"As a community of Women, created in the image of God, called to discipleship in Jesus Christ, and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we commit ourselves to grow in faith, affirm our gifts, support one another in our callings, engage in ministry and action and promote healing and wholeness in the church, the society and the world."
—SOV WELCA Mission Statement
"Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church is moving forward in faith — gathering, empowering and sending persons into an ever-changing world as disciples of the living Christ."
—SOV Mission Statement
Welcome from the SOV Women of the ELCA President
Women of the
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
On behalf of the Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (WELCA) board at Shepherd of the Valley and your president, I would like to take this opportunity to welcome and encourage each of you to become a part of the women’s ministry at Shepherd of the Valley. Participation in this ministry is open to all women in the congregation and other women who may be interested.
I would like to introduce myself and share with you some of the wonderful experiences and friendships I have found through involvement in the Lutheran Church, and, especially, at Shepherd of the Valley. My name is Pat Stewart. I was baptized and confirmed in the United Methodist Church. After marrying my husband, Bill, I joined the Lutheran Church almost thirty years ago. I have been a member of Lutheran congregations in Sisseton and Pierre, South Dakota. In November of 2002, after moving to Boise, we joined Shepherd of the Valley.
Many Christian women have made and continue to make a difference in my life by there example of faith and support. My Mom has had the greatest influence in my faith, and, I believe, in my Dad’s faith. He and I were baptized on the same day and he was an active member in that congregation for many years. I joined my first circle or young women’s group at Grace Lutheran Church in Sisseton, SD. This group of young moms supported each other in faith and friendship and we remain steadfast friends having shared many life experiences. When one friend lost her nineteen year old son in a car accident, it was this group of women that provided the readings, eulogy, special music and serving of the lunch following the funeral.
I feel blessed to now belong to Shepherd of the Valley and be a part of the women’s ministry here. I felt so welcomed by this church from the first day I stepped through the door. I appreciate the opportunity to serve you and continue to grow in my faith. I want to thank this congregation for the overwhelming support and kindness shown to our family as we adjusted to a new community, celebrated our daughter’s wedding and continue to deal with the worry of having a son currently serving in the military in Iraq.
I share these thoughts with you hoping that you will become involved in the women’s ministry at SOV. May you find many opportunities to grow in faith and friendships through participation in the various circles, cluster and conference meetings planned for this year.
During 2006, the women’s ministry at SOV will provide support to City Lights, Baby Steps, Luther Heights, Lutheran World Relief (Quilts), and our sister Synod in Tanzania. We will continue to support our local community, projects abroad, and each other in all that we do.
This year also marks the 21st year of our church bazaar. Proceeds from that event, allow us to provide support to this ministry. Come share your time and talents and join in the fun as part of Women of the ELCA at Shepherd of the Valley!
Sincerely,
Pat Stewart