Print/View the November 2019 Trinity Tidings in PDF format

Pastor Amy Waelchli

This past month I attended the Bishop’s Convocation, which is an annual event in our synod for all rostered leaders. (This year it was in Dubuque instead of Lake Geneva so my absence was more noticeable.) This was one of the best fall convocations I’ve ever attended!

First of all, I was able to meet our Interim Bishop, Pastor Peter Rogness. He was genuine and accessible. Bishop Rogness also presented a reasonable plan to re-shape the bishop’s election process, which he rightly credited to synod council. For future elections at synod assemblies, a slate of vetted candidates for office of the Bishop will be presented to the body for election. Much the same way a congregation is presented with a candidate in a call process, so the synod will have a choice of candidates that have been through a thorough process. That said, it is my understanding that an election will not be ready by May’s synod assembly.

Second, the collegiality of Bishop’s Convocation is a gift. It’s amazing to hear what is happening in other people’s contexts. Rural congregations and urban settings! Confirmation classes and nursing home worship. Prison ministry and homeless shelters. There is a team within our synod working on racial justice. There is a team within our synod working on Reconciling in Christ, which works for full inclusion of LGBTQ+ people within congregations. The Spirit moves in this synod!

Finally, the presentation itself was simply a gift. The speaker was Rev. Dr. Wayne Mueller who spoke about Sabbath, as in the oft overlooked command from God to rest. In fact, he translated that Hebrew for us from Genesis. We most often say that on the seventh day God rested. Rev Mueller reminds us that the same word can mean ‘exhale.’ God exhaled. That breath you’re holding? Exhale. The stress you’re hanging onto? Exhale. The to-do list? Exhale. Rest. Exhale.

Sabbath rest is an important practice even when it happens breath by breath.

Sunday School News

A prayer to help us focus on God at Thanksgiving:

A child’s prayer of Thanks.

Dates to keep in mind:

Nov. 3 – No Sunday school

Nov. 24 – First Communion Workshop at noon in Fellowship Hall. This workshop is for the 4th grade students, plus any children whose parents feel they are ready to receive communion. Every child attending needs at least one adult with them. Please contact Julie Vurva or Pastor Amy if you have any questions. Church office number is 563-4145.

Nov. 26 – Trinity’s Thanksgiving worship service at 7 p.m. and First Communion for students who attended the workshop on Nov. 24.

Dec. 1 – No Sunday school

Dec. 8 – Rehearsal for the Sunday school Christmas Worship Service. The rehearsal takes place during the normal Sunday school hour, from 9:30-10:30.

Dec. 15 – Regular Sunday school, PLUS the 5th & 6th grade class taking lead roles at the 8:15 worship and the students in classes 4K-4th offering their traditional children’s worship service at 10:45. Come and worship and praise God with us.

Youth and Families November 2019

Hanging of the Greens

We will put up the big tree, the children’s tree, decorate the church, have a potluck supper, children’s crafts, grown up crafts and more! This will be a wonderful kick off to the season!

Please plan on joining us!

LIFT

Wednesday—Nov. 6

Wednesday— Nov. 20

UPLIFT

WOW

Thursday, Nov. 14, 3:30 p.m.
Young adult discussion group.

Worship with the Youth Director

Thursday, Nov. 14, 6:15 p.m.

Let me know if you are coming so I can order enough pizza! We’re going to build stuff before church!

Join us!

7th & 8th Grade Sunday School
Sunday, Nov. 10, 9:30 a.m.
Sunday, November 17, 9:30 a.m.

GIFT CARDS

It’s a great way to support the youth and do some shopping!

For more info, contact Kitty.

Volunteers needed

I am looking for people with children of all ages.
If you are interested, email Kitty kittysayer314@gmail.com.

Christmas Neighbors

The Giving tree will be set up in the front hallway on Tuesday, Nov 26.

There will be some tags that are for personal care items such as toothpaste and laundry soap.

Please bring your UNWRAPPED gifts back to church by Sunday, December 16.

If you would like to donate to Christmas Neighbors but don’t have time to shop, simply donate the money you would like to spend and LIFT will do the shopping for you. We tried this last year and it was a great success. LIFT loved buying toys and gifts for people. If you would like LIFT to shop for you, simply mail or hand in your donation to the office and enclose a note FOR LIFT SHOPPING. Thanks!!

Print/View the October 2019 Trinity Tidings in PDF format

Dear Trinity Lutheran Church,

Pastor Amy Waelchli

On the morning of my installation here at Trinity, I arrived early as I prefer to do on Sundays and had my cup of coffee with God in the Sanctuary. We chat, you see, in prayer and song and silence. But this was a particularly important day for me, one I’d not imagined less than three years ago when I first came to Trinity Lutheran as your Associate Pastor. On September 15, I was installed as Lead Pastor and that meant God and I had lots to talk about . . . again.

It’s my habit to pray and listen to God. When I was younger, I only turned to God in times of distress but through my life I’ve trained myself with daily practice to converse with God through prayer and study and listening. Now my life is such that I constantly try to tune into (and re-tune to) God throughout my day.

On this day, I prayed that God would give me strength to lead with authenticity and sincerity; to admit when I need help and confess when I’ve been wrong. I prayed that God would use me to be the person God needs me to be in this world (this is the same prayer I pray over my sleeping children); that God would show me all the ways that together we can serve the community for God’s purpose. I prayed that God would make me wise and bold, brave and humble, compassionate and strong so that I may fulfill this calling to which I’ve been called.

I also prayed that God would bless you today and always so that you may know how much you are loved by the one who created you. I prayed that you would continue to be generous with your time and talent; to band together to serve your neighbors; to welcome others into the church and into your hearts. I prayed that God would fill you with all peace in believing so that you may be gentle yet courageous in a world that longs for it.

I look forward to the ministry God has set before us, for the time in which God will answer these prayers, and for the shape in which these prayers will be answered.

In peace and hope,

Pastor Amy

Sunday School News

Sunday school is off to a wonderful start. A big Thank you! to the 22 volunteers who are the backbone of our programming. Trinity is blessed with a rather large number of students, which requires dedicated volunteers with a heart for spreading God’s Word to children. “God’s Work – Our Hands”

It is never too late to register for Sunday school. The registration link is here.

Important dates:

Sept. 22 – Third grade Bible Sunday. Students in third grade received a Bible during either the 8:15 or 10:45 worship service.

Sept. 29 – Fifth grade students receive acolyte training during the Sunday school hour.

Oct. 6 – Fifth grade students are commissioned into serving as acolytes during either the 8:15 or 10:45 service.

Oct. 20 – Food Pantry collection, the congregation is encouraged to participate.

Nov. 3 – No Sunday school (Fort School’s fall break week-end)

The Sunday school program is seeking a guitar, piano player and/or vocalist who would enjoy helping lead music during the Sunday School Opening sessions from 9:30-9:45 on Sunday mornings. Contact Julie Vurva for more information at 563-4145 ex. 4 or julievtlc@yahoo.com.

Fall Clean up with Property Ministry Team

An indoor fall clean up has been scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 16 beginning at 8:30. We hope to wipe down the Sanctuary, Narthex, Choir Loft and Hearth Room. Many hands will make the cleaning go quickly, and perhaps you will have a chance to get to know someone a bit better as you spend time volunteering on a project.

First Communion Instruction for All Ages

First Communion Instruction for All Ages is offered because age simply cannot define when a person is ready to receive communion. This class requires a parent to attend with their child and is a beginning step in a life-long learning about God’s Holy Supper. Parents know their children best. Does your kiddo have questions about communion? Do they love to pray with you? Ask big questions that leave you stumped? Do you believe your child is ready to engage with God in this Holy meal?

If you have questions, speak with Pastor Amy or Julie Vurva. We welcome the opportunity to think this through with you. Call us to register at (920) 563-4145.

First Communion is celebrated on Nov. 26 at the 7 p.m. Thanksgiving Worship. Followed by Trinity’s Pie Fest, this is a night of abundant celebration!

Special Congregational Meeting

There will be a special meeting between services in the sanctuary on Oct. 6. In the council’s efforts to get a boiler project underway we will need to have a special congregational meeting. The council rightly cannot spend this amount of money without congregational approval. We have two bids and the council will have a recommendation for the congregation at this meeting.

Confirmation Sunday

Join us as 15 young people Affirm their Baptisms during worship on Confirmation Sunday, Oct. 27 at 8:15 & 10:45.

Celebrate at a reception in the Fellowship Hall from 9:30-10:15.

All Saints Day

In worship on Oct. 31 and Nov. 3, we’ll remember all those who’ve died and been buried from Trinity this past year. We’ll light a candle in their honor and remember their place in our lives and hearts. You’re welcome to submit the name of anyone you’d like remembered on that day. Look for the information in the Narthex.

Addresses for Trinity’s College & Tech Students and Service Members

Did your young adult move to school or go into the service? STAR group is looking for the addresses of current Trinity college and tech students and service members for their card ministry. Email the office at officetlc314@gmail.com or fill out an index card in the Narthex. Please include their birthday too. Thank you!

A note from the Treasurer Chris Cluver

Losing Ann Zweifel tragically and unexpectedly last spring left a void for all who knew her. It was the family’s wish to have memorials given to the UPAVIM, the Guatemalan girls scholarship fund. A check was issued for $5,625 this month. God’s Spirit is alive and well. Ann would be so pleased to be remembered with such a fruitful gift.

New Church Directory

We are starting the photo sessions at the end of September for our NEW Directory!!! Please sign up for your photo session at the sign up center outside the Narthex.

You can also email or call Beatrice to schedule (920) 563-4145 No purchase necessary!!

Mitten & Hat Drive

STAR is again collecting your gently used/new/hand crafted mittens and hats. Please bring them freshly laundered (or tags still on) to Trinity beginning Oct. 6 until Nov. 3. These will keep the hands and heads of our local kids warm!

Thank you.

LIFT schedule for October

Oct. 16 – 6:30 p.m.
Oct. 30 – 6:30 p.m.
UPLIFT Oct. 23 – 6:30 p.m.

Pastor Amy’s schedule

Pastor Amy will be out of the office Oct. 6-8 for the 2019 Bishop’s Convocation.

Worship Volunteer Schedule

As of November we are going to do a sign up sheet for the Worship volunteer schedule. Everyone is welcome to sign up.
There will be two ways to sign up, either on line through Sign Up Genius at  this link or at the sign up center outside of the Narthex.

Please contact Beatrice in church office if you have any questions. (920) 563-4145.

Please note there is also a Thanksgiving Service on Nov. 26 at 7:00 p.m.

School Kits

Thank you to everyone who contributed school kits or school kit supplies. We sent 168 school kits to Lutheran World Relief. We also were to send eight boxes of soap.

Thank you again for your generosity,

Ruth Circle

Prayers requested for . . .

Marsha Anderson, Sandy Anderson, Jean Baughman, Vern Borchardt, Andrew Campbell, Norma Dibbert, Linda Doerr, Isaiah Gravelle, Betty Greve, Kim Hannan, Renee Jensen, Bob Kyle, Jeff Kaufman, Dan Morrow, Diane Reuhl, Jeremy Schepp, Ruth Smithback, Mary Thiel, Tyler Waters, Karen Weber, Donna Weeks, Lori Williams, Donald Zuehlke and those we name silently in our hearts.

Time and Talent Sheets

Time and Talent sheets are now available for your use to volunteer in many ways to serve your church home. You can request a Time and Talent form in the church office, or click this link to download a form in PDF format.

We are especially in need of all volunteers for Sunday 10:45 services.

We are also in need of more Communion Assistants and Ushers at Sunday 8:15 services.

Please contact Beatrice in church office if you have any questions (920) 563-4145.

Interim Bishop of the South-Central Synod of Wisconsin named

The South-Central Synod of Wisconsin Council is pleased to announce that they have affirmed the appointment by Presiding Bishop Eaton of Peter Rogness as the Interim Bishop. Bishop Rogness will begin on Sept. 26 and will serve until July 31, 2020.

Rogness is a graduate of Augustana College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. Upon graduation, he served two Milwaukee parishes, the longest being 10 years at Hephatha Lutheran Church. In 1985, he was elected bishop of the Southern Wisconsin District of the former American Lutheran Church, with offices in Madison. With the advent of the ELCA in 1988, he served as bishop of the Greater Milwaukee Synod for the maximum three terms, until 2002. That year he was elected bishop of the Saint Paul Area Synod, where he served until his retirement in 2014.

Since that time, he has served two interim positions in international English-speaking congregations related to the ELCA, first in Oslo, Norway, and most recently in Bratislava, Slovakia.

Peter and his wife Gerry have four adult children and four grandchildren. They reside in St. Paul, when they’re not at their lake cabin in northern Minnesota.

“I look forward to being a part of the life of this synod for the next 10 months. I don’t feel entirely a stranger, since I served this territory now over 30 years ago and served your neighboring synod for 14 years. But much has changed, and I’ve appreciated the conversations I’ve already had as we’ve talked about how my role here can help lay a good foundation for the next chapter in the life of this synod. I will meet many of you at the Bishop’s Convocation in October and will also seek to be in the conferences of this synod for further conversations. I am both hopeful and confident that these next months will bring good movement of the Spirit in our midst. Thank you for the invitation to serve.”

CONNECT:
Bishop Rogness can be reached at the synod office starting the first week in October. His email address is: peterr@scsw-elca.org and the synod office phone number is (608) 270-0201.

Please hold Bishop Rogness and the synod staff in your prayers during this time of transition.

Subscribe to the synod newsletter by emailing Deacon Vicki at vickih@scsw-elca.org. You’ll be added to the weekly email that shares events in our South Central Synod of Wisconsin and the whole ELCA. Anyone can subscribe!

2nd Lessons – Adult Sunday School with Pastor Amy

Very rarely does the 2nd lesson for a given Sunday get much attention in a sermon. But these lessons are chosen for a reason and written to early Christians. Come and study them with Pastor Amy. Learn what they addressed in their original context and hear what they have to say to us today.

Who: Everyone (9th grade to 99!) is welcome to attend this class.

When: Thursdays from 6:15-6:45 ~or~ Sundays from 9:45-10:15
*the same content is covered in both classes*

Where: Large Group Classroom (upstairs across from kitchenette)

Details: No previous Bible study experience is necessary.

Attend one; attend them all!

Bring a Bible or use one provided here.

Adult Education Schedule

Thursdays from 6:15-6:45 p.m.
Sundays from 9:45-10:15 a.m.

Oct. 3 & 6: 2 Timothy 1:1-14
Oct. 10 & 13: Pastor Dan Dibbert
Oct. 17 & 20: 2 Timothy 3:14–4:5
Oct. 24 & 27: No class
Oct. 31 & Nov. 3: No class
Nov. 7 & Nov. 10: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17
Nov. 14 & 17: 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13
Nov. 21 & 24: Colossians 1:11-20
Nov. 28 & Dec. 1:  No class
Dec. 5 & 8: Romans 15:4-13
Dec. 12 & 15: No class
Dec. 19 & 22: No class
Dec. 26 & 29: No class

Click here to view the church calendar

The Members of Trinity Lutheran Church invite you to a  Service of Installation for Pastor Amy Waelchli as lead Pastor of our congregation.

Sunday September 15th during worship at 8:15 and 10:45 with reception/coffee between services at  9:15 a.m.

Your prayers and presence are appreciated as we celebrate the future ministry of our church under the leadership of our new pastor.

Print/view the September 2019 Tidings in PDF Format

Pastor Amy Waelchli

Are you excited for a new picture directory?! I know I am! It certainly would have assisted me in getting to know you when I first arrived at Trinity three years ago. It is true that photo directories are out of date nearly as soon as they’re printed – life changes that quickly. But they serve as a touchstone as a moment in a congregation’s life. In all of the directories Trinity has done some themes remain the same.

For example, worship is always the central action of the church. As God’s people, we gather to worship and praise God. It’s the time when the majority of us are able to be together. Yet it’s brief, usually just an hour. And it isn’t an interpersonal relationship builder between members. Worship is an experience between self and God, between community and God.

Relationships between members come from other church activities. Christian education is a great example of this. Everything from All Ages Christian Education on Sundays to VBS to the Rally Day Team – each experience strengthens relationships between members.

I wonder if you’ve ever felt a strong desire to know your fellow Trinity members better? Perhaps take that into consideration as you fill out the Time and Talent sheet this year. Fellowship, Discipleship, Education and Worship opportunities also provide the opportunity to build our community relationships. Join us and invite others. Everyone is welcome here!

This new directory is just a snapshot of Trinity but it will also be a good tool to get to know each other. Make your appointment for the photo directory soon! Time slots are filling fast! Call Beatrice in the church office at (920) 563-4145 OR sign up on the sheets outside the narthex. See you in the pictures!

With joy,

Pastor Amy

Welcome Reverend Dan Dibbert

Beginning Sept. 1, Rev. Dan Dibbert is joining the staff of Trinity on a part-time basis. He will preach once a month and visit home-bound members. Our visitation team will continue to visit home-bound members too. Here are some words from Pastor Dan:

Hello again! I have had the privilege to preach and lead worship at Trinity in the past and now this month I will begin serving you on a part-time basis in a supportive role to Pastor Amy. My main responsibilities will be visiting the home-bound members of our congregation and preaching once a month. I will help with other duties as assigned by Pastor Amy as time allows.

Just a little about myself. I retired from parish ministry after serving almost 30 years as a congregational pastor. In my years of ministry, I served five different congregations, served Wartburg Seminary as their Internship Coordinator and did some interim work.

I am married to Beth (42 years). We have two children and five grandchildren. We live in Edgerton (Newville to be exact). We enjoy traveling (our son lives in Dubai and our daughter in Cleveland), boating, hiking (we’re working our way through the Ice Age Trail) and biking.

I am looking forward to working with Pastor Amy and at Trinity!

Sunday School News

Sunday school registration can be done online. Please register your child each year. Trinity offers classes for children in 4K-6th grade. Click on this link for online registration.

If you prefer to fill out a paper copy, they are available on the table in front of the main church office and in the Sunday school office.

Looking for a few musicians! I am seeking a guitar and/or a piano player, or vocalist who would enjoy helping me lead music during the Sunday School Opening sessions from 9:30-9:45 on Sunday mornings. Contact Julie Vurva at 563-4145 ex. 4 or julievtlc@yahoo.com for more information.

Dates to plan for:

Sept. 8 – Rally Day! 9:30 a.m. Join us as we celebrate the kick off of Sunday school with outdoor worship at Barrie Park, followed by a picnic with some fun and games. Sunday school staff will be installed during the worship service.

Sept. 15 – Sunday school 9:30-10:30. Parents are encouraged to join us weekly for the Sunday School Opening in the Sanctuary from 9:30-9:45.

Sept. 22 – Third grade Bible Sunday. Students in third grade receive a Bible during either the 8:15 or 10:45 worship service.

A full schedule of Sunday School events with dates can be found on Trinity’s web page www.trinityfort.org under the Sunday school heading.

May all of us at Trinity see ourselves as lifelong learners and continue to, “Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.” 2 Peter 3:18

First Communion Instruction for All Ages

First Communion Instruction for All Ages is offered because age simply cannot define when a person is ready to receive communion. This class requires a parent to attend with their child and is a beginning step in a life-long learning about God’s Holy Supper. Parents know their children best. Does your kiddo have questions about communion? Do they love to pray with you? Ask big questions that leave you stumped? Do you believe your child is ready to engage with God in this Holy meal?

If you have questions, speak with Pastor Amy or Julie Vurva. We welcome the opportunity to think this through with you. Call us to register at (920) 563-4145.

First Communion is celebrated on Nov. 26 at the 7 p.m. Thanksgiving Worship. Followed by Trinity’s Pie Fest, this is a night of abundant celebration!

Announcements

Thank you so much for all your soap donations. We have collected 7 boxes this year. We collected more than we did last year.

Did you know? Most students in Guatemala stop school after 6th grade. The reason is cost. Families can’t afford the school supplies and uniforms and still keep up with everyday expenses. For $63, we can provide the needed school supplies for a primary or junior high student. The UPAVIM scholarship fund, with the goal of helping 300 students, is funded entirely by donations. Your gifts in the quarter container really do change lives.

Please continue to donate, even if the plastic jar has moved a little in the narthex. Donations have really fallen off this summer. Check the bar chart on the bulletin board to note our progress compared to last year. As Aug. 18, we have $523. That is still $120 less than last August.

Kitchen remodel update

We have secured quotes from an equipment supplier for the dish-wash line, which will include a pre-rinse station with a garbage disposal and inline dishwasher with a 4-foot clean dish station. We also quoted a new three-station sink and a hand wash sink.

The group has determined that the cost of the racks from the equipment supplier were over priced and found these could be secured from an online source more reasonably.

We still are getting quotes for the plumbing of the dish-washing line and sinks and construction costs for the closing of the west doorway to accommodate the three-station sink.

We are still researching the center island to determine size and functionality.

The quote we received for the ice machine was high. We are looking for a more economical solution. If we get one it would be located where the trash cans are currently located, at the northwest corner of the kitchen.

There is still work to be done before we have a complete proposal for this project.

Transition Team celebration

Thank you to everyone who assisted and/or contributed baked goods for the recognition of the Transition Team August 22 and 25.

Feed Your Soul

We are going to be guest hosting Feed Your Soul with First United Methodist Church due to their kitchen remodel on Sept. 12 and Sept. 19 at 5:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome to join us for dinner and fellowship. Please let Beatrice know if you would like to attend.

Fort Fall Fiesta

Saturday, Sept. 14 @ 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Jones Park, Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin

Traducción al español abajo The Unity Project Along with our amazing sponsors, Fort Community Credit Union, Fort Healthcare, Madison Area Technical College, and MK Cellular invite you to Fort Fall Fiesta, a Bilingual Community Party with Emcees Jose Mieses and Whitney Townsend.

Music by Contrabanda, a popular Chicago Salsa band, food by First United Methodist, Spanish-Language Congregation Pitching Lesson by Jose Mieses (former Brewers Pitcher), Salsa Lessons, Bouncy House, Kids Activities by BASE and Fort EL Teachers Baseball game at 2 p.m. featuring the Dominican Stars.

Prayer requests

Prayers requested for . . . Marsha Anderson, Sandy Anderson, Vern Borchardt, Andrew Campbell, Linda Doerr, Isaiah Gravelle, Betty Greve, Kim Hannan, Renee Jensen, Bob Kyle, Dan Morrow, Bill Peterson, Diane Reuhl, Jeremy Schepp, Ruth Smithback, Mary Thiel, Carol Topel, Tyler Waters, Karen Weber, Donna Weeks, Lori Williams and those we name silently in our hearts.

Service of Installation

The Members of Trinity Lutheran Church invite you to a Service of Installation for Pastor Amy Waelchli as lead Pastor of our congregation.

Sunday Sept. 15 during worship at 8:15 and 10:45 with reception/coffee between services at  9:15 a.m.

Your prayers and presence are appreciated as we celebrate the future ministry of our church under the leadership of our new pastor.

Star Word Sharing

Pastor Amy is looking for people to share their Star Word experiences with her and possibly with the congregation. Join her for special Star Word coffee hours on Wednesday, Sept. 25 at 2 p.m. or 6 p.m. Let’s hear where you’ve seen your Star Word in your daily life, in both unexpected and mundane places. RSVP to (920) 563-4145.

Church Directory

It is time for a new church directory. We are starting the photo sessions at the end of September. There will be schedule sign-up sheets on the sign up center outside the Narthex. You can also email or call Beatrice to schedule 920-563-4145 No purchase necessary!!

2nd Lessons – Adult Sunday School with Pastor Amy

Very rarely does the 2nd lesson for a given Sunday get much attention in a sermon. But these lessons are chosen for a reason and written to early Christians. Come and study them with Pastor Amy. Learn what they addressed in their original context and hear what they have to say to us today.

Who: Everyone (9th grade to 99!) is welcome to attend this class.

When: Thursdays from 6:15-6:45 ~or~ Sundays from 9:45-10:15
*the same content is covered in both classes*

Where: Large Group Classroom (upstairs across from kitchenette)

Details: No previous Bible study experience is necessary.

Attend one; attend them all!

Bring a Bible or use one provided here.

Adult Education Schedule

Thursdays from 6:15-6:45 p.m.
Sundays from 9:45-10:15 a.m.

Sept. 15: 1 Timothy 1:12-17
Sept. 22: 1 Timothy 2:1-7
Sept. 26 & 29: Pastor Dan Dibbert
Oct. 3 & 6: 2 Timothy 1:1-14
Oct. 10 & 13: Pastor Dan Dibbert
Oct. 17 & 20: 2 Timothy 3:14–4:5
Oct. 24 & 27: No class
Oct. 31 & Nov. 3: No class
Nov. 7 & Nov. 10: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17
Nov. 14 & 17: 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13
Nov. 21 & 24: Colossians 1:11-20
Nov. 28 & Dec. 1:  No class
Dec. 5 & 8: Romans 15:4-13
Dec. 12 & 15: No class
Dec. 19 & 22: No class
Dec. 26 & 29: No class

Join us for Rally Day!

Join us for
RALLY DAY
(Sunday School Kick-off)
On Sept. 8 at 9:30 a.m.
At Barrie Park
Cookout to follow church service with the band in the park

Bring a chair for the service and picnic. Bring a lawn game for some picnic fun. Please consider bringing a side dish or dessert “If desired, not required.”
Sign-up sheets posted across from the Hearth Room.

News from Your Synod and Ministry Partners

Message from Synod Vice-President, Jane Cahill Wolfgram, regarding resignation of Bishop Viviane Thomas-Breitfeld.

Many of you have asked questions regarding the resignation of Bishop Viviane Thomas-Breitfeld and the future plans of the South-Central Synod of Wisconsin. I will try to answer your questions to the best of my ability, while recognizing that there are limitations because the resignation is a personnel matter and some matters regarding the future of the Synod are still being discerned.

Q. What was the reason that Bishop Viviane resigned?

A. After many individual and Executive Committee meetings with Bishop Viviane, on June 12th, the Executive Committee of the South-Central Synod of Wisconsin presented Bishop Viviane with an extensive list of concerns regarding health matters, performance problems and unethical behavior. After many hours of discussion with Bishop Viviane, the Executive Committee found her Unable to Serve under S8.56 of the Constitution and she was placed on immediate suspension. This action was described as Medical Leave until the matter could be resolved. The SCSW Council affirmed this decision on July 13th. On July 15th, Churchwide interviewed about 30 individuals from across the Synod including rostered and lay leaders, Council members and staff. A report was prepared by Deacon Schwabe and provided to Bishop Eaton. Bishop Eaton then met with Bishop Viviane and asked for her resignation.

Q. Did Rev. Viviane receive a severance package?

A. Yes, her separation agreement provides for 5 months of salary and benefits.

Q. What happens to the programs and initiatives, such as LatinX, Small Town and Rural Ministry, and Youth Ministry, started by Bishop Viviane?

A. These are initiatives formed mutually by Synod leaders and staff. These vital ministries are the focus of our new DEM, Rev. Walter Baires, who with our congregations and rostered leaders will continue to grow and nurture.

Q. Will we have an interim Bishop?

A. We will have an interim Bishop. The Executive Committee is collaborating with Bishop Eaton and her team to identify an interim Bishop and to determine when we will receive him/her.

Q. How will an interim Bishop be selected?

A. Once Bishop Eaton presents us with a name, the Executive Committee will meet with the proposed interim to determine if the candidate is someone that they will recommend to the Council for acceptance.

Q. Is the Synod Council reviewing how we elect a bishop?

A. A Bishop Election Task Force has been formed and is being led by Pastor Tim Hansen. This group is looking at many aspects of the process: candidate selection, qualifications and requirements of a bishop, vetting of candidates, the voting process, etc. As this process unfolds, we will share information and secure input from you.

Several of you have asked when we will hold the Election. As of this date, the Council has not determined when the Election will be held. If you have thoughts or questions, please feel free to contact the Task Force via Pastor Hansen or me.

Q. Are we still having an Assembly in November? Is the agenda as announced at the May Assembly?

A. There will be an Assembly on November 2nd. The Assembly will be held at a congregation in our synod. The Assembly will begin at 10 a.m. and will last until 2 p.m. The agenda will consist of three primary matters; approval of the 2020 Synod budget, plans for establishing a healthy synod and healing the pain resulting from Bishop Viviane’s departure, and possibly the introduction of an interim Bishop. We will also worship together. Those elected to vote at the May 2019 Assembly, rostered leaders and Synod Council will need to attend the November 2nd Assembly.

Subscribe to the synod newsletter by emailing Deacon Vicki at vickih@scsw-elca.org. You’ll be added to the weekly email that shares events in our South Central Synod of Wisconsin and the whole ELCA. Anyone can subscribe!

School kits for Lutheran World Relief

During the summer months, Trinity and congregations around the country will show our love for our global neighbors by preparing School Kits to donate to Lutheran World Relief for distribution to children in need around the world. Individuals that would like to help provide us with the items necessary for these backpacks, can use the list below when purchasing the supplies. The supplies should be put into a plastic bag, labeling it LWR School Kit. Kits can be placed in the blue bin in the education hallway during the summer months, up until Rally Day.

• Four 70 sheet notebooks or wide or college ruled paper, 8″ x 10″
• One 30 centimeter ruler, or a ruler with centimeter on one side, inches on the other
• One pencil sharpener
• One blunt scissors (safety scissors with embedded steel work well)
• Five unsharpened #2 pencils with erasers (secured with a rubber band)
• One box of 16 or 24 crayons
• One 2 1/2″ eraser
• Five black or blue ballpoint pens…no gel ink (secured with a rubber band)

Please remove any excess packaging from the items. Thank you!

We are in need of notebooks and pencil sharpeners.

We have 155 kits already!!

Click here to view the church calendar

Join us for

RALLY DAY

(Sunday School Kick-off)

On Sept 8^th at 9:30 a.m.

At Barrie Park

Cookout to follow

church service with the band

in the park.

Bring a chair for the service and picnic

Bring a lawn game
for some picnic fun

Please consider
bringing a side dish or dessert.
“If desired, not required.”
Sign-up sheets posted
across from the Hearth Room.

Print/view the August 2019 Tidings in PDF Format

Dear Trinity,

Pastor Amy Waelchli

When I prepared for ordination, I meditated on Psalm 16. It happened to be the lectionary text for the given week I was ordained and I was stopped short by verse 6. It reads: The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; I have a goodly heritage. We can think of boundaries in two ways, what’s inside and what’s out. As a younger person, I only saw boundaries as limits. But as I’ve grown in faith (and age!), I’ve come to see the boundaries God sets as the blessing they are.

Inside God’s boundaries are life, love, welcome, forgiveness, compassion, and community. The gift of community is one I’m particularly thankful for. The Bible tells us that we are all part of one body, one communion, one community in Christ. Each person’s gifts bring the mercy and compassion of God to a world in need; each person’s story connects uniquely with someone else. It takes all of us, as a community, to share the love of God with the world.

As your pastor I rejoice in the opportunity to see others lead, succeed, serve, and share in their gifts in this community.

Trinity is beloved community to me. It is a place where I feel welcomed and so does my family. Here I can lead in my strengths and rejoice in yours. Together as a community we continue to proclaim God’s great Good News. Here we rejoice in our goodly heritage: those who’ve gone before and will come after. Indeed, the boundary lines have fallen for us in pleasant places and they’ve brought us together as God’s community.

As it happens, Psalm 16 was also in the lectionary pattern for June 30, 2019 the day you voted for me to become Senior Pastor. The Holy Spirit is powerful like that, providing boundaries and bookends. I’m eager for the new chapter God is writing for all of us. I’m curious to see what God’s future holds for us, how we’ll be called, formed, and sent. I’m so thankful for you, for our mutual call to one another, to living as God’s beloved community.

With thanksgiving and love,
Pastor Amy

Sunday School News

Sunday school registration is now open.

Please click on the following link for on-line registration.

If you prefer to fill out a paper copy, they are available on the table in front of the main church office.

Looking for a rewarding experience?

Become a part of the Sunday school team. I am seeking one volunteer to assist with the 6th grade class every other week.

Aides assist with child management by helping students stay on task and assisting with projects. Aides do not prepare or teach lessons unless they desire to do so. Interested? Contact Julie Vurva at 563-4145 ex. 4 or julievtlc@yahoo.com.

Looking for a few musicians!

The Sunday school program is seeking a piano player and/or a guitar player who would enjoy helping Julie Vurva and Pastor Amy lead music during the Sunday school opening sessions from 9:30-9:45 on Sunday mornings. Contact Julie for more information.

Rally Sunday – Sunday school kick off!

Join us on Sept. 8 for worship at Barrie Park 9:30 a.m., bring blankets or lawn chairs, sunglasses and sun hats! Join us for an uplifting and energizing worship service. The service will be followed by a church picnic. Please consider bringing a side dish or dessert, “If desired, not required.” Sign-up sheets are posted across from the Hearth Room. In case of rain, head into the church.

Building Task Force updates

Watch the Sign-up Center Bulletin Board (in the hallway near the narthex) for opportunities to help with short-term projects.

Pastor Amy is our new Senior Pastor!

For those who were not with us June 30 for the congregational vote, we would like to inform you that the vote was to call Pastor Amy Waelchli to the Lead Pastor position. Please pray for Trinity as we continue on our faith journey.

Installation of Reverend Amy Waelchli as Senior Pastor

Join us Sept. 15 at both services with Reverend Steve Kotke preaching. Please join us in this celebration with fellowship between services in the Fellowship Hall.

Thank you Transition Team members

We want to celebrate and thank the Transition Team for all the hard work they have done this last year. We will be having a celebration Aug. 22 and Aug. 25 an hour before worship and a prayer of Thanksgiving during worship.

New boilers update

Did you know the church is looking into getting new boilers? We are in the phase of getting bids right now. Stay tuned for more details.

Churchwide Assembly

Pastor Amy will be volunteering and attending the Church Wide Assembly in Milwaukee during the first week in August. At this important event, the ELCA will conduct important business such as elect a Presiding Bishop and Secretary, pass a budget, and worship together. You can learn more and watch the live stream at https://www.elca.org/churchwideassembly.

Prayers requested for . . .

Marsha Anderson, Sandy Anderson, Vern Borchardt, Lisa Brunk, Dean Brunk, Andrew, Campbell, Rhonda Cook, Linda Doerr, Isaiah Gravelle, Kim Hannan, Ellyse Jacobs, Renee Jensen, Sarah Johnson, Steve Mepham, Kathy Moore, Dan Morrow, Bill Peterson, Diane Rehul, Jeremy Schepp, Ruth Smithback, Shelly Weber Shaitel, Mary Thiel, Carol Topel, Karen Weber, Donna Weeks, Lori Williams and those we name silently in our hearts.

Semi-Annual Meeting – Aug. 11 at 10:30 a.m.

It’s time again for our semi-annual meeting. We will meet immediately following worship on Aug. 11 to conduct a business meeting for the ongoing ministry of Trinity. The primary purpose of the semi-annual meeting is to vote on council members.

Trinity council members serve three-year terms with the option of serving two consecutive terms (maximum six years). This means every year we have four seats up for election. This year that includes one current council member who is willing to serve another term. All voting members (anyone who has been confirmed) are encouraged to participate in this important election.

The following names have been brought forward for consideration:

• Matt Evenson – Current Council Member
• Becky Schultz
• Sharon Stade
• Jeanne Stark
• Jim Rinden

Each person has a dedication to Jesus and Trinity.

Everyone is welcome to attend!

Fellowship Opportunities

Have you ever wanted to do something but you didn’t want to go by yourself? There are countless activities that are a lot more fun when you have one or more people with you. Golfing, biking, hiking, fishing, bowling, walking, or even going to dinner or a movie are a few examples. The fellowship group is looking for people who would be interested in putting their name and phone number on an activity list who would be interested in having someone call them to join in an activity. If enough people sign up for any given activity, someone on the list might be interested in organizing a group outing. Look for a sign-up sheet at the Sign-Up Center if you’re interested in learning more.

Thanks for Giving

We have filled five nice sized boxes of soap for Lutheran World Relief! If you’ve forgotten, you can still bring full-sized bar soap, any brand, in original wrappers, to add to the four bars we couldn’t fit into the other boxes. Soap is so important after natural disasters and to displaced persons.

Did You Know?

Most students in Guatemala stop school after 6th grade. The reason is cost. Families can’t afford the school supplies and uniforms and still keep up with everyday expenses. For $63, we can provide the needed school supplies for a primary or junior high student. The UPAVIM scholarship fund, with the goal of helping 300 students, is funded entirely by donations. Your gifts in the quarter container really do change lives. Please continue to donate, even if the plastic jar has moved a little in the narthex. Donations have really fallen off this summer. Check the bar chart on the bulletin board to note our progress compared to last year.

New member class date change

The New Member Class and Reception is Aug. 4. New Member Class at 8:00 a.m. Are you or someone you know interested in becoming a member of Trinity Lutheran Church? We’d love to have you! RSVP to Pastor Amy or Beatrice in the church office at 920.563.4145.

Bold Women Answering the Call

The Fourteenth Biennial Convention of the South Central Wisconsin Synodical Women’s Organization will be Sept. 21, 2019, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The one-day Convention and Business Meeting will be at Good Shepherd – Verona Campus, 7291 County Highway PD, Verona, Wisconsin.

Theme: Bold Women – Answering the Call

Nationally known keynote speaker Reverend Angela Khabeb will speak at 11:00 a.m. on “Love, Light, and Salsa: Infusing the flavor of our faith throughout the facets of our lives.”

The cost is $25, which includes a box lunch. Free child care is available. Handicap assessible.

All are welcome and encouraged to attend. Bring a friend (or a car full of friends).

Registration, nomination, resolution, and scholarship forms, along with workshop descriptions and schedule, are available in the July Trumpeter found on the Women of the ELCA page of the Synod Website.

Registrations with child care, special needs, and special diets must be requested by Monday, Sept. 9.

Biennial Convention Voting Member registrations, nominations, and resolutions are due by Monday, Aug. 12, 2019.

Business meeting on Saturday morning starts at 8:30 a.m.

Morning options for visitors include attend Business meeting and/or yoga and/or reading scripture workshop. Afternoon workshop topics are reading scripture, human trafficking, care of God’s creation, white privilege, nurturing children’s faith, small town and rural ministry, and Discovery Doctrine & issues in Indian country. Worship closes the day.

School Kits for Lutheran World Relief

During the summer months, Trinity and congregations around the country will show our love for our global neighbors by preparing School Kits to donate to Lutheran World Relief for distribution to children in need around the world. Individuals that would like to help provide us with the items necessary for these backpacks, can use the list below when purchasing the supplies. The supplies should be put into a plastic bag, labeling it LWR School Kit. Kits can be placed in the blue bin in the education hallway during the summer months, up until Rally Day.

• Four 70 sheet notebooks or wide or college ruled paper, 8″ x 10″
• One 30 centimeter ruler, or a ruler with centimeter on one side, inches on the other
• One pencil sharpener
• One blunt scissors (safety scissors with embedded steel work well)
• Five unsharpened #2 pencils with erasers (secured with a rubber band)
• One box of 16 or 24 crayons
• One 2 1/2″ eraser
• Five black or blue ballpoint pens…no gel ink (secured with a rubber band)

Please remove any excess packaging from the items. Thank you!

We are in need of notebooks and pencil sharpeners.

We have 56 kits already!!

We are updating our system

We are in the process of updating a new computer system that maintains our membership list. You can help by downloading this PDF form, printing it, filling it out and returning it to the church office. Don’t have access to a printer? No problem. You can stop by the office or send an email to Bea at officetlc314@gmail.com to request a form.

Print/view the July 2019 Tidings in PDF Format

Dear Siblings in Christ,

Pastor Amy Waelchli

Some routines and ministries remain the same in every season. One of those is Visitation Ministry. This is a group of people who see our members who are home bound. There are 23 people on the list right now and the list is constantly refined based on a person’s changing desire for visitation, health concerns, and schedule.

When people go to visit, they share the news of the congregation, bringing with them a recent bulletin or Tidings. They keep our members informed. They also bring communion, pray, and read scripture. How do they know how to do this? With a little instruction and by shadowing another Visitation Minister. The volunteers for this ministry would love to take you along sometime if you’re interested in learning more. It is a wonderful ministry and recently we gathered for a meeting. Here are a few things the Visitation Ministers had to say:

• {The person I visit} always thanks me but I really get a lot out of it too!
• All parties involved benefit!
• I think there is something connecting the people we visit with the life of our church.
• The Holy Spirit told me this is something I should do.
• When I go to the nursing home, I go to each room where the door is open to say hello.

Of course, you don’t have to sign up for Visitation Ministry to share the Good News, the joy of Christ, or the news of Trinity Lutheran Church. You can simply live with love and interact with others speaking the name of Jesus or the church. Remember that the truth of Jesus’ love for all people IS a healing, healthy Word for all to share. In Proverbs 16:24 the Bible says, “Pleasant words are flowing honey, sweet to the taste and healing to the bones.” The Word of God is the most pleasant Word we can share.

Sunday School News

Opportunities for a rewarding experience! Become a part of the Sunday school team.
At the end of the Sunday school season a few of our teachers and aides stepped down. We give thanks for their loving service to our Sunday school program. Please put this opportunity to become a part of the Sunday school team into your prayers. An area of need for the next Sunday school season is working with the 6th grade class. There are openings for 1 teacher and 2 aides.

Sunday school volunteer staff commit to a flexible schedule, where they commit to teach or assist about every other week. Teachers need to prep a lesson using the Sunday school curriculum. Aides assist with child management by helping students stay on task and assisting with projects. Aides do not prepare or teach lessons unless they desire to do so.

Interested? Contact Julie Vurva at 563-4145 ex. 4 or julievtlc@yahoo.com.

Looking for a few musicians
The Sunday school program is seeking a piano player and/or a guitar player who would enjoy helping Julie Vurva and Pastor Amy lead music during the Sunday school opening sessions from 9:30-9:45 on Sunday mornings. Contact Julie for more information.

Building Task Force Updates

Volunteers needed for occasional outdoor work:
Throughout the summer and early fall there will be a need for volunteers to pull weeds and water flowers. If you enjoy doing this type of work, please sign-up at the Sign-Up Center bulletin board. You will be contacted by a member of the building task force with further information.

Volunteers needed for doing touch-up painting in the church hallways:
The Building Task Force will be organizing a group of volunteers to do some touch-up painting in the church hallways this summer. If you enjoy doing this type of work, please sign-up at the Sign-Up Center bulletin board. You will be contacted by a member of the building task force with further information.

Youth and Families

The Summer Service Trip is in just a few short weeks!
We are looking for Prayer Buddies.

Every day on our trip at 7 p.m. we stop and pray for the people we have served, the world, each other and the people we love. We have stopped in a cave and prayed, we have stopped at the movie theater and prayed. Wherever we are at 7 p.m. that’s where we pray. Then we call our prayer buddy and chat about our day and the work we have done. All you have to do is also stop at 7 p.m., say a prayer in kind and wait for us to call you for a quick chat. We love the connection that this gives us to our congregation while we are gone. If you are interested, please contact Kitty or pick up a Prayer Buddy form at the office and hand it back in before July 15.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

***Please join us on our sending Worship service on Thursday, July 25

Message from Synod Vice President & Prayers for Healing for Bishop Thomas-Breitfeld

Dear Friends in Christ,

This is to let you know that as of June 12, Bishop Viviane Thomas-Breitfeld is on medical leave. A communication was sent to all rostered ministers (pastors and deacons) of SCSW congregations and specialized ministry settings on June 12.

We ask that you pray for Bishop Viviane to be surrounded by God’s healing presence. We also ask that you respect her privacy and give her the space to become healthy again. As information becomes available, we will update you in a timely manner.

The Executive Committee has appointed Rev. Steve Kottke as Acting Bishop, effective immediately, pending further confirmation of that appointment by Synod Council. Please contact him with any needs you might have. His contact information at the synod office is:

Email: stevek@scsw-elca.org Phone number: (608) 270-0201

If you need to arrange a meeting with Acting Bishop Kottke, please contact Director of Operations, Executive Administrative Assistant to the Bishop, Robyn Zimmerman who manages his calendar at (608) 270-0201 or robynz@scsw-elca.org.

Please also pray that the Lord will provide all that is needed to Acting Bishop Kottke, the Synod Staff, the Synod Council, our leaders, to navigate the waters ahead with vision and grace.

Blessings,

Jane Cahill Wolfgram
Vice President
South-Central Synod of Wisconsin

Pastor Amy’s vacation schedule

Pastor Amy will be out of the office from July 10-23 for Sabbath rest. Thank you to Kitty Sawyer and Rich Vurva who will lead worship in her stead. If you should have an emergency and you desire to speak with a pastor, you can reach Pastor Mike from St Luke’s in Rome at (262) 593-2380. He will be on call for Pastor Amy.

There will be no worship service Thursday, July 4.

Fellowship opportunities

Have you ever wanted to do something but you didn’t want to go by yourself? There are countless activities that are a lot more fun when you have one or more people with you. Golfing, biking, hiking, fishing, bowling, walking, or even going to dinner or a movie are a few examples. The fellowship group is looking for people who would be interested in putting their name and phone number on an activity list who would be interested in having someone call them to join in an activity. If enough people sign up for any given activity, someone on the list might be interested in organizing a group outing. Look for a sign-up sheet at the Sign-Up Center if you’re interested in learning more.

Thanks for giving

We have filled five nice size boxes of soap for Lutheran World Relief! If you’ve forgotten, you can still bring full-sized bar soap, any brand, in original wrappers, to add to the four bars we couldn’t fit into the other boxes. Soap is so important after natural disasters and to displaced persons.

We’re off to a good start

As of June 3, donations to the Quarters Can Make a Difference container have totaled, $135.22. A great beginning to providing scholarships for impoverished children to attend school in Guatemala. That is slightly ahead of last year ($133.22). Everything costs more now, but the poverty is still pervasive in the slum area where the women’s cooperative UPAVIM works and runs the school. So donations are appreciated more than ever! In 2017 we raised $1,267 and last year it was $1,350. Can we top those figures this year? Together with God, we can!

Just remember to place your spare change in the container each time you attend worship. We also gratefully accept quieter cash and checks! Thanks for caring.

New Member Class 7/28 at 8 a.m.

Are you or someone you know interested in becoming a member of Trinity Lutheran Church? We’d love to have you! RSVP to Pastor Amy or Beatrice in the church office at (920) 563-4145. New members will be welcomed at worship on Aug. 1 and Aug. 4.

School Kits for Lutheran World Relief

During the summer months, Trinity and congregations around the country will show our love for our global neighbors by preparing School Kits to donate to Lutheran World Relief for distribution to children in need around the world. Individuals that would like to help provide us with the items necessary for these backpacks, can use the list below when purchasing the supplies. The supplies should be put into a plastic bag, labeling it LWR School Kit. Kits can be placed in the blue bin in the education hallway during the summer months, up until Rally Day.

• Four 70 sheet notebooks or wide or college ruled paper, 8″ x 10″
• One 30 centimeter ruler, or a ruler with centimeter on one side, inches on the other
• One pencil sharpener
• One blunt scissors (safety scissors with embedded steel work well)
• Five unsharpened #2 pencils with erasers (secured with a rubber band)
• One box of 16 or 24 crayons
• One 2 1/2″ eraser
• Five black or blue ballpoint pens…no gel ink (secured with a rubber band)

Please remove any excess packaging from the items. Thank you!

We are in need of notebooks and pencil sharpeners

We have 37 kits already!!

Prayers requested for . . .

Marsha Anderson, Sandy Anderson, Vern Borchardt, Lisa Brunk, Dean Brunk, Andrew Campbell, Rhonda Cook, Linda Doerr, Isaiah Gravelle, Kim Hannan, Ellyse Jacobs, Renee Jensen, Steve Mepham, Dan Morrow, Bill Peterson, Julie Recob, Shelly Weber Shaitel, Jeremy Schepp, Ruth Smithback, Mary Theil, Bill Theil, Carol Topel, Karen Weber, Donna Weeks, Lori Williams, and those we name silently in our hearts.

We are updating our system

We are in the process of updating a new computer system that maintains our membership list. You can help by downloading this PDF form, printing it, filling it out and returning it to the church office. Don’t have access to a printer? No problem. You can stop by the office or send an email to Bea at officetlc314@gmail.com to request a form.

Trudy’s Room

Trudy’s Room is dedicated to fostering the well-being of infants and young children by facilitating the donation, collection and distribution of furniture, clothing, diapers and other basic supplies to families while assisting them to achieve economic independence. Trudy’s Room is being housed at First United Methodist Church in Fort Atkinson. Download this PDF to learn more and to make a donation.

Print/view the June 2019 Tidings in PDF format

Download the June 2019 calendar in PDF format

Jesus said to him, “Stand up, take your mat and walk.” (John 5:8)

Pastor Amy Waelchli

In theory, since the man can now walk, he has no need of the mat. But Jesus specifically instructs this man, laying sick for 38 years, to take the mat with him even though he is now healed. Why? Jesus instructs the man to carry his mat as an outward expression of his history, a scar visible for the world to see. He is healed but, boy, does he have a story to tell! A story showing, once again, that an encounter with Jesus leaves us changed forever. We have stories like that, too. The time when we felt called to reach out to someone. The mission trip that made such an impact. The hymn that means so much because we sang it as children. The prayers we’ve prayed that were answered in unexpected ways. We’ve encountered Jesus and been changed in both simple and profound ways.

Part of our faith as Christians is to carry our mat and share our encounter with Jesus. But after a significant change, it’s hard to be reminded of the past, of what happened, of who you once were. This man can now walk; does he really want to carry that mat as a sign of who he was?

Think about all the phases Trinity has been through from being founded 76 years ago in a community hall to building on this site; from charter members organizing this body to new members joining just this past February; from the first Pastor serving to my being Pastor today. Our past shows growth, change, service, and that God continues to make things new. Trinity has a story to tell about encountering Jesus!

I pray that this summer you will think about Trinity’s story and ponder how we’re encountering Jesus today. I hope you’ll share with others the story of Trinity and how God is making things new here…again!

In peace,

Pastor Amy

Sunday School News

Opportunities for a rewarding experience! Become a part of the Sunday school team.

At the end of the Sunday school season a few of our teachers and aides stepped down. We give thanks for their loving service to our Sunday school program. Please put this opportunity to become a part of the Sunday school team into your prayers. An area of need for the next Sunday school season is working with the 6th grade class. There are openings for 1 teacher and 2 aides.

Sunday school volunteer staff commit to a flexible schedule, where they commit to teach or assist about every other week. Teachers need to prep a lesson using the Sunday school curriculum. Aides assist with child management by helping students stay on task and assisting with projects. Aides do not prepare or teach lessons unless they desire to do so.

Interested? Contact Julie Vurva at 563-4145 ex. 4 or julievtlc@yahoo.com.

The Sunday school program is also looking for a piano player and/or a guitar player who would enjoy helping Julie and Pastor Amy lead music during the Sunday school opening sessions from 9:30-9:45 on Sunday mornings. Contact Julie for more information.

Building Task Force Updates

Volunteers needed for outdoor work:
Throughout the summer and early fall there will be a need for volunteers to pull weeds and water flowers. If you enjoy doing this type of work, please sign-up at the Sign-Up Center bulletin board. You will be contacted by a member of the building task force with further information.

Volunteers needed for doing touch-up painting in the church hallways:
The Building Task Force will be organizing a group of volunteers to do some touch-up painting in the church hallways this summer. If you enjoy doing this type of work, please sign-up at the Sign-Up Center bulletin board. You will be contacted by a member of the building task force with further information.

VBS

Come join us as we Follow That Star!

When they saw the star, they rejoiced with great delight (Matthew 2:10)

Kick Off—Sunday, June 9 10:45 a.m.

Everyone is welcome! Directly after worship, join us at Barrie Park (Fellowship Hall if it’s raining). Bring a dish to pass, we’ll provide hot dogs and brats! We’ll also provide lemonade and place settings. We’re having some extra tables delivered but bring a lawn chair or blanket if you like. We’ll provide some games for the kids at 10:35, have lunch at 11 and then have some fun songs before we go home. Bring the family! You don’t have to be in VBS to join in the fun!

VBS— Monday thru Thursday 9:00—11:30 a.m.

Each day there will be a fun opening with songs and skits. We will rotate through story time as we Follow the STAR! There will be art, great outdoor games, cool science experiments, a discipleship missions room, yummy snacks and each day we end with more music and fun!

If you haven’t signed up yet, here’s the link.

This year one of our VBS rotations is discipleship and service. We will be focusing on service both locally and globally. One of our projects is teaming up with Ruth Circle to make school kits to donate to Lutheran World Relief for distribution to children in need around the world. We are hoping to break our record of 150 kits that Ruth Circle distributed last year! Below is the list for the contents of the kits. If you would like to donate items but would prefer to donate money instead, LIFT will do the shopping for you. Just make sure you write LIFT school kits on your envelope.

4 – 70 sheet notebooks, college ruled
1 – 30 centimeter ruler or ruler, or one with cm on one side and inches on the other
1 – pencil sharpener
1 – blunt scissors
5 – unsharpened #2 pencils with erasers
1 – box of 16 or 24 crayons
1 – 2 1/2 inch eraser
5 – black or blue ball point pens ( no gel ink)

A grocery cart will be set up in the hallway to collect donations.

Community happenings

Have you heard of Project Maria? We’re a non-profit organization based in Rock County that supports those struggling with eating disorders. Our journey began in 2016 after Trinity member, Shauna Wessely, lost one of her students to anorexia nervosa. In an effort to create a positive legacy and to help others impacted by eating disorders, Shauna and Maria’s best friend, Rachel, co-founded Project Maria.

What started as a small idea has grown into hosting monthly body-positive yoga sessions, offering a support group for loved ones impacted by an eating disorder, and distributing information (both via literature and public presentations) about eating disorders. We cannot continue to grow, however, without support. Thus, we hold an annual Art Jam and Expo at which we have presentations, a silent auction, yoga, face painting, food trucks, and much more. This celebration enables us to fund our mission of “finding friendship in the fight against eating disorders.” This year’s Jam will be on Sat., June 15 from 5 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at Milton High School. We’d love to see you there, accept a donation, or have you as a volunteer for the event if you feel so moved.

For more information, check out projectmaria.org, find us on Facebook, or send us an email at projectmariarockcounty@gmail.com.

Communion & Community!

Summer Worship Thursdays at 7

Come as you are: from the ball game, the pool, your own back yard!

Doors open at 6 p.m. for hanging out, visiting, you can even bring your dinner and eat with Pastor Amy.

Many thanks to Trinity

On April 27, Trinity welcomed Women of the Elkhorn District to a conference. Rave reviews continue to be heard! Thanks to the Sunday School students (K-3rd grade), for decorating placemats. Thanks to Stephanie Beran for organizing not only the two meals that were served, but for her guiding hand and “can do” attitude. To the many people that brought food, your kindness is so appreciated. And to the tireless workers in the kitchen-many many thanks!! Trinity shined bright on April 27.

Much gratitude,
Sheryl Phillipson

Prayers requested

Marsha Anderson, Sandy Anderson, Vern Borchardt, Andrew Campbell, Rhonda Cook, Linda Doerr, Isaiah Gravelle, Kim Hannan, Renee Jensen, Steve Mepham, Jeremy Schepp, Ruth Smithback, Mary Theil, Bill Theil, Karen Weber, Donna Weeks, Marlene Zick and those we name silently in our hearts.

We are updating our system

We are in the process of updating a new computer system that maintains our membership list. You can help by downloading this PDF form, printing it, filling it out and returning it to the church office. Don’t have access to a printer? No problem. You can stop by the office or send an email to Bea at officetlc314@gmail.com to request a form.

Trudy’s Room

Trudy’s Room is dedicated to fostering the well-being of infants and young children by facilitating the donation, collection and distribution of furniture, clothing, diapers and other basic supplies to families while assisting them to achieve economic independence. Trudy’s Room is being housed at First United Methodist Church in Fort Atkinson. Download this PDF to learn more and to make a donation.

During the season of Lent, five local congregations worshiped together on Wednesday’s at noon. This year Trinity Lutheran was the host congregation and members from St Peter’s Episcopal, Grace United, First United Methodist, and First Congregational UCC all gathered for worship and luncheon.

A free will offering was given by worshipers to go toward any outstanding balance on lunch accounts in the district. Tom Dembski, manager of the school’s Student Nutrition Program, expressed thanks for the generous gift of $1,000. He said that 50% of Fort Atkinson’s elementary school students receive free and reduced lunch but “not everyone qualifies” and some families get “stuck in the gap” where a little help would make a big difference. The Fort Atkinson School District does not turn children away if they cannot pay for meals. The clergy group, who were responsible for identifying a project to support, felt confident that the generosity of members would help students, families, and the school district.

The Fort Atkinson Clergy Group wishes to thank all those who donated faithfully to this project. Together we can make a difference in our community!