Keeping true to our Vision at Shepherd of the Valley, in the past two years, we have focused on being Welcomed into the fellowship of Christ, and have been Transformed by his Spirit and Word. We now focus on our mission and opportunity to be Sent to love and serve others. This August begins our year of SEND at Shepherd of the Valley. Our theme is “Putting Feet to our Faith.”
“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send?’ And ‘Who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I, send me!’ ” Isaiah 6:8
Service opportunities abound within our families, our church, our neighborhoods and beyond to the world. All of us have spiritual gifts, given by God to do his work in the world. We will be encouraged to complete a Spiritual Gifts Assessment, and be empowered to live out our mission using those gifts to serve others. As a congregation we will encourage one another by serving together, serving inter-generationally and finding new opportunities to share God’s love in service.
Our church family has been very active in the area of service. With a particular emphasis this year on continuing that expression of God’s love, you are encouraged to think about ways you and your family can reach out and serve, using your spiritual gifts to share God’s love and caring. Monthly events will focus on service and everyone will be invited to participate as they are able.
“Then they answered Joshua, ‘Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us, we will go.’ ” Joshua 1:16
Welcome to the Year of Send!
-Paula Swiggum (2017)
