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The Real Hope, Joy, and Peace of Christmas
Do we need Jesus to celebrate Christmas? This might seem like a no-brainer to you and me, who worship Jesus as Christ, our Savior. Of course, we need Jesus to celebrate Christmas! It is all about His birth, after all! But, as far as the secular celebration of Christmas is concerned, it is becoming increasingly clear that Jesus is not needed. In fact, in many corners of our society, Jesus is not only not needed; He is not wanted! In various public venues and some retail stores, holiday displays are forbidden from including a nativity scene or any other references to Jesus because it would be an endorsement of Christianity and its exclusive teaching that Jesus is the only true God and Savior of sinners. Many public schools no longer allow their choral or music departments during their "Christmas Concerts" to perform any traditional Christmas carols that make references to Jesus or Christ or contain any "religious" message.
I know it is unbelievable, but we have come to the point in a large part of our society that Jesus is considered to be incompatible with the joy and peace of the holiday season! The Grinch that Stole Christmas might simply be a fun-loving story, but I am afraid The Secularist That Stole the Christ of Christmas is a real-life tale of horror.
The expulsion of Jesus Christ from Christmas, however, has been in place for quite a while now.For example, the classic movie "White Christmas," produced by Irving Berlin over 50 years ago, is widely accepted as an indispensable part of many people's Christmas observance, yet it does not refer to Jesus or His birth.
We might even find ourselves dreading the Christmas season anymore. All the glitz, glitter, and hype that is so common at Christmas today leaves us feeling totally flat and void of any spiritual satisfaction. The hope, joy, and peace it claims to promote are totally artificial, shallow, and short-lived. It is no wonder that so many of us are done with Christmas come December 26, hustling away into a box the artificial Christmas tree and all the decorations for another year.
Perhaps the early Christians had the right idea. Instead of celebrating the birth of Jesus as a holy day, they gathered annually for worship 12 days after the date observed as Jesus' birthday in recognition of the coming of the Magi to Bethlehem to worship the holy child of Mary. The arrival of these wise men, after all, was God's announcement to the world that the Savior of the Nations had come in the person of Jesus. In this way, the early Christians were able to avoid a hijacking of Christmas by those who might seek to rid it of Christ. Traditionally, this special worship day has been called Epiphany, from the Greek word meaning to shine upon or to reveal, and has been observed on January 6th. Such a practice certainly does shift the emphasis from the wonder and pageantry of the Nativity, which can so easily become an end in and of itself, to the whole divine purpose for which God became man in the person of Jesus, and that is, to save all sinners. Is it not, after all, the revelation of who Jesus truly is and what He has come to do for sinners that brings us the real hope, joy, and peace of Christmas?" And the angel said to them, 'Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:10–11).
I invite you this Advent and Christmas season to stem the tide of the "Christ robbing" commercialization of Christmas by joining with your fellow brothers and sisters in Christ at all our Sunday, special Wednesday night, and Christmas services in which we will focus on the real hope, joy, and peace that is ours in Jesus Christ. Then we will indeed have a Merry, Christ-filled Christmas, not simply a happy holiday!
Blessed Christmas to one and all!
Pastor Schreibeis
January 2024: Special Dates
Sunday, Jan. 7: Remembrance Service
Jan. 7, 11:30: Church Council (Follows Bible Study)
Sunday, Jan. 14: Installation Service
Sunday, Jan. 21: Life Sunday
Jan. 21, 11:30: Voter's Assembly (Follows Bible Study)
WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT
Congratulations to Ben Hoyer and Alicyn Chapman, who were joyously united in marriage at Trinity Lutheran Church in Miles City, MT, on Friday, December 1st, 2023.
DECEMBER ELDERS
Dwayne Taylor and Ted Schreiber faithfully serve as Elders this December.
CALL MEETING UPDATE
Pastor Eric Black received and returned (declined) the call from Trinity, Miles City. The next call meeting is scheduled for Sunday, December 10th, with the time to be announced. Each congregant is urged to prepare for the meeting through prayer and study of the information available at the church office, consisting of biographical information (PIF) and theological answers (SET) from proposed pastors.
THANK YOU!
Heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended the harvest dinner and supported our school. Special gratitude to our Board of Christian Education members and friends for their efforts in preparing and serving the meal. We raised $1,768, including a $250 Thrivent Action Team Grant from Elnora Ottenbacher. Thanks to Stevenson & Son's Chapel for the donated hams and Wava Jo Roach for the delicious stuffing.
DECEMBER SCHEDULE
Advent and Christmas at Trinity
In addition to our regular Sunday services (not listed below)
MIDWEEK WORSHIP SCHEDULE and Free Will Offering Advent Suppers
Wednesday, December 6
5:30 pm: Advent Supper (Menu: Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese)
7:00 pm: Advent I Evening Worship with Communion
Monday, December 11
6:30 pm: "This Is My Son" - 3 & 5-day Preschool Christmas Program
Tuesday, December 12
10:30 am: "This Christmastime and Every Day Jesus Is the Light" - 2-day morning preschool musical
Wednesday, December 13
5:30 pm: Advent Supper (Menu: Spaghetti)
7:00 pm: Advent II Evening Worship (TLCS K-8th Students Participate)
Sunday, Dec. 17
Sunday School students sing at the 9:00 am worship service.
Wednesday, December 20
5:30 pm: Advent Supper by the Board of Witnesses and Outreach and Trinity LYF and LYT Youth Groups (Menu: Sloppy Joes)
7:00 pm: Advent III Evening Worship
Thursday, December 21
11:00 am: TLCS K-8 Christmas Concert
Sunday, December 24 - Christmas Eve
9:00 am: Worship Service with a Community
7:00 pm: Candlelight Service
Monday, December 25 - Christmas Day
9:00 am: Worship Service with a Community
Sunday, December 31 - New Year's Eve
9:00 am: Worship Service with a Community
LADIES GUILD - Lutheran Women's Missionary League
Trinity Lutheran Guild Recap - November 21, 2023
The Trinity Lutheran Guild convened on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, in the fellowship hall with the delightful presence of six members. Gracious hostesses for the evening were Pam and Florence, who treated the attendees to a delicious spice cake crafted by Pam. Kicking off the gathering, Theresa led a prayer and initiated a Bible study titled "Mission of Love" from the quarterly.
The meeting commenced with President Theresa Scheid presiding. Wava offered devotions and a prayer, and the minutes from the previous meeting were approved as read.
For the roll call, members shared what they were most thankful for and their favorite pies. The treasurer's report was not presented during this session.
Old Business: Unfortunately, no information was received regarding rest-home bingo. A reminder was issued for the upcoming gift exchange at the next meeting, requesting participants to include their names inside the gifts for clear identification.
New Business: Discussion centered around the possibility of communion at the Wednesday Advent services. The elders will decide and communicate the decision to the communion participants by the end of the month.
The next meeting is scheduled for December 5 at 6:30 p.m. Members are encouraged to bring a dish to share for the potluck and a wrapped gift for the gift exchange. All ladies from the congregation are warmly welcome to attend. The meeting concluded with the recitation of the Lord's Prayer.
DECEMBER DUTIES:
Communion: Karen Taylor, Pam Schreiber
Hostesses: Guild board
Devotions: Theresa
Bible study: Theresa
In his service,
Debbie Helland, Guild Co-Secretary
Cards and Diner Napkins: Explore the Guild Card Centers in the fellowship hall, offering individual cards, boxed Christmas cards, Christmas dinner napkins, and cards for various occasions.
THANK YOU!
Heartfelt gratitude to Bruce and SanDee Russell for hosting the Thanksgiving Day dinner at Trinity. Special thanks to all contributors and helpers, ensuring that those who might have otherwise been alone enjoyed an abundant feast.
ADVENT DEVOTIONAL:
Rev. Dan Jacobs of the MT. District Crow Agency Ministry has authored a new Advent devotional titled "In Christ, You are..." Copies are available for free on the table in the narthex. Read a page each day throughout the Advent and Christmas seasons.
SUNDAY SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS
This year, there won't be a Sunday school Christmas program. Instead, the Sunday school children will showcase their festive spirit by singing at the 9:00 a.m. service on Sunday, December 17th, positioned between the Epistle and Gospel readings. We encourage parents to have their Sunday school children attend church on this special day to join us in song. The group will be seated together in the overflow area, and children are free to find their parents after the performance if they wish.
On Christmas Eve, December 24th, there will be no Sunday school.
LCMS COLLEGE OR SEMINARY PLANS?
If you or your family members are confirmed members of Trinity Lutheran Church, Miles City, or related to a confirmed member, and are planning to attend an LCMS synodical college or seminary as a full-time student (12 credits or more per semester) this spring, intending to prepare for a full-time church worker position (pastor, teacher, DCE, etc.), applications are available at the church office. The application deadline is January 1st.
Coca-Cola Rewards and Recycling Update
Our recent Coca-Cola Rewards check amounted to $50.70. Many thanks to all who contributed entry numbers during the special campaign that concluded in September. Special appreciation to Eileen Entzel for her diligent data entry work on behalf of our school.
Don't forget to save printer ink cartridges for our school. Drop them in the recycle bin at either the front or back entry to the fellowship hall. In November, we received $30.50 from Planet Green for recycled ink cartridges. In 2023, we've sent in four shipments, totaling $249.75 received.
Trinity Lutheran Classical School received $126.66 from the Pizza Hut fundraiser held on Nov. 1st. Thanks to everyone who participated!
IN OUR LIBRARY - Book Recommendation
"Martin Luther King Jr. on Mental Health: Practical Advice for Christians Today"
By Stephen M. Saunders, PhD; Concordia Publishing
This book explores Martin Luther's advice on mental health, aligning it with modern cognitive and behavioral therapy techniques. It assures readers that God understands our suffering and loves us, emphasizing that living with mental illness does not reflect poor or weak faith. Pastors and church leaders will find valuable insights to provide effective advice and guide members toward appropriate counseling.
Also available: a free audiobook from Issues, etc. - "I Trust When Dark My Road - A Lutheran View of Depression" free download at www.issuesetc.org.
"ARE YOU GOD'S WIFE?" - A Heartwarming Tale
While working at a shoe store in downtown Truro, Nova Scotia, a woman encountered a barefoot boy standing on a hot-air register outside a bakery. After bringing him into the store, she purchased him new shoes and woolen socks. Touched by the kindness, the boy asked, "Are you God's wife?" The woman replied, "No, son, I'm one of His children." The boy, expressing gratitude, said, "Well, I knew you must be kin to Him," and ran out the door. – Zelda Cornish
TRINITY LUTHERAN CLASSICAL SCHOOL PRESCHOOL NEWS
"Shepherding Jesus' Lambs" Since October 3, 1988
In November, the three-day students delved into the letters E, F, G, and H while progressing to letters I and J, transforming an I into an iguana and a J into a jellyfish.
The 2-day students explored the colors black, gray, and white, creating adorable cotton ball sheep and charming snowmen scenes.
As part of our Thanksgiving unit, the 2-day students crafted handprint turkey wreaths adorned with fall stickers and leaves expressing their gratitude. The 3 and 5-day students fashioned paper plate wreaths, noting things they were thankful for, and painted handprint turkey placements.
All students dedicated time to report card cover pages and test pages in preparation for parent/teacher conferences held on November 20th and 21st. A heartfelt thank you to the parents who actively participated. The students enjoyed a week-long Thanksgiving holiday break.
We are thrilled with our school pictures, and our gratitude extends to Amber Ballensky and AmberLynn Photography.
Chapel sessions focused on the story of Joseph, highlighting God's plan for him to interpret dreams. The children learned that God is a constant presence, accompanying us through life's various circumstances.
Currently, we are immersed in practicing songs for our upcoming Christmas programs. Classroom Christmas parties are scheduled for December 20th and 21st.
No school will be held from December 22nd to January 2nd for the Christmas holiday break. Preschool classes will resume on January 3rd and 4th.
Merry Christmas and God's blessings!
Virginia Rhoades and Haley Krull
PRESCHOOL CHRISTMAS MUSICALS
We have been diligently preparing for our Christmas programs. Please assist your child in learning their songs.
This year's 3- and 5-day preschool Christmas service and program, "This Is My Son," will take place on Monday, December 11th, at 6:30 p.m. in the church sanctuary. All 3- and 5-day-old children should arrive in the classroom by 6:15 PM to don their costumes. Every student's presence is crucial, as each child plays a part in the program. If your child becomes upset during the program, please allow them time to calm down. If needed, feel free to retrieve them, and if they wish to return later, they are welcome. (A free-will offering for the scholarship fund will be collected during this service.)
The 2-day morning preschool class will present "This Christmastime and Every Day—Jesus is the Light" on Tuesday, December 12th, at 10:30 a.m. in the fellowship hall.
We extend a warm invitation to all our students' families and encourage Trinity's congregation members to join us.
PRESCHOOL OPENINGS AVAILABLE
One opening in the 2-day morning class for 3 and 4-year-olds, and several openings in the 5-day afternoon class for 4 and 5-year-olds. If interested, please contact Peggy at 406-234-4983.
TRINITY LUTHERAN CLASSICAL SCHOOL
TLCS Kindergarten, 8th Grade
Established August 25, 2008
As we bid farewell to Thanksgiving, our reflections persist on the abundant blessings bestowed upon us by God. Our contemplations naturally shift towards the most profound gift and blessing we have received – Jesus. Immersed in the stories of Jacob and his 12 sons, particularly Joseph, whom God elevated to save His people, we witness the same love and care extending from God to us through His Son. The promise made to Adam and Eve, Abraham, Jacob, and to us has found fulfillment in the Christmas miracle of Jesus' birth! What a joyous occasion to celebrate the arrival of our Lord and Savior!
The K-8th graders will joyfully share this gospel message through their Christmas concert on Thursday, December 21, at 11 a.m. The school will observe a half-day, with dismissal immediately following the concert. We extend a warm invitation for you to join us and experience the sweetness of these young voices recounting the story of our Savior's birth.
Additionally, the children will actively participate in an Advent service on Wednesday, December 13, at 7 p.m. We hope you can join us for worship, and a supper will be served from 5:30 to 6:30 pm.
Christmas break is scheduled from December 22 to January 2, with classes resuming on January 3rd.
Wishing every one of you a Merry Christmas and a profoundly blessed New Year!
Yours in Christ,
Michelle Rice
TLCS CLASSROOM EXPANSION
Exciting news! We are planning to construct another classroom in the basement this coming spring or summer. Currently, we have accumulated $10,980 for this project, and we welcome additional contributions. Please make your checks payable to the Trinity Building Fund, and kindly note "Classroom Expansion" in the memo. Your support is immensely appreciated.
Thank you!
"Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool."Â
- Isaiah 1:18
"White like Snow"
Christmas is a poignant reminder of the profound sacrifice our Lord made for us. God, in His infinite love, sent His Son, Jesus, into the world to be our Savior, to bear the weight of the cross for each of us. He endured the cross to grant us forgiveness for our sins.
In Isaiah 1:18, the Bible vividly illustrates that our sins are comparable to scarlet. However, through the grace of Jesus, when we seek His forgiveness, He washes us as white as snow. The scarlet of sin, dark and noticeable, is transformed into purity. When, with a repentant heart, we express genuine sorrow for our sins and request God's forgiveness, the Lord cleanses our hearts, making them pure and immaculate. Sin cannot coexist with holiness, and God desires to make us pure and holy. Simply ask Him to purify your heart and forgive your sins, and He will.
Baptism is a divine sacrament that works for the forgiveness of sins, delivering us from death and the clutches of the devil. It grants eternal salvation to those who believe, aligning with the words and promises of God. Christ's own words in Mark 16:16 affirm the significance of baptism: "Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned." Baptism, as illuminated by the Word of God, becomes life-giving water, abundant in grace, and a cleansing of the new birth in the Holy Spirit. It unites us with the suffering and death of Jesus Christ, purifying us with His redeeming blood.
God, the Creator of snow and snowflakes, crafted the pure beauty of winter. When children build snowmen, the pristine and untarnished appearance of snow is a testament to God's creative brilliance. Similarly, God created each one of us and beckoned us to come to Him as we are. He is a loving and forgiving God, desiring that we spend eternity with Him in heaven.
We need not search elsewhere for a savior; our gaze turns to Jesus, beseeching Him to cleanse us from all sin, and He does. This is the essence of Christmas – God sending His Son for our salvation. Belief in Him, coupled with a heartfelt request, ensures that we receive His mercy. Ask, and you shall receive; seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.
Christmas is a time for families to gather and commemorate the birth of Jesus. It serves as a reminder of the extraordinary gift bestowed upon each one of us. As we celebrate, let us remember those who may not know the Lord, and fervently pray for them. They may be unaware that Jesus can save them from their sins and transform their lives. Pray and seek God's guidance in reaching out to those who need Him.
So, the next time you gaze at the freshly fallen snow, express gratitude to Jesus for cleansing you of all your sins. Tell God that you love and appreciate Him. Living for God and anchoring yourself in His Word will illuminate a light within you that others can see. Let us be a beacon for others, demonstrating that they too can be washed from their sins, made white like snow.
LIFE QUOTES
"There is hope in Jesus, the Light of Life!"
"Given God's display of love in Advent and Christmas, we joyfully unite to praise Him. Christmas brings forth a sense of unity as we join with Mary, Joseph, shepherds, and angels to glorify our Savior as one united family. For this reason, we echo the prayer of Paul: 'May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.'" - Rev. Peter Sulzle, St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, Redwood Falls, Minn.
"In the eyes of the world, you might not be considered impressive. You could be a third-shift worker, an anonymous neighbor, or someone who has publicly stumbled in sin. Yet, take heart! The angel proclaimed good news for all people, and logically, that includes you. So, rejoice today! A Savior was born to you!" - Pastor Mike Novotny, Time of Grace
"While it is true that we should be good stewards of God's earthly gifts, it is sinful to believe that we have complete control over preserving this world. Fretting about the potential destruction of this world before the Last Day is sinful. This world will not run out of natural resources, and it will not be wiped out by climate change, a global pandemic, or a meteor shower if and when those events occur. God declares that as long as this earth endures—until Judgment Day—seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease. God is in control. He will protect, provide, and preserve this world. Trust in God and witness His grace and mercy, especially when sin affects this world. Trust that He gives you more than you could imagine and what you don't deserve." - Rev. Peter Sulzle, St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, Redwood Falls, Minnesota
The mission of Lutherans for Life is to witness the sanctity of human life through education based on God's Word. www.lutheransforlife.org | 1-888-364-LIFE
Hurting from abortion? A word of hope can help. www.word-of-hope.org | 888-271-8679.
You can help equip gospel-motivated voices for life! Send your gift to Lutherans for Life.
1101 5th Street, Nevada, IA, 50201-1816.
Lutherans For Life is a 501©(3) ministry, and contributions are deductible as a charitable donation.
Lutherans For Life - NATIONAL ESSAY WINNERS:
- Jace Latham of Immanuel Lutheran School, Missouri (6th–8th grade winner, essay title "Life's Puzzle").
- Samuel Jopp is a junior at Mayer Lutheran High School in Minnesota and a member of Zion Lutheran Church (9th–12th grade winner, essay title "Perfect—Just As I Am").
- The special Spotlight Award goes to Timothy.
- Read full essays here.
GOD'S SON
"This time of year always fills us with cheer. But the reason we celebrate is not always clear. The cookies, the lights, the presents, the tree, The carols, the decorations, the family parties But all of the delight and all of the fun does not mean a thing if we don't know God's Son. The tiny baby that was born to die can sometimes cause us to stop and ask why. Do we deserve the sacrifice He made? Are we worth the offering and the price that was paid? In His eyes, we are because He made us His own. And on the cross, the ultimate love was shown. So take joy in the season and spread His true love. But always remember the gift from above." - Jerrod Nelson
"A LITTLE CHILD SHALL LEAD THEM."
Isaiah 11 prophesies hope for the world: wisdom, understanding, righteousness, justice, faithfulness, and peace. In the words "a little child will lead them" (v. 6), Christians hear a foretelling of God's coming to earth as the child Jesus. Today, children, Jesus' examples of fitness for God's kingdom (Mark 10:14), often lead in showing love.
At age 11, avid baker Michael Platt opened a pastry shop in Maryland to benefit homeless people; for desserts sold, he gives an equal number to shelter residents. Eric Schubert, 18, of New Jersey, uses his genealogy research skills to help strangers—more than 1,000 so far—find long-lost family. In Pennsylvania, Neijae Graham-Henries became a certified barber at the age of 7 to give free haircuts to kids who couldn't afford them. (Stories shared on GoodNewsNetwork.org)
May these children inspire us to use our passions and skills for good, in the name of the Christ child, who grew up and taught us to serve others in love. - The Newsletter, Vol. 41, #11
"The Measure of Our Generosity"
If you open up the Small Catechism, you'll find a shortened version of the Third Commandment: "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy." But if you look up the list of the Ten Commandments in Exodus, you'll find the full version:
"Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD, your God. On it, you shall not do any work, you, or your son, or your daughter, your male servant, or your female servant, or your livestock, or the sojourner who is within your gates. For in six days, the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested on the seventh day. Therefore, the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy." - Exodus 20:8–11
Why did Luther shorten this commandment for the Small Catechism? Was it so that the kids wouldn't have so much to memorize? No, it was because Luther knew that all the details of the Third Commandment were part of the "shadow" of the Old Testament (Colossians 2:16). Or, as St. Paul puts it, there is a "letter" in the Old Testament law and a "spirit" (2 Corinthians 3:6). The details of not working on Saturday were fulfilled by Christ. That part of the Sabbath regulation no longer applies. But the spirit of the law does remain: we need to dedicate sufficient time each week to hearing God's word and giving it honor and respect. Or as Luther sums it up in the Small Catechism's explanation of the Third Commandment: "We should fear and love God so that we do not despise preaching and His Word but hold it sacred and gladly hear and learn it."
The same sort of analysis applies to our giving. In the Old Testament, God commanded the Israelites to give a tenth of their income to the Levites so that those men could dedicate their lives to serving in God's house, teaching the people, conducting worship, etc. In the New Testament, there is a rigid requirement listed about handing in your tax forms to the church to make sure you've given enough. But the mandate to have a full-time ministry, which is the spirit of that law concerning tithing to the Levites, is right there in 1 Corinthians 9:14. "The Lord has ordained that those who preach the gospel should make their living from the gospel."
The New Testament church's job is significantly larger than the job of Old Testament Israel. We are commanded to preach the gospel to all nations.
There was only the temple to maintain in the Old Testament, but we have churches, schools, universities, and seminaries, plus missionaries everywhere. So you tell me: Can we undertake the work of the ministry if our giving doesn't even measure up to Old Testament levels of generosity? - LCMS Stewardship Ministry, lcms.org/stewardship
Support Orphan Grain Train's Mission to Feed Many
You have the power to make a significant impact through the Orphan Grain Train. A mere $15 donation can provide 500 Mercy Meals, and $150 can feed 5000 Mercy Meals. Let's extend our gratitude and praise to God for His boundless mercy, grace, and goodness.
To contribute, kindly send your donations to:
P.O. Box 1466, Norfolk, NE, 68702-1466
(Phone: 1-877-371-7393)
Please specify "Mercy Meals" or the specific mission you wish to support on the memo line. Your generous support is instrumental in advancing the mission of OGT.
Expressing Gratitude for Dedicated Service
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who serves. We appreciate our church officers, board, and committee members for the upcoming year and those who have served in the past. Special recognition goes to Arlene Lindberg for an impressive 35 years of service on the Board of Christian Education (and former Preschool Board), and to Dennis Hirsch for an incredible 51 years of service as an elder. Your commitment is truly commendable. Thank you!
Perfect As Is - A Christmas Reflection
"Who can add to Christmas? The perfect motive is that God so loved the world. The perfect gift is that He gave His only Son. The only requirement is to believe in Him. The reward of faith is that you will have everlasting life." - Corrie Ten Boom
Lutheran Church Extension Fund - Invest in a Higher Purpose
At the Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF), our mission is clear: to support the growth and prosperity of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS) and its ministries. We're excited to introduce a new, limited-time investment opportunity that not only benefits your financial future but actively supports the mission and growth of LCMS ministries.
Key Features:
Exclusive Offer: Exclusively designed for LCMS congregations, schools, organizations, and individuals.
2 ½ Year Fixed-Rate Term Note: Secure a steady 6.25% rate of return over the next 2 ½ years.
New Money Only: Your new investment of a minimum of $500 enables us to support the growing demand for LCEF loans.
Flexible Options: This note can even be invested in an individual retirement account (IRA), offering accessibility and versatility.
Why It Matters:
Your investment transcends financial gain; it directly contributes to the success of LCMS churches, schools, organizations, and dedicated church workers. Join LCEF in making a lasting impact.
Invest Today:
Together, let's strengthen our faith community. Your continued support secures the future of the LCMS ministry. Invest with us, and may God continue to bless our shared journey in faith and ministry.
The LCEF Family
Bart Day, President & CEO
Equipping Yourself to Address Challenges to Christianity
Do you ever find yourself grappling for responses when confronted with challenges to the Christian faith? Discover a valuable resource in the new audiobook, "Objections Overruled: Answering Arguments Against Christianity." Access it for free at issuesetc.org/objectionsoverruled. This audiobook, produced by Lutheran Public Radio in Collinsville, IL, provides insightful answers to objections against Christianity and is part of the diverse content offered by LPR, including radio talk shows, podcasts, 24/7 sacred music, and talk stations.
Bringing Light to the Darkness
"In Nepal, ophthalmologist Sanduk Ruit has performed over 130,000 cataract surgeries to restore sight to the blind, overcoming challenges of underfunded medical care. He walks for days, carrying surgical equipment, to reach remote villages and bring light to those in darkness. Replacement lenses, locally made for less than $3, transform lives. This Christmas, we celebrate the Word of God, Jesus, the Light of the world, and individuals like Dr. Ruit whom God uses to bring light to literal or figurative darkness. Let us honor those who, through their actions, make the world brighter."
Insights from Martin Luther
Reflecting on language diversity, Martin Luther emphasized the importance of training youth to serve Christ in various cultures. He encouraged the learning of multiple languages for effective ministry, recognizing the Holy Spirit's gift of manifold tongues. In times of political turmoil and Christian persecution, Luther's wisdom remains relevant, showcasing God's ongoing preservation of His Word. The Lutheran Heritage Foundation contributes to this legacy by translating the Bible into over 150 languages, nurturing Lutheranism globally.
As we navigate challenges reminiscent of Luther's era, we witness God's enduring commitment to His Word. The Lutheran Heritage Foundation's efforts extend Lutheranism's reach to unexpected corners, fostering growth and sustaining believers in regions such as South Sudan, Thailand, and Guatemala.
Preserve the Lutheran Global Legacy
Join the Lutheran Heritage Foundation in preserving our Lutheran heritage. Support the translation of God's Word into diverse languages, empowering churches worldwide and nurturing new believers in their faith journey.
"For who knows how God may use them in times to come?" - Martin Luther
Trinity Lutheran Church Leadership Roster
Address: Lutheran Heritage Foundation, 51474 Romeo Plank Road, Macomb, MI, 48042
Affiliation: Trinity Lutheran Church, LCMS, Miles City, MT
Church Officers and Board Members (Term: 2 Years)
Note: All terms are for two years, with alternating years for elections.
[The Congregation President and the Pastor are ex-officio members of all boards.]
Elected in November 2023 (Bold) | Elected in November 2022 (Light)
President: Ted Schreiber
Treasurer: Dean Henman
Secretary: Dee Sams
Financial Secretary: Emma Morrison
Vice President: Chairman of the Board of Elders
Board of Elders (8 Positions)
Ken Holmlund
Clint Kelstrup
Ted Schreiber
Shane Taylor
Denna Amsden
Ryan Becker
Bruce Russell
Dwayne Taylor
(Dennis Hirsch stepped down, and Bruce Russell joined.)
Elders need to elect a new Vice President and Chairman.
Elder(s) at Large: Bill Wolf
Board of Trustees (7 Positions)
Ryan Rosencranz
Bruce Russell (Chair)
Betty Toepke
Denna Amsden
Dwayne Taylor
2 Open Positions: John Rice and Pam Schreiber stepped down.
Trustees generally meet on the last Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.
Board of Stewardship (5 Positions)
Joyce Holmlund
Florence Lodwig
Marlus Amsden (Chair)
Jessica Rosencranz
Karen Taylor
[Ex-Officio: Financial Secretary, Treasurer]
Stewardship generally meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m.
Board of Witness & Outreach (5 Positions)
RaeEllen Bird
Theresa Scheid (Chair)
Erin Becker
Mary Luhr
Alicyn Chapman stepped down. 1 open position.
Outreach usually meets on the 1st Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m.
Board of Christian Education (7 Positions)
Open Position
Rebecca Jordan
Maureen Klapmeier
Elnora Ottenbacher (Chair)
Rebecca Ellis
Ryan Rosencranz
Karen Taylor
Betty Toepke
(Arlene Lindberg stepped down, and there was one open position. Karen Taylor and Rebecca Ellis joined.)
Education generally meets on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.
Ex-officio members include directors of all congregational education.
Youth Ministry Sub-Committee
Deals with Sunday school, youth Bible study, youth groups, and VBS.
Sarah Trogden, Erica Norland, Jessica Rosencranz, Erin Becker, Sue Sapien, Michelle Rice, 1 Open
Sunday School Director: Open
VBS Co-Directors: Michelle Rice (Alicyn Chapman)
Others Reporting to the Board of Christian Education
TLCS K-8th Head Teacher: Michelle Rice
TLCS Preschool Teacher: Virginia Rhoades
TLCS School Headmaster: Pastor Schreibeis
Church Librarian: Erin Becker
Installation Service: Sunday, January 14, 2024, 9:00 a.m.
LYT and LYF Youth Group Counselors: Erin Becker and Sue Sapien
Committees Reporting to the Board of Elders
Worship Committee
Members: Pastors and Organizers: Pam Schreiber, Betty Toepke, Teri Cox
Generally meets the 1st Monday of each month at 2:30 p.m.
Hospitality Committee
Chair: Elnora Ottenbacher; Members: Betty Toepke, Karen Taylor
Memorial Committee
*Chair: Eileen Entzel; Members: Elnora Ottenbacher, Maureen Klapmeier, Peggy Certain, 1 Open
Nominating Committee
Members include the President, Vice President, Chair of Trustees, and two appointed persons.
THE SURPASSING GRACE
The term "surpass" conveys the idea of exceeding, transcending, and going beyond ordinary limits. In his second epistle to the Corinthian church, St. Paul speaks of "the surpassing grace of God that He has given you" (2 Corinthians 9:14, NRSV). Here, Paul emphasizes the extraordinary, abundant grace bestowed upon the Corinthians by God.
At the time of writing, the church in Jerusalem was enduring severe persecution, grappling with poverty while striving to maintain faithfulness in the face of dire circumstances. Recognizing the Corinthians' financial stability and their willingness to assist the suffering Jerusalem church, Paul commends them: "You glorify God... by the generosity of your sharing with them and with all others, while they... pray for you because of the surpassing grace of God that He has given you" (2 Corinthians 9:13–14, NRSV).
Reflect on how you can extend God's surpassing grace to those in need.
His Word First
Deuteronomy 8:3 reminds us, "And he humbled you... that he might make you know that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD." This verse is complemented by Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6:33, urging us to "Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." Placing God, His kingdom, and His Word at the forefront ensures that everything else falls into its proper place.
The Law of God
Luke 2:39 notes, "And when they had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned... to their town of Nazareth." While the Law of God reveals our shortcomings, it serves a positive purpose by redirecting us to the forgiveness found in Christ. Additionally, the law guides us toward living a truly blessed Christian life. Like Mary and Joseph, who found joy in godly living, we should view the law as a compass for Christian living and a roadmap for expressing gratitude to the Lord for His abundant grace and mercy.
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