Inspired:
Slaying Giants, Walking on Water, and Loving the Bible Again
by Rachel Held Evans
What does it mean when we say the Bible is inspired? When Rachel Held Evans asked herself this question, she began a quest to better understand what the Bible is and how it is meant to be read. Drawing on the best in recent scholarship and using her literary expertise, Evans examines some of our favorite Bible stories and possible interpretations, retelling them through memoir, original poetry, short stories, soliloquies, and even a short screenplay. Evans wrestles through the process of doubting, imagining, and debating Scripture's mysteries. The Bible, she discovers, is not a static work but is a living, breathing, captivating, and confounding book that can equip us to join God's loving and redemptive work in the world.
Please order a book on your own or contact Karen Unruh by September 3 about ordering a study book.
Contact Karen Unruh with questions
karen@unruhfamily.net
319.621.2886
“SOLO Together” just might be a great way for you to get out more often and enjoy the company of other women! Trinity women who are at least fifty years of age and are widowed, divorced or are single without a significant other have been having a great time together. They meet for lunch at area restaurants at 11:30 a.m. on the first Tuesday of most months to simply have fun!
Reservations are made for the group in advance so it is important to RSVP. Please contact Trinity member Marjorie Paul by Sunday, September 1 to let her know you would like to attend on the September date or if you have questions. Marjorie can be reached at 616.209.5263.
"Rescue your Knees, Look at your Feet" workshop by fitness instructor, Xristina Kuhlman, xristina@msn.com.
Look past your knees and meet your feet, where all movement begins. Learn more about the massive influence your feet have on knee health. Tuesday October 1st from 6:30p - 8:00pm in Centennial Hall. $5 donation requested.
Trinity members and friends can count on enjoying conversations with each other, learning, laughing - and of course, eating very good food! While many who attend JOYful Days are senior adults, we welcome participants of all ages. If you have time in your day, you will want to join us for JOYful Days! Contact Sylvia Stouten at sylvia.stouten@tlcgr.org or 616.949.2510 x121 with questions or to make your reservation. Our Schedule - 10 a.m.: Coffee, donuts and conversation 10:30 a.m.: Bible Study * 11:45 a.m.: Luncheon is promptly served followed by the special speaker/performer
TODAY'S SPEAKERS: Ken & Bev Block If you know Ken and Bev, you can just imagine the unique travel adventures they have had over the years. Seasoned RV’ers, they have made two trips to Alaska and have many stories to tell and beautiful photos to share. Come see Alaska like you’ve never seen it before!
The people of Trinity are invited to join me in the fall of 2019 for Wednesday morning and evening Bible study forums based on Rabbi Donniel Hartman’s Putting God Second; How to Save Religion from Itself. We will begin an eight-week study on September 25, coinciding with the first session of JOYful Days. Forums will be offered weekly on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
The themes for the eight weeks are as follows:
September 25 Religion’s Autoimmune Disease
October 2 You Are Your Brother’s Keeper; the Religious Ethic of Nonindifference
October 9 God Intoxication and God Manipulation
October 16 Recovering from God Intoxication
October 23 Immunizing Against God Manipulation
October 30 When Scripture Is the Problem
November 6 Do I Have to Believe in God to Be a Good Jew (or a good Christian)?
November 13 Putting God First by Putting God Second
The people of Trinity are invited to join me in the fall of 2019 for Wednesday morning and evening Bible study forums based on Rabbi Donniel Hartman’s Putting God Second; How to Save Religion from Itself. We will begin an eight-week study on September 25, coinciding with the first session of JOYful Days. Forums will be offered weekly on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
The themes for the eight weeks are as follows:
September 25 Religion’s Autoimmune Disease
October 2 You Are Your Brother’s Keeper; the Religious Ethic of Nonindifference
October 9 God Intoxication and God Manipulation
October 16 Recovering from God Intoxication
October 23 Immunizing Against God Manipulation
October 30 When Scripture Is the Problem
November 6 Do I Have to Believe in God to Be a Good Jew (or a good Christian)?
November 13 Putting God First by Putting God Second
This specialized adult handbell ensemble prepares music for worship and participates regularly in area handbell events. Directed by Larry Biser, rehearsals are held in the sanctuary. If you are interested, please contact Mr. Biser at larry.biser@tlcgr.org.
Do you like to praise God? Would you like to sing together with a fun, intelligent, thoughtful, and talented group of people ages high school to retirement age? We welcome vocalists who want to join others in praising our God through music. It is a rewarding and spiritually enriching volunteer experience. Directed by Sidney Hoeksema, the Trinity Choir participates in the 10:45 a.m. worship services. Come and give us a try! Please contact Mr. Hoeksema at sidney.hoeksema@tlcgr.org if you are interested or have questions.
Jewish Roots: The Heritage of the Christian Faith
by Mart De Haan
Friday Morning (all Fridays except for Second Fridays)
9:30 - 11 a.m.
For many followers of Christ, who was born in the lineage of King David and other prominent Jews, the connection between Judaism and Christianity never occurs to them. Often, Christians see the two faiths as being separate and almost unrelated.
This nine session Bible study was designed to help Christians see that this is just not true. In fact, the two faiths have some surprising and fascinating things in common. Mart De Haan traveled to Jerusalem to visit some key first-century locations and discuss with three Hebrew Christians the Jewish roots of Christianity.
Discover the Jewish origins of Christianity with added historical and spiritual meaning. Gain insights into the remarkable significance of Jewish religious beliefs and practices and discover who Jesus Christ really was.
Contact Kris Fox with questions
jklsafox@comcast.net
616.682.0671
Pastor Dan will host a Bible study on the first Sunday of the month during the 9:15 a.m. worship service. You are invited to journey with one another through the scriptures and enjoy donuts!
Sunday School is available for children ages three years through grade five. Children are taught in small, age-grouped classes. We use a lectionary-based Lutheran curriculum. Children will hear Bible stories and do crafts and activities. Each class is taught by a lead teacher and a parent helper. All parents are asked to help once or twice each fall and spring.
Children will start each Sunday in worship with their parents at 9:15 a.m. After the Children’s Message, they will be dismissed to their classrooms. Families worshipping at 10:45 a.m. are encouraged to bring their children directly to Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Class officially ends at 10:30 a.m. It is suggested that parents enjoy a few minutes of fellowship and refreshments in The Courtyard before picking up children from Sunday School.
St. Francis of Assisi is remembered as the patron saint of Italy and the founder of various men’s and women’s Franciscan orders. Over time, Francis became associated with the patronage of animals and the natural environment, and it became customary to have celebrations blessing animals on or close to his feast day of October 4.
On Sunday, October 6, Trinity will offer a Blessing of the Animals for the first time at about 10:15 a.m., between the 9:15 and 10:45 a.m. worship services. Following the blessing, there will be coffee hour refreshments for humans and treats for pets and other animals. Plan now to bring your pet dog, cat, goldfish, cockatoo, iguana or your favorite farm animal to church. The blessing will be held outside the new west entrance, under the Cross Tower, rain or shine . . .
October 6, 201912:00 pm - 12:30 pm Meeting in The Upper Room
Join Trinity member Mark Mattison as he facilitates this traditional Benedictine practice of scriptural reading, meditation and prayer. Lectio Divina is a contemplative blend of silence and slow, prayerful reading of Scripture. Are you new to Lectio Divina? All are welcome — come on your own and invite a friend.
Group meets in The Upper Room (located just outside the narthex)
October 6, 20193:00 pm - 4:30 pm Trinity Lutheran Church - Sanctuary
Andrew Bergeron and Carmen Maret are performers, composers, educators, and entrepreneurs from Grand Rapids known for their work as the Folias Duo. Their fifteen-year flute and guitar collaboration has taken this nomadic husband and wife pair to stages throughout the United States, South America and Europe. They appear annually on concert tours that showcase their fearless approach to performing new, co-written compositions for flute and guitar.
Folias Duo has also established a reputation as one of the premier flute and guitar performer-composer couples in the studio. With six albums, including their most recent Dreaming to Live (2017) on their own Folias Music label, they champion original classical music with a flare for Argentine tango and South American folk mixed with jazz and world music.
With over twenty-five years combined teaching experience, Carmen Maret and Andrew Bergeron continue to nurture the growth of countless young musicians through their active teaching careers as private instructors of flute and guitar, and classroom teachers at three west Michigan colleges: Grand Valley State University, Aquinas College and Grand Rapids Community College.
Sanctuary and Upper Hall for reception afterward and for their newest CD Release.
Inspired:
Slaying Giants, Walking on Water, and Loving the Bible Again
by Rachel Held Evans
What does it mean when we say the Bible is inspired? When Rachel Held Evans asked herself this question, she began a quest to better understand what the Bible is and how it is meant to be read. Drawing on the best in recent scholarship and using her literary expertise, Evans examines some of our favorite Bible stories and possible interpretations, retelling them through memoir, original poetry, short stories, soliloquies, and even a short screenplay. Evans wrestles through the process of doubting, imagining, and debating Scripture's mysteries. The Bible, she discovers, is not a static work but is a living, breathing, captivating, and confounding book that can equip us to join God's loving and redemptive work in the world.
Please order a book on your own or contact Karen Unruh by September 3 about ordering a study book.
Contact Karen Unruh with questions
karen@unruhfamily.net
319.621.2886
Trinity members and friends can count on enjoying conversations with each other, learning, laughing - and of course, eating very good food! While many who attend JOYful Days are senior adults, we welcome participants of all ages. If you have time in your day, you will want to join us for JOYful Days! Contact Sylvia Stouten at sylvia.stouten@tlcgr.org or 616.949.2510 x121 with questions or to make your reservation.
Our Schedule - 10 a.m.: Coffee, donuts and conversation
10:30 a.m.: Bible Study *
11:45 a.m.: Luncheon is promptly served followed by the special
speaker/performer
The people of Trinity are invited to join me in the fall of 2019 for Wednesday morning and evening Bible study forums based on Rabbi Donniel Hartman’s Putting God Second; How to Save Religion from Itself. We will begin an eight-week study on September 25, coinciding with the first session of JOYful Days. Forums will be offered weekly on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
The themes for the eight weeks are as follows:
September 25 Religion’s Autoimmune Disease
October 2 You Are Your Brother’s Keeper; the Religious Ethic of Nonindifference
October 9 God Intoxication and God Manipulation
October 16 Recovering from God Intoxication
October 23 Immunizing Against God Manipulation
October 30 When Scripture Is the Problem
November 6 Do I Have to Believe in God to Be a Good Jew (or a good Christian)?
November 13 Putting God First by Putting God Second
The people of Trinity are invited to join me in the fall of 2019 for Wednesday morning and evening Bible study forums based on Rabbi Donniel Hartman’s Putting God Second; How to Save Religion from Itself. We will begin an eight-week study on September 25, coinciding with the first session of JOYful Days. Forums will be offered weekly on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
The themes for the eight weeks are as follows:
September 25 Religion’s Autoimmune Disease
October 2 You Are Your Brother’s Keeper; the Religious Ethic of Nonindifference
October 9 God Intoxication and God Manipulation
October 16 Recovering from God Intoxication
October 23 Immunizing Against God Manipulation
October 30 When Scripture Is the Problem
November 6 Do I Have to Believe in God to Be a Good Jew (or a good Christian)?
November 13 Putting God First by Putting God Second
This specialized adult handbell ensemble prepares music for worship and participates regularly in area handbell events. Directed by Larry Biser, rehearsals are held in the sanctuary. If you are interested, please contact Mr. Biser at larry.biser@tlcgr.org.
Do you like to praise God? Would you like to sing together with a fun, intelligent, thoughtful, and talented group of people ages high school to retirement age? We welcome vocalists who want to join others in praising our God through music. It is a rewarding and spiritually enriching volunteer experience. Directed by Sidney Hoeksema, the Trinity Choir participates in the 10:45 a.m. worship services. Come and give us a try! Please contact Mr. Hoeksema at sidney.hoeksema@tlcgr.org if you are interested or have questions.
Trinity Lutheran Church will be hosting a new event this fall with a catered strolling dinner and live music: No Place Like Home Silent & Live Auction.
Jazz After Curfew is a band of talented young people, 12 to 16 years old, who have been performing at live events all over the Grand Rapids area including DeVos Hall, Wealthy Theatre, Meijer Gardens, Art Prize, Festival of the Arts, and Thornapple Jazz Fest to name a few. They will be providing our musical entertainment.
The silent auction will be held in The Courtyard and will begin at 5 p.m. The live auction will be held in Centennial Hall and will begin at 7 p.m. Items will be tallied by the committee members and will be available for pick up at the end of the evening. Baskets/items will be released upon full payment. We will accept cash, checks and credit cards.
Proceeds for this event will benefit Family Promise of Grand Rapids and the Trinity Youth Mission Trip and events. Our goal is to raise $20,000 to be divided between these two organizations. The money going to Family Promise will be for the purpose of purchasing at least one manufactured home that can be restored through the Family Promise “Partners in Housing” program to provide housing for a family. Proceeds will also fund a substantial portion of the 2020 Trinity Youth Mission Trip expenses and other youth events.
Please consider supporting this event by sponsorship (any amount is appreciated) or by contributing an item to be auctioned. Items can be donated by you, your employer or both. Some donation ideas: tickets to local events or concerts, tickets to the symphony or sporting events, vacation packages, home repair, babysitting, gardening/fall clean up or any other service such as photography or baking a dozen cookies a month for 12 months, homemade dinners for four or a party of eight or more, gift cards to restaurants or the movies, gift cards to a spa, themed baskets such as a knitters basket, or a sports fan basket, a bakers basket. Donated goods or services in any price range are welcome. All donations are tax deductible and a receipt will be sent to you.
If you have any questions or would like to make a donation, please contact Carrie Wygmans at 616.648.5254 or cwygs@comcast.net, Gayl Kessel at 989.225.4002 or gaylkessel01@gmail.com, or Tess Lundgren at 616.889.9503 or tesslundgren@gmail.com. Donations should be submitted by Monday, September 23. Let us know if you will drop off your item or need to arrange to have the item picked up. If you are supporting this event via sponsorship, please make checks payable to Trinity Lutheran Church and write AUCTION EVENT on the memo line. We accept sponsorships in any dollar amount.
Tickets are on sale beginning Sunday, September 8 after each worship service. You may also contact the church office or Angela Davis, Director of Congregational Life. Your ticket provides you with access to the event, a strolling dinner, and two drink tickets for the Wine & Beer Bar including Founders Brewery All Day IPA. Additional drink tickets may be purchased for $5 each. Free punch and water will also be available. Tickets for the event are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Mark your calendars and bring some friends to what promises to be a wonderful event.
Sunday School is available for children ages three years through grade five. Children are taught in small, age-grouped classes. We use a lectionary-based Lutheran curriculum. Children will hear Bible stories and do crafts and activities. Each class is taught by a lead teacher and a parent helper. All parents are asked to help once or twice each fall and spring.
Children will start each Sunday in worship with their parents at 9:15 a.m. After the Children’s Message, they will be dismissed to their classrooms. Families worshipping at 10:45 a.m. are encouraged to bring their children directly to Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Class officially ends at 10:30 a.m. It is suggested that parents enjoy a few minutes of fellowship and refreshments in The Courtyard before picking up children from Sunday School.
October 13, 201912:00 pm - 12:30 pm Meeting in The Library
Join Trinity member Mark Mattison as he facilitates this traditional Benedictine practice of scriptural reading, meditation and prayer. Lectio Divina is a contemplative blend of silence and slow, prayerful reading of Scripture. Are you new to Lectio Divina? All are welcome — come on your own and invite a friend.
Group meets in The Upper Room (located just outside the narthex)
Inspired:
Slaying Giants, Walking on Water, and Loving the Bible Again
by Rachel Held Evans
What does it mean when we say the Bible is inspired? When Rachel Held Evans asked herself this question, she began a quest to better understand what the Bible is and how it is meant to be read. Drawing on the best in recent scholarship and using her literary expertise, Evans examines some of our favorite Bible stories and possible interpretations, retelling them through memoir, original poetry, short stories, soliloquies, and even a short screenplay. Evans wrestles through the process of doubting, imagining, and debating Scripture's mysteries. The Bible, she discovers, is not a static work but is a living, breathing, captivating, and confounding book that can equip us to join God's loving and redemptive work in the world.
Please order a book on your own or contact Karen Unruh by September 3 about ordering a study book.
Contact Karen Unruh with questions
karen@unruhfamily.net
319.621.2886
Trinity members and friends can count on enjoying conversations with each other, learning, laughing - and of course, eating very good food! While many who attend JOYful Days are senior adults, we welcome participants of all ages. If you have time in your day, you will want to join us for JOYful Days! Contact Sylvia Stouten at sylvia.stouten@tlcgr.org or 616.949.2510 x121 with questions or to make your reservation.
Our Schedule - 10 a.m.: Coffee, donuts and conversation
10:30 a.m.: Bible Study *
11:45 a.m.: Luncheon is promptly served followed by the special
speaker/performer
The people of Trinity are invited to join me in the fall of 2019 for Wednesday morning and evening Bible study forums based on Rabbi Donniel Hartman’s Putting God Second; How to Save Religion from Itself. We will begin an eight-week study on September 25, coinciding with the first session of JOYful Days. Forums will be offered weekly on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
The themes for the eight weeks are as follows:
September 25 Religion’s Autoimmune Disease
October 2 You Are Your Brother’s Keeper; the Religious Ethic of Nonindifference
October 9 God Intoxication and God Manipulation
October 16 Recovering from God Intoxication
October 23 Immunizing Against God Manipulation
October 30 When Scripture Is the Problem
November 6 Do I Have to Believe in God to Be a Good Jew (or a good Christian)?
November 13 Putting God First by Putting God Second
The people of Trinity are invited to join me in the fall of 2019 for Wednesday morning and evening Bible study forums based on Rabbi Donniel Hartman’s Putting God Second; How to Save Religion from Itself. We will begin an eight-week study on September 25, coinciding with the first session of JOYful Days. Forums will be offered weekly on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
The themes for the eight weeks are as follows:
September 25 Religion’s Autoimmune Disease
October 2 You Are Your Brother’s Keeper; the Religious Ethic of Nonindifference
October 9 God Intoxication and God Manipulation
October 16 Recovering from God Intoxication
October 23 Immunizing Against God Manipulation
October 30 When Scripture Is the Problem
November 6 Do I Have to Believe in God to Be a Good Jew (or a good Christian)?
November 13 Putting God First by Putting God Second
This specialized adult handbell ensemble prepares music for worship and participates regularly in area handbell events. Directed by Larry Biser, rehearsals are held in the sanctuary. If you are interested, please contact Mr. Biser at larry.biser@tlcgr.org.
Do you like to praise God? Would you like to sing together with a fun, intelligent, thoughtful, and talented group of people ages high school to retirement age? We welcome vocalists who want to join others in praising our God through music. It is a rewarding and spiritually enriching volunteer experience. Directed by Sidney Hoeksema, the Trinity Choir participates in the 10:45 a.m. worship services. Come and give us a try! Please contact Mr. Hoeksema at sidney.hoeksema@tlcgr.org if you are interested or have questions.
Dinner Groups are a favorite activity for many at Trinity. Groups of about six to eight people meet three times over the course of the year for a night of food, fun and fellowship at a fellow member’s home. Individuals and couples–of all ages–are welcome to join in the fun. Hosts choose one date over the weekend and welcome the rest of the group for dinner. The main course is prepared by the host. The remaining dinner guests simply bring a salad, side dish or dessert to fill out the menu.
Sign up for Dinner Groups on the clipboards at church by Sunday, September 8. You will enjoy three delicious meals throughout the year with other Trinity members. Dinner Groups are held one evening during the weekends of October 18 - 20, January 17 - 19 and April 17 - 19. However, if a group finds those dates won’t work, they are welcome to adapt to the members’ schedules.
Dinner Groups can be a formal affair or a casual affair. It can be a brunch, lunch or dinner. The format and style are chosen by the hosts and the members of the group.
If you have questions, please contact Joyce Schlanderer at bschlanderer@sbcglobal.net or 616.949.4173, or contact Toni Petersen at riverhouse.toni@gmail.com or 616.202.4622.
Jewish Roots: The Heritage of the Christian Faith
by Mart De Haan
Friday Morning (all Fridays except for Second Fridays)
9:30 - 11 a.m.
For many followers of Christ, who was born in the lineage of King David and other prominent Jews, the connection between Judaism and Christianity never occurs to them. Often, Christians see the two faiths as being separate and almost unrelated.
This nine session Bible study was designed to help Christians see that this is just not true. In fact, the two faiths have some surprising and fascinating things in common. Mart De Haan traveled to Jerusalem to visit some key first-century locations and discuss with three Hebrew Christians the Jewish roots of Christianity.
Discover the Jewish origins of Christianity with added historical and spiritual meaning. Gain insights into the remarkable significance of Jewish religious beliefs and practices and discover who Jesus Christ really was.
Contact Kris Fox with questions
jklsafox@comcast.net
616.682.0671
Dinner Groups are a favorite activity for many at Trinity. Groups of about six to eight people meet three times over the course of the year for a night of food, fun and fellowship at a fellow member’s home. Individuals and couples–of all ages–are welcome to join in the fun. Hosts choose one date over the weekend and welcome the rest of the group for dinner. The main course is prepared by the host. The remaining dinner guests simply bring a salad, side dish or dessert to fill out the menu.
Sign up for Dinner Groups on the clipboards at church by Sunday, September 8. You will enjoy three delicious meals throughout the year with other Trinity members. Dinner Groups are held one evening during the weekends of October 18 - 20, January 17 - 19 and April 17 - 19. However, if a group finds those dates won’t work, they are welcome to adapt to the members’ schedules.
Dinner Groups can be a formal affair or a casual affair. It can be a brunch, lunch or dinner. The format and style are chosen by the hosts and the members of the group.
If you have questions, please contact Joyce Schlanderer at bschlanderer@sbcglobal.net or 616.949.4173, or contact Toni Petersen at riverhouse.toni@gmail.com or 616.202.4622.
Spend the morning with Rev. Emmy Kegler teaching Affirming Theology 101 as she explains the "clobber verses" with integrated stories of exclusion and expansion.
Pastor Emmy follows this with Assessing Congregational Gifts & Resources, helping to understand when a church is "ready" to become welcoming and affirming.
She will wrap up with Assessing Community Needs, Making Community Connections to discuss how individuals, congregations, and community organizations can connect to create welcoming and affirming spaces for everyone.
There is no cost for this event, but you must get tickets to attend.
https://www.facebook.com/events/424339754843886/
Click here for tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/inclusive-christianity-workshop-tickets-71266109853?aff=efbeventtix&fbclid=IwAR1CO9l8qsQqw_xqIvWrJSjfm2xWiyyG_bq5yZFbzqyGfnR1W33WVtjw3nw
Dinner Groups are a favorite activity for many at Trinity. Groups of about six to eight people meet three times over the course of the year for a night of food, fun and fellowship at a fellow member’s home. Individuals and couples–of all ages–are welcome to join in the fun. Hosts choose one date over the weekend and welcome the rest of the group for dinner. The main course is prepared by the host. The remaining dinner guests simply bring a salad, side dish or dessert to fill out the menu.
Sign up for Dinner Groups on the clipboards at church by Sunday, September 8. You will enjoy three delicious meals throughout the year with other Trinity members. Dinner Groups are held one evening during the weekends of October 18 - 20, January 17 - 19 and April 17 - 19. However, if a group finds those dates won’t work, they are welcome to adapt to the members’ schedules.
Dinner Groups can be a formal affair or a casual affair. It can be a brunch, lunch or dinner. The format and style are chosen by the hosts and the members of the group.
If you have questions, please contact Joyce Schlanderer at bschlanderer@sbcglobal.net or 616.949.4173, or contact Toni Petersen at riverhouse.toni@gmail.com or 616.202.4622.
Sunday School is available for children ages three years through grade five. Children are taught in small, age-grouped classes. We use a lectionary-based Lutheran curriculum. Children will hear Bible stories and do crafts and activities. Each class is taught by a lead teacher and a parent helper. All parents are asked to help once or twice each fall and spring.
Children will start each Sunday in worship with their parents at 9:15 a.m. After the Children’s Message, they will be dismissed to their classrooms. Families worshipping at 10:45 a.m. are encouraged to bring their children directly to Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Class officially ends at 10:30 a.m. It is suggested that parents enjoy a few minutes of fellowship and refreshments in The Courtyard before picking up children from Sunday School.
October 20, 201912:00 pm - 12:30 pm Meeting in The Upper Room
Join Trinity member Mark Mattison as he facilitates this traditional Benedictine practice of scriptural reading, meditation and prayer. Lectio Divina is a contemplative blend of silence and slow, prayerful reading of Scripture. Are you new to Lectio Divina? All are welcome — come on your own and invite a friend.
Group meets in The Upper Room (located just outside the narthex)
October 20, 201912:30 pm - 2:30 pm Schwallier's Country Basket, 1185 9 Mile Rd NW, Sparta, MI 49345, USA
Families with children ages newborn through pre-school are invited to an afternoon of apple picking, donuts, and fun at Schwallier’s Country Basket on Sunday, October 20 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.! For more information, contact Sarah Huckstep at 616.260.0061. Look for a sign-up link in the eBlast.
Inspired:
Slaying Giants, Walking on Water, and Loving the Bible Again
by Rachel Held Evans
What does it mean when we say the Bible is inspired? When Rachel Held Evans asked herself this question, she began a quest to better understand what the Bible is and how it is meant to be read. Drawing on the best in recent scholarship and using her literary expertise, Evans examines some of our favorite Bible stories and possible interpretations, retelling them through memoir, original poetry, short stories, soliloquies, and even a short screenplay. Evans wrestles through the process of doubting, imagining, and debating Scripture's mysteries. The Bible, she discovers, is not a static work but is a living, breathing, captivating, and confounding book that can equip us to join God's loving and redemptive work in the world.
Please order a book on your own or contact Karen Unruh by September 3 about ordering a study book.
Contact Karen Unruh with questions
karen@unruhfamily.net
319.621.2886
Contact Corina Dulecki questions and details. corinard@comcast.net or 616-575-5317 Group meets in The Upper Room (located just outside the narthex)
Tuesday Evening Book Club meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. We would love to have new members join us! We have met at various member's homes in the past, but this year we decided to meet at church since it is most centrally located for our group.
Our book list for the current year is as follows: October 22 - Dear Church: A Love Letter from a Black Preacher to the Whitest Denomination in the US by Lenny Duncan November 26 - Normal People by Sally Rooney December - we do not meet January 28 - City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert February 25 - Mr. Penumbra's 24 Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan March 24 - Call your Daughter Home by Deb Spera April 28 - Hag-Seed by Margaret Atwood May 26 - All the Birds in the Sky by Charlie Jane Anders
Trinity members and friends can count on enjoying conversations with each other, learning, laughing - and of course, eating very good food! While many who attend JOYful Days are senior adults, we welcome participants of all ages. If you have time in your day, you will want to join us for JOYful Days! Contact Sylvia Stouten at sylvia.stouten@tlcgr.org or 616.949.2510 x121 with questions or to make your reservation.
Our Schedule - 10 a.m.: Coffee, donuts and conversation
10:30 a.m.: Bible Study *
11:45 a.m.: Luncheon is promptly served followed by the special
speaker/performer
The people of Trinity are invited to join me in the fall of 2019 for Wednesday morning and evening Bible study forums based on Rabbi Donniel Hartman’s Putting God Second; How to Save Religion from Itself. We will begin an eight-week study on September 25, coinciding with the first session of JOYful Days. Forums will be offered weekly on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
The themes for the eight weeks are as follows:
September 25 Religion’s Autoimmune Disease
October 2 You Are Your Brother’s Keeper; the Religious Ethic of Nonindifference
October 9 God Intoxication and God Manipulation
October 16 Recovering from God Intoxication
October 23 Immunizing Against God Manipulation
October 30 When Scripture Is the Problem
November 6 Do I Have to Believe in God to Be a Good Jew (or a good Christian)?
November 13 Putting God First by Putting God Second
The people of Trinity are invited to join me in the fall of 2019 for Wednesday morning and evening Bible study forums based on Rabbi Donniel Hartman’s Putting God Second; How to Save Religion from Itself. We will begin an eight-week study on September 25, coinciding with the first session of JOYful Days. Forums will be offered weekly on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
The themes for the eight weeks are as follows:
September 25 Religion’s Autoimmune Disease
October 2 You Are Your Brother’s Keeper; the Religious Ethic of Nonindifference
October 9 God Intoxication and God Manipulation
October 16 Recovering from God Intoxication
October 23 Immunizing Against God Manipulation
October 30 When Scripture Is the Problem
November 6 Do I Have to Believe in God to Be a Good Jew (or a good Christian)?
November 13 Putting God First by Putting God Second
This specialized adult handbell ensemble prepares music for worship and participates regularly in area handbell events. Directed by Larry Biser, rehearsals are held in the sanctuary. If you are interested, please contact Mr. Biser at larry.biser@tlcgr.org.
Do you like to praise God? Would you like to sing together with a fun, intelligent, thoughtful, and talented group of people ages high school to retirement age? We welcome vocalists who want to join others in praising our God through music. It is a rewarding and spiritually enriching volunteer experience. Directed by Sidney Hoeksema, the Trinity Choir participates in the 10:45 a.m. worship services. Come and give us a try! Please contact Mr. Hoeksema at sidney.hoeksema@tlcgr.org if you are interested or have questions.
Jewish Roots: The Heritage of the Christian Faith
by Mart De Haan
Friday Morning (all Fridays except for Second Fridays)
9:30 - 11 a.m.
For many followers of Christ, who was born in the lineage of King David and other prominent Jews, the connection between Judaism and Christianity never occurs to them. Often, Christians see the two faiths as being separate and almost unrelated.
This nine session Bible study was designed to help Christians see that this is just not true. In fact, the two faiths have some surprising and fascinating things in common. Mart De Haan traveled to Jerusalem to visit some key first-century locations and discuss with three Hebrew Christians the Jewish roots of Christianity.
Discover the Jewish origins of Christianity with added historical and spiritual meaning. Gain insights into the remarkable significance of Jewish religious beliefs and practices and discover who Jesus Christ really was.
Contact Kris Fox with questions
jklsafox@comcast.net
616.682.0671
Pastor Linstrom is hoping to hear from Trinity parents who are interested in a brief class to prepare young children for Holy Communion in the fall of 2019. Trinity is a congregation that welcomes all the baptized, including young children, to participate in the Lord’s Supper. A wonderful, simple curriculum entitled “A Place for You” provides a meaningful introduction to Holy Communion for young children. In the fall each year, Pastor Linstrom gathers with parents and their children for a brief Saturday First Communion class followed by bread baking in the church kitchen. The bread the children bake (with a bit of help) will be shared the following Sunday morning in worship along with a blessing of First Communion children and their families.
The fall of 2019 First Communion Class is set for Saturday, October 26, at 11 a.m. If you are interested in reserving a place at the October 26 class, please be in touch with Pastor Bob at robert.linstrom@tlcgr.org.
Sunday School is available for children ages three years through grade five. Children are taught in small, age-grouped classes. We use a lectionary-based Lutheran curriculum. Children will hear Bible stories and do crafts and activities. Each class is taught by a lead teacher and a parent helper. All parents are asked to help once or twice each fall and spring.
Children will start each Sunday in worship with their parents at 9:15 a.m. After the Children’s Message, they will be dismissed to their classrooms. Families worshipping at 10:45 a.m. are encouraged to bring their children directly to Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Class officially ends at 10:30 a.m. It is suggested that parents enjoy a few minutes of fellowship and refreshments in The Courtyard before picking up children from Sunday School.
October 27, 201912:00 pm - 12:30 pm Meeting in The Upper Room
Join Trinity member Mark Mattison as he facilitates this traditional Benedictine practice of scriptural reading, meditation and prayer. Lectio Divina is a contemplative blend of silence and slow, prayerful reading of Scripture. Are you new to Lectio Divina? All are welcome — come on your own and invite a friend.
Group meets in The Upper Room (located just outside the narthex)
Inspired:
Slaying Giants, Walking on Water, and Loving the Bible Again
by Rachel Held Evans
What does it mean when we say the Bible is inspired? When Rachel Held Evans asked herself this question, she began a quest to better understand what the Bible is and how it is meant to be read. Drawing on the best in recent scholarship and using her literary expertise, Evans examines some of our favorite Bible stories and possible interpretations, retelling them through memoir, original poetry, short stories, soliloquies, and even a short screenplay. Evans wrestles through the process of doubting, imagining, and debating Scripture's mysteries. The Bible, she discovers, is not a static work but is a living, breathing, captivating, and confounding book that can equip us to join God's loving and redemptive work in the world.
Please order a book on your own or contact Karen Unruh by September 3 about ordering a study book.
Contact Karen Unruh with questions
karen@unruhfamily.net
319.621.2886
The people of Trinity are invited to join me in the fall of 2019 for Wednesday morning and evening Bible study forums based on Rabbi Donniel Hartman’s Putting God Second; How to Save Religion from Itself. We will begin an eight-week study on September 25, coinciding with the first session of JOYful Days. Forums will be offered weekly on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
The themes for the eight weeks are as follows:
September 25 Religion’s Autoimmune Disease
October 2 You Are Your Brother’s Keeper; the Religious Ethic of Nonindifference
October 9 God Intoxication and God Manipulation
October 16 Recovering from God Intoxication
October 23 Immunizing Against God Manipulation
October 30 When Scripture Is the Problem
November 6 Do I Have to Believe in God to Be a Good Jew (or a good Christian)?
November 13 Putting God First by Putting God Second
The people of Trinity are invited to join me in the fall of 2019 for Wednesday morning and evening Bible study forums based on Rabbi Donniel Hartman’s Putting God Second; How to Save Religion from Itself. We will begin an eight-week study on September 25, coinciding with the first session of JOYful Days. Forums will be offered weekly on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
The themes for the eight weeks are as follows:
September 25 Religion’s Autoimmune Disease
October 2 You Are Your Brother’s Keeper; the Religious Ethic of Nonindifference
October 9 God Intoxication and God Manipulation
October 16 Recovering from God Intoxication
October 23 Immunizing Against God Manipulation
October 30 When Scripture Is the Problem
November 6 Do I Have to Believe in God to Be a Good Jew (or a good Christian)?
November 13 Putting God First by Putting God Second
This specialized adult handbell ensemble prepares music for worship and participates regularly in area handbell events. Directed by Larry Biser, rehearsals are held in the sanctuary. If you are interested, please contact Mr. Biser at larry.biser@tlcgr.org.
Do you like to praise God? Would you like to sing together with a fun, intelligent, thoughtful, and talented group of people ages high school to retirement age? We welcome vocalists who want to join others in praising our God through music. It is a rewarding and spiritually enriching volunteer experience. Directed by Sidney Hoeksema, the Trinity Choir participates in the 10:45 a.m. worship services. Come and give us a try! Please contact Mr. Hoeksema at sidney.hoeksema@tlcgr.org if you are interested or have questions.
For over 100 years, the congregation of our Grand Rapids Lutheran Church has welcomed individuals and families from throughout West Michigan to join us in celebrating the spirituality, love and enlightenment of Christianity.
Trinity Lutheran Church in Grand Rapids Michigan offers numerous weekly activities designed for members of all ages and backgrounds — including bible studies, potlucks, group meetings, family events, youth programs, holiday services, musical concerts and more. From infants to seniors, Trinity Lutheran Church welcomes Christians from all walks of life to join our family.
For more information about Trinity Lutheran Church of Grand Rapids, an ELCA Congregation, please call us at 616.949.2510 or contact us here.
