History of SOTH - Today

 

Effective January 1998, Shepherd of the Hills began renewed life as an independent congregation. In the following years, the sanctuary was re-carpeted, a new digital electric organ replaced the aging pipe organ, and the congregation became a Reconciling in Christ congregation out of concern for sexual minorities. In 2004, the congregation called a new young pastor, Rev. Katie Hines-Shah, became enlivened with enthusiasm and hope, and has grown to include many more children, younger adults and families.

 

We started a new chapter in the church's history with the call of Reverend Kim Swenson in the fall of 2011. Grounded in promise of our past, with a vision for welcome in the future, Shepherd of the Hills will be guided by the Spirit into new ministry, light, and life.

In the past years, we have added new elements to our worship practice including purchasing the new ELW hymnals and using all ten liturgies, constructing new banners and paraments, adopting our current welcome statement, as well as commissioning a green chasuble artistically representing our diverse congregation and beautiful Bay views. We have also made several significant improvements including a new inviting patio and native plant garden outside our entrance as well as an improved ramp, handrail, and wheel chair lift making our downstairs area more accessible to all.