a publication of trinity lutheran church 2011, december–vol. … · 2018. 5. 11. · a...

12
A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. LVII No. 12 Christmas Worship Schedule CHRISTMAS EVE 2:00 P.M. Festival Worship with Children’s Choirs 4:00 P.M. Festival Worship with Praise Team 9:30 P.M. Music Prelude by Orchestra & Handbells 10:00 P.M. Candlelight Communion Worship with Orchestra, Trinity Choir, & Organ CHRISTMAS DAY 10:00 A.M. Festival of Christmas Worship with Brass Ensemble New Year’s Day Worship Start the new year right by coming to worship at Trinity on Sunday, January 1, at 10:00 A.M. (One Service Only). We’ll share the Lord’s Supper, sing a few Christmas carols, and Pastor Kurt will share the message of making resolutions that last. Don’t miss out on worship on this first Sunday of the new year. Plan for 2012 It’s time to think New Year’s resolutions and all the opportunities you have as a follower of Christ to share the gifts of your life and resources. Please remember Trinity in your plans, and complete a 2012 financial commitment card. Cards were mailed to member households recently. Please be sure you’ve returned yours. An online option is available to complete this card at trinity- ec.org. Please do so today! Leaders Elected The following people were elected by the congregation on November 15 for three year terms on the Church Council: Dave Benning, Sharon Bram, Peggy Casper, Nathan Nybroten, Cindy Taylor, and Brandon Thorsness. They’ll begin serving in January. The Annual Meeting of Trinity will be Sunday, February 5, at 10:40 A.M. Annual Reports will be available Sunday, January 29, 2012. Ending the Year with Gratitude Thank you for your charitable giving to the mission of Trinity in 2011. Your giving has supported Trinity’s mission and ministries to thousands of people! As the year ends, please remember the Lord’s work through Trinity in your charitable giving, and respond by December 31 to the abundant blessings of God in your life. Give as God has given to you. It’s very important. December Offering History: 2010 Offerings–$171,979 2009 Offerings–$171,683 Thanks for your generous support of the mission of Trinity.

Upload: others

Post on 01-Oct-2020

3 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. … · 2018. 5. 11. · A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. LVII No. 12 Christmas Worship

A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. LVII No. 12

Christmas Worship ScheduleCHRISTMAS EVE

2:00 P.M. Festival Worship with Children’s Choirs4:00 P.M. Festival Worship with Praise Team

9:30 P.M. Music Prelude by Orchestra & Handbells 10:00 P.M. Candlelight Communion Worship with Orchestra,

Trinity Choir, & Organ

CHRISTMAS DAY10:00 A.M. Festival of Christmas Worship

with Brass Ensemble

New Year’s Day Worship Start the new year right by coming to worship at Trinity on Sunday, January1, at 10:00 A.M . (One Service Only). We’ll share the Lord’s Supper, sing a fewChristmas carols, and Pastor Kurt will share the message of making resolutionsthat last. Don’t miss out on worship on this first Sunday of the new year.

Plan for 2012 It’s time to think New Year’s resolutions and all the opportunities you haveas a follower of Christ to share the gifts of your life and resources. Pleaseremember Trinity in your plans, and complete a 2012 financial commitmentcard. Cards were mailed to member households recently. Please be sure you’vereturned yours. An online option is available to complete this card at trinity-ec.org. Please do so today!

Leaders Elected The following people were elected by the congregation on November 15 forthree year terms on the Church Council: Dave Benning, Sharon Bram, PeggyCasper, Nathan Nybroten, Cindy Taylor, and Brandon Thorsness. They’ll beginserving in January. The Annual Meeting of Trinity will be Sunday, February 5,at 10:40 A.M . Annual Reports will be available Sunday, January 29, 2012.

Ending theYear withGratitude Thank you for your charitable givingto the mission of Trinity in 2011. Yourgiving has supported Trinity’s missionand ministries to thousands of people! As the year ends, please remember theLord’s work through Trinity in yourcharitable giving, and respond byDecember 31 to the abundant blessingsof God in your life. Give as God hasgiven to you. It’s very important.

December Offering History: • 2010 Offerings–$171,979• 2009 Offerings–$171,683Thanks for your generous support of themission of Trinity.

Page 2: A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. … · 2018. 5. 11. · A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. LVII No. 12 Christmas Worship

# 2 Trinity Tidings

Tis the Season of Preparing and Waiting"A VOICE CRIES OUT: 'IN THE WILDERNESS PREPARE THE WAY OF THE LORD!''ISAIAH 40:3

Advent is my favorite time of year. I love the faithpractices of preparing and waiting for Christ to enterour lives in a new way. I love the lights, the sounds,the smells of Advent—if I am honest, even morethan Christmas Day. Advent time has become ablessing to me, but it has taken many years for thatto be true. The month of December in the church is a flurryof planning and preparing for the coming Christmas worship services. I caneasily find myself running from the busyness of church to the busyness ofhome: family Christmas planning with schedules, gatherings, parties, cards, andgifts. Advent can so easily slip by with most of my attention paid to tasks,duties, and responsibilities. While Advent is a season of "preparing," I don't think conquering a to-do listis a terribly enriching spiritual practice! Yes, it feels good to cross off eachaccomplishment. But during Advent, what are we really seeking to prepare for? In truth, Advent preparations have little to do with completing a list at all.Actually, Advent is really about "doing" less and reflecting more: quietingourselves in order for God to come to us. The whole mystery of our faith is thatGod is always entering our lives anew, even as God has always been presentwith us. God continues to show up; in faith we learn better to see God in ourmidst and to embrace the "new thing" God is doing in our lives. Advent has become a blessing for me, because during this season of thechurch year we willingly wait in a moment of uncertainty. The light is slowlydawning, but what will it show us? The Savior-child is being born, but whatnew life will he bring to me? Many aspects of life are uncertain; many hopes and dreams are yet to befulfilled or realized. Advent allows us time to connect more deeply withourselves, with those deepest concerns, uncertainties, and dreams in our lives. Advent is a season of waiting and preparing for God to meet us anew, forGod to clarify our vision, and for God to direct us forward in faith. I invite youinto this holy season of waiting, listening, and praying for God to come unto us.I encourage you to:i Slow down. i Breathe more deeply. i Pray "Come, Lord, Jesus." i Remind yourself God is present in your life already.i Look for God anew, calling you forward into faith, healing, hope, and love. May this season of Advent bless you with the gift of Emmanuel—“God withus”—and may you discover the new thing God is up to within you!

Your Sister in Christ,Pastor Heather

Endowment TrustFund Grant Awards Since its inception in the 1980's, the

Trinity Endowment Trust Fund has

donated funds for a variety of missions

thanks to the gifts and estate bequests that

have built this fund to over $400,000.

Your current gifts and memorials, as well

as plans for your estate to gift the Trinity

Endowment Trust Fund, will help do great

things in perpetuity.

In 2011 the Trust Fund provided

grants for:

• “Final Affairs”—a county-wide

program for seniors on a variety of

topics regarding end of life plans.

• A seminary scholarship for a Trinity

student preparing for future church

leadership.

• Supplemental funds for summer Day

Camp high school and college

counselors’ salaries.

• The annual Men’s Mission Jamaica

building project at Jabneh Christian

Academy.

• Tuition for preschool children from

low-income families attending our

Noah’s Ark Preschool.

Do you have a favorite ministry that

you’d like to support? Please consider

leaving a legacy or making a gift in honor

of a birthday, anniversary, or memorial

gift. Leaving a legacy can be very straight

forword.

• In your will, designate a specific

dollar amount, or percentage of assets,

to the Trust Fund.

• Use assets (e.g. stocks, bonds, real

estate, art, jewelry) for your charitable

gift.

• Name the Trinity Endowment Trust

Fund as the beneficiary of your IRA or

pension plan.

Please call the church office. We can

help. Learn more about the Trust Fund at

trinity-ec.org GIVE menu.

Trinity Mobile App You may now make your

offerings via your smartphone.Visit our mobile app byscanning this code.

Page 3: A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. … · 2018. 5. 11. · A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. LVII No. 12 Christmas Worship

# 3 Trinity Tidings

ADVENTFaith Lights at Trinity You're invited to give a gift in honor of someone or in memory of a loved oneby purchasing a "Faith Light" to go on the Christmas trees in Trinity's lobby.For $5 a light, you can brighten Christmas at Trinity this season. Order formsare available in the lobby by the Christmas tree. Your gift will be listed in theChristmas worship bulletins, and you'll help build Trinity's Endowment TrustFund.

Christmas Sharing Project We plan to provide food, outdoor clothing and gifts for kids, and otherhousehold items as requested for 25+ families in the Eau Claire/Altoona area.Elementary school counselors have identified families in need of this service.Gift tags with specific information will be availablebeginning Wednesday, December 1, in the lobby or youmay contact Mary Schoenknecht during the week. Helpis needed for sorting on Saturday, December 17,beginning at 9:00 A.M . with delivery on Sunday,December 18, following the 9:45 A.M . service.

Wall of Food Help build a wall of food through December 16 by bringing non perishablefood products to the lobby. The items brought in will be distributed to familiesin the Eau Claire/Altoona area before Christmas.

Mitten Tree Each year Noah's Ark puts up a Christmas tree in celebration of Jesus'birthday. If you would like to help decorate the tree with mittens, hats, orchildren's sleepers sizes 0–six, hang them on the tree. These items will beincluded in the Christmas Sharing Project. Any items not needed for the sharingproject will be taken to the Bolton Refuge House. Thank you!

Birth of the Baby Come celebrate with the children of Noah's Ark Preschool. All families andfriends of Noah's Ark children are invited to attend on either Thursday,December 15, or Friday, December 16, at 10:00 A.M . and 1:45 P.M . in theTrinity Room! We invite all of you to a BIG birthday party/program for Jesus!

News from Japan Our missionaries in Japan have sent usan update, and it's posted online on theServe page of trinity-ec.org and on theMissions bulletin board near the exit inthe nursery hallway. The Benekes write from Japan: Wehope this message finds you all well,perhaps enjoying some crisp apples orcrisp autumn air. We are well, as youwill see in our newsletter, and pray youfind a sacred peace and place as wemove into the advent season. Blessingsto all of you in the work you do, and wethank you for your continued support ofour ministries here in Japan.~The Bencke family Your offerings to Missions helpsupport these ELCA missionaries. Thankyou for your gifts.

Butter Braid Pastries Butter Braids are here just in time forthe holiday season. Students who willattend the Youth Gathering next summerhave Butter Braid pastries for sale in thelobby on Sundays, December 4 & 11,and on Wednesdays, December 7 & 14.No ordering necessary. Butter Braids aremade from sweet, yeasted pastry dough.Each Butter Braid pastry contains afilling such as raspberry cream cheese orwarm cinnamon. Butter Braid pastriescome frozen, allowing you the choice ofwhen to thaw, rise, bake, and eat. Theyare delicious!

UNICEF Donations Thank you to all the Sunday Schoolchildren who participated in Trick orTreat for UNICEF this fall. We set agoal of $100 which will provide proteinbiscuits for 100 children. To date$231.38 has been collected for thiscause!

Page 4: A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. … · 2018. 5. 11. · A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. LVII No. 12 Christmas Worship

# 4 Trinity Tidings

Getting Out of Debt Like many people, Trinity lives with a mortgage because we’ve invested ina facility that serves hundreds of people every week. Each week your offeringto mortgage payment allows Trinity to make its $10,485 monthly payment tothe ELCA Mission Investment Fund that holds our note. Thank you for everyoffering you make. A wise person once said, “Bad habits are developed when times are good andgood habits are developed when times are bad.” Given all that is happening inthe economy these days, it’s a great time for all of us to rethink our gift-givinghabits. -Nathan Dungan at sharesavespend.com

Library Open House Members of the Trinity Library Committee are offering an Open House onSunday, December 11, between worship services. Stop in and check out whatwe have to offer. Many Christmas books will be on display and ready to checkout. Some books to consider:• A Wish for Christmas by Thomas Kinkade & Katherine Spencer• Shepherds Abiding by Jan Karon• Crewel Yule by Monica Feris• Promise Me by Richard Paul Evans

Ministry Builder Stickers If you are shopping at the Family Christian Bookstore, ask for the MinistryBuilder Stickers. One filled card gives our church library $5 off a purchase. Werecently cashed in $40 toward three Thanksgiving books and two DVD’s.Thank you to those who contributed stickers.

Cleaning for a Reason If you know any woman currently undergoing chemotherapy, please pass theword to her that there is a cleaning service that provides FREEhousecleaning—once per month for four months while she is in treatment. Allshe has to do is sign up and have her doctor fax a note confirming the treatment.“Cleaning for a Reason” will have a participating maid service in her zip codearea arrange for the service. This organization serves the entire USA andcurrently has 547 partners to help these women. Be a blessing to someone andlet them know there are people out there who care. cleaningforareason.org

Friendship Group Trinity’s senior citizens will meet on Wednesday, December 14, in the TrinityRoom. After a short business meeting, the group will have a Christmas Servicein the Worship Center followed by a Christmas Ham Dinner (dessert included)at Fanny Hill. The deadline for your reservation is Friday, December 9. Sendyour check for $16 to Pat Cliff, 6681 Talmadge Road, Eau Claire WI 54701

When You Desire Baptism The vitality and hope for newgenerations emerging for Trinity is seenabout 50 times a year when a child isbaptized in worship. We celebrate thesacrament of Holy Baptism in Sundayworship normally on the second andfourth Sundays of the month. Datesavailable are December 11, 25; January8, 22; February 12, 26. When a child is born, schedule abaptism by calling or emailing anypastor to begin arrangements. The pastorpresiding at the baptism will meet withyou in advance to discuss the meaning ofbaptism and answer your questions. Ifyou are not baptized, it’s never too late.Baptism of youth and adults is morecommon today. Don’t be bashful.Contact information is available onlineat trinity-ec.org from the ABOUT menu.

Volunteer inthe Nursery

If you like to help care for youngchildren and are willing to help out inour nursery during the 9:45 A.M . worshipservice one to three times a year, contactMary Schoenknecht at 715.832.6601 [email protected]. We have a fulltime nursery attendant; your job wouldbe to assist and help out. We will soonbe making a new schedule of volunteersfor January—May, 2012.

Page 5: A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. … · 2018. 5. 11. · A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. LVII No. 12 Christmas Worship

# 5 Trinity Tidings

From the Parish Nurse

Health MinistriesDear Family and Friends, Peace and Joy in the name of our Savior,the Prince of Peace. Christmas peace isGod's desire for us and those we journeywith. However, many times it can feel likeour daily lives are more ruled by conflictthan peace. This month I would like to visitwith you about Peacemaking. The Bible provides many supportiveverses for a call to peacemaking and Biblicalreconciliation. In the Old Testament, Godblessed His people with peace andwholeness, promised joy for those whopromote peace, and prophesied that Jesuswas to be the Prince of Peace (Num. 6:26;Prov. 12:20; Is. 9:6). In the New Testament,Jesus is seen as our peace, and we are calledand empowered to be peacemakers (Jn. 14:27; Mt. 5:9). What are the challenges to peace? Most of our days are punctuated with somemeasure of conflict and discord, either within ourselves, with others, or in ourspiritual life. Certainly some of the factors that contribute to conflict includeour busy and hectic lives; less opportunity for real communication that exploresfeelings, perceptions, and experiences; and the increasing tolerance for violenceas a form of problem solving. Real strength involves looking for anothersolution. What can I do to cultivate a Life of peace? The Bible offers us great wisdomon living lives as peacemakers, and this perspective is captured in the followingacrostic:• Pursue God, His work, and His way of responding to conflict. (Mt. 6:33)• Each person you meet, look at them as Christ sees them and avoid focusing

on minor faults. (1 Jn. 4:7)• Accept personal responsibility for your contribution to conflict; try to see

the situation from the other person's viewpoint. (Gal. 6:4)• Connect with the other person and ask for forgiveness. (Mt. 5:23-24)• Evaluate this situation and all others in the future for peaceable rather than

punitive solutions. Ask yourself, “Am I really committed to a peacefulsolution, even if it takes more time and energy…or do I feel I am in theright, and I want the other person to ‘feel my anger’?” (Ps. 34:14)

May you and your loved ones be blessed as you pursue lives of peace andwholeness (Mt. 5:9). Please see me if I can be of any support or encouragementto you.

In the name of our Prince of Peace, Marti Hofer, Parish Nurse

Artist in Worship Join us for Wednesday 6:30 P.M .worship December 21. Artist and Pastor,Paul Oman will paint a larger-than-lifesized mural preparing us for Christmas.This worship experience will be sure toinspire your celebration of the coming ofJesus. Bring your friends. For moreinformation about Pastor Oman go topaulomanwatercolors.com

Circle ListingsDeborah

Wednesday, December 21, 9:30A.M., Trinity Hostess: Ann FeltonLeader: Mary Schoenknecht

Dorcas Wednesday, December 21, 1:00P.M.

Hostess: Elaine Lonning. 1210East Lexington Blvd.Leader: Group

Martha/MaryTuesday, December 20, 7:00 P.M.

Hostess: Vila Nygaard, 114 VikingPlaceLeader: Group

MiriamWednesday, December 21, 9:30A.M., Trinity Hostess: Laverne NagelLeader: Mary Schoenknecht

RuthTuesday, December 13, 12:00 P.M.,TrinityLeader: Group

SarahWednesday, December 21, 9:30A.M., Trinity Hostess: GroupLeader: Mary Schoenknecht

Please note that theKnitting Group will not

meet in December!!We will resume on

January 26!

Page 6: A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. … · 2018. 5. 11. · A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. LVII No. 12 Christmas Worship

# 6 Trinity Tidings

Children’s Ministries

Open Gym Tuesdays Beginning Tuesday, January 3, from 10:00–11:30 A.M . the Trinity Roomwill be open for parents and their young children (toddlers–preschool) tocome in and use our equipment in a large safe space. Marlee Knickerbockerwill supervise the area and offer a story time and snack during the last halfhour. There is a $3 charge for each child at each session; $5 for 2 childrenfrom the same family and $7 for three. No registration is required. Members,friends of members, and non members are welcome to attend.

RegistrationFor Camp Come & Play: Phone inregistration begins Wednesday, December7, at 8:00 A.M . and will continue untilclasses are full.For All Other Camps: Begins December7 and continues until classes are full.Call Mary Schoenknecht at 715.832.6601to enroll or for more information.

Camp Come and Play Semester 2 Children with birthdays between 9.1.2008 and 8.31.2009 have anopportunity to play with other children of their age. They will hear Biblestories, participate in art and music activities, and take time out to share atreat. We meet in Trinity's nursery from 9:15–11:15 A.M . or 12:15–2:15 P.M .on Wednesdays and are limited to 12 children in each session. We meet for19 class periods beginning January 5. The cost is $247 which includessnacks and supplies for activities and can be paid in installments.Registration begins at 8:00 A.M . on Wednesday, December 7, by phoneonly. Call 715.832.6601

Music & Movement Mondays Move and groove to the music with both new and old songs. We will exploremusic with song, dance, and instruments. It’s a wonderful bonding experiencefor you and your child. New themes each week, and Bible stories conclude eachclass. Parent or caregiver must attend class with child. This Day Camp is forchildren ages one through three. Session One meets 9:15–10:00 A.M . andSession Two meets 10:30–11:15 A.M . on Mondays beginning January 9 for 16class periods (please note we do not meet on January 23, February 20, or March19). The cost of $103 includes cost of supplies/equipment and may be paid ininstallments.

The Great Pretenders Come and join the fun. Dynamicdrama and awesome art will becombined to enhance children’sliterature and Bible stories. Aftercreating props and costumes, childrenwill use them to act out the stories.Theater games, creative movement, storystructures, and creative artistry will beexplored in this high energy class. ThisDay Camp is for children who are fourby 12.31.11. We meet from 1:00–3:00P.M . on Tuesdays beginning January 14for 17 class periods (please note we donot meet on February 21 or March 20).The cost of $218 includes cost ofsupplies and snacks. Fees may be paid ininstallments.

Thrilling Thursdays Spend Thursdays engaged in a widevariety of preschool activities. Childrenwill cook, read, paint, experiment, sing,and dance. The class will allow childrento explore and discover in the areas oflanguage, science, music, math, and art.A hands on discovery approach will beemphasized in a Christian environment.This Day Camp is for children who arefour by 12.31.11. We meet from9:00–11:00 A.M . OR 1:00–3:00 P.M . onThursdays beginning January 12 for 18class periods (please note we do notmeet on March 22). The cost is $230 andincludes cost of supplies and snacks.Fees may be paid in installments.

HappyAdvent!

Page 7: A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. … · 2018. 5. 11. · A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. LVII No. 12 Christmas Worship

# 7 Trinity Tidings

Noah’s Ark NEWS! December will be an amazing month at Noah’s Ark, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus.

j Angel Breakfast on Saturday, December 3, 8:30–10:00A.M. Reservations required.

j Christmas Party Programs, please join us! T/Th A.M. and P.M. Party Programs on

Thursday, December 15, at 10:00 A.M. and 1:45 P.M.; M/W/F A.M. and P.M. Party Programs

on Friday, December 16, at 10:00 A.M. and 1:45 P.M.

j Birthday Parties for Jesus, T/Th A.M. and P.M. on Tuesday, December 20, during class;

M/W/F A.M. and P.M. on Wednesday, December 21, during class.

Then we’ll be off for Christmas vacation December 22–January 2 inclusive. We wish YOU a Merry Christmas and a Happy

New Year 2012!! WOW this year went fast!

PS . . . Our 2012–2013 Noah’s Ark Open Houses are scheduled for Sunday, January 8, at 11:00 A.M. and Monday, January 9,

at 6:00 P.M. in the Preschool classroom. Please invite your friends! The 2012–2013 brochure will be available in the preschool

hallway in mid-December and in bulletins on January 8.

PPS . . . We still have a place for a child who is four before December 31, 2011 in the M/W/F P.M. class this year. We welcomed

two new children to Noah’s Ark in November. We’ll also be welcoming another new child in January. Keep telling your friends

of Trinity Lutheran’s preschool program. It’s a GREAT place to be!

Youth Dates to RememberSunday, December 4

• Teen Study: Club 78 in the Trinity Room, High School in Room 306, from

10:30–11:05 A.M.

Wednesday, December 7

• CrossWord Rehearsal in the Worship Center at 5:30 P.M.

• Club 9 in the Trinity Room from 7:15–8:30 P.M.

Sunday, December 11

• Teen Study: Club 78 in the Trinity Room, High School in Room 306, from

10:30–11:05 A.M.

Wednesday, December 14

• CrossWord Rehearsal in the Worship Center at 5:30 P.M.

• Club 78 in the Trinity Room from 7:15–8:30 P.M.

• High School Youth Council in the Youth Room at 7:15 P.M.

Sunday, December 18

• Teen Study: Club 78 in the Trinity Room, High School in Room 306, from

10:30–11:05 A.M.

Wednesday, December 21

• Club 78 and Club 9 in the Trinity Room from 7:15–8:30 P.M.

Sunday, December 25 and January 1

• No Teen Study—Christmas Break

Wednesday, December 28

• No Confirmation Classes—Christmas Break

Thank You 2012 Youth Gathering participants thank the Trinity congregation for supporting

the Baroka Wreaths Fundraiser. Students will use the monies raised toward hotel

and transportation costs and meals. Wreaths and swags will be available for pick up

at Trinity on Sunday, December 4, from 8:45–11:15 A.M. Thank you again for your

support!

Scavenger Hunt Club 9 Students and Mentors participated

in Trinity's traditional Confirmation

Scavenger Hunt on Wednesday, November

16. The purpose of the Scavenger Hunt was

to collect food items for the Trinity Food

Pantry and for the Christmas Sharing

Project Wall of Food. Students and Mentors

teamed up and headed for the streets of Eau

Claire neighborhoods to ask residents to

donate non-perishable food items. Once all

teams were back, points were awarded for

specific food products. This year's winning

team collected enough food to fill three

banana boxes. Our entire Club 9 class

collected enough food to fill 14 banana

boxes. Way to go Club 9 Students and

Mentors!

Page 8: A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. … · 2018. 5. 11. · A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. LVII No. 12 Christmas Worship

# 8 Trinity Tidings

From Your Church LibraryBooks on Bullying We have a nice selection of books for children and young people dealing withthe topic of bullying. These resources may help parents discuss this issue withtheir children. Look for them in a special display. • My Secret Bully by Trudy Ludwig. Monica is a target of relational

aggression, emotional bullying among friends who use name calling andmanipulation to humiliate and exclude. But with a little help from asupportive adult—her mother—Monica learns to cope and thrive by facingher fears and reclaiming power from her bully. (+ LUD)

• Bullying and Me, Schoolyard Stories by Ouisie Shapiro. This bookcontains true life experiences of kids who have been bullied by other kidsat school. (YP 371.5)

• Bullying by Joy Berry. The author’s goal is to help children of all ages liveresponsibly, so they can be happy and successful. She made this bookentertaining and fun by adding cartoons and humor. (+ BER)

• Say Something by Peggy Moss. At school, there are some children whopush and tease and bully. Sometimes they hurt other kids by just ignoringthem. The girl in this story sees it happening, but she would never do thesemean things herself. Then one day something happens that shows her thatbeing a silent bystander isn’t enough. (+ MOS)

Two chapter books for young readers:• Roscoe Riley Rules # 2 Never Swipe a Bully’s Bear by Katherine

Applegate. (+ APP)• Stinky Stern Forever by Michelle Edwards (+ EDW)

Good selections for younger children:• Jungle Bullies by Steven Kroll. Elephant is bigger than Hippo, so he takes

Hippo’s spot in the pond. This causes Hippo and other animals to pick onthose who are smaller. When Monkey complains to his mother, she comesup with just the right solution, and all the animals learn to share. (++ KRO)

• No Bunny’s Perfect by Anna Dewdney. Bunnies try to do the right thing,but sometimes it’s not that easy. Sometimes they need a littlereminding—how to share and how to care. The author uses humor andcharm to demonstrate good habits. (++ DEW)

• The Recess Queen by Alexis O’Neill. This is a wonderfully funnyillustrated book with a great message of playground bullying. (++ ONE)

• Stop Picking on Me, A First Look at Bullying by Pat Thomas (++ THO)

SocialMinistriesThank You for the Boots! Working through the Eau Claireelementary school counselors, Trinityrecently distributed 120 boot vouchers tochildren in our community. Thanks to thew o n d e r f u lgenerosity of thisc o n g r e g a t i o n ,N o a h ' s A r kPreschool , andK - m a r t , t h e s echildren will havewarm feet this winter!

Fire Disaster Fund This year the Trinity Council approved

the formation of a Disaster Assistance fund.

This fund will provide anyone living in Eau

Claire County, displaced from their home

due to a fire (arson excluded), an immediate

cash donation to assist them with expenses

related to daily living.

Trinity members John and Jessica Kelly

were instrumental in helping provide for its

formation. The Kelly’s lost their home to

fire in December 2010 and understand the

complexities that come into being upon

such a disaster.

The fund has already gifted two families

this fall and needs your support. Please

make gifts directed to the Fire Disaster

Fund. Thank you.

More Social Concerns

Page 9: A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. … · 2018. 5. 11. · A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. LVII No. 12 Christmas Worship

# 9 Trinity Tidings

Friends of Flynn Thank you for your continual support of Friends of Flynn, Trinity's partnershipwith Flynn Elementary School in Eau Claire. In November we have been ableto do the following:• Numerous pairs of athletic shoes were once again donated to the school for

children to borrow so that they may participate in physical educationclasses.

• New and gently used snow pants and other snow items were donated so thatall children can participate in recess and other outside activities.

• Lots and lots of Campbells® soup labels, General Mills® box tops, milkcaps, and pull tabs off soda cans were given to the school. (We willcontinue to collect these items!)

Thank you for your support of this partnership. We look forward to new,exciting ways to support the students and teachers at Flynn School in 2012.

Gift Giving this Holiday Season In this holiday season of gift-giving,there is the pursuit of the "perfect" gift.Within such a pursuit, there is thequestion, "What do I give someone whoseems to have everything?" The SocialConcerns Team is offering a variety ofgift-giving options that benefit therecipient along with someone in need.• Through Trinity's "Gifts that Give,"

you can give unique gifts such assupporting a meal at theCommunity Table, sponsoring abag of food for our food pantryguests, or purchasing a pair ofshoes for a child in need in ourcommunity.

• Trinity will also once again offer gift-giving options through HeiferInternational. Purchasing gifts such as a share of a pig ($10) or a flock ofchicks ($20) help empower families in poverty-stricken countries to achieveself-reliance and enhance their livelihood.

• Another popular item for holiday gift-giving is Fair Trade coffee andchocolate. There are a variety of new coffee flavors this year, so stop by thetable in the lobby to check them out!

All of these gift-giving options will be available at the "Gifts that Give" tablein our lobby on Sundays, December 4, 11, and 18. As you purchase a gift, youwill receive a special card that you can then give to that special loved one orfriend in whose honor you have given the gift.

CROP Walk This year's CROP Walk was a huge success with over $15,000 raised in ourcommunity. Thank you to all who helped Trinity contribute $1,152 toward thisimportant ministry. The CROP Walk (held in October each year) raises moneyfor Church World Service (75 percent) and our local Feed My People FoodBank (25 percent).

• To all of the donors and volunteersfor making the Red Cross BloodDrive a success! A total of 42 units ofblood were collected. Your generousgift is helping many lives! We give aspecial thank you to Jane Olsen forall of her hard work in coordinatingthe blood drive.

• To the Salvation Army Bell Ringerswho represented Trinity so well atFestival Foods.

• To the many members and friends ofTrinity who made the CommunityThanksgiving Dinner anotherglowing and delicious successthrough their donations of food andtime and by providing a welcomingatmosphere for our guests. A specialthank you goes to Eric Nelson whocoordinated the event.

Helping Those inOur Community According to recent statistics, 13% ofthose living in Eau Claire County areliving in poverty. In addition, 15% of thepopulation is considered "near poor." Inour city alone, one in three children areeligible for free or reduced lunch. Yourgifts to ministries such as Trinity's FoodPantry, the Community Table, and theSojourner House provide a healthy meal,a bag of groceries, or a warm bed for ourneighbors who are struggling. Thank youfor your donations, your time, and yourprayers. Together we celebrate God's loveby making this season a little easier formany in our community.

Page 10: A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. … · 2018. 5. 11. · A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. LVII No. 12 Christmas Worship

# 10 Trinity Tidings

Memories from Jamaica Jesus said, "As you have done it to the least of these you have done it to me."And the disciples asked, "Lord, when did we do this to you?" O.K. so it may bea bit of paraphrasing; however, I almost always think of Mission Jamaica whenI hear this Bible verse being quoted. When I was first approached about joininga trip to Jamaica, my thought was “O.K., here is a chance to do something forsomeone else. They will never have any hopes of repaying me.” I had been toldwhat the living conditions were like for the citizens of the area we were goingto be working in. No amount of talk could ever prepare me for what I saw when I arrived inthat neighborhood. So, with a strong back (and maybe a weak mind) I set outwith the rest of the crew to help build a house for the Dekas family. Sincebuilding their house, I have been back to Jamaica to help build several homesfor families. One story that I feel compelled to tell happened on the third day of our"build" of the Dekas home. I walked to the house ahead of the rest of the crew.Standing outside the yard were the two youngest Dekas girls (I'm guessing threeand four years-old). They were struggling to open a plastic sandwich bag thattheir mother had tightly tied with gummy bears inside. I asked the older of thetwo if I could help her open it. She pulled away. I had to ask several timesbefore she relinquished the bag with the valuable gummy bears to me. I openedit and handed it back to her. She asked me if I would like one (she had verylittle but was willing to share). I told her "No, I'm fine. Your mother packedthem for you." She then turned to her little sister and said, "Give your bag to theman. He's a nice man, and he won't take any!" This past March as we were working on the new house build, the oldest ofthe two came to see her father who was working on the house with us. I askedher if she remembered that day. She said she did and thought of it often. This past trip every family that I have helped build decent housing for lookedme up and thanked us (Trinity and our friends that go with us) for giving themsomething to be proud of. For giving them hope. On our past trip we had a number of firsts: It was the first time Lutheranswere invited to lead worship. It was the first time they had heard a children'ssermon. It was the Jamaicans’ introduction to a "potluck dinner.” It was the firsttime they intentionally worked on the new house build with us. For me this past trip had some firsts, too. I was able to worship with theJamaicans for the first time. What a joyful experience and, besides, aren't wesupposed to remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy? The potluck dinner gaveus a chance to visit with members of the congregation and community that wenever took the time for before. Isn't that what being in the family of God is allabout? And on the last day, as we were leaving the neighborhood for the lasttime of that trip, I was asked if the next time we were back I would come totheir house. Even though I go to Jamaica to serve, I always come back feeling like I havebeen served. And I always ask myself, “Am I the least of these?” And so, each year as we face rising costs in making these so valuable MissionJamaica trips, I can't help but feel that we need to make as many reasons forgoing to help our brothers and sisters in Jamaica as we do excuses for notgoing.

Tim Voigts

Thank You Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Our congregation was blessed toreceive a financial gift of $1,600 fromThrivent Financial for Lutherans tosupport Trinity's hunger ministries. Thefunds received were used to support ourannual Thanksgiving Dinner, and aportion was devoted to our food pantry.Thank you to Thrivent for their on-goingpartnership in ministry!

Now that the quilters have shipped outall of their quilts, kits, and layettes, wewant to thank you! To everyone who gaveof their time, money, and materials, we soappreciate all of your donations. Thankyou to Trinity Youth and Lisa Goetz fortransporting our boxes, to Don Petersonfor setting up tables and making coffeefor us, and to Cindy for getting our newsout. We could not have accomplished allthat we did without your help! Check out our completed project list for2011! School kits–119; health kits–100;quilts for Lutheran World Relief–50;quilts for Mission Jamaica–22; quilts forSojourner House–21; quilts for BoltonRefuge House–25; layettes–60.

Page 11: A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. … · 2018. 5. 11. · A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. LVII No. 12 Christmas Worship

# 11 Trinity TidingsReceived October 2011

Memorials& GiftsSOJOURNER HOUSE FUND

• In memory of Garf Freeberg: Shirley Freeberg

YOUTH MINISTRY FUND

• In honor of Faith Seltun: Harvey & Carol Baumbach• In memory of Lucille Christian: Mark & Suzanne Becker, Paul & Amber

Moltzau

MEMORIAL FUND

• In memory of Garf Freeberg: Robert & Sarah Blockhus• In memory of Eugene Peeso: Douglas & Barbara Hillestad• In memory of Mary Patrow: Donald & Norma Telford• In memory of Maren Grams: Wayne & Esther Knutson, Edna Hood• In memory of Char Jenson: Char Finseth, Morris & Audrey Brumberg• In memory of Elaine Mikesell: Margetta Souder• In memory of Millie Weaver: Morris & Audrey Brumberg• In memory of Glenn Anderson: Morris & Audrey Brumberg, Dorothy

Norby• In memory of Lowell & Helen Pepper: Vila Nygaard

CHILDREN’S BIBLE FUND

• In memory of Char Jenson: The Jenson Family• In memory of Lucille Christian: Jim & Mary Karker, Bob & Mary

Schoenknecht• In memory of Lowell & Helen Pepper: Jim & Mary Karker• In memory of Millie Weaver: Bob & Mary Schoenknecht

MISSION FUND

• In honor of Annie Halloin’s Confirmation: Art & Helen Rizzi

LIBRARY FUND

• In memory of Garf Freeberg: Carl & Lorraine Higgins• In memory of Zeena Novotny: Friends of the Library Book Club• In memory of Maren Grams: Miriam Circle

FOOD PANTRY FUND

• In honor of Carl & Lorraine Higgins’ 65 Wedding Anniversary: Carl &th

Lorraine Higgins• In memory of Maren Grams: Ralph & Norma Marking• In memory of Char Jenson: Shirley Freeberg• In memory of Glenn Anderson: Shirley Freeberg

PRAYER SHAWL FUND

• In memory of Lucille Christian: Ronald & Cindy Beck

MISSIONARY FUND

• In memory of Marge O’Connor:Marjorie & James Hanegraaf

MORTGAGE FUND

• In honor of her father, ChuckColburn’s 100 Birthday: James &th

Jeanne Reppe

QUILTER FUND

• In memory of Millie Weaver: RuthWolfram

Ah, dearest Jesus, holy Child,

Make thee a bed, soft, undefiled,

Within my heart, that it may be

A quiet chamber kept for Thee.

My heart for very joy doth leap,

My lips no more can silence keep,

I too must sing, with joyful tongue,

That sweetest ancient song,

Glory to God in highest heaven,

Who unto man His Son hath given

While angels sing with pious mirth.

A glad new year to all the earth!

Martin Luther

Page 12: A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. … · 2018. 5. 11. · A publication of Trinity Lutheran Church 2011, December–Vol. LVII No. 12 Christmas Worship

• Please submit all articles for the Tidings electronically in MS Word, WordPerfect format, or in the body of an email. Submit to:[email protected]

• All submissions must be your own work. Any copyrighted material (code, images, or otherwise) must include written permission from theoriginal source.

• Deadline for the January Newsletter is December 19.

Serving in Christ’s Love and Sharing the Good News” Trinity Lutheran Church, 1314 East Lexington Blvd, Eau Claire WI 54701

Phone: (715) 832.6601 • Fax: (715) 832.6700 • E-mail: [email protected] • Web Page: trinity-ec.org

MinistersPeople of Trinity

Congregational PresidentKirk Myhre

PastorsKurt M. Jacobson [email protected]

715.832.9726

Jim Page [email protected]

715.834.7092

Heather Wigdahl [email protected]

715.559.2338

Ministry DirectorsMary B. Schoenknecht [email protected]

Children’s Ministries

Jeanne Cooper [email protected]

Noah’s Ark Preschool

Shirley Sands [email protected]

Worship & Music

Pat Garber [email protected]

Visitation Ministry

Marti Hofer R.N. [email protected]

Parish Nurse

Youth Ministry Leadership TeamLisa Goetz [email protected]

Youth Ministry Assistant

Anne Josephson [email protected]

Leadership Team Coordinator

Cassie Brenden [email protected]

Youth Events & Volunteer Coordinator

Building & GroundsDon Peterson

Melissa Buchli

Nursery AttendantElizabeth Meyer

Ministry SupportGail Brian [email protected]

Financial Ministry Assistant

Amber Moltzau [email protected]

Office Administrator

Suzanne Becker [email protected]

Ministry Assistant/Food Pantry Coordinator

Cindy S. Beck [email protected]

IT/Ministry Assistant

Noah’s Ark Pre-School Teachers & Day Camp LeadersGinny Lien [email protected]

Jill Kasmarek [email protected]

Marlee Knickerbocker [email protected]

Carrie Burnett

Choir DirectorsGary Rambo—Trinity Choir

Jeanne Cooper—God’s Little Singers

Shirley Sands—Totally Joyous Christians, Children’s Choir,

Harmony in Spirit

Ryan Poquette—Trinity Tollers

Jami Brieske—Worship Music Leader

Brian Pressler—Worship Music Leader

MissionsMaranatha Church in Kingston, Jamaica

Blantyre Lutheran Parish in Malawi, Africa

Jacqueline & Patrick Bencke, Japan

Seminary StudentJami Brieske—Luther Seminary