SOTV Block Party: Like having a county fair in our own back yard!

"A county fair in our own back yard!" by Pastor Randy Brandt

The SOTV Block Party is like having “an old fashioned county fair in our own back yard,” reflected one volunteer.

I’ve been asking SOTV staff and members what their thoughts and experiences have been at the annual September church block party in the parking lot. The answers have been fun and insightful. One person recalled, “I met a man at the block party who said that his wife had died a year earlier. He told me he came that day to be with people, and he especially loved being with all the families.” This man had a door hanger placed in his neighborhood, encouraging him to attend.

Pastor Rick Summy describes the annual effort as “SOTV hosting a party of pure joy for members of our neighborhood and for members of SOTV to be in community with one another.”

A staff person added, “There is something for people of every age. My preschool and early elementary grandchildren love it!”

“Last year my neighbors came when they heard there would be live music from the SOTV worship band,” contributed another.

It was especially fun hearing about one family who saw the block party when driving past the church. They stopped with their family, and soon were on the phone inviting relatives and neighbors in their apartment building to come join the party.

The planning committee for the SOTV Block Party is clear about the purpose of this event. Jesus calls us to love our neighbors. SOTV is a church that cares about our local community. The block party is an occasion for making real connections with one another in a fun atmosphere with food, games, worship, and music. Everyone is invited. There is no cost. It really is reminiscent of having an old fashioned county fair, right in our own back yard.

All are invited to the 6th annual Block Party at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church on Saturday, September 7 from 4:00 – 7:00 pm. Everything is free, and people of all ages are invited to enjoy food, games, live music, and an outdoor worship service at 5:00.

No registration is needed. Learn more at www.sotv.org/events. Shepherd of the Valley is located on the corner of Johnny Cake Ridge Road and McAndrews Road.