Vol. 15, No. 7 July 1, 2013

Houston Lutheran Chorale Presents“An American Portrait”

The Houston Lutheran Chorale’s annual 4th of July concert entitled “An American Portrait” will feature one of Aaron Copland’s major orchestral works, “Lincoln Portrait.” This piece contains the words spoken by Abraham Lincoln, our sixteenth president, narrated by Trinity’s own Lorraine McKinney. Other musical highlights include two more classic Copland songs, music by Irving Berlin, a Civil War medley, “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” “Salute to the Armed Forces,” “Zion’s Walls,” “Simple Gifts,” and songs for your participation. The concert will include a surprise piece for the enjoyment of all. After the concert the Chorale will be providing an opportunity for food and fellowship in the gymnasium. There will be hot dogs, Frito pie, chips, desserts and drinks available. A freewill offering will be taken to help defray the cost of the food. You are welcome to stay and watch the spectacular downtown fireworks display from the church parking lot.

The concert will be held here at Trinity Lutheran at 6:00 p.m. on July 4. Complimentary tickets for the concert are available from any Chorale member or through our website at http://www.hlc-tx.org.

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Natalia Junkans to Serve as Principal of Trinity Lutheran School

Natalia Junkans has accepted the position of Principal at Trinity. The Call Committee has been prayerfully seeking God’s direction for the person He would have for this position on the staff. The committee believes that Mrs. Junkans has the right gifts, skills, training, and education to lead this important ministry of Trinity Downtown. More importantly, she has a love for the Lord and a heart for sharing His love through Jesus Christ.

Mrs. Junkans is a native Houstonian who grew up in the Lutheran church and graduated from St. John Lutheran School. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from the University of Houston and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis on Elementary Education and Instructional Technology at her alma mater. She furthered her education by completing the Principal Academy through St. Thomas University in 2010 and has been actively mentored for school leadership while serving in the HISD system. She has over 17 years of experience in education and has taught at various grade levels during her teaching career. She has served as the Lead Teacher Mentor, Math Lead Teacher and Instructional Specialist with a focus on increasing student learning with technology, standards-based grading, teacher collaboration, parent engagement, integrated projects, and inquiry-based thinking.

Mrs. Junkans is married to Pastor Mark and they have three daughters, Victoria, Jessica, and Krystin. They are all members of the congregation and their daughters are enrolled at Trinity Lutheran School.

Mrs. Junkans will formally begin her role on July 15th. However, she has already joined the Call Committee and will be taking an active role in filling the remaining vacancies on the staff. Please welcome Mrs. Junkans as principal of Trinity Downtown, praise God for leading her to accept this role and pray for our school and her success.

Trinity Member, Joy Spence, to Star in A.D. Players Production of ‘Anne of Avonlea’

A.D. Players will close its 46th season with Anne of Avonlea by Joseph Robinette, whose heroine, Anne Shirley, is beloved throughout the world. Anne of Avonlea previews July 10th and 11th, opens July 12th, and runs through August 18th at A.D. Players’ Grace Theater.

“Every little girl who has ever read Anne of Green Gables or watched the T.V. miniseries has wanted to be Anne Shirley, including me,” confessed Director, Sarah Cooksey. “She is a heroine whose spunk and adventurous spirit draws people in, and who is lovable despite, or should I say, because of her mistakes.”

Fans of Anne of Green Gables will love following everyone’s favorite red-head, Anne Shirley, as she embarks on a career as a school teacher in her beloved Avonlea. There is never a dull moment for the enthusiastic Anne who creates a village improvement society, contends with cantankerous new neighbor Mr. Harrison, and helps Marilla take care of twins Davy and Dora, while tackling her first teaching position. Full of humor and charm, Anne’s continuing adventures will captivate the whole family.

Starring as Anne Shirley is Joy Spence, an A.D. Players’ Theater Arts Academy (TAA) alum and current student at HSPVA. Her roles in TAA productions include Cinderella (Cinderella: The World’s Favorite Fairy Tale), the Baker’s Wife (Into the Woods, Jr.) and Alice (Alice in Wonderland). Other productions include Our News Hour, Blood Wedding, and Radium Girls at HSPVA and A Midsummer Night’s Dream at HITS.

Tickets to Anne of Avonlea may be purchased at A.D. Players’ Box Office, 2710 W. Alabama, or by calling 713.526.2721. Ticket prices are: Previews: $15; Wednesday - Sunday: $32 - $41. Group, student, and senior discounts are available.

Anne of Avonlea runs July 10 - August 18, 2013.

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HUG2 UpdateAt Trinity, we are so blessed by the faithful giving of our church family

and friends toward completing the goal of our campaign. A total of 46 families have already completed their pledges, while others are faithfully giving each week toward fulfilling theirs. A large number of gifts have been received from friends of our congregation and from members who did not initially pledge.

You have also remembered our departed saints with gifts to the HUG2 campaign – 353 gifts in total for over $125,000. The latest of those honored in this manner are listed here.

We are thankful for all gifts given to HUG2 and are reminded of the words of Paul regarding our manner of giving: “The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. (2 Corinthians 9:6-8)

With but 10 months remaining in the campaign, the entire bottom row of our garden isn’t blooming yet. Some have not yet begun to contribute to the HUG2 campaign as they pledged while others appear to be struggling to contribute consistently. Please consider setting a new personal weekly pledge for the last 10 months to show that you remember and honor your promise to the Lord. We would also encourage those who have completed their pledge or have not pledged to continue giving to HUG2 as together we can meet or exceed the pledge amount of $2,945,786.

Called to ServeLike you, Isaiah was a child of God. He’d grown up in the temple, studied

the Word, worshiped Yahweh, and Isaiah heard the call to serve his God: And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.” - Isaiah 6:8

Are YOU called to serve?Trinity has a group of dedicated people who call members of our

congregation and notify them about funerals and other important events. Obviously this is an occasional and unscheduled effort, but if God is calling you to serve His people this way, contact Rollin Cattau at rcattau@trinitydt.org. He’ll put you on the list.

Trinity has another group of dedicated women who pray, cut, hem, and crochet the edges of baby blankets for the Houston Coalition for Life. These blankets go to mothers who choose to have their babies rather than abort them. If God is calling you to serve His littlest ones by being part of this ministry, contact Jan Case (281.392.5899) or Alice Kaspar (713.682.1863) or Beverly Meaden (713.864.1215). You don’t have to be able to do everything (cut, hem and crochet); in fact, the group really needs “hemmers” right now.

Trinity has a new group dedicated to serving our members and guests on Sunday mornings. They staff the Welcome Center and provide joy, smiles and information about Trinity events and Bible studies and other service opportunities. Everything you need is there for you. If God is calling you to serve this way one Sunday a month, contact Jason Mangels at jmangels@trinitydt.org and he’ll put you on the schedule.

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A Change for theeleventhhour...We are excited to announce that there will be some changes regarding theeleventhhour

community. After much prayer, we have decided to transition theeleventhhour from a worship service to a discipleship experience that focuses on living UP | IN | OUT. This endeavor will be gearing up to be launched in Fall 2013 with opportunities to gather as a community, eat together, learn together, hang out with one another, serve together, and worship together.

We believe that this transition will help our community grow stronger, become healthier, and make an even greater Kingdom-impact within our Houston community at-large.

June 23, 2013 was the last eleventhhour worship service.

Camp DermadilloNow Taking Applications for Volunteers for Camp Dermadillo

Camp Dermadillo is a Trinity Health Cabinet Ministry, and it’s an easy way to share Christ’s Saving Love and to make a real difference in the life of a child.

Camp Dermadillo is a one-week camp for kids from 9 - 15 with special skin disorders. It’s held at Camp For All in Burton, Texas (www.campforall.org) and sponsored by the American Academy of Dermatology (www.campdiscovery.org) and Texas Children’s Hospital. Trinity member, Dr. Alanna Bree, is the camp’s Medical Director. Since campers come from around the country, we need your help at the airport on the day the children arrive and the day they return home.

OUR JOB: Accompany a camper from the gate at Bush Intercontinental to a dedicated conference room in the airport. A few days later, reverse the process. Time – about 2 hours each way, and it’s ok if you can only do one day or the other.

Campers Fly In – Sunday, August 11, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.Campers Fly Out – Friday, August 16, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.You’ll get a specific time assigned when you’re matched with a camper.

This project takes about 2 hours at the airport each day.You will be assigned to help with one camper. On Sunday, you will meet

your camper at their arrival gate. Once you collect their luggage, you will bring them to a dedicated conference room where they will be entertained by camp staff until they head off to a fun week at camp. On Friday, you will meet your camper at the conference room and then take them to get checked in and wait with them at their gate until their plane takes off.

Perks – Besides the joy of helping a child, your parking costs are covered and some treats are available too.

If you are interested in helping out with this life-changing ministry or have questions, please contact Julie Bertrand at 281.498.5758 (H) or pick up a volunteer application at the Trinity Welcome Desk or on the treat table at 931. Please return your application to the Camp Dermadillo folder on the Welcome Desk.

A training session will be held on Sunday, August 4, at 10:45 a.m. here at Trinity in Room 124.

Please pray for this very special Trinity ministry.

Broadcastsevery Sunday9:15 a.m. CT

WORSHIP ONLINE ATlive.ninethirtyone.org

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Grassroots Community Development by Mark Junkans, Executive Director of LINC-Houston

Why we operate the way we do at LINCMany years ago our organization began with a unique approach to ministry.

Instead of continuing to import leadership and resources into communities, we made it our priority to identify and empower local leadership. This is our approach both in church planting and community development. We believe that all communities have assets and resources that God can use to grow His Kingdom and improve people’s lives.

The Apostle Paul, in his third missionary journey, invested time and energy in people from the local communities where he worked. When he got to a city, he didn’t immediately call for professional leaders to move there and lead the ministry. Instead, he equipped local leaders to form new communities and carry out the mission of the church in that place. So the word of the Lord continued to increase and prevail mightily (Acts 19:20).

This doesn’t mean that outside help isn’t sometimes needed. Training, tools, access to resources, knowledge, and skills are all valuable contributions that partners can make from the outside of a community. The difference in the approach is one of empowerment versus dependency, or asset-based versus needs-based. An asset-based approach seeks to train and equip individuals to eventually solve their own problems. In contrast, a needs-based approach perpetually does for and gives to communities in need.

What communities need are individuals committed to building them up through their resources of time, energy and skill. There are a lot of reasons that people give for not investing in low-income communities. Many of these reasons are based on long-held stereotypes, past experience, lack of understanding or just misinformation. Whatever the reason, one thing is for sure, people often don’t act because they don’t know where to start. We suggest that, instead of looking for people to go give things to, compassionate individuals should develop meaningful partnerships with local leaders already in place.

How Does LINC Do This Work?First of all, we empower local leaders in a community (usually through a local mission church) to identify and meet

the needs of their own community. Leaders in a community are more likely to know what the real needs are. They are also more likely to know who is truly in need and who is not.

Second, we train local leaders how to impact a wider group. One of the benefits of local leadership is that they are known and trusted by the community. They often have dreams of doing something greater in their community, but have access to a limited supply of resources. We spend a lot of time training local leaders how to obtain, develop, manage and utilize more resources to build up their communities.

Third, we maintain a partnering relationship, but also purposely get out of the way so that local groups can eventually grow without the need for outside help.

Fourth, we connect leadership from one community to train and empower leaders from another community. This creates an interdependent network of communities and allows local leaders to grow by becoming a resource to others.

How Can You Help?If you are a well-resourced individual, there is a great need

for what you have to offer. It may surprise you how a different approach to missions and community work can multiply your resources instead of simply transferring them to another community.

Contact Rev. Mark Junkans at mjunkans@linchouston.org for more information or to volunteer.

Rev. Mark Junkans

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Stephen Ministry Celebrates the Dedication of Its Members

On Tuesday, May 21st, Stephen Ministry at Trinity celebrated some significant milestones for members who have been active five or more years. These Stephen Ministers received a new silver and blue badge with their name and years of service, as well as a certificate of appreciation for

all their hard work and dedication to the congregation in this Christ-centered, confidential, caring ministry! We know they will continue to serve others and be a blessing to Stephen Ministry for many years to

come!

5 years: Becky Lovdahl, Jean Minsch, Jan Case, Mel Hohle, Linda Baccus

10 years: Dan Brockermeyer

15 years: Wil and Julie Bertrand, Pastor Leeland

21 years: Joanne Husser

The awards table laid out before the presentation.

Congratulations, Julie, on 15 years of dedicated service to Stephen

Ministry!

From left to right: Linda Baccus, Pastor Leeland, Joanne Husser, Jan Case, Becky Lovdahl, Jean

Minsch, Julie Bertrand, Wil Bertrand (not pictured: Mel Hohle and Dan Brockermeyer)

Joanne Husser presents Pastor Leelandwith his award.

2013 GoverninG Board

Jim Baccus (Elder)Dag Calafell

Pastor Michael DornBill Fischer (Elder)

Bill Gebhardt (Elder)Tim Grady

Michael Kaspar (Elder)Scott Leitko

Michelle LeitnerJohn Menke

Michelle VanderwaterCharles Volek (Elder)

Summer Art CampJuly 15-18 • 1:30 - 3:00 p.m. • Ages 6-12

Join us this summer for many new and exciting projects, including painting and drawing! Don’t miss this one week opportunity to challenge your imagination and have fun! The camp is limited to 15 students and cost is $65. Gigi Spence, art teacher for 13 years and owner of Art on Redstart, will be the camp instructor. If you have any questions, please contact Gigi at spencetx@earthlink.net. Registration forms can be found at the Welcome Center.

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Sun SafetySome of you might find this article painful to read, but I know you

would agree that the information is important. We are now well on our way to days with burning sun shining down upon us. I was a sun worshipper as a teen and in my young adulthood. I’d lie out by the pool, on the beach, or back yard. When I was a teen there was no such thing as “sun screen” and as a very young adult I used it sparingly. I got “beautiful” tans and received many compliments over the years. I quickly realized that I needed to take some very active steps to protect my skin against the sun and I also have personally experienced consequences and repercussions from that sun exposure.

Since skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. (if you want some figures/numbers I’d be glad to share), I believe it is imperative that I review some Sun Safety Tips for you, your children, grandchildren and other family members.

REMEMBER: • Avoid sun exposure when the sun’s rays are most direct – generally

between 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 or 4:00 p.m.• Wear sun block or sunscreen regularly (I now wear it every single day

whether I go outside or not – even a brief trip to the grocery store). I apply it liberally to my face, ears, front and back of my neck, upper chest and upper back, and from my shoulders down to my fingertips. If I wear shorts I apply to my legs and feet.

• Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside to allow for absorption and reapply every two hours or more often if sweating or in the water. Cover your entire body, including the top of the feet, back of knees & calves, underarms and hairline. Sun Screen sprays are just as effective as lotions.

• Apply at least one (1) ounce each time. FILL YOUR PALM! Use a sunscreen with the SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher. SPF of 8 blocks 8% of the UVB rays, SPF of 15 blocks 93% of the UVB rays, SPF of 30 blocks 97% of the UVB rays and SPF of 45 blocks 98% of the UVB rays. Water resistant means that the product maintains its degree of sunburn protection after 40 minutes of water exposure, and waterproof means sunburn protection evident after 80 minutes of water exposure. AND, don’t leave your sunscreen in the car – the active ingredients break down in heat and effects are cumulative; your sunscreen will not be effective.

• Wear protective clothing that covers your skin if you are outdoors for an extended period of time during the time the sun’s rays are most damaging. That means long sleeves and long pants. The most effective sun-protective clothing is so tightly woven that you can’t see through when you hold it up to the light. Denim is a good sun block.

• Wear a wide brimmed (2-4 inch brim) hat that covers the face, neck, and ears (see Pastor Black’s picture in the June issue of “Trinity Today.”) If a baseball cap is worn, keep the brim toward the sun to cover the face, and be sure to apply sunscreen to the neck and ears. Canvas will shut out more solar rays than straw.

• Stay in the shade as much as possible.• Check your skin with the use of a mirror or have a loved one or friend help you check all parts of the body you are

unable to see (like your back). Also check the bottom of the feet, and be sure to have your hair stylist, barber or family member check your scalp (diligently). You should do this body check every one to three months.

• Wear sunglasses that protect against both UVA & UVB rays. Sun damages the cornea and lens of the eye. “Regular” glasses can be treated to filter out UV rays.

• Tanning beds are just as dangerous.• Last, but not least! MD Anderson says: “SLIP on a shirt, SLOP on the sunscreen, and SLAP on a hat.”

SOURCE: “Project Safety – Sun Awareness for Educating Today’s Youth” (MD Anderson) & Better Homes and Gardens, July-2012.

PROMISE: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” Isaiah 43:2 (NIV)

Julie Bertrand, Parish Nurse

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Trinity Adult Studies for JulyA Passionate Life! • Christina Putman • Room 214 • Sunday • 9:30 a.m. (05/19 - 07/28)

Do you ever wish you could lead a life more like the life God intends for you? In this study of A Passionate Life you’ll be led through the Biblical principles of discipleship and you’ll gain a greater understanding of what God intends for your personal life, in our church and in our world. Come and join this dynamic group and find out what it means to live A Passionate Life!

Christianity and the Competition • Pastor M. Dorn • Room 123 • Sunday • 9:30 a.m. (06/02 - 07/21)There are many religions and philosophies being promoted in the world today. Which one has it right? Join Pastor Dorn in his office for an interesting look at Christianity and other world religions in terms of their founders, beliefs, practices, and holy books.Pastor Dorn will be sharing video clips from noted archeologist and historian, Dr. Paul Maier. There will be opportunity for Bible study and discussion about the impact these religions have on the Houston community. Most importantly, there will be conversation about the Christian’s response to the multi-cultural city in which we live and how God’s love in Christ is shared in the midst of it.

Esther • Bill Fischer • Chapel • Sunday • 9:30 a.m. (05/26 - 07/28)God truly used every detail of Esther’s life to demonstrate His providence and His mercy for His people. Even though God’s name is absent from the telling of this story, His hand is not. He is present in our lives as well. Come join the Chapel class as they study this beautiful Old Testament story of God’s grace.This class always starts with the joyful singing of a few hymns.

Foundations of Care • Joanne Husser & Stephen Ministers • Room 232 • Sunday • 9:30 a.m. (06/23 - 08/25)Hosted by Trinity Stephen Ministry, this course will explore the Biblical basis for Christian caregiving while presenting practical answers to life issues. What do you say when you don’t know what to say? Where is God when you’re walking through grief and loss? How do you give yourself permission to grieve? How do you help a friend handle heartbreak? What do you say when death comes unexpectedly? How do you listen well to a friend in need? Come discuss these and other similar issues with us, and you’ll find that God’s grace, His hope, and His Spirit will lead you to His answers.

Letters to the Thessalonians • Jim Cleary • Room 211 • Sunday • 9:30 a.m. (06/02 - 07/28)Paul’s epistles to the Thessalonians are among the oldest Christian documents, yet their purpose – to encourage and reassure Christians of the saving love of Christ – is as essential today as it was a couple of millennia ago.Come join the class in Room 211 as we journey with the Thessalonians. We’ll all be encouraged, strengthened and uplifted.

Theology and Practice of Prayer • Dave Weinhold • Room 205 • Sunday • 9:30 a.m. (05/19 - 09/29)A good study of the Theology and Practice of Prayer will help us all develop a strong, healthy, God-pleasing prayer life – one that is inseparable from a clear understanding of what the Bible actually teaches about prayer. With God’s guidance and encouragement, His direction and protection, we will grow in our understanding of His divine gift of prayer. If you are not already in a Bible study, please pray about joining this group for this very special study.

Tuesday Morning Women’s Bible Study • Audrey Black & Suzanne Kurth • Room 205 • 10:00 a.m. (July 9 and August 13) The Tuesday Women’s Bible Study group will meet the second Tuesdays of the summer months at 10:00 a.m. in Room 205. On July 9 we’ll review Paul Maier’s videos about How We Got the Bible as we enjoy one another’s company, share prayers, and center around His Word. Come join us.

Study in the City - 6 Weeks of Summer Study of the Books of 1st & 2nd Peter • Mary Oliver • Room 205 • Wednesday • 6:30 p.m. (07/10 - 07/24)) The Wednesday Women’s Bible Study is taking God’s Word, a study of Peter’s letters to the early church, out into the city this summer. These are the dates and places for July – Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m.Discovery Green – July 10Whole Foods on Waugh – July 17Ruggles Green on 11th – July 24Watch the Sunday worship folder and the preservice slides for the specifics each week, and please make plans to join us when you can. If you’d like to receive weekly email updates from this group, contact Suzanne Kurth at skurth@trinitydt.org

Sonrise Bible Study - Pastor Black • Room 121 • Thursday • 6:30 a.m. (ongoing)“The New Testament lies hidden in the Old, and the Old Testament is unveiled in the New.” These words of St. Augustine reveal part of the purpose of this early morning Bible study group – to study how the Old and New Testaments fit together. Most often this group studies the lectionary texts for the next Sunday morning. All are welcome to come for the strength and encouragement that come from fruitful study of God’s Word.

TnT Bible Study - Dag & Rachel Calafell • Offsite • 1st & 3rd Fridays • 7:00 p.m.This dynamic group of Trinity 20s and 30s, singles and couples, meets the 1st and 3rd Fridays of each month for Bible study and fellowship. The group is beginning a new series based on Trevor Hudson’s Questions God Asks Us. We recently completed a study on tough questions that we ask God. Now we will discuss tough questions that God asks us, based on five Old Testament & five New Testament passages. Please contact Dag and Rachel Calafell, rachel.calafell@gmail.com for more information.

COMING SOON!Pray and Play – a new Bible study for parents and very young children – Watch this space and the Sunday worship folder for more info.

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Prayers and Promises by Pastor David Leeland

May the Holy Spirit fill you up with the love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and may the joy of Jesus overflow in your life. Amen.

Last month we focused on “bearing with one another and forgiving each other,” and what a challenge this is for us.Let’s spend some time talking about the power to do this. It is the power of the love of our Savior Jesus Christ working

in us. It is the power of the Holy Spirit working through God’s Word and Sacraments. It is the power of a sanctified life, that we have been made holy by the Holy Spirit through the forgiving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, God’s power working in us. This is the source of power to live a life of self-sacrificing love on behalf of the good of another.

Paul writes: 14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.

The love of God makes all the difference! The Greek behind our English word, “love,” is agape. Whenever we see God loves… Jesus loved… or any reference to God and love in the New Testament, the Greek behind our English translation is agape. Agape has a very specific meaning: “Self-sacrificing love on behalf of the good of another.” Our heavenly Father sending Jesus for our salvation is the highest expression of agape love:

16 “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” [John 3:16; ESV]

9 In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent His only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him. 10 In this is love, not that we have loved God but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and His love is perfected in us. [1 John 4:9-12; ESV]

4 Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant 5 or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; 6 it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. 7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8 Love never ends. [1 Corinthians 13:4-8a; ESV]

14 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, 16

that according to the riches of His glory He may grant you to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19 and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 20 Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, 21 to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. [Ephesians 3:14-21; ESV]

As children of our heavenly Father through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, we have been blessed with agape love. Our sins have been paid for with Jesus’ blood shed on the Cross, and have been washed away in the waters of our baptisms by the power of the Holy Spirit. And, by the blessing and power of Christ’s agape love, we love others in this same way.

The power of God’s amazing agape love in our baptisms gives us compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other…

All of this is possible because God so loved us! And, we love others through this same love. His agape love has captured our hearts, literally healing our hearts and giving us new hearts for Him and each other. [Psalm 51:10-12; Ezekiel 36:25-27; Colossians 2:9-15]

May we have great joy, peace and thankfulness in our hearts to God for Jesus and His amazing agape love and share that love with others! Amen.

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Financial Products for the Ages - Choosing the Right Product for Your Life Stage

No matter where you are in your life, you have a lot of decisions to make. When to buy your first house. What school to attend. Is it the right time for a job change? As things change in life, those changes influence your financial decisions, too.

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans has put together a high level overview of the financial information you should be aware of and consider during the various stages in your life. This is intended to be informative only, and everyone’s needs will vary based on their personal situation. You should always seek advice from a licensed professional when considering the purchase of financial products.

20s - In your 20s, you’re usually just starting off in your first job and struggling to make ends meet; beginning to build a financial portfolio is probably not at the top of your to-do list. However, this can be a critical time as it can set your financial foundation for the rest of your life. A top priority should be building an emergency savings account to help you get through an unexpected loss of a job or a large and unexpected financial obligation. This should be separate from your normal savings and should only be drawn from under extraordinary circumstances. Also consider looking into disability income insurance to make sure your income and savings are both protected if you were ever unable to work due to a long-term illness or injury. Disability income insurance will serve you well throughout your career but the sooner you purchase, the better protected you’ll be. Additionally, this can be a time to begin thinking about starting an investment portfolio, if you have the means, as the longer you’re invested the greater potential for long-term growth. Work with a financial professional to ensure your investments align with your appropriate level of risk for your specific situation.

30s - Your 30s are the prime time to continue building a solid financial future. Hopefully you’re comfortable in your career, perhaps have gotten married and may even have begun building a family. This is when your financial options start to open up and you may want to start thinking about life insurance to offer protection for your family’s future against an unexpected death and loss of income. Term insurance for yourself and coverage for your children are usually affordable, easy to procure and can offer additional financial protection for you and your family.

This is also when you should be getting serious about your savings plans. Retirement savings should be at the top of your mind as you’ve started to make more money in your 30s and are becoming more comfortable navigating your bills and expenses. IRAs, 401(k)s, annuities and other retirement savings tools are important for you at this stage since the earlier you start saving, the more you’ll accumulate. And it’s never too early to start thinking about college savings for children.

40s - In your 40s, many people have teenage children, tackle new challenges and opportunities in their professional lives and have established a level of income they can rely on comfortably. You can start to work with your child to investigate the various options (savings, aid, loans, grants, etc.) to help pay for post-secondary education. This also might be a time to start considering additional life insurance, as your assets and need for protection have grown as you’ve prospered both personally and professionally. Since you’re probably about halfway through your career, you should also start to keep an eye on the retirement horizon and on your overall retirement strategy. Make sure it aligns with your goals and dreams for after your career ends.

50s - Your 50s are an exciting time in your financial life. Your children have probably left the nest and retirement is just around the corner. You should think about establishing a floor of guaranteed income, possibly by purchasing an annuity or insurance product, to meet your essential expenses that will continue into your retirement. This is the time to start considering how you want to live in retirement and beyond. What level of income would you like after you retire and how will you maintain your standard of living? Are you protecting your savings from the high costs of extended care? Whether you’re looking to purchase long-term care insurance or not, this is also a time when you should discuss your extended care plans with loved ones, and how that might affect everyone involved.

60s - In your 60s, your retirement has probably arrived or is right around the corner. This is where managing assets, investments and financial strategies are critical. Even at this stage of life it is important for you to have some of your

Trinity Today - 11

financial assets in an investment portfolio carefully managed for growth consistent with your risk profile. Meeting regularly with your financial representative at this life stage will help you stay on track with your financial goals. This is also a time to consider leaving a legacy through a life insurance policy that designates your children or a favorite charity as a beneficiary. The death benefit from life insurance can ensure that your spirit of generosity lives on and the causes you care about will be supported in the future. Another option for securing your future is Medicare supplement insurance, which will help with medical bills not covered by Medicare. This protection can help safeguard your retirement assets from additional costly medical bills.

No financial journey is the same. We all have different needs and goals at different stages of our lives. However, with a solid financial program in place along with the support of a financial professional, you can be prepared to make a lifetime of wise financial choices.

Thrivent Financial is represented in the local area by Theodore Wiese. He offices at 19450 Tomball Parkway, Suite 140 in Houston, TX and can also be reached at 713.957.2822.

About Thrivent Financial for Lutherans - Thrivent Financial for Lutherans is a faith-based, Fortune 500 financial services membership organization helping its nearly 2.5 million members to be wise with money and to live generous lives. Thrivent Financial and its affiliates offer a broad range of financial products and services. As a not-for-profit organization, Thrivent Financial joins with its members to create and support national outreach programs and activities that help congregations, schools, charitable organizations and individuals in need. For more information, visit Thrivent.com. Also, you can find us on Facebook and Twitter.

Insurance products issued or offered by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Appleton, WI. Not all products are available in all states. Securities and investment advisory services are offered through Thrivent Investment Management Inc., 625 Fourth Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415, 800-847-4836, a FINRA and SIPC member and a wholly owned subsidiary of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Thrivent Financial representatives are registered representatives of Thrivent Investment Management Inc. They are also licensed insurance agents/producers of Thrivent Financial

Trinity ArchivesTrinity’s archives has received donations of service folders, candid photos,

newspaper articles, playbills, historical photos, choir photographs, Confirmation photographs, special service folders and other memorabilia. Our sincere thanks to Sharon Balke, Robert & Sherry Davis, Olive Eastwood, Trinity Garrett, Joanne Husser, Lorraine McKinney, Polly Mohnke, Lucile Nerger, Elmer Zoch, and anonymous donors. All donations to the archives collection are valued and appreciated. We thank Alice Kaspar, Mary Oliver, Donna Rabel, John Stoerkel, and Cathy Winkler for their help with identification of student photographs.

Trinity’s Foyer Cabinet DisplaysIn recent months, Trinity members have

enjoyed the private collections on display in the foyer breakfront cabinet. They have included Pat Sacaris’ - “Eggs-traordinary” display of collectible eggs; Soo Jung’s collections of Royal Doulton’s “Bunnykins” and the handcrafted and hand painted stoneware “Pendelfin Bunnies” figures; Memorial Day display by the archives committee; and Joanne Husser and her committee’s display of the ministry of Trinity’s Stephen Ministry outreach. We welcome displays of private collections. Please contact Ruth Stoerkel to schedule your display.

12 - Trinity Today

The 39 ClubThe 39 Club

is invited to meet in the foyer following the 11 a.m. service on Sunday, July 14. The plan for that day is to have lunch at The Black-eyed Pea Restaurant at 10999 Northwest Freeway (290 and 34th St.)

Those who are single, 39 and over, are invited to join us. For more information contact Jean Minsch at 281.550.4752.

Re-Defining RetirementRetirement is in the midst of a dynamic paradigm shift. Look what is

happening:• 24% Don’t plan to work for pay

again• 10% Working full-time• 18% Working part of the time -

little change in lifestyle• 48% Work part of the time - plan

leisure the rest of the timeWith this change, faith communities need to re-think their approaches in

partnering with older adults. It is time to work through a style of ministry that will touch the lives of aging retirees. The truth of God’s Word never changes. But the forms and ways we communicate and serve need to change.

From “Engaging the Aging”- Spring 2013

A Life Quote

“It may not always be true in the sports world, but for the Christian, ‘chastity’ and ‘champion’ do go together. God makes us champions through Jesus Christ. Champions can make good decisions that honor God. Champions can make good decisions that honor others. Champions can be a positive influence and bring change within the Church and into society. Chastity! It is the choice of champions.”

Rev. Dr. James I. Lamb, Executive Director of

Lutherans For Life

Bethesda 23rd Annual Golf Tournament

The annual Bethesda Golf Tournament will be held on Monday, October 14, at the Longwood Golf Course. Proceeds will enhance the life of people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities in Southeast Texas. Save the date! For more information contact Cindy Cummings 310.591.7027 or Anita Lavaud 713.504.3551.

Church Worker Grants AvailableTrinity Ladies Circle Ministries is pleased to support the education of

communicant members of Trinity Lutheran Church who are enrolled at a Lutheran college or university with the intention of entering full-time ministry in the church. Students wishing to apply for one of these grants for the 2013-2014 school year are asked to send a letter of application to Trinity Lutheran Ladies Circle, 800 Houston Ave., Houston, TX 77007.

PEP Club BINGOThe BINGO Party originally

scheduled for July has been rescheduled to August 11th. More details will be provided in the August newsletter.

Trinity Today - 13

Trinity Women’s ClubThe Trinity Women’s Club will not meet in July, but will

meet on Tuesday, August 13th at 7:00 p.m. Our speaker will be Judy Dold, our LWML Zone President. She will tell us about the National LWML Convention which is being held this summer. Refreshments will be served starting at 6:45 p.m.

Please remember our monthly visit/devotion at the Highland Park Care Center, 2714 Morrison Street on Wednesday, July 3rd at 10:00 a.m. Contact Bea Uhl at 713.864.4919 for more information. Also, the Quilting Group will meet Tuesday, July 9th at noon.

Members are reminded to collect toiletry items for the Good Samaritan Lutheran Group Homes and hotel shampoos, lotions, soap, etc. for the Trinity Homeless Ministry.

Staff Directory

cHUrcH

Senior PastorPastor Michael P. Dorn ...........713.229.2940

Director of Caring MinistriesPastor David A. Leeland .........713.229.2916

Visitation PastorPastor Donald G. Black ..........713.229.2917

Director of Mission & Discipleship Pastor Aaron L. Lytle ..............713.229.2903

Director of Music and Worship Jason Mangels .......................713.229.2937

Executive Director of FinanceOmar Jones ............................713.229.2963

Director of Youth MinistriesKen Rodgers ..........................713.229.2931

Communications CoordinatorPam Schroeder ......................713.229.2944

Assistant to Director of Caring MinistriesSuzanne Kurth .......................713.229.2922

Assistant to Director of Mission & DiscipleshipChristina Putman ....................713.229.2905

HostRollin Cattau ...........................713.229.2950

HostessLisa Velazquez .......................713.229.2950

ScHooL/tLec

TLS PrincipalNatalia Junkans ......................832.301.3105

TLS SecretaryJulie May ................................713.229.2901

Director of Early Childhood ProgramVictoria House ........................713.229.2932

Director of Extended Care & Kids CampJennifer Horn ..........................713.229.2967

Joyfully Sharing Christ’s Saving Love With All People Now!

The Big PictureThe stated mission of Lutheran Social

Services is providing Help, Healing, and Hope in the name of Jesus Christ - is all–encompassing and all-embracing, reaching out to “the least of these” through ministries to children, seniors, the impoverished, and victims of disaster.

Taking their mission a step further, and closer to the actual day-to-day work and services they provide, their largest ministry is serving abused children. Behind the need for foster care, residential treatment, and the majority of adoptions they facilitate, are the realities of trauma, neglect, and abandonment. Drilling down to “why would anyone do that to a child?” unearths the documented fact that the perpetrators of horrific acts against children were, in astonishingly high percentage, abused themselves.

Ladies Circle Ministries - July Meeting Cancelled

The monthly gathering of the Ladies Circle will not be held in July 2013. Members and friends are reminded that we will have devotions with the residents at the Highland Park Care Center, 2714 Morrison St., at 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 17.

Mark your calendars now and plan to attend the August 1st meeting in Room 205. Our guest speaker will be Gina Franke, Short Term Mission Team Coordinator for the Texas District Lutheran Women’s Missionary League. Gina will share some of her experiences on a mission trip to Poland.

For additional information, please call our new president, Debbie Leonard, at 281.888.3521. All are welcome.

14 - Trinity Today

BAPTISMS

May 19Liana Elise Fantich

DEATH

May 30Lillian Mullens

MARRIAGE

June 15Luke Bibler and Katie Dilger

REVENUE UPDATE

Year to Date through 06/16/13Total Receipts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,964,085Budgetary Needs . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,958,834

HUG2 UPDATE

Year to Date through 06/16/13Total Contributions . . . . . . . . . . . $2,317,599Pledged to Date . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,945,786

SUNDAY SCHOOL TOTALS

1-8 H.S. Adult05/19 50 6 11805/26 44 9 9706/02 39 12 13906/09 55 7 13006/16 48 5 137Total Offering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $223.84

SUNDAY WORSHIP ATTENDANCE

8:15 9:31 11:00 11:15 Online05/19 307 212 211 43 1505/26 221 187 203 48 1206/02 213 156 169 53 1206/09 229 176 155 55 606/16 260 169 166 37 5

CHURCH REPORTMay 13 - June 16

2013 Concordia University Texas Grad Ryan Ullmann Drafted to the Washington Nationals

If you’re a fan of Major League Baseball, you’ve likely already heard the good news. Concordia University Texas senior pitcher Ryan Ullmann was chosen in the 30th round of the 2013 Major League Baseball Draft by the Washington Nationals on Saturday, June 8. Ullmann, who was selected 916th overall, is the third player in school history to be drafted.

Ullmann, a native of Bryan, Texas, was named the ASC West Division Pitcher of the Year and landed on the D3Baseball.com All-West Region Third Team this past spring. He finished his senior campaign with a 6-4 record and a 1.52 earned run average to go along with 61 strikeouts over 77 innings of work. He also threw seven complete games, including four shutouts, and only allowed opponents to bat .223 against him this season. Ullmann, who went 25 consecutive innings over five appearances without issuing a walk, was also named the ASC West Division Pitcher of the Week, a league-best three times, and made the D3Baseball.com National Team of the Week once.

Pitcher Michael Johnson was the last Concordia baseball player to be drafted when he was selected by the New York Mets in the 24th round and 734th overall in 2009. Richard King was the institution’s first-ever Major League Baseball draft pick in 1993 when he was chosen in the 29th round and 811th overall by the Cleveland Indians.

We wish Ryan the best in his future and are proud of his accomplishments.Read more about Ryan at athletics.concordia.edu.

Robert Leeland (son of Pastor and Melanie Leeland) shaking hands with the Captain of USS BLUE RIDGE LCC-19. He is being congratulated on his promotion to Petty Officer Second Class. Robert has

been on active duty in the Navy for 4 years as an Electronics Technician. With his new rank, he is ET2 Robert Leeland.

USS BLUE RIDGE LCC-19 is home ported on the south side of Tokyo Bay in Yokosuka, Japan.

JULY 2013Trinity Lutheran Church

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

6

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30 31

8:00 AM Basketball Fel-loswhip Group

10:00 AM 931 Set-up 5:00 PM Bellard/Madison

Wedding

8:15 AM Worship (C) 9:30 AM SS & Bible

Classes 9:31 AM 931 Worship 11:00 AM Worship (C)

11:00 AM LFL Crochet Class

7:00 PM Basketball Fel-lowship Group

10:00 AM Women’s Bible Study

12:00 PM Quilting Group

6:30 PM Women’s Bible Study

6:30 AM Sonrise Bible Study

6:30 PM 931 Band Rehearsal

8:00 AM Basketball Fel-lowship Group

10:00 AM 931 Set-up

8:15 AM Worship 9:30 AM SS & Bible

Classes 9:31 AM 931 Worship (C) 11:00 AM Worship 12:00 PM 39 Club

1:30 PM Art Camp 5:30 PM Elders Meeting 6:30 PM Governing

Board 7:00 PM Basketball Fel-

lowship Group

1:30 PM Art Camp 5:00 PM Summer Tiger

Volleyball

10:00 AM Ladies Circle HPCC

1:30 PM Art Camp 6:30 PM Women’s Bible

Study

6:30 AM Sonrise Bible Study

1:30 PM Art Camp 6:30 PM 931 Band

Rehearsal

8:00 AM Basketball Fel-lowship Group

10:00 AM 931 Set-up

8:15 AM Worship (C) 9:30 AM SS & Bible

Classes 9:31 AM 931 Worship 11:00 AM Worship (C)

7:00 PM Basketball Fel-lowship Group

5:00 PM Summer Tiger Volleyball

6:30 PM Sunday School Teachers Meet-ing

6:30 PM Trinity Health Cabinet

6:30 PM Women’s Bible Study

6:30 AM Sonrise Bible Study

6:30 PM 931 Band Rehearsal

8:00 AM Basketball Fel-lowship Group

10:00 AM 931 Set-up

8:15 AM Worship 9:30 AM SS & Bible

Classes 9:31 AM 931 Worship (C) 11:00 AM Worship

7:00 PM Basketball Fel-lowship Group

JUNE

S M T W T F S

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AUGUST

S M T W T F S

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4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

1 2 3 4 5 7:00 PM Basketball Fel-

lowship Group 10:00 AM Women’s Club

HPCC 7:00 PM HLC Dress

Rehearsal

6:00 PM HLC July 4th Concert

6:30 PM Bellard/Madi-son Wedding Rehearsal

Window of Hope

16 - Trinity Today

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH800 HOUSTON AVENUEHOUSTON, TX 77007-7792

DATED MATERIALDELIVER BY June 28, 2013

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Jesus loves:

Joyfully sharing Christ’s saving love with all people, Now!

Article submission deadline JULY 10Th for articles to be publishedAugust 1, 2013. Submit articles to pr@trinitydt.org. Contact Pam Schroeder at 713.229.2944 with any questions about this publication.

NON-PROFITORGANIZATION

U.S. POSTAGEPAID

HOUSTON, TEXASPERMIT 6364

Window of Hope“Window of Hope” is an inner City Mission

Experience for Middle School students happening in our own community. It’s an opportunity for our students to get involved and help out those who are in need.

Each year students from many different churches come together, spend a few nights at Trinity Downtown and spend each day in service to others, being Jesus to the world. Students have painted a house damaged by Hurricane Ike, cleaned out trailers, mowed lawns, pulled weeds, packed sack lunches and distributed Bibles to the homeless.

Each night during “Window of Hope” we close the day in Worship and Bible Study. Students always love sharing their experiences at the end of the day in small groups, and every time they are impacted by the people they work with.

So often we get caught up with the busyness of life. “Window of Hope” gives us the opportunity to stop, and remember what life is about…loving our neighbors. Sometimes that’s through work and service and sometimes it’s just sitting and listening.

If you would like more information about how your Middle Schooler can get involved, or if you would like to register, please contact us at www.windowofhopehouston.org<http://www.windowofhopehouston.org>. This year’s dates are: July 18th – 20th (Thursday evening through Saturday afternoon) and cost is $50 per participant. Hope to see everyone there!