On January 8, 1976, Rev. John Reitan accepted a call to serve the new congregation in Boise, arriving there in April. A group of people had chosen the name “Shepherd of the Valley” in January of 1976 and selected a church site which the ALC purchased. The first worship service was held on April 25 in the Bockelman home. Reception of 43 new members occurred on May 16. Formal organization took place on October 31 of that year. Total membership at the end of 1976 was 105.
The congregation incorporated in February of 1977, broke ground for the church in March and laid the cornerstone on June 26. The first service in the new Worship Center was held on August 21 of that year with 250 in attendance. The first Vacation Bible School began August 22 with 116 students. The ALCW organized on September 13, the Headstart Program was initiated in October, and the first anniversary was celebrated on October 30 with reception of 89 new members and the closing of the charter membership rolls.
From the guide to the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, Boise, Idaho, Records, 1976-2012, (Pacific Lutheran University)
