Our Story

Shepherd of the Valley has been a beacon of hope and faith in the Valley for over 100 years.  We were one of the first (if not the first) church in the Valley.  The community continues to live out the UMC mission of "Making Disciples for the Transformation of the World".     The nearby picture gives a glimpse of the people and worship space in 1909.  We have moved a few times since then, but the ministry of "Sharing Christ's love with the people of the Coachella Valley" continues.  

The congregation built the current Sanctuary at 45501 Deglet Noor St in 1969.   United Methodists are people who put faith and love into action. We believe that God loves all people, and that we share in expressing that love.  United Methodist tradition emphasizes God's grace.  John Wesley shared three basic rules for holy living: Do no harm. Do good. Attend upon the ordinances of God (which is often restated as “Stay in love with God”). Wesley’s rules guide United Methodists of all ages as we seek to put our faith into action.

We believe that Jesus Christ is the fullest expression of God's love--showing us the fullness of God's care through Jesus' teachings, death, and resurrection.

Whether it is putting together hygiene and food-to-go bags for those down on their luck; walking to fundraise and support the health of others;  feeding and providing medical care to persons on the street through our Bridge Ministry; providing backpacks and school supplies to local children; or collecting diapers and supplies for new mothers - SOTV is a community that reaches out with God's love and grace to the world in need.  We are always looking for new opportunities ... have any ideas? 

We believe that every person has God-given gifts and skills for ministry and that we all have a part to play in sharing the love of God in our community and the world.  When those gifts are not utilized, the ministry of Christ suffers.  We are working to find ways to support, nurture, and enable all to live into their God-given gifts.  We also believe that God's love has no limits and all are welcomed.  

We still have more work to do as we grow together in Christ's love and reach out to a community and world that is suffering and hurting. There is a place for you as well, as we follow Christ in ministry together.