Praise songs were instituted into worship and a Worship Conference was held in March. After eight months of intense planning, the Hearts, Hands and Habitats fund-raiser for Denver's Habitat for Humanity program was held in October. The community festival of music, fun run/walk, bake sale, crafts, fine arts, silent auction, quilt drawing, kids' activities and Mexican cantina, raised over $19,000. An additional $10,000 was received as a matching gift.  The Sunday School program for children started using a rotation model, which included a Bible computer lab, while the youth took a week-long mission trip to Del Norte, Colorado. Suzanne Lindsey terminated her association as associate pastor in September.

(click to enlarge) Courtyard Garden

The 35th anniversary of the church was celebrated in 1997 and more than 20 charter members attended the observance. The year also marked the completion of the church-sponsored Habitat for Humanity house and the successful conclusion of a fund drive, installation and dedication of a new Allen digital organ.

The Malcolm Sweet Memorial Chapel was dedicated on December 14, 1997. The exploration of spiritual gifts began with over 60 members completing the eight-hour program. Ken Smith joined the staff as minister of member care, a part-time position, and Stephen Ministers prepared for its third training program.

Youth used the LOGOS format for programming activities and discussions continued on contemporary music and worship service styles. A memorial donation was accepted for the carillon bells, which were to be installed the following year.

The contract with the YMCA day care center was terminated and a new agreement was signed with the Head Start program, signaling a new chapter in community outreach.    Dr. Landes celebrated 10 years as pastor at Shepherd of the Hills in 1998 and Rosalie Horak accepted a position as director of Christian education. Presbyterian Women published a new cookbook, Seasoned with Love, which featured recipes contributed by over 165 members, men and women.  Shepherd of the Hills stepped further into the digital age and established this web site ( www.soth.net ).

After much thought and discussion, the session adopted a mission statement for the church:

    "Through Faith, we believe in Christ.
    Through Worship, we celebrate in Christ
    Through Scripture, we learn and grow in Christ
    With compassion, we joyfully serve on another and the world in Christ"

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