news fortheflock

12650 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Valley, MN 55124 | 952.432.6351 | sotv.org

DECEMBER

2019

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Sometimes Advent is understood simply as the season that sprints to Christmas, a season to get through in order to get to the good stuff. But there is more to this season than that. Advent begins in darkness. It tells the honest truth about the human condition. It calls us to face some hard realities. And to wait.

Like it or not, we human beings spend a lot of time waiting. Some, including many sleeping at the Dakota County Emergency Shelter, are waiting for a new place to live, perhaps a new job, for the chance at a more secure sense of belonging and home.

Waiting in darkness makes us all aware of our need of light. Hungry people are daily aware of their need for food. War-devastated countries wait for peace. The displaced long for a place to live. The poor wait for the possibility of hope. The lonely long for companionship. Those suffering illness wait to be well. Those who have fallen through the cracks look for a place to stand.

Advent is a season in which the whole world waits, but not without hope.

This is reflected in our worship. The blue of our altar paraments reminds us of a color of dark night, but with the faint glow of the approaching dawn. At first there is just one candle, a slight sliver of light. And then two… The Advent wreath is a symbol of our waiting and the ever widening circle of light swells the hope that God has not abandoned us, has the power to make things new, even here, even now.

This Advent we will be encouraged to keep awake in the darkness, because God arrives unexpectedly both in time and in those who bear his presence. God does not show up in a palace but in a stable. John the Baptizer will call us to prepare the way of the Lord by bearing fruits that befit repentance, by feeding the hungry, providing shelter for the homeless, caring for those in need, lifting those who have fallen.

Isaiah will remind us that the way of the Lord comes through the wilderness, transforming that foreboding place into a fertile land of abundance and possibility. Matthew will reflect that hope by reporting that Jesus gave sight to the blind, led the lame to walk, caused the deaf to hear, cleansed lepers, raised the dead, and preached good news to the poor. As our anticipation continues to build, as we light the final candle on the wreath, as the dawn ever so slowly breaches the horizon, an angel announces an amazing pregnancy.

We need Advent. We need it’s truth and simplicity. We need it’s honesty - often the world and our lives are dark. We need its power to call us into silent hope and waiting and to know our deep longing for God.

Advent is a gift. Hear it call you to reflect and to hope, even when it’s hard to see. Let it slow your busyness and allow you to be. Watch how Advent sheds a dawning light on our aching and longing and need for one another. See how it reveals the needs each of us have and calls us all to this community that provides holy shelter for us all, this place in which God promises to be present, this gathering that feels like home.

The time will come to celebrate at Christmas. To light all the candles, to sing all the songs, to hear the angels sing.

The time will come to hear the old, old story of a homeless child born in poverty and we will realize again that God’s light comes in unexpected ways, through unusual circumstances, among surprising people. The time will come to celebrate this God of ours who brings hope to the despairing, something from nothing, life from death. This God of ours who shows up, is with us, for us, one of us.

Let’s wait for it.

2 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church (SOTV)

Waiting...

Rick SummySenior Pastor

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Church News

Nativities

C offee Cup Chal lengeDid you hear about the Coffee Cup Challenge in worship on November 23 or 24? We talked about the many ways we respond to God’s love every day by sharing our unique gifts with others. We also learned that if we work together, we can make a bigger difference than we ever could alone. If you weren’t here, please pick up a card at the Welcome Center to learn more.The Coffee Cup Challenge is an invitation for each of us to do something relatively small that can make a big difference. If each of us gave an extra $5 per week —about the cost of a cup of coffee – we’d have nearly $500,000 to meet needs, change lives, and restore hope! Will you take the Coffee Cup Challenge? Will you give an extra $5 per week to care for others in response to God’s love for you?

Have you seen the nativities throughout the building in December? Thanks to Ann, we can see sets from around the world!

Ann Bloomquist Jarema has been collecting nativity scenes for the last ten years, and sharing them at church for the last seven. At first, Ann saw that the church was displaying nativities at Christmas and she offered to share a few of hers. Once she saw people enjoying the nativities, especially the children in awe of some animal scenes, she knew she wanted to keep collecting!For a couple of years, Ann’s work required international travel. Along with her colleagues, she would spend her free time searching for nativities. The biggest adventure she encountered finding a nativity was in Bulgaria. Ann hired a tour guide to find churches in the area so she could find a nativity. Her tour guide took her by an artisan market where a lady was selling painted eggshells (one of her most fragile nativities). Since the area isn’t into material symbolism, making nativities was a rebellious thing to do, so she was lucky to find one.Besides Bulgaria, Ann’s nativity sets come from Peru, Portugal, South Africa, Kenya, England, Colombia, Russia, Chile, Uruguay, Israel, Bulgaria, Nicaragua, the Philippines, and the majority from Mexico. Her favorite is a recent purchase from Santiago, Chile, where a local artisan hand-crafted a tiny blue blown glass set that is captivating when you see the light shine through it.Ann shares over 30 nativities with us, and you can find most of them in the atrium story wall. Children-specific nativities are located by the Children, Youth, & Family office in the glass case. We also have one displayed under the Christmas tree in the Chapel, made by Cathy Bloomquist (Ann’s mother) and Cathy’s mother-in-law.“My family helps set-up the display. It is fun to do this with my parents and kids (when my daughter is home from college and my son is available). This is something I like to give from my family to yours.” - Ann

4 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church (SOTV)

Church News

Bernie ZimmermannChurch Council MemberI was baptized as an adult at SOTV in 1995 and have been with the church since then. God’s grace and the loving community of this church are what drew me to SOTV. Having grown

up in a more fundamentalist church, I had rejected my faith for several years and found my way back to Jesus through SOTV. It was the Lutheran concept of grace that really resonated with me, and the loving members of this community who welcomed me with open arms.Currently, I serve on Church Council and the Finance leadership team. I also play the piano at the 11:00 am band-led worship service about once a month. My wife and I have been participating in many adult education programs over the years (such as Crossways, Financial Peace University, and Faith Connect), founded the ‘Young Families’ group and led it together for several years, and we participate in other events as our schedules allow.I am married to my wonderful wife – Anna, and we have three kids (Eli, Malin, Ezra). I was born and raised in Switzerland, came here as a foreign exchange student in high school (Rosemount) and have been living here ever since. My work is in business strategy consulting and in my free time I love to play and compose music, spend time outdoors, read a good book, or play speed-chess.

Linda NelsonPreschool DirectorI became a member about 15 years ago when I was pregnant with my oldest daughter. I was active in Moms group for many years, and volunteered for VBS and the Shepherd Scholarship

committee. While my daughters were in preschool, the director found out I was a teacher and asked me to be a substitute teacher at SOTV. I was a substitute SOTV preschool teacher for 3 years and then was hired on staff. I have been a full time employee at SOTV for 7 years, 1 year as a teacher and 6 years as Preschool Director.As Preschool Director, I take care of the administrative tasks for the preschool (boring things like keeping in compliance with the state and managing paperwork). I manage communication with the families and the congregation at large, plan events, and support the teachers in their classroom planning.The favorite part of my day is giving high fives and calling each preschool student by name at least once each day!I really love my job! The relationships that I form with people mean a lot to me. I love being able to welcome and connect people with what they may want or need. It is the perfect blend of responsibility and flexibility to be able to keep a good home/work balance.

Staff Highlight Church C ouncil Highlight

Listening to the C ongregationOctober was a busy month spent listening to the congregation. It started with Pastor Rick introducing four key priorities for SOTV based on his listening over the past few years, and the congregation voting for their top choice during worship services. That was followed by paper and electronic surveys, thirteen focus groups, and lots of conversations. After getting through the month, we have 705 surveys, about 40 pages of focus group notes, and lots of charts and graphs to study. We will be diving into the data over the coming weeks and months, but here are some interesting observations from the data that I look forward to exploring and testing:

• The younger the respondent, the more important to have a personal connection. Younger people hear about our ministries from other people, and are more likely to attend when they are personally invited or know people who will be there.

• Younger people are less connected to worship than older people. But younger people are more engaged in learning than older people.• People that feel connected here are engaged in a variety of ministries (worship, learn, connect, and care). People that aren’t as engaged as

they’d like to be primarily see connection to worship only.• The main reason people value connection to church is to pass faith on to children or other loved ones.

What’s next?• In upcoming newsletters, I will break down the survey results in smaller chunks and share correlating focus group feedback. I’ll start in

January 2020 with the four priorities.• Most weeks an update is shared on the website. Check it out to see the latest news: sotv.org/survey.• Staff are starting to connect with people based on their skills and interests. We know that when people get connected with their faith

community, both the church AND the individual can benefit. We look forward to finding traditional and new ways to engage more people. • Various leadership teams and Church Council will be discussing survey results and their implications.

Do you have a question or something to share? Contact Kari Slotten at kari.slotten@sotv.org.

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Our Deepest Sympathy

Baptisms

Marriage

Jeff Taphorn on the death of mother, Lois Taphorn

Dee Eppen on the death of husband, Burt Eppen

Marcia Anderson on the death of mother, Mary Jane Tolo

Family and friends of Dennis ParkinsonFamily and friends of Priscilla StarnJohn Wilharm on the death of mother,

Joan WilharmDonna Polski on the death of

grandmother, Rosella Mae GisslenLana Schaefer on the death of mother,

Lucile BeckerMarv Odell on the death of father,

Marv Odell, Sr.Family and friends of Betty ZeyenFamily and friends of Gene DuffSharon Mertz on the death of husband,

Leon HenricksonJill Anderson on the death of husband,

Mark Anderson

Connor Jeffrey Christensen, son of Jeff & Alena Christensen

Morgan Elizabeth Emanuel, daughter of Jason & Annie Emanuel

Nolan Jonathon Schultz, son of Parker & Kristina Schultz

Oliver Thomas Byers, son of Thomas & Whitney Byers

Nora Rae Larson, daughter of Nathan & Tara Larson

Kennedy Lynn Fiskey, daughter of Ryan & Katie Fiskey

November 2, 2019 - Christian & Courtney (Andresen) Maldonado

Church NewsChurch Council: Michael Kelly, President Cheryl Seely, Vice President Jim Winslow, Secretary Michael Schaeffer, Treasurer Rick Summy, Senior Pastor Dave Brueshoff Emily CapraLynn Hernandez Ken Syverson Rachel WermerskirchenNikki ZechesBernie Zimmermann council@sotv�org

Main Office: 952.432.6351

Children, Youth, & Family (CYF): 952.432.6385

All other numbers: 952.985 (+ ext)

Pastors: Rick Summy - 7301Lindsey Bina - 7351Randy Brandt - 7302Wendy Steger - 7305

Baptisms:Mary Pottratz - 7321

Weddings: Jill Johnson - 7381

Preschool:Linda Nelson - 7370

Finance:Dawn Della Paolera - 7315

Funerals:Jill Johnson - 7381

Staff email addresses:first.last@sotv.org

Full staff directory at sotv�org/staff

Capital Fund UpdateCouncil approved a Capital Fund designation of $25,000 in November. $20,000 is designated toward debt reduction, $3,750 allocated to facility needs, and $1,250 allocated to outreach.

Plans for the outreach allocation include supporting capital projects for Camp Wapo and the Rosemount Family Resource Center.

Your gifts make a difference! Through your generous support, we’re eliminating debt to position us well for the future, AND making a difference in our church and community today. Thank you!

To learn more or give online, visit our website at sotv.org/give.

Updates in your family? If you have recent changes to your family or contact information, please update it on Realm.

Request an invitation to join Realm at sotv�org/realm.

You can also call Sam Heiting at 952.985.7310.

EmploymentDo you have a passion for serving others?Please consider applying for one of these part time openings:

• Kitchen & Hospitality Coordinator

• Kitchen Assistant

• Worship Assistant

• Live Sound Engineer Assistant

Visit sotv.org/employment for details.

Pastor Randy says, “Wow, the first chapters of this book are inspirational, thought-provoking, and theologically solid! I have just started reading this book because Professor Bussie is scheduled as a guest speaker at SOTV on Saturday, February 22. Love Without Limits is full of personal stories with universal relevance, taking seriously ‘Jesus’ radical vision for love,’ and offering insight for making God’s radical love real in our everyday lives. I thoroughly recommend this book and it has increased my eagerness to hear Jacqueline speak to us in just a few months. This is a book that will stay on my list to recommend to others.”

What the staff’s reading these days���Love Without Limits by Jacqueline A. Bussie

Looking to volunteer?We need help with Sunday morning fellowship and bakery pick-up on Saturdays. Contact jennifer.davidson@sotv.org for info.

Shepherd Valley Lutheran Churchofthe

12650 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Valley, MN 55124952.432.6351 • sotv.org

Welcome Home for ChristmasWednesday, December 18Travelers Candlelight Service

7:00 pm

Tuesday, December 24Family Services

10:00 am 11:30 am

Candlelight Services 1:30 pm 3:00 pm 4:30 pm 6:00 pm 8:00 pm 9:30 pm 11:00 pm

Shepherd Valley Lutheran Churchofthe

12650 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Valley, MN 55124952.432.6351 • sotv.org

Welcome Home for ChristmasWednesday, December 18Travelers Candlelight Service

7:00 pm

Tuesday, December 24Family Services

10:00 am 11:30 am

Candlelight Services 1:30 pm 3:00 pm 4:30 pm 6:00 pm 8:00 pm 9:30 pm 11:00 pm

6 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church (SOTV)

NOVEMBER 30/DECEMBER 1

DECEMBER 7 & 8

DECEMBER 28 & 29

DECEMBER 21 & 22

DECEMBER 14 & 15

Preaching: Wendy StegerGood News for Kids

Preaching: Randy BrandtHoly Communion at all services

Good News for Kids

Preaching: Lindsey BinaHoly Communion at all services

Good News for Kids

Preaching: Rick SummyBaptism weekend

Good News for Kids

Preaching: Lindsey BinaChristmas Carols & Lessons

Good News for Kids

WEEKEND WORSHIPSaturday Service: 5:00 pm Organ/Piano-led

Sunday Services: 8:30 & 9:45 am Organ/Piano-led

11:00 am Band-led

WORSHIP

Christmas C oncerts & ProgramsWelcome Christmas by VocalEssenceSaturday, December 7 at 7:30 pm

Christmas Jazz ConcertSunday, December 8 at 6:30 pm

SPCO Christmas ConcertThursday, December 12 at 7:00 pm

GodZone Christmas ProgramSaturday, December 14 at 11:00 am & 1:00 pm

Cantus Choral Christmas ConcertSaturday, December 14 at 7:30 pm

Sounds of the Season ConcertSunday, December 15 at 6:00 pmFor more information on the concerts and programs and to see if you need to purchase tickets, visit sotv.org/events or pick up a promo card near the building entrances.

Nursery available at all services EXCEPT 8:00 pm, 9:30 pm, & 11:00 pm

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LEARN

For ongoing men’s and women’s Bible studies, visit sotv�org/groups.

Study & EnrichmentSunday Forum9:45 – 10:45 am in the ChapelNo registration necessaryDecember 1: No Forum (Thanksgiving)December 8: Adolescent/Teenage Opioid Addiction, Dr. Jeannine Leonard, Retired Spiritual Care Professional at Hazelden-Betty FordDecember 15: Adult/Elderly Opioid Addiction, Chris Summy, ELCA Deacon and Spiritual Care Professional at Hazelden-Betty FordDecember 22 & 29: No Forum (Christmas)

Women’s Bible Study: Because of BethlehemThursdays, December 5 - January 2 (no class Dec 26)10:00 - 11:30 am or 6:30 – 8:00 pmCost: Free, purchase study guide on your ownMax Lucado loves Christmas. The carols and cookies, decorations and favorite films, warmth and generosity of the season. But most of all, he loves that people will wonder about the baby born in the manger. This little baby became the King on the cross. Christmas proclaims the truth of Easter to come. All women welcome! Register at sotv.org/events.

Upcoming Women’s Tuesday Morning Bible Study: January 7 - May 26: To Live in Christ (Beth Moore study)

“Jonah: It’s Not About the Fish!”Monday, January 1310:00 – 11:30 am or 6:30 – 8:00 pmLed by: Pastor RandyThis one-time bible study will look at the Old Testament book of Jonah to discover a story from God about you and me! Learn cultural and historical background of this ancient parable, then discover how God is speaking to us in the pages of these five chapters. (Gold Fish crackers will be served.) Register at sotv.org/events.

Racial Truth and ReconciliationMovie Night in the Chapel6:30 - 9:00 pmDecember 5: Same Kind of Different as Me (rated PG-13) Based on the inspiring true story of international art dealer Ron Hall, who befriends a homeless man in hopes of saving his struggling marriage to Debbie, a woman whose dreams will lead all three of them on the most remarkable journey of their lives.

Join us for refreshments and an optional discussion following the movie. Register at sotv.org/events.

Upcoming Movies: January 2: The Central Park Five (not rated)

Purposeful Retirement “Votes for Women” Celebrating the Courageous Women & Men in Our FamiliesSaturday, December 710:00 am – 12:00 pmThe passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920 expanded voting rights for women and opened up an entire new century of civic engagement. Learn more about Woman Suffrage in Minnesota, and how voting rights continue to expand and be challenged. Register at the Welcome Center or sotv.org/events.

Christmas Lunch: “Christmas Traditions Through Song”Tuesday, December 1012:00 pmCost: $20Register at the Welcome Center or sotv.org/events.

Save the Date for these upcoming Purposeful Retirement Events:Downsize to Right SizeSaturday, January 4 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pmHear about moving, tips on downsizing/organizing, housing options, and selling. Register at the Welcome Center or sotv.org/events.

No Regrets Retirement PlanningSaturday, January 11 from 9:00 am - 12:00 pmLearn to navigate the social, physical, emotional, & relationship changes that occur in retirement. Register at the Welcome Center or sotv.org/events.

Grandparents & Grandkids Game NightSaturday, January 11 from 6:00 - 8:00 pm Grandparents invite your elementary age grandkids and spend time playing games with them! Bring a game. Popcorn and lemonade will be provided. Register at the Welcome Center or sotv.org/events.

Save the Dates!Breakfast & Presentation by Dr Jacqueline BussieAward winning author, speaker, & professor Saturday, February 22 from 9:00 am - 12:00 pmCost: $20

New Member ClassTuesdays, January 21 & 286:30 - 8:00 pmReceived in worship February 1 & 2

pg. 10 for

details

Register online!

8 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church (SOTV)

Children, Youth, & FamilyHigh School Small GroupsWinter Session Registration Opens: Wednesday, December 11Cost: $5 - $10/groupGroups run from January 12 – February 12. Sign-up for one or multiple classes: Coffee & Bible Journaling, Winter Outdoor Fun, or Science & Faith Study at sotv.org/events. All groups must have a minimum of 4 people registered by January 9 or will be canceled.

GodZone & Confirmation Leader TrainingWednesday, December 185:30 – 7: 00 pmAll GodZone and Confirmation small group leaders are invited to this training opportunity with children and youth ministry author and consultant, Marilyn Sharpe.

College-age Brunch ReunionThursday, December 1910:00 – 11: 00 amFacebook RSVPs appreciated, but not necessary to attend.

Adult Leaders for Summer TripsYoung people are our greatest resource! Their faith in Jesus Christ takes root in the midst of a trusting, positive, and compassionate environment. Trips are wonderful vehicles for growing in faith and community, but also one of the most intense experiences personally and emotionally. Adult leaders are selected by the Youth Ministry staff based on need and a demonstrated ability to interact in positive and caring ways. Apply today for one of our Summer 2020 experiences at sotv.org/events or pick up an application in the Children, Youth, & Family office!

• High School Service Trip to Billings, MT from June 27 – July 3• Middle School Summer Stretch Capstone to Duluth, MN on

August 2 - 5

God & Country Series (Scouts)Grades K – 1: Jesus and MeGrades 1 – 3: God and MeGrades 4 – 6: God and FamilyClasses start February 23 & end April 26Award ceremony on Sunday, May 3

Grades 6 – 8: God and ChurchGrades 9 – 12: God and LifeClasses start January 12 & end April 26Award ceremony on Sunday, May 3

The God and Country program is for Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Girl Scouts, American Heritage Girls, and non-Scout siblings. To find out specifics and register, visit sotv.org/scouts.

LEARN

No Wednesday Programming on December 18, 25, or January 1

No Sunday GodZone on December 15, 22, 29

Check out sotv�org/events for a schedule of all Christmas Eve worship opportunities.

This time of year is a great time to complete your family’s volunteer during worship requirement.

Sign-up at sotv�org/serve.

Preschool Registration (Ages 3 - 5*)Registration is first come, first serve, beginning on January 21, 2020 at 8:00 am*Ages must be met by September 1, 2020

December Playtime for Infants – 3-year-olds and their ParentsSaturday, December 79:30 - 11:00 amBring your kiddos for a chance to run (or crawl/sit) and play, and enjoy a snack together. We will explore the theme of “waiting for Jesus” and ways to celebrate Advent at home. Activities will be geared toward the little ones, but older siblings are welcome to attend. Register at sotv.org/events.

GodZone Christmas Program: Twas the Night Before Christ’s BirthSaturday, December 14Program #1 at 11:00 am: For classes that meet Sundays at 8:30 am and 11:00 am, and Wednesdays at 5:45 pm and 7:00 pm.Program #2 at 1:00 pm: For classes that meet Sundays at 9:45 am and Wednesdays at 4:30 pm.All are invited to join us as we sing traditional carols and children act out Christ’s birth from the Gospel of Luke. Our nativity scene will include a church mouse who will help us remember the true “reason for the season.” Cookies will be served afterward.

sotv�org | 9

CONNECT

For more information and to stay up-to-date on the food shelf, visit sotv�org/foodshelf

Throughout December...SOTV Food Shelf is collecting canned goodsFruits • Tuna • Chili • Soups • Sauces • Water chestnuts • Beef stew • Sloppy joe mix • Pumpkin • Chicken • Spam • Beans

CollectionsWinter Outerwear CollectionDuring December, we are collecting all types of gently used, clean, and in good repair winter outwear in the narthex. Donations are distributed to organizations serving families in the Twin Cities area, with most donations staying in Dakota County.

Mitten Tree CollectionIn December, we will be collecting new winter outerwear accessories, such as hats, gloves, mittens, and scarves on the mitten tree in the narthex. Donations of all sizes are needed, and will be distributed locally to families in need.

Christmas Gift GivingThere are still many shopping programs and individuals that need sponsors this Christmas - and drop off deadlines are coming up quickly! Flyers are available online, at the building entrances, and near the welcome center. Sign-up at the spotlight table the first weekend of December, or contact Lisa Hegerman at 952.985.7329 or lisa.hegerman@sotv.org.

Monetary donations are being collected throughout December for the following programs: Local Hunger, Tanzania Partnership, Kids’n Kinship, Camp Wapo, and SOTV’s choice depending on where it is needed the most. Thanks for sharing God’s abundance!

Thank you to everyone who came & supported the Christmas & Craft Boutique!We raised $7,316! Proceeds benefit the kitchen & hospitality ministry, children & youth ministry scholarships, and worship ministry visual arts.

Red Cross Blood DriveThursday, January 101:00 - 7:00 pmDonate Blood: For an appointment or additional information, call the Red Cross at 1-800-REDCROSS or sign-up online at redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code “Johnny Cake Churches.”

Volunteer: Check-in donors or serve in the canteen. This is open to everyone and can be a fun service activity for families or teens looking for service opportunities. Call Lisa Loher at 651.683.9127 if you are interested in volunteering.

Help us plan our next big FUNraiser!We need your help! Volunteers are needed to be on the committee and take a role in our next Funraiser that is scheduled for May 31. Volunteers can help plan the menu, coordinate the golf outing, get silent auction items, and much more. We will be meeting early in 2020 to start planning. We are a fun team and would love for you to join us! For more information, please contact Lisa Hegerman at 952.985.7329 or lisa.hegerman@sotv.org.

Serve dinner

at the shelter with

SOTV members:

Monday, December 9

Tuesday, January 7

Sign-up at

sotv�org/shelter

10 | Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church (SOTV)

Seniors/Older Kids (OKs)Christmas Lunch: “Christmas Traditions Through Song”Tuesday, December 1012:00 pmCost: $20All seniors are invited to join the OKs for our annual Christmas lunch, with a full holiday meal and a special performance by Minnesota’s own Holiday Music Company Carolers. This lively quartet in Victorian era costumes perform at various local venues to spread holiday cheer through song. The pastors will make a special appearance at the event! Register at the Welcome Center or sotv.org/events.

Older Kids (OKs) is a social group for seniors.

W INK WomenChristmas PartySunday, December 812:00 pmCost: $20Christmas Party at Caspers Restaurant in Eagan. Carpool at 11:45 am, or meet at the restaurant. Register and pay at the WINK Table. Bring a gift of size large children’s diapers to donate, if desired.

Mary Beth Carlson ConcertFriday, December 137:00 pmAt St Michael’s Lutheran Church in BloomingtonWith guest vocalist Robert Robinson. Carpool from the church at 5:30 pm. Register and pay at the WINK table.

WINK (Women in New Konnections) is a social group for women who worship alone. The group meets weekly in the narthex for coffee and connection. Attend monthly coffee, social events, and get-togethers. Join the group Sundays at the round tables in the narthex at 10:30 am.

CONNECT

January Events:Women’s Winter Breakfast with Jean Abbott: “Wheels to Heels”Saturday, January 189:00 - 11:00 amCost: $15

Jean Abbott was misdiagnosed as a young child with a form of Cerebral Palsy, which left her wheelchair bound. After 33 years of countless doctor visits, painful medical procedures, unnecessary medications and surgeries, she was finally given a miracle – a correct diagnosis and simple treatment which allowed her to walk again! Jean enjoys all the adventures of her new life, but wouldn’t change the journey that brought her to where she is today. Her positive attitude is highly contagious as she encourages others to appreciate the little things in life. Free childcare registration deadline is January 11. Register for the event and childcare at the Welcome Center or sotv.org/events.

Pet Memorial ServiceSunday, January 1912:30 - 1:00 pmEveryone is welcome to attend a special pet memorial service. We will honor the memory of our pets and celebrate the time we shared together with a short memorial service in the chapel, presided over by Pastor Lindsey. If you would like, bring a framed photo of your pet. We have extra frames. This is a family-friendly event.

C ouples & FamiliesChristmas Jazz ConcertSunday, December 86:30 - 7:30 pmCost: FreeEveryone is welcome to attend this special energetic and exciting free Christmas concert. The Good News Big Band is a Twin Cities group that will perform Christmas music in a big band swing style, with trumpets, saxophones, trombones, and more! No registration necessary.

Men, women, couples, singles, teens, and children of all ages are welcome. Sponsored by Couples’ Ministries. No childcare is needed - bring the kids! They can dance in the aisles.

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Find strength in Christ, and from one another.

Support Others...SOTV has groups that support others in times when they need a shoulder to lean on. You can visit members who aren’t able to attend church, help with funeral luncheons, make a meal for people in need, knit or crochet a prayer shawl, pray for those on our prayer list, or volunteer to pack food in student’s backpacks so they have a meal over the weekend. See these opportunities and others at sotv�org/serve.

SOTV provides and partners with area organizations to offer support groups.Support group topics range from cancer, dementia, depression, loss, mental illness, suicide, and more. To find a support group to fit your needs, visit sotv�org/groups.

CARE

From Loneliness to LoveBy Pastor Lindsey

I recently heard an interview of Dr. Vivek Murthy, the 19th Surgeon General of the United States. When Dr. Murthy took on this role, he embarked on a listening tour. He heard many stories from people. He was struck by the stories of real loneliness behind stories of addiction, abuse, or violence.

From that tour, Dr. Murthy identified what he is now describing as a “loneliness epidemic.” It’s an epidemic that, according to surveys, affects around 20% of adults in the United States and affects our health outcomes, work engagement, and school performance. To put that into perspective: that is more than the number of adults who have diabetes in the United States!

Dr. Murthy found that loneliness is more than just feeling down from time to time; it has a significant impact on our health. According to his studies, people who live with loneliness live shorter lives: “The amount by which their life is shortened is about the same as the amount by which smoking 15 cigarettes a day shortens your life. It’s greater than the impact of obesity or not exercising,” says Dr. Murthy. In addition, loneliness affects our engagement at work, our productivity, and creativity. Kids who struggle with loneliness are more likely to have complications with substance use disorders or behavioral disturbances.

There’s no one reason why we are struggling with loneliness, but Dr. Murthy believes that it has to do with connection. “We evolved to be interdependent beings…and we are all struggling to connect more deeply with each other.” Our relationships are what sustain us through the ups and downs of life. They allow us to better respond to and handle the challenges we may encounter.

“We are each other’s solution [to loneliness],” Dr. Murthy says. By learning how to give and receive love, we are nurturing those critical relationships that can bring life and meaning.

If you are experiencing loneliness, take comfort� You are not alone�SOTV provides many ways to connect with others. Learn about affinity groups, support groups, or volunteer opportunities at sotv�org/connect. If you are homebound and would like to be added to our visitation list, please contact Jill Johnson, Care Assistant, at 952.985.7381.

To listen to the entire interview with Dr. Vivek Murthy or to read the full transcript, visit katebowler�com/podcasts/vivek-murthy-the-loneliness-epidemic.

Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, ELCA (SOTV)12650 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Valley, MN 55124

Office Hours:Monday - Thursday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Admin office: 952.432.6351 Children, Youth, & Family office: 952.432.6385

Building Hours:Saturday - Thursday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm Closed on Fridays

Worship Times:Saturday: 5:00 pm Sunday: 8:30 am, 9:45 am, & 11:00 am

October New Members Class

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Searching for something specific?The Welcome Center is always available to help, in person or by phone call. You can also visit our website at sotv.org.

Steve Edmondson recently moved to Eagan from Coon Rapids to be closer to family. He is retired and enjoys spending time with his grandchildren, golfing, reading, and baking. He has a son, two daughters, and four grandchildren.

Ethan & Bethany Peterson recently moved to Eagan with their daughter Pearl (4 months) to be closer to family, who are also members of SOTV. They love food, live music, hockey, and their doodle Marty McFly.

Linda Frey recently moved to Apple Valley and has already met some SOTV members. She likes the church’s worship and community outreach. She is hoping to make SOTV her new church family at this unique season in her life.

Neal and Julie Sette, Ella (7), Jon (7), baby boy (due in November), and bulldog - Roman live in Apple Valley. They love spending time as a family cooking, playing outdoors, having game nights, and traveling.

Ron Johnson & wife Debbie live in Rosemount and have been married for 24 years. They have five children, having experienced losing one son, Jeremy, to illness. They have five loving grandchildren. As seniors, they enjoy travel and other senior opportunities.

Connie Smith has lived in Apple Valley since 1980. She recently lost her wonderful husband of 43 years. Connie enjoys feeding the outdoor birds, reading, and painting. She is looking forward to meeting more members!

Linda Lund is a retired ELCA pastor who lives in Rosemount. She has two grown children and three grandsons. She failed retirement and works as a Senior Living Chaplain at The Rosemount.

Sofia Troutman, Henry (16), and Carl (13) live in Apple Valley and have attended services at SOTV for some time. They have a cat named Jack; and enjoy outdoor activities and family time.

Luz Orozco lives in Apple Valley and loves to be with her family. She is retired and has five grown kids plus five grandkids.

Larry & Terry Wickstrom live in Apple Valley. They are retired, married 45 years, and have two children and two grandchildren. They enjoy time at their lake cabin, traveling, family time, and their two dogs - MJ and Sammy, who keep them active.