Ways We Do Community
Questions? Want to volunteer?
For questions, email communications@sotv.org or call 952.432.6351. If you are looking for volunteer opportunities, click here.
For questions, email communications@sotv.org or call 952.432.6351. If you are looking for volunteer opportunities, click here.
Experience Jesus through faith-filled relationships.
Shepherd of the Valley, a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, celebrates the Sacrament of Baptism as a many-faceted gift. We believe that “in Holy Baptism God delivers us from the forces of evil, puts our sinful self to death, gives us new birth, adopts us as children and makes us members of the body of Christ, the church.” (ELW page 225)
Baptism is a welcome into something new – we are welcomed into the story of God’s love for all people, into God’s family (the church), and into the kingdom of God. When someone is baptized, it marks the beginning (or continuation) of a lifelong journey of learning and nurturing faith.
At Shepherd of the Valley, children are valued and nurtured, and we are committed to helping them learn how to worship. Children are not just the future of the church, they are the church today! We are not complete without God’s children of all ages bringing their hearts, minds, bodies, and voices together. We warmly welcome and encourage young children to attend worship – and we welcome the sounds and activity that come with them.
Children learn best by doing – early and often – and by watching the adults they love. Research tells us that children who worship with their caregivers are more likely to grow into adults who have a life-giving faith in Jesus Christ and who are connected to a worshipping, serving, learning community of faith themselves.
At baptism, we welcome children into God’s family and promise to journey with them. We want to support worship becoming a family habit, so below are practical tips for both young families and those who surround them, with love and faith, in our worship space.
Parents, grandparents, and caregivers with small children
Holy Communion is a sacred meal in which the presence, love, forgiveness, and mercy of Christ come to us in bread and wine. God is the host and invites everyone, regardless of age, understanding, or background, to this table where faith is nourished.
While it is not a requirement to attend Communion Class before receiving Communion, we strongly encourage families to attend because learning about this sacrament can deepen its meaning.
Learn more about Holy Communion at Shepherd of the Valley.
Senior Choir
Grades 9 - 12 & Adults
Sounds of Praise Choir
Adults
Wind Ensemble
Grades 7 - 12 & Adults
Woodwind Ensemble
Grades 9-12 & Adults
Bells of St Andrew |Handbells
Adults
Joy Choir
Ages 3 - 6
Cherub Choir
Kindergarten - Grade 1
Celebration Choir
Grades 2 - 5
Lighthouse Singers
Grades 5 and up
Chapel Chimers
Kindergarten - Grade 1
Grace Notes
Grades 2 - 5
Valley Vibrations
Grades 6 - 12
Builder: Holtkamp Organ Co (2011)
Originally Aeolian-Skinner (Opus 1446, 1964)
Manuals: 3
Divisions: 5
Ranks: 52, (pf) 61
Stops: 41 (pf) 47
Pipes: 3085 (pf) 3549
Action: Pitman, electropneumatic; Great is slider
Notes: This Aeolian-Skinner instrument was purchased from Macalester College in St Paul. Holtkamp was hired to move, rebuild, and install the organ.
Swell and Choir are stacked on the left, with blower, reservoirs, and swell motors in a mechanical room to their left. Great (on slider chest) is in the center, with pedal behind, to the right and in the facade. Skinner chests are used in the Swell and Choir, front to back. At Macalester these chests were lined up end to end, making relatively shallow but wide chambers. Note how the ceiling descends into the organ, restricting somewhat the pipe height at the back of the organ area. It also acts as a megaphone to project the organ into the room.
Great Organ
Thank you for considering supporting the ministry of SOTV!
SOTV is a community of people in every age and every stage of life where all are invited to grow in their faith through our core ministries of worship, learn, connect, and care. This is a place where all are invited to come as they are, be surrounded by God’s love, and see what we can do together!
We serve as a loving response to the unconditional, no strings attached, love we have received through Jesus Christ. As Jesus taught us, to love is to serve one another.
SOTV has a strong commitment to our church, our community, and our global partnerships. Whether you want to volunteer once or regularly, we have ways you can get involved!
At SOTV, we believe entering into marriage and planning the wedding ceremony deserve careful consideration. As such, we require a minimum of six months for the booking and planning of your wedding. Also, at least one member of the wedding couple must be a member of SOTV.
Weddings at SOTV are typically scheduled on Saturdays at 3:00 pm. For availability and more information, please contact our Wedding Coordinator, Jill Johnson at 952.985.7381 to begin the wedding planning process. We look forward to working with you at this very special time!
What to expect for worship
We gather around God’s word and sacraments, offering our thanks and praise.People in all stages of their faith journey are invited to connect with one another to grow their biblical understanding, strengthen relationships, apply faith to daily life, and serve Christ together. .
We offer short term Bible studies and discussions led by pastors and experts, and ongoing peer-led bible studies for men and women.
We offer a variety of classes that address your needs and interests on topics related to faith, retirement, care, and end-of-life planning. We also have weekly forums on Sundays in Rooms 20 - 21, and special classes and events.
SOTV has many events and classes to offer. Find one that’s right for you and bring a friend!
What to Expect
Meet with other parents, a Pastor, and the Family Ministry Director to learn about the promises made at baptism and the baptism process at SOTV. Families must attend class before their first baptism at SOTV. Children are welcome; most classes meet in the nursery, and many activities are participatory and age-appropriate. The class is approximately one hour.
Baptism class for parents of infants and toddlers is held monthly throughout the year. Baptism classes for older children/youth and their parents are held annually. For adults or older teens interested in baptism, please email Pastor Peter Harrits.
Shepherd of the Valley is committed to welcoming people of all abilities and working to understand and meet the needs of our congregation. If your child needs an accommodation, modification, or assistance to fully participate in this event, please indicate this in the “Health Concern Explanation” field of your registration, and your program leader will follow up if there are questions. We may not be able to meet all requests at this time.
We intend to take photos and/or video during programming and other events, which may appear in worship, social media, website, or congregational communication without names listed. If you have a concern about this, please email Kelsey Young.
What is Confirmation Ministry at SOTV?
Confirmation is a highly-relational faith formation program for students in grades 6 – 9. This program is designed to help students name and grow their unique, God-given gifts, with the invitation to use those gifts for service in the church and in the world. At baptism, parents and sponsors said, “Yes, God!” on the child’s behalf. Confirmation is the opportunity for a young person to grow, question, and explore so they may make the decision to take ownership of their faith and continue to say, “Yes, God!”
Confirmation runs September – May, with registration beginning in June. New students are welcome to join at any time throughout the year or at any point in Grades 6 – 9.
What to Expect
Children accompanied by at least one parent or guardian are invited to attend a communion learning experience. This one-night class (about 60 minutes) is a shared parent/child experience to support a meaningful communion practice. The class includes videos, discussion time, tasting of the bread and wine, prayer, and answering children’s questions. Families are then invited to worship at a church service following the class to participate in the celebration of communion together.
If a child is curious about and asking to take communion, we invite you listen to that cue, and consider enrolling in the communion class. Staff can answer questions about your child’s readiness for Holy Communion.
Grandparents are an important relationship for children! At Shepherd of the Valley, we value your participation in the faith life of your grandchildren.
Here are some resources and events specifically for you! This information will be coming soon!
Men of all ages are invited to join a weekly Bible study or book discussion that fits into your schedule and enriches your life!
Tuesday Morning Bible Study
Weekly on Tuesdays
7:00 – 8:30 AM
Shepherd of the Valley (Narthex)
Currently studying the Book of Ephesians
This group of men explore the Bible through a series of assorted study guides, connect with each other on our life activities, and share prayer concerns each week. They also engage in an optional, off-site service project each month.
Wednesday Evening Bible Study
Weekly on Wednesdays
6:00 – 7:00 PM
Zoom
Currently studying the Life of David
This group meets weekly on Zoom. We welcome new attendees at any time. Please join us for engaging conversation and supportive relationships.
Friday Morning Book Discussion
Weekly on Fridays
7:00 – 8:30 AM
Zoom
Consider joining us via Zoom for an engaging exploration of this book, within the supportive context of a continuing men’s group, as we discuss applying our faith to real life. Bring your questions and experiences as we together learn more about what it means to have been claimed by God. All men are welcome to join us!
Shepherd of the Valley Preschool in Apple Valley is a state licensed, half-day weekday preschool. Classes are offered two, three, and four days a week from September through May for children ages 3, 4, & 5.
Racial Truth & Justice
Seeking to widen our welcome and better accompany our neighbors, we provide educational and reflective experiences about systemic racism and white privilege to and with the SOTV community at all ages and stages of life. Through listening to BIPOC communities, learning and inward reflection/examination, we work to empower the SOTV community to speak and act boldly against racism.
Email Julie to be added to the email list, to learn about upcoming events, or with suggestions.
Christian Education for Age 3 - Grade 3
Shepherd’s Kid’s Sunday School is our fun, creative, and interactive Christian education program that runs during the school year. All children age three (by September 1) through third grade are invited. New students are welcome to join throughout the year until we reach capacity.
Sundays
9:45 – 10:45 AM
Shepherd of the Valley (Rooms 20-21)
No registration necessary
inspired speakers. opened minds.
During the months of September - May, people of all ages are invited to hear professors, teachers, and members of our congregation present topics connected to our faith. These speakers inspire us in our faith to seek a better understanding of God in today's everchanging world.
Women of all ages are invited to join a monthly bible study or book discussion that fits into your schedule and enriches your life!
Shalom Circle Bible Study
2nd Thursdays of the month
1:30 – 3:30 pm
Shepherd of the Valley (Community Room)
This group uses the Women of the ELCA (WELCA) Bible study from the Synod’s Gather magazine.
Sarah Circle Bible Study
2nd Saturdays of the month
9:00 – 10:30 am
Shepherd of the Valley (Narthex)
This faith-based book study group of women meets from September through June. Participants read together, talk, learn, and grow as Christians in the modern world.
Christian Education for Grades 4-5
Children in grades 4-5 begin gaining a more personal understanding and relationship with the Bible while experiencing how they are part of God’s amazing story. In fourth grade, students are gifted the Deep Blue Bible and learn the tools they need to use and understand the Bible better. Zone 45 students engage in their faith together in the following ways…
Daily Large Group Time
Small Group Time
A significant lesson we learn in Zone 45 is what are our God given talents and gifts, and how can we use them to share in God’s love. A key part of this lesson is applying it in real life through service! We encourage families to volunteer in worship at least once per year: usher, greet, musician, lector, or hospitality.
When & Where
Yearly sign-ups for garden plots begin in the spring.
Email Don or call 952.985.7340 to discuss the Community Garden.
What to Expect
Break out of your shell and get to know your neighbors as you plant and harvest side-by-side. Grow relationships and knowledge in addition to your plants. You’re welcome to share some of your produce with the SOTV Food Shelf, located inside the church.
There are two sizes of garden plots: 4’ x 16’ and 4’ x 8’. Annual fees are $25 for a large plot and $15 for a small plot. All fees are put back into the space. First-time users pay a one-time administrative fee of $25. Besides the plots, there are eight water stations and some gardening tools available for use.
What to Expect
The Empty Nester group hosts a variety of events, both at SOTV and locally. Events will be a time to meet others, and enjoy fellowship and community with a group of people that are in the same stage of life.
The Empty Nester group has a Steering Team that plans monthly activities. Each of these events support one of the following three areas:
Cultural Dinner Small Group
This is an Empty Nester Small Group that meets quarterly at a restaurant in the Twin Cities to experience a different type of ethnic food. We learn more about our neighbors while enjoying food and fellowship together.
The Food Shelf depends entirely on the support of our dedicated volunteers, whose efforts make it an invaluable resource for our community. We are deeply grateful for their commitment. We invite you to join our volunteer team and be part of an energized group focused on serving our neighbors. Your involvement will help us continue to provide essential support to those in need. Consider making a difference today!
Most needed volunteers
Volunteers: (Tues or Thurs – 10:00 am – 1:30 pm or 1:00 – 4:30 pm) Stock/sort/pre-pack and shop with clients. Commitment twice per month.
Volunteers: (Sat – 8:30 am – 12:30 pm). Stock/sort/pre-pack and shop with clients.
Rescue Support volunteers: (Tues or Thurs – 8:30 am – 12:00 pm) Requires no client contact. Receive grocery store food, check dates, and stock shelves. Commitment twice per month.
Monday truck delivery help: (9:30 am – 12:00 pm) Requires no client contact. Unload food items, stock shelves, refrigerators, and freezers. Must be able to lift 40lbs. Commitment twice per month.
Training is provided for all volunteer positions.
Other volunteer opportunities:
Delivery support role: Volunteers work a couple of Monday shifts a month from 9:30 am – 12:00 pm.
Rescue support volunteer (RSVs): Volunteers work shifts on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th Tuesday or Thursday mornings or 2nd and 4th Tuesday or Thursday mornings, approximately 2.5 – 3 hours.
Food shelf volunteer (FSV) responsibilities: Volunteers need to commit to a minimum of two regular shifts each month. We work around vacations, etc. Shifts are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:00 am – 1:30 pm or 1:00 – 4:30 pm.
Interested? Contact the Food Shelf.
Shepherd of the Valley partners with 360 Communities to operate Apple Valley’s only food shelf, located at 12650 Johnny Cake Ridge Road in Apple Valley, near the Minnesota Zoo. Contact the Food Shelf at 952.985.7388 (phones are answered during food shelf hours only). We typically assist 60 families weekly.
Questions about the Food Shelf? Contact the Food Shelf at 952.985.7388 (phones are answered during food shelf hours only) or contact Shepherd of the Valley at 952.432.6351.
To schedule an appointment, contact 360 Communities Burnsville office by calling 952.985.5300 Monday – Thursday 9:00 am – 3:30 pm.
Use your own bag, or for your convenience pick up a large orange “Food on the Fourth” shopping bag at the church, fill it with nonperishable food, and then return it to the SOTV collection bin located near the Welcome Desk at the main entrance. Inside the front pocket you will find a card requesting the most needed items. Use this as a suggestion, but feel free to provide your favorites. Thank you for supporting your neighbors and generously participating in the ways God provides for us all.
When & Where
Weekly on Wednesdays
9:00 – 10:00 am
Shepherd of the Valley (Narthex)
What to Expect
This men’s coffee group is a drop-in group of men who gather for socializing and fellowship each week. They meet year-round in the Narthex at Shepherd of the Valley in a casual setting with no set agenda.
Men of all ages are invited! No registration is needed – come when you can. We will share responsibility for bringing the treats.
When & Where
Meets once a year, and for special projects as needed Meeting site varies
What to Expect
This group meets once a year at a member’s house/garage to make small wooden crosses for confirmation students and new church members. The meeting site varies. This group is open to men of all ages!
The group also helps with various church projects as needed, such as staining or reworking cabinets.
When & Where:
September 4, 2024 – May 28, 2025 (following District 196 school calendar – with all holidays off).
What to Expect:
Fellowship and support for parents of all ages and stages in a relaxed social setting. Newcomers are always welcome, and so are new babies! We follow the 196 school district calendar for days off.
Who can attend?
This event is open to all parents.
What is the cost?
A small “Sunshine Fund” fee of $5 per quarter is collected to cover costs related to speakers who join us, crafts we will make together, or other additional costs.
Is childcare available?
Yes, children ages 6 weeks to 5 years are welcome in the nursery; drop-in, no need to sign-up.
For more details, please follow the Facebook group!
Moms Evening Groups
A local congregation, Prince of Peace, offers evening options for moms. Check out their schedule.
Welcome to Pet Ministry, a resource and service for our congregation and community, which provides opportunities to grow in faith through our shared love of animals.
Classes and services that may be offered include:
Join us as we advocate for greater care for all living creatures.
We are available to connect with anyone, regardless of faith circumstances, who has lost a pet or would like support in making a difficult life decision about their pet.
Are you retired now, but wanting more purpose in your life? Are you planning your retirement, but not sure how you’ll spend your time? We recognize the importance of having purpose, community, and vitality in retirement.
There are a variety of “affinity groups,” or groups based on similar interests or passions, that meet regularly. If you don’t see something that piques your interest, maybe you can help start a new group! Make your retirement purposeful, and be a part of a great community! Existing affinity groups include:
Shepherd Quilters
Every Wednesday
8:45 – 11:30 am
Shepherd of the Valley (rooms 14/17)
Golden Stitchers
1st, 3rd, & 5th Thursdays of the month (except for month of July)
9:00 – 11:30 am
Shepherd of the Valley (rooms 12/13)
Realm is our web-based database and ministry tool from ACS Technologies that informs staff and connects our congregation. All of our data is safely stored and backed up in the cloud, making it available 24/7 from anywhere using a desktop, laptop, tablet, or mobile phone.
Since 2001, Shepherd of the Valley has enjoyed a vibrant relationship with our companion congregations in the Iringa Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania.
Working bega kwa bega or shoulder to shoulder through prayer, presence and projects, we support ministries of evangelism, education, health care, and economic development. Makifu, Tungamalenga, and Usolanga Parishes are each comprised of seven to nine village congregations in a remote rural area.
Your financial contributions to our Tanzania Partnership are accepted with deep gratitude.
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When & Where
Weekly on Tuesdays
6:00 Beginner Lessons
6:20 Play begins
Shepherd of the Valley (Music Room)
What to Expect
Ukes of the Valley is a ukulele group that has three goals:
The group is open to anyone, whether you are an absolute beginner or a highly experienced player. We meet on Tuesday evenings at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Apple Valley, MN. We play a variety of music, both secular and non-secular. Most of the songs on our playlist are suggested by group participants.
Our sessions typically begin with a couple of beginner-friendly songs. Then, we "workshop" a couple of songs--spending extra time on them, to learn and/or improve. Finally, we have a play-along jam, using selections from our songbook.
When & Where
Every Sunday at 10:30 am
In the Narthex for coffee and connection
No registration needed
What to Expect
WINK (Women in New Konnections) is a social group for women. They meet weekly on Sunday mornings at 10:30 am in the Narthex. Conversation, laughter, and information are in generous supply.
When & Where
2nd Tuesdays of the month
9:30 – 11:00 AM
Shepherd of the Valley (Narthex)
What to Expect
Women of all ages are invited to a women’s coffee gathering on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. We will enjoy fellowship together and have a few snacks too.
Spread the word to your friends! No registration is needed – come when you can. We will share responsibility for bringing the snacks.
If you are interested in joining the YA's (Young Adults) or have any questions, reach out to Rose Bentley by email or text at 612.718.0318.
With a beautifully landscaped setting, the Columbarium and Memorial Garden is a place for peaceful meditation and prayer among those we have loved and whose lives and service we wish to remember.
Questions?
Email Julie, SOTV’s Wellness Coordinator, with questions or to speak with a Faith Community (Parish) Nurse.
If a loved one has died and you are interested in planning a funeral, visitation, or memorial service, please contact Jill Johnson at 952.985.7381.
Want to find out more information on our Columbarium & Memorial Garden? Click here.
When & Where
This ministry combines knitting and/or crocheting and praying. At your own pace, make a prayer shawl for someone in need of prayer and support.
What to Expect
Click on the Instruction Sheet link for information about materials and directions. Jill Johnson has yarn available, or you can purchase your own. Once you’ve completed your prayer shawl, bring it to church. Pastors and parish nurses then give these shawls to people in the midst of health concerns, difficult situations, or grief.
Questions?
Contact Jill Johnson at 952.985.7381.
We provide pastoral care, prayer, counseling, support, and many other resources.
Call us at 952.432.6351 or explore some of the options below.
An active process of becoming aware of and making multi-dimensional choices toward a healthy and fulfilling life.
When & Where
As your schedule permits
Shepherd of the Valley & locally
What to Expect
Friendly Visitors are a trained group of caring people who visit others within our congregation who aren’t able to attend church.
When you sign up, you will receive a call to set up a time to get an information packet and some helpful guidance for making visits. We will work with your availability and comfort level to find the right match for you.