Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church

I love this church. My wife and I have been going since about 2001 and my kids have grown up there. It is a very nice mix of a modern building and service with a some traditional Lutheran mixed in. The sermons are uplifting and people are welcoming. If you’re interested in a preschool, there is also a great one one site. There is a traditional service each Sunday early morning and a blended one later in the morning with some organ, piano, or modern music mixed. There are occasional bluegrass or other special music services. Its a great place to meet people over donuts on Sunday or by getting involved in small group or service group. But, if you just want to attend church once in a while, its great for that too.

It seems weird to me to do a review about a church. But there is a method to my madness and it will become clear as you read on.
I’m not a very regular church-​goer. Even when my wife and I decided that our young daughter should go to bible school, we have a hard time getting up *every* Sunday for her. As part of her church experience, she wanted to join the children’s choir. Last Sunday, she was supposed to sing during the service. We make a point to go to those services – for her.
But this service was exceptional. Not because my daughter sang in it, but because they had what they called «Worship Through Music.» The entire service was a string of musical performances. From flute ensembles, to a small orchestra, to a bell choir, to a four piece modern band. It was an hour of beautiful music, put together very well, and transitioned flawlessly. I was amazed at the wealth of musical talent at the church. They even had some teenagers do a little drama skit which was quite well done.
As far as their regular service goes, I haven’t been to a lot of different churches so I have no basis for comparison. All I know is that I tend to tune out and think about work, or my weekend home improvement projects most Sundays (yes, I’m going to hell). Neither popped into my head during this service.
In talking to one of the members, they apparently have a service like this twice a year: once in Spring, and once around Christmas time. Even if you don’t like church, but just enjoy music, it’s nice to go, close your eyes, and just listen. You can get beyond the religious theme. I did.