Plan a Visit
Visiting a new church for the first time can be scary, but it needn’t be. We love to meet new people and we want to make your first visit as enjoyable as possible.
When and Where?
The church office is typically open Monday through Thursday, 10:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Times are subject to change.
Our Sunday worship starts at 10:30 a.m. and generally lasts about an hour.
Before worship (9:15-10:15), we offer an adult study opportunity, known as Table Talk. It’s totally optional, but usually pretty lively and informative. (And a great way to meet people.)
We’re located at 145 Engler Blvd (at Highway 41) in Chaska, right across Engler Blvd from Chaska Middle School West. Look for the church with the big red chair out front.
Worship is also live-streamed and archived on our Facebook Page.
To worship via Zoom, contact us at (952) 448-3882 or by email for login instructions.
Will I Be Welcome?
No worries! We really try our best to welcome everyone.
For starters, Shepherd of the Hill is officially an Open and Affirming congregation, which means we want people who identify as LGBTQIA+ to know this is a safe and welcoming place for them.
Whatever your circumstances — church background (if any), marital status, living arrangements, party affiliation — we’re saving a seat for you. After all, we’re just a bunch of imperfect people, and there’s always room for a few more. (We’re all about “Bridges, Not Walls,” remember?)
We don’t have any rules about who can and can’t take Communion, either. You can be divorced or LGBTQIA+; you don’t have to be a church member or a Presbyterian. The Communion table is open to all, because it's God's table.
What Will Worship Be Like?
Worship at Shepherd of the Hill is traditional but not formal. (Dress for comfort!) On your way in, an usher will give you a printed worship program with all the information you’ll need. You can also get a printed copy of the sermon, which can be helpful if you have trouble hearing.
The service begins with a welcome from the Pastor, and then we sing some songs, pray some prayers (printed in the program) and hear some passages from the Bible. Then Pastor Dean shares a message that applies the Bible’s insights to real-life, modern-day issues. (You can check out some of his past messages on our YouTube channel.)
Next one of our members leads us in prayer for people with various needs. Then we take up an offering to support the church and its ministries. (But don’t worry; visitors are NOT expected to contribute!)
On the first Sunday of the month we also share Communion. Don’t feel you have to take part, but it’s not complicated, and Pastor Dean will explain what to do. And it’s open to everybody.
After the service there’s a light lunch for those who’d like to stay and chat. We’d love to have you join us for lunch, but please don’t feel any pressure. Just know that the invitation’s open, whenever you’re ready.
What About Kids?
Children are very welcome at Shepherd of the Hill, and we think it’s great when families can worship together. We provide Activity Bags in the back with crayons, picture books and other items to help with “the squirmies.” (We all get them!). And if the little ones get too restless for you, it’s easy to slip out into the Entrance Hall for a minute or two, if you’d like.
Questions?
Ask us whatever’s on your mind.
Just give us a call at (952) 448-3882 or use the email form below.
What People Are Saying…
“I’m not big on organized religion but SOTH —Shepherd of the Hill in Chaska — isn’t your typical church. It’s small and the people are truly friendly. They take an interest in you right away... The members of this church are involved and passionate about social justice issues. One example, they are active with Families Moving Forward and help house homeless families in the church, and will provide food, clothes, laundry services, etc for the families.
“I’ve been to nearly every church in the Twin Cities that says they are “open and affirming to all” but this church really exemplifies what an open and affirming church is all about... I’ve never felt as accepted by a church as I have with SOTH... [W]hen I’m there, it feels like I’m around people who genuinely like me and are just happy that I’ve stopped by for the morning.”
“I first came to Shepherd of the Hill Presbyterian Church in the later part of 2007 when this church hosted... Clyde Bellecourt (a long-time Native American Activist). After the event was over, I was invited to attend their Sunday service by two of its members... I replied to them, “Thanks for the invite, but I don’t think any church in Chaska would want me to be here if they knew I am gay and half Native American.” I’ll never forget the look in their eyes when they replied to me, “If you come, you can sit next to me.” My heart melted, and I’ve been a member ever since, along with my lifetime friend and partner... When the pastor says, “All are welcome at Shepherd of the Hill Church,” they really mean, ‘ALL’ are welcome here.”