adult leaders! Registration for
immersion trips was in November;
please check with the youth staff for
current trip availability. Check out the
2015 Summer Immersion Ministry
booklet online or in the CYF office. If an
immersion trip is not your thing, try out
the camps at Luther Dell, Ox Lake or
Journey of the Cross!
College Brunch Monday, December 29
10:00 AM - Noon // Cost: Free
Reconnect with church friends and
youth staff while enjoying a delicious
brunch! Facebook message Erin Swenson
-Hatzung to let her know you are
coming.
Send Barb your contact info so we can
stay in touch: 952-985-7351 or
Men’s Bible Study Tuesdays, 6:00 - 7:00 AM
Men’s Faith Discussion Thursdays, 6:30 - 8:00 AM
Sarah Circle Bible Study 2nd Saturdays, 8:30 - 9:30 AM
Shalom Circle Bible Study 3rd Thursdays, 1:30 - 3:30 PM
Women's Bible Study Thursdays, 7:00 - 8:30 PM
Beginning January 15 // Cost: Free
Study topic TBA
Sunday Adult Forum Sundays at 9:45 AM in the Chapel
Featured professors, teachers, and
members presenting topics connected to
our faith.
Dec. 7: Professor Philip Quanbeck, Jr.,
Augsburg College, “Bethlehem”
Jan. 18, 25 & Feb. 1: Professor Mark
Tranvik, Augsburg College, Topic TBA
Feb 8, 15, 22 & Mar. 1: Professor Matt
Skinner, Luther Seminary, “Where the
Bible Came From"
Financial Peace University Sundays, 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Jan. 11 - Mar. 15 (no class Feb 1)
Cost for a member kit: $93 (+shipping)
Free if you have materials already.
Register at www.sotv.org/FPU
At FPU, you’ll learn how to work a plan,
rewrite your story, and change your
future. This class meets for nine weeks,
one night a week. It incorporates small-
group discussions that help encourage
accountability and discipleship.
(Continued from page 13)
= No registration needed, come as you are! = Registration required = Free childcare, registration required 4= Webcast from Luther Seminary in St. Paul
College
Adult Ed
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 15
Upcoming Events
Boundaries with Kids Tuesday mornings or evenings:
9:45 - 11:15 AM or 6:30 - 8:00 PM
Jan. 13 - Mar. 10
Cost: $12/includes workbook
Led by Mim Campbell
Bible principles will help you recognize
the boundary issues underlying child
behavior problems while still being a
loving parent.
Practicing Prayer Thursdays, 10:00 - 11:00 AM
Jan 15 - Feb. 1 // Cost: Free
Led by Pastor Diane Sponheim
Join Pastor Diane Sponheim and guest
facilitators as we explore some prayer
practices together.
Corinthians Study 4 Luther Seminary Webcast
Mondays, 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Jan. 26 - Feb. 23 // Cost: $10
Led by Sarah Henrich, Professor
Emeritus of New Testament
How do ordinary folk (like us) discern
God's will for life in a complex society?
The Corinthians had lots of questions
and lots of possible answers. See how
Paul helps them frame their questions
and possibly our own as well.
Purposeful Retirement:
Passion and Happiness Tuesday, Feb. 10 at 10:00 AM
Cost: Free (Learn more on p. 9)
Discussion on the importance of finding
or having a passion and exploring ideas
on being filled with happiness. No books
to purchase or preparation needed to
attend this meeting.
Thursday Morning Bible Study:
Judges Thursdays, 9:30 - 11:30 AM
Feb. 12 – Mar. 26 // Cost: Free
Led by Pastor Mary Lund
The book of Judges tells the story of a
period of transition for the Israelite tribes.
God raised up judges, charismatic
leaders, to deliver the people from
oppression and lead them in faithful
obedience to the Lord.
Coffee for Men Wednesdays, 9:00 AM
Men who would like to get together to
visit over a cup of coffee or tea are
encouraged to join us. There's no agenda
other than connecting with other guys.
Woodworkers Group Wednesdays, 10:00 AM
Whether you are a beginner or more
advanced woodworker, join us to share
projects, ideas and conversation.
Shepherd Quilters
Mondays, 9:00 am - 4:00 PM
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.
GIGGLES (Girls in God Growing Loving Eating Sharing)
1st Thursdays, 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Women of all ages are welcome to a
monthly evening of fun to talk, laugh,
play games, eat, and pray together.
Mothers of Preschoolers
(MOPS) Thursdays (bimonthly), 9:30 - 11:30 AM Connect with mothers of children ages birth
through kindergarten (and moms-to-be).
Meetings are September - May. Cost: $35/
semester plus a once a year fee of $23.95.
Scholarships available. sotv.org/mops
Moms Group Wednesdays, 9:30 - 11:15 AM
Fellowship and support for mothers of all
ages and stages in a relaxed social setting.
Newcomers are always welcome, and so
are new babies!
Men’s Breakfast Saturday, December 6
8:00 – 10:00 AM // Cost: $10
Tom Bengtson, author of the book The
Geo Principle, will speak on how God is
in every occupation.
Christmas Memories (Event for Seniors 55+) Monday, December 8
Noon - 2:00 PM // Cost: $10
Besides a wonderful meal, there will be
entertainment, Christmas carols, and
sharing of Christmas memories. Santa
and Mrs. Claus will also be there!
Women’s January Breakfast Saturday, January 24
9:00 – 11:00 AM // Cost: $12
Changing the paradigm of aging and
caregiving with Kari Berit, radio host,
speaker, caregiver expert and author.
Coffee House: Soul Sounds Saturday, January 17
6:30 - 9:00 PM // Cost: $12
Sara Renner, “soul singer,” and her band
“The Elements” are a collection of
professional touring musicians, energetic
worship leaders, music educators and
downright FUNKY & FUN people. Join
us for appetizers, desserts, and coffee.
Love & Laughter
on Valentine’s Day Saturday, February 14
7:00 – 9:00 PM // Cost: TBD
Bring your sweetheart to join with other
couples for sweet treats! We will laugh
“with” or perhaps “at” leaders in our
community who are the stars of our very
own Hollywood Squares Game Show.
O.K.’s Potlucks (Event for Seniors 55+)
Tuesday, Jan. 27 at noon
Potluck, please bring a dish to share
Cost: Free
Tuesday, Feb. 24 at noon
Belated Valentines Dinner
Cost: $12 per person
(Continued on page 16)
Fellowship
16 | WINTER 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Upcoming Events
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!
Lunch & Christmas Gift Exchange Sunday, Dec. 7 at 12:15 PM
Meet at Fireside Restaurant in Rosemount
for lunch. Bring a $5 gift for a gift
exchange game.
Third Sunday Lunch @ Noon Sundays, Jan. 18 & Feb. 15 & Mar. 15
We will go out to eat together after the
11:00 am service.
Lunch & Movie at SOTV Saturday, Jan. 31 // Cost: $6
We will have a soup/sandwich lunch at
11:00 am, and watch the Helen Mirren
movie The Queen at 1:00 pm.
Tanzania Team Talk Saturday, Feb. 21 // 3:00 – 4:00 PM
Hear a presentation from a recent
traveler to Tanzania.
ADHD, Autism, & Other
Disabilities on the Spectrum Select Mondays, 6:45 – 9:00 PM
Cost: Free
Dec. 1: “Leaky Gut to Leaky Brain”
Richard Mayfield, DC, IFMCP, CCN,
Functional Medicine & Clinical Nutrition
Specialist
Jan. 26: “What's Next....and How Do I
Get There?” Marcia Mayo, M.A.,
Psychotherapist, ADHD Specialist, Educator
Feb. 23: “Controlling Your Emotions and
Behavior - Regardless of How
Disagreeably Others Treat You!”
Cindy Lea, MA, LMFT
Challenged by Cancer 2nd Tuesdays, 7:00 - 9:00 PM
An opportunity 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. The
Remembrance Service will be on Dec. 14
at 7:00 pm. No Dec. meeting.
Depression Support
Coalition Tuesday, Dec. 9, 7:00 - 8:30 PM
Hosted by Mary, Mother of the Church
3333 Cliff Road, Burnsville
Cost: Free. All are welcome.
“The Healing Journey When Dreams
Don’t Come True” presented by Barbara
Rudnick, Jewish Family and Community
Services (JFCS) Program Manager of
Family Life Education.
A new monthly speaker series, presented
by MN Mental Health Clinic in Eagan,
begins in February. It will be hosted by St
Thomas Beckett Catholic Church, 4455 S.
Robert Trail, Eagan.
Down Syndrome
Parent Support Group 3rd Sundays, 5:00 - 7:00 PM
(no Dec. meeting)
For additional information, contact
Suzy Runkel at (952) 891-5082 or
DivorceCare Dates TBA, 6:30 – 8:30 PM
Optional Cost: $20, includes workbook
Weekly videos with support group
discussion time.
Growing Through Loss Tuesdays, 7:00 – 9:00 PM
Registration at 6:30 // Apr. 7 - May 5
Hosted by Church of St. Joseph in
Rosemount // Freewill offering
Speakers TBA
GriefShare Dates TBA, 7:00 – 8:30 PM
Optional Cost: $20, includes workbook
Led by Pastor Diane Sponheim
Weekly videos with support group
discussion time. Please consult a pastor
(see p. 3) for counseling resources and
wait at least six months after your loss
before attending GriefShare.
Job Connection Group Tuesdays, 6:30 - 8:15 PM
Hosted by: Prince of Peace Christian
Life Center, Burnsville
For more information and to see titles of
upcoming classes: (952) 898-9388 or
popmn.org/gethelp/jobs
NAMI Parent
Resource Groups Thursday, Dec. 11; 2nd & 4th Tuesdays
starting Jan. 13, 2015.
6:00 - 8:00 PM // 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.
Suicide Survivor
Support Group 2nd Tuesdays & 4th Thursdays
7:00 – 8:30 PM
Mary Mother of the Church, 3333 Cliff
Road, Burnsville, Park in West parking
lot, enter main door, and look for sign.
Questions on any Support Group?
Contact: Julie Opheim,
(952) 985-7331
Scholarships are available for our programs.
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
4 = Webcast from Luther Seminary in St. Paul;
class meets at Shepherd of the Valley
(Continued from page 15)
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 17
Serving Others
Volunteer Profile: Niki Hebig Family stats: Adrian (husband), Austin (20), Rhett (19),
Katherine (15), Ellie (13)
Current role: Small Group Leader for Middle School Confirmation
Previous roles: Small Group Leader for GodZone & Vacation Bible
School
Why do you volunteer? It’s the easiest job I’ve ever had and the
rewards are immeasurable. It’s all about listening to kids, and
letting them know their group is a safe place to talk about their
faith.
Is it a lot of work? There’s very little prep work. The Children and
Youth staff set everything up for us. They give us everything we
need to teach and are always there if we need support.
Do you have to know the Bible inside-out to teach? No, and it’s
okay for leaders to not have all the answers. It lets your students
know that it’s okay to question your faith. You don’t need to be
afraid to question things, and it actually deepens your faith in
the end.
What’s the best part about leading a small group? Listening to
my group and seeing the light bulbs go on. I want my students to
think about God and faith in different ways, figuring out ways for
them to connect with God, and trust God in their daily lives. I get a
lot out of the conversations too. My students challenge me to see
things differently.
What is your one wish for SOTV’s ministry? I wish everyone knew
how easy it is to volunteer as a small group leader in GodZone or
Confirmation.
There are many ways to get involved in our ministry!
Check out sotv.org/volunteer for our most current
opportunities. Thank you to our many great volunteers
who are the hands and feet of Jesus Christ.
—T.S.
Outreach
Winter Outerwear & Mitten Tree Gently used winter outerwear donations can
be placed in the narthex collection box
throughout November and December.
The Mitten Tree accepts new hats, gloves/
mittens, scarves, etc. during December.
In the past 12 years, SOTV has distributed almost
8,000 winter outerwear clothing items and over
4,000 new mitten tree items, 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.
Christmas Gift Giving Monetary donations are being collected
throughout December for programs such as Heifer International, Tanzania Partnership,
Parish Nurse Program in Bethlehem, Pine Ridge
Indian Reservation, Ebola Outbreak Response,
MN Teen and Adult Challenge and SOTV’s choice
(depending on where it is needed the most). Full
details are available at the Welcome Center.
Deadlines for the shopping programs are coming
up quickly. For more information, please check
the weekly News for the Flock, or contact Lisa
Hegerman at [email protected] or (952) 985
-7329. Thank you for sharing God’s abundance!
Birthday Bag Supplies Donations can be placed in the narthex
collection box during the month of February.
Birthday Bag Outreach helps children in need by
providing birthday party supplies which parents
may not be able to afford. Donations needed
include: paper plates, napkins, invitations, cups,
party favors (these 5 items in packs of 8 when
possible), balloons and candles.
Red Cross Blood Drive Tuesday, February 3 // 12:30 - 6:30 PM
To donate, register online at sotv.org/redcross or
sign up at the Welcome Center.
Volunteers are needed to make appointments,
greet and serve in the canteen. To volunteer, call
Lisa Loher at (651) 683-9127.
18 | WINTER 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Faith Testimony
Y ou may see me at
church from time to
time. I’ve been attending
SOTV since I was five
years old.
After a short hiatus, I’m back as an
interim employee in Children,
Youth, and Family Ministry. I’ve
been enjoying my bike rides here
from my Eagan home, and I’m
blessed to have this support system
in the midst of life transitions.
My life a year ago was tremendously
different. After getting my degree in
Elementary Education from Concor-
dia College – Moorhead, God called
me to a year of service through the
ELCA’s Young Adults in Global
Mission Program (think Lutheran
Peace Corps.) In a concrete sense, I
was placed in London, England to
volunteer as a literacy intervention
specialist in the local schools. In a
more abstract sense, I’ve learned to
see, feel, smell, taste, and listen in
new ways. I have experienced God’s
presence in a city full of need as the
Spirit creates beauty in unexpected
ways.
It was a challenge to make London
my home for a year – the glamorous
tourist sites I had seen in the movies
contrasted with the realities I saw in
my London district of Peckham. Ac-
cording to my British friends, inner-
city Peckham has many of the nega-
tive stereotypes that we Americans
associate with our own “rough”
places like Detroit or the Bronx.
Poverty, crime, and broken families
were a norm. Some of my literacy
students were babysat by an iPad
and junk food instead of the atten-
tion of a caring adult. My feet often
dodged trash and fried chicken
bones that riddled our sidewalks.
Shop doorways contained people
with no place to sleep at night. So
much life has been sacrificed to the
idols of consumerism that London
has built in the last two thousand
years of its existence – souls get
trampled when we are kept out of
sync from the Love that created us.
Yet I saw these pains as merely the
beginning of a new creation - God
breathes healing, ancient stardust
(Continued on page 19)
Exploring England with the ELCA By Emily Kimball
This page, top: Babysitting my supervisor's
child.
Bottom: Singing Christmas carols with the
Peckham All Saints Anglican Church choir.
Next page, top: Eating cupcakes with
my flatmates.
Bottom: Hiking with Dorothea, my friend
from London.
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 19
Faith Testimony
into us every day. I experienced it in
Peckham when it moved through my
supervisors and colleagues to create
safe spaces in which children could
learn without fear. It moved through
my All Saints Church family who
made joyful music, initiated social
justice projects in the greater com-
munity, and brewed cups of tea for
us on chilly days. God breathed life
into the work of artists, social work-
ers, police officers, health care pro-
viders, musicians, Pilates instructors,
and librarians who healed the public
in their various spheres. Local gar-
deners shared God’s love by calling
forth Creation, connecting urban
dwellers back to food straight from
the earth. Love can look like a lot of
things, especially when God heals us
with joy from every angle.
My students continually showed me
what the face of Jesus looks like:
their families were from Nigeria,
Lithuania, Ireland, Cuba, Sierra
Leone, Ukraine, Jamaica, Spain,
China, Portugal, Angola, Somalia,
Bangladesh, and England. They were
raised on the resilience of adults who
have been refugees, single parents,
wise grandparents, survivors of
domestic abuse, as well as struggling
gang members and addicts who seek
a better way of living. These young
people spoke multiple languages,
played sports, went to choir practice,
hung out with their families at the
local fruit stands and hair salons,
looked after their younger siblings,
and would happily dance and belt
out “Let It Go” from Frozen on their
way back to class. If all the world’s
politicians had a fraction of the
knowledge and joy these young ones
and their families experience, we
could probably accomplish world
peace by tomorrow.
Nearly three hundred years ago, the
poet William Blake came to Peckham
and saw a vision of “a tree filled with
angels, bright angelic wings bespan-
gling every bough with stars.” Please
join me in prayer, that God may nur-
ture the tree that holds London and
the Twin Cities, continually creating
a place that nurtures the angels who
abide here. May we be fully present
as the children of God, part of the
Beloved Creation, exploring the
boughs of the home we’ve been
given. May Christ inspire us to
venture off to meet our Creator in
the angels who live on different
boughs…around the world and
down the street.
I’m looking forward to being back
with you angels in my SOTV family,
enjoying our lefse, snowy winters,
and Lutheran hymns and liturgy.
Thank you for being one of the
welcoming homes I’ve been blessed
to have in my life.
Much love,
Emily
To learn more about the Young Adults
in Global Mission Program of the
ELCA, visit www.elca.org/YAGM
20 | WINTER 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
Global Missions
D uring our recent visit, several of our travelers took time
to have a long conversation with Dr. Barnabas
Kahwage, asking how SOTV can support a long term
plan for healthcare in Tungamalenga. We also met a very special
boy named Frankie.
We have a unique
opportunity to make a
difference in our 2015
capital campaign, which
includes proposals for
projects onsite and pro-
jects that reach out to
trusted partners locally
and globally. In 2007, a
similar capital campaign
included $60,000 to fund
a new ward at the Tung-
amalenga Dispensary, an
investment in healthcare
for our partners that
benefitted a whole
community.
Dr. Barnabas Kahwage
has been in charge of the
clinic since 2002. Trained
both as a pastor and a
medical clinician, he
brings a unique set of
skills to the people
of this area. He is one of the best educated clinicians in the area,
having upgraded his degree in 2007, and has continued his edu-
cation with specialized training in screening for cervical cancer,
long term family planning methods, and care for people with
HIV/AIDS.
We've heard many
reports of patients
coming to this private
clinic after visiting
other local facilities
and not receiving the
help they needed.
In addition to his
advanced training, Dr. Barnabas offers a health care ethic of
treating the whole patient.
"We have personal relationships in a church dispensary," he
explained. "The ethics of a church dispensary is to love every
one, to care for them with love. If they go to a government
dispensary and are not
treated very well, they
come here even if it is
very far for them."
We saw that ethic in
action when we took a
boy named Frankie to the
clinic after his parents
asked us to pray for his
health in Mahove.
Frankie had been para-
lyzed in a fall six months
prior to our visit, and
had spent three months
in a hospital before being
sent home. His parents
did not understand or
had not been instructed
in how to care for him to
prevent bedsores. Frank-
ie's wounds were deep
and infected.
His parents were initially reluctant to accept our offer to take
Frankie to the clinic, saying that they had already sold all they
had to pay for his care. We offered to take care of the bill ($50 for
a month's stay). The care provided included instructions for
Frankie’s parents (keep on clean bedding, turn frequently,
cleaning the wounds, etc).
Dr. Barnabas and his staff provide this high level of care to
patients 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Dr. Barnabas lives
next door to the clinic, and is routinely at work early mornings
until late evening, even after calls that bring him to the clinic in
the middle of the night.
(Continued on page 21)
A Long Term Plan for
Tanzania Healthcare By Kirsten Levorson, Tanzania Partnership Coordinator
tungamalenga.blogspot.com
Above: Alice, Dr. Barnabas's wife, arranged for local women to bring meals to Frankie and
to his Mama who stayed with him in the clinic. Below: Dr. Barnabas and patients.
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 21
Global Missions
What things are needed to support and
expand this level of care for our partners
in Tungamalenga?
Construction of another building to
house a separate Reproductive and
Child Health (RCH) center is one of
the top needs. This would be used to
provide outpatient services which are
subsidized by the government and
offered free of charge to clients.
An ambulance would be lifesaving.
In this area, most of the transportation
is by walking; some people have bikes
and a few have motorcycles. There is
one bus at 5 AM daily that can carry
patients four hours to the nearest
hospital. A Land Cruiser that doctors
could use to bring patients to the clinic,
or transport them to a city hospital
when necessary, would save so many
lives.
Staffing and training is another
important need. Dr. Barnabas plans
another two year course to upgrade
his certification from Clinical Officer
(roughly equivalent to our Physician
Assistant) to Assistant Medical Officer
(roughly equivalent to our Medical
Doctor).
These are just a few of the many healthcare
needs. We ask that you keep prayerfully
consider supporting Shepherd of the
Valley’s Capital Campaign which begins
in January 2015. Wouldn't it be wonderful
to have both the best healthcare provider
in the area, and the best facility to care for
our partners' health?
From Palestine
to Minnesota
is a graduate student at St. Cloud State University working to
use tolerance and understanding as avenues of coexistence in
the Middle East and throughout the world.
Walid was born in a refugee camp in Palestine where severe poverty, violence and
grief prevailed. He participated in programs offered by Christmas Lutheran ELCA
Church in Bethlehem and graduated from the high school run by the church.
After witnessing the killing of his teacher he was given the opportunity to come
to Minnesota to attend college and graduated from St. Cloud State with a degree
in economics.
In 2012 he was chosen as one of ten young people, 5 Israelis and 5 Palestinians, to
participate in the New Story Leadership for the Middle East, a peace-building initi-
ative. He said in an article in the Times of Israel, “I never had the chance to get to
know Israelis and the American Jewish community from the inside. By sharing an
office with them I was struck by how they’re trying to do good things for the new
generation in Israel and Palestine by working toward a two-state solution”. Since
then he has worked to co-found an organization that aims to develop a model for
empowering todays’ leaders from areas of political conflict with negotiation and
creative problem solving skills.
SOTV’s support of the programs of Christmas Lutheran Church and its affiliated
American charity Bright Stars of Bethlehem sustain young people such as Walid
in their efforts to bring hope and peace to their troubled region.
For more information, and to get involved, please contact [email protected].
Portions of this article originally appeared in "On the Road to Peace, Tolerance and
Understanding" by Marsha Shoemaker. St. Cloud State Outlook, Spring 2014.
Walid Issa
By Ann Boekhoff
Holy Land Shepherds
Ad
am
Ha
mm
er
, S
t. C
lou
d S
tate
22 | WINTER 2015 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church | Main office: (952) 432-6351 | www.sotv.org
God’s blessings to these families who
celebrated the Sacrament of Baptism
in August, September, and October, 2014.
Grace Harlow Monson, daughter of
Jenna and Nicholas Monson
Eliza Mary McNamara, daughter of
Marisa and Michael McNamara
Kate Marie Granberg, daughter of
Melissa and Derek Granberg
Kinsley Marie Kadow, daughter of
Brooke and Michael Kadow
Grant Ward Swanson, son of
Tara and Ryan Swanson
Cameron Sidney Cison, son of
Carly and Jacob Cison
Elizabeth Emerson Nicklay, daughter of
Ashley and Scott Nicklay
Madeline Irene Kearney, daughter of
Dannelle Bautista
Brennan Madeline Machacek, daughter
of Laura and Joseph Machacek
Kayla Kay Jaakola, daughter of
Jody and Curtis Jaakola
Nelson Jeffrey Whyte, son of
Annabelle and Matthew Whyte
Marta Alice Veliz, daughter of
Shelby and Joseph Veliz
Everleigh Paige Yang, daughter of
Lasa Som Yang
Maya Elise Anderson, daughter of
Ellvia and Ray Anderson
Natalie Ann Bremer Henry, daughter of
Sara and Brendan Henry
Audrey Claire Molitor, daughter of
Amanda Pederson and Jamey Molitor
Lilian Mae Giller, daughter of
Lindsey and Matthew Giller
Olivia Hayden Bates, daughter of
Kristin and Christopher Bates
Rosabelle Maria Realivasquez, daughter
of Rachel and Luis Realivasquez
Ezra John Olson, son of
Lara and Dan Olson
Joviana Loretta Hesselberg, daughter,
and Bradley Arthur Hesselberg, son, of
Genevieve and Brad Hesselberg
Luke Rodger Farrow, son of
Tiffany and James Farrow
Dylan Clay Cosgrove, son of
Julie and Dan Cosgrove
Isla Noelle DeNet, daughter of
Lindsey and Bill DeNet
Emily Clare Zielinski, daughter of
Angie and Brad Zielinski
Joseph Byron Severin, son of
Diane and Adam Severin
Mason Paul Peterson, son of
Katy and John Peterson
Jonah Lavern Smisek and
Judah Lawrence Smisek, sons of
Samantha Urban and Philip Smisek
Kaylie Coleen Luth, daughter of
Katie and Steve Luth
Emily Claudia Simser, daughter,
and Maxwell Oscar Simser, son,
of Lisa Simser and Jason Simser
To schedule a baptism, see p. 13.
Congratulations to the following couples
on their recent nuptials. To schedule a
wedding, please contact Jill Johnson at
(952) 985-7381 or
August 2, 2014
Nathan and Kelsey (Collins) Palm
August 15, 2014
Tom and Diane (Pottratz) Carter
August 30, 2014
Jeremy and Amanda (Nutzman)
Stankoski
September 6, 2014
Donald and Susan (Jamieson) Kiser
October 4, 2014
Milestones
Weddings
Welcome to our new members received
in worship on October 19, 2014.
Jose & Karen Alegria (Adrian, Avyanna)
Kent & Daneen Braaten (Jonah)
Chad & Schelle Dahlke (Keaton, Kenley)
Scott Devit
Justin & Jaymi Drogseth
Sarah & Mike Durfee (William)
Samuel Gonzalo-Vela & Jennifer Mullenix (Nicolas, Oliver)
Ann Goyette
Mark & Paula Hurt
Richard Rank & Mary Kanak
Luke & Allison King (Ella, Brody)
Christian & Andi Loger (Lucas, Grace, Caleb)
Bob & Carone Lyng
Aldrea Malo
Rita & Dale Meyer
Lyle & Pat Olson
Sara & Dave Peterson (Rebecca, Elizabeth, Oscar)
Mike & Brooke Schaeffer
Michael & Shannon Wakefield (Zachary, Allison)
Our Vision: Invite all people to experience the welcome, transformation, and sending of Jesus Christ | 23
Milestones
Maria Cooper upon the death of her father, Bob Wiggins
Phyllis Normand upon the death of her brother, Bill Beckendorf
Dave Brueshoff upon the death of his mother, Marie Brueshoff
Ellen Spurlock upon the death of her mother, Elvina Syltie
Ivan Janssen upon the death of his brother, Jody John Janssen
Greg Buck upon the death of his sister, Stephanie Buck
Carolyn Pedersen upon the death of her son-in-law, Larry
Steve Huff upon the death of his father, John Huff
Harlan Anderson upon the death of his brother, Rodney Anderson
Elisabeth Abernathy upon the death of her friend, Florence Hiniker
Gloria McMorran upon the death of her cousin, Tim Stelter
Dale Thuftedal upon the death of his sister, Cheryl Nelson
Pat Bartow upon the death of her husband, John Bartow
Edna Weisjahn upon the death of her sister, Delores Espeseth
Al Sprute upon the death of his cousin, Delores Espeseth
Kris Romsdal upon the death of her father, Francis Romsdal
Charlotte Peterson upon the death of her husband, John Peterson
Pam Geddes upon the death of her mother, Patricia Atkins
Bob Fredrickson upon the death of his mother, Hazel Fredrickson
Merilu Narum upon the death of her godmother, Edna Beers
Debra & Brianna Runke upon the death of their husband and father, Duane Runke
Bob Atwood upon the death of his mother, Edna Atwood
Daniel Messner upon the death of Everleigh Yang
Dave Bailey upon the death of his wife, Juli Bailey
Cliff Bailey upon the death of her mother, Juli Bailey
Lauree Smith upon the death of her mother, Juli Bailey
Lori Hertzberg upon the death of her cousin, Rock Lopour
Steve Mueller upon the death of his aunt, Betty Mueller
Gary Olson upon the death of his uncle, Russ Olson
Karen Groves upon the death of her mother, Ann Berg
Dawn Della Paolera upon the death of her aunt, Phyllis Ostbye
Jeff & Amy Bell upon the death of their nephew, Scott Bell
Greg Nesheim upon the death of his father, Don Nesheim
John Robertson upon the death of his father, Raymond Robertson
Joy Haag upon the death of her husband, Dale Haag
Cathy Bloomquist upon the death of her uncle, Edward Freundschuh
Brad Brunn upon the death of his father, Harold Brunn
Brian Johnston upon the death of his wife, Linda Johnston
Joyce Gustafson upon the death of her friend, Patricia Schlorf
Bill Ireland upon the death of his cousin, Earl Ireland
Paul Williams upon the death of his mother, Helen Williams
Suzanne Sanders upon the death of her father, Jim Sanders
Our prayers are with these members who
have recently experienced the death of a
loved one.
O n Sunday, October 12, 34 men and women
participated in the fall new member class led by
Pastor Mary Lund. Together, this class learned about
Shepherd of the Valley’s vision, what Lutherans believe,
and the value of offering our time, talent and treasure.
Each family got a chance to introduce themselves, ask
Pastor Mary questions, and enjoy brunch and fellowship
together. This diverse group learned they have much in
common and are excited to be a part of the Shepherd of the
Valley family. Please join in welcoming these newest
members to SOTV! The next New Member Class is
Sunday, January 11, 2015 at 11:00 am. See p. 13.
24 | WINTER 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
GodZone Christmas Program Saturday, December 13
11:00 AM (Sun. 9:45 or Wed. 4:30 sessions)
1:00 PM (Sat. 4:00/5:30, Sun. 8:30/11:00,
and Wed. 5:45/7:00 sessions)
Sounds of the Season Concert
Sunday, December 14 // 6:00 PM // Sanctuary
Get in the Christmas spirit! SOTV music groups
perform your favorite carols.
Remembrance Service Sunday, December 14 // 7:00 PM // Great Hall
A Worldwide Candle Lighting at 7pm around the
globe for all children who have died...that their light
may always shine.
Travelers’ Christmas Worship
Wednesday, December 17 // 7:00 PM
Celebrate Christmas at Shepherd of the Valley
even if you will be traveling over Christmas Eve.
Christmas Eve Worship
Wednesday, December 24
Family Services: 11:00 AM & 1:00 PM
Candlelight: 2:30, 3:45, 5:00, 6:15, 8:00 PM
Candlelight (with Communion): 9:30 & 11:00 PM
Recommended