Foundational Values

These values are the minimum behavioral standards that are required in an organization. Although they are extremely important, foundational values don’t serve to clearly differentiate an organization from others. Values common to this category include honesty, integrity, and respect for others. These values are often broadly shared by other organizations of the same kind (other churches). These statements deeply describe who we are and how we operate as a body of Christ. Download a PDF of our Values Statement here.

We stand firm and united in our faith in God, who created us; Jesus, who redeemed us; and the Holy Spirit, who guides and strengthens us. We strive to live a life devoted to Jesus as Lord and Savior.

• We are saved by grace through faith—Ephesians 2:8-9
• Through Christ’s promises given through the sacraments of Baptism and Communion, we are assured of forgiveness of sins and eternal life—John 3:16, John 14:16, Acts 22:16, Titus 3:5-7

We place God’s Word as our final authority in matters of faith and life. 2 Timothy 3:16, Psalm 119:105, Matthew 4:4, 2 Peter 1:19-21, 1 Thessalonians 2:13, Revelation 22:18-19, John 17:17, 20:31

• The Bible is not just ancient literature, but rather a living book which Jesus opens to us—Luke 24:45
• We accept the Book of Concord (Lutheran confessional writings) as a true witness to the Gospel and as valid interpretations of the faith. https://bookofconcord.org

We protect the unity of our church by:

• Acting in love toward other members—Romans 14:19
• Refusing to gossip—Ephesians 4:29, Matthew 18:15-17, Exodus 20:16
• Following and praying for our leaders as they follow Christ—Hebrews 13:17

We share the responsibility for the mission of our church by:

• Being committed to the Great Commission—making disciples—Matthew 28:18-20
• Generously supporting missions near and far to bring people to Christ—Colossians 1:3-6
• Being generous with encouragement, sharing in happiness or grief and praying for those who are struggling and in need—Romans 12:10-18, 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3
• Inviting the unchurched to attend—Luke 14:23, John 1:46
• Being a light on a hill and warmly welcoming guests who visit—Matthew 5:16, Romans 15:7

We serve the ministry of our church by:

• Using our gifts and talents—1 Peter 4:10
• Being equipped to serve through the provision of the Holy Spirit—Ephesians 4:11-12
• Developing a servant’s heart by setting ego aside—Philippians 2:1-5

We support the testimony of our church by:

• Attending faithfully—Hebrews 10:24-25
• Living a godly life—Philippians 1:27
• Giving regularly, participating in faithful stewardship—1 Corinthians 16:2, Malachi 3:8-10, 2 Cor. 9:7

Core Values

These are a small number of behavioral traits that are inherent in an organization. Core values lie at the heart of an organization’s identity, do not change over time, and must already exist. In other words, they cannot be contrived. They are not generic. They are not broadly shared with other organizations. They are the DNA of a community, its character. Download a PDF of our Values Statement here.

Aspirational Values

Accidental Values

These values are the traits that are evident in an organization but have come about unintentionally. They may or may not be the result of history or geography and they may or may not serve the good of the organization.

They should not be confused with the core values of the organization, but should be taken stock of and acknowledged. Download a PDF of our Values Statement here.

What We Do

Shepherd of the Hills Spurs a connection to life in Christ with spunk and grit.

Our logo is descriptive of us.

The Mountains

This is an actual outline of Four Peaks, representing the view from our sanctuary, and the predominant view from all over Fountain Hills. More importantly, it represents the ups and downs of life on the planet. These highs and lows lead us to the foot of the cross.

The Shepherd

The Shepherd, our Shepherd, Christ the Shepherd, covers those mountains, those peaks and valleys, with His saving grace.

Of the Hills

Of the Hills is us. We are “of the hills.” And where are we? We are under the protective care of the Shepherd, at the foot of the cross, where He will always keep us safe and loved, as though tucked under His arm.

The Cross

We “Lift High the Cross” to the glory of God. The cross is high above the mountains—high above any peaks and valleys of our lives. The empty cross reminds us we are people of the resurrection. The cross is also reminiscent of the high cross on the top of our sanctuary and the cross outside the Education building. This visually ties the crosses people see outside to our logo.

The Font

The font is a BOLD font, because we boldly stand with Christ, without apology.

Shepherd of the Hills spurs a connection to life in Christ with spunk and grit.

Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” We make one another better and stronger by gathering together and encouraging one another to follow Jesus Christ.

Shepherd of the Hills spurs a connection to life in Christ with spunk and grit.

God makes all of us unique, made in the image of God, says Genesis 1:27. The people of Shepherd of the Hills have a spirit about them. Life is precious. We desire to live life to the fullest, tap into the abundant life that Jesus offers us. Spunk is a hopeful attitude trusting that God works all things for the good (Romans 8:28). Grit is determination and steadfastness. At Shepherd of the Hills, it’s okay to make mistakes. It’s okay to say no. It’s okay to have fun.

To God Alone Be the Glory