Newsletter for August and September 2010

Summer Fest
Next Saturday, August 14, 2010
Starting at 2:30
In the Trinity parking lot

Enjoy this happy outdoor festival, with music, fellowship, enthusiasm, laughter, and much more. Trinity choir will sing. Teens will share music. Church of God and other church groups will provide music. We’ll provide a witness of our faith to the people of the neighborhood. Don’t miss it!

Seniors R Priority

Vitas Innovative Hospice Care will present “The Benefits of Massage” with a complementary massage and spaghetti supper at Trinity on Saturday, August 21, starting at 5:00 p.m. Interested persons are to RSVP to Pastor Josh.

OUR NEXT FRIENDSHIP SUNDAY/POTLUCK

Trinity’s next Friendship Sunday is scheduled for Sunday, September 19, 2010. A potluck luncheon in the fellowship hall will follow the worship service. If plans proceed as now envisioned, Trinity Choir will share its first choir song of the fall season with us at worship that day. A new Bible Study class will begin about that date as well. Everybody bring a friend! Everybody bring something to share at the potluck! Important fall happenings at Trinity!
A Successful Yard Sale!

The yard sale on the sidewalks outside the church Saturday, July 17, was a time of witness and of meeting the people of the neighborhood. The purpose of the sale was to raise funds for summer youth activities. Cheyenne Williams led the effort, with assistance from several adult members of Trinity and other teens who are friends of Cheyenne. A total of more than $400 was raised. Congratulations, Cheyenne! Thanks to all who contributed items for sale, bought items, helped set up or take down on sale day, and helped in any other way toward its success.

Making a Difference in Our Community

Building a home--not the carpenters’ union, but a union of carpenters! The Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Build Homes team and Habitat for Humanity of Greater Long Beach are leading organized efforts to build homes for needy families here in Long Beach. Trinity’s day to work was Saturday, July 10. Initially, we were to work on a home in Long Beach, but because that site was not ready, our group was directed to Lynwood. Trinity participants included: Bob Pedder, Kirk Olson, Raul Barrios, Wallace Johnson, Erica Park, Alex Williams, Eric Williams, Sade Lewis, Kistyn Gritney, Mundiah Gritney, Amy Duprey, Tim Duprey, Jackie Nicholson, and Sam Pescerelli. Among the comments of participants: “We worked really hard,” “It was a lot of fun,” “I’d do it again in a heart beat.” The group worked 12 noon – 3 p.m. They put up 4’ x 10’ sheets of dry wall in a kitchen, two bedrooms, a living room, and a bathroom. Sometimes, ceilings included! Team members carried sheets, nailed, screwed, cut around light fixtures, etc. It is likely another date will be established in the fall to work on the originally scheduled site in Long Beach. Watch for it!

Saturday Club: Each Saturday, volunteers from our congregation provide lunch to the people who come for tutoring above and for children who participate in our “revived” Saturday Club activities of learning, crafts, and physical activity. Sincere thanks to Tim and Amy Duprey, Roland and Nadine Johnson, Wallace Johnson, Raul Barrios, Luz Sexton (tutoring), Cheyenne Williams (teen group), and all who are participating in this outreach to our community!

Bilingual Worship Service: A bilingual worship service is led by Pastor Josh every Saturday, from 12:00 – 12:30 p.m. at Trinity. In this case, bilingual means mostly Spanish but with some English comments as well. Spanish-speaking individuals and families throughout the neighborhood are welcomed and encouraged to attend. English-speaking people (including current members of our congregation) are also welcomed to attend.

LSS Tutoring: Each Saturday, in conjunction with Lutheran Social Services of Southern California (Long Beach and South Bay Area), LSS staff and volunteers are tutoring children ages 5 – 17 in math and English and providing education programs for parents, including hands-on interactive activities using computers and communication facilities provided by and at Trinity. This program is designed to directly address the problem of the increasing dropout rate in our schools and the need of their parents to communicate effectively with schools and teachers. A luncheon and presentation was held Thursday, July 22, at the LSS property at 1611 Pine Avenue, Long Beach to help make others aware of the program. Several persons from Trinity attended.

Foster Parents Needed – ChildNet has contacted us to communicate the urgent need for foster parents. The organization will fully support new foster parents in training and will pay up to $1800 per month per child. If you have ever thought of helping children in need, now is the time! For more information please call Patricia Weaver at (562) 494-7492 or 1-800 945-KIDS.

Attendance at Worship

Average worship attendance 2009: 39.8
Average worship attendance May 2010: 69.2 (Sat. 25.8, Sun. 43.4)
Average worship attendance June 2010: 63 (Sat. 32.7, Sun. 38.5)
We know that a personal invitation is often the most effective encouragement to others to join us at Trinity. Have you invited someone to Trinity recently?

Journey with Jesus

“When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem.” Luke 9:51

In our lectionary we are currently going through the gospel of Luke, and on June 27 we came to the point of the gospel which is unique to Luke, called the “Journey to Jerusalem.” This section goes from Luke 9:51 to 19:27. I have begun a sermon series entitled “Journey with Jesus,” which will explore the themes of this section of Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem, which will go until October 31 when the section ends. This section comes after the Transfiguration where in Jesus the glory of God is manifested to the disciples. Having come down the mountain, Jesus “sets his face” to Jerusalem, and he along with his disciples embark on a long journey which ends in Jerusalem. The destination of Jerusalem is repeatedly emphasized throughout the section. To say that Jesus set his face to Jerusalem means that he is determined to go there, because he is determined to bring the salvation and life by his death and resurrection. Therefore, everything in this section should be seen under the shadow of the cross and in the context of this journey.

We are all invited on this journey with Jesus, and called to follow him as his disciples. It will be an exciting journey full of twists, turns and surprises. The way we thought the world works will be turned on its head. We will be brought out of our comfort zone. We will be called to drop everything and pack lightly. We will eat with people we never imagined we would. We will receive hospitality in the most unlikely places. We will be taught to pray steadfastly. We will learn to rely on God’s provision through this hospitality. God will provide. On this journey our ideas of merit will be challenged and our understanding of grace will be enriched. There will be distractions, danger, strife, struggles, persecutions and death threats. On this journey we will see the kingdom of God unfolding before us. We will learn what it really means to be his disciples.

Throughout this journey we will see just how determined Jesus is. At the beginning of the journey there were three people who said they wanted to follow him. He tells them they need to drop everything. This is urgent! There is no time to look back! This is why he tells the man who wants to bury his father: No! There is no time for that. “As for you, go and proclaim the Kingdom of God.” Jesus is bringing about the kingdom of God, a new reign where God’s will is done, where there is peace, love, equality, freedom and salvation. This is his journey and he calls us to join him on it. He calls us to be just as determined as he is. This is what it means to be his disciple. When following Jesus and proclaiming God’s kingdom is our number one commitment, it shapes all of our other commitments. Jesus warns us of distractions such as worry, greed, pride, etc. and promises us that he will guide us every step of the way. So I ask you, what would following Jesus with determination and proclaiming God’s kingdom look like in your life?

So join us on this journey, follow Jesus with single-minded determination, and don’t look back!

Pastor Josh Ebener
God bless / Dios le bendiga,

Impressions of the 23rd Annual Synod Assembly

The 23rd Annual Synod Assembly of the Southwest California Synod of the ELCA convened Thursday through Saturday, June 3-5, 2010, at the Marriott Burbank Hotel and Convention Center in Burbank, California. Bob Jackson and Nadine Johnson were elected by our congregation to serve as voting members. Nadine’s comments follow:
We arrived at the Conference just in time for registration (somehow they couldn’t find mine). It was okay. I went to the Synod office and they gave me a new package. The package consists of a name tag, a large book describing all of the events and a map, plus lunch and dinner tickets for 2 nights, which were Thursday 6-3-2010 and Friday 6-4-2010. Burbank is a lovely city and the Marriott Hotel, where the assembly was held, has many rooms and ballrooms.
After registration we went to the city ballroom for opening Eucharist and business session announcing the theme of the conference “Listen, God is Calling.” Bishop Nelson spoke on this theme, saying carry out your ministry fully. Inspiring and worshipping are included with art, music, dance, and visual. “Make a difference.” We are doing the Great Commission. Part of every congregation’s ministry is time and talents. Open the Scriptures and join the congregation, learn what’s at our own center, “Jesus Christ.” Bible conversation, so that all will hear the voice of God. Open mind, conscience, and heart, to hear God. Speak on it constantly.
Then we were told of Bishop Nelson’s life. He was born 8-9-50, and ordained in 1970. His first Synod ordination was 2001. He was a Spirit-filled advocate in 2007. Then we had dinner. Stephen Marsh (Bishop of Southeast Michigan) spoke on “Listen, God is Calling.” Tell God what you want. The need to be open and honest on telling what your experiences are and the facts of the faith we believe is actually in us. Bishop Marsh told of Sista girl and Jesus at the well, which was a very powerful, funny and inspiring sermon. I wish I could have taped it. Then we were dismissed.
On Friday morning we had Bible study, business session II, and a panel discussion on Evangelism. Then we had box lunches and soft drinks and went back to business session III. Starting with elections, the Lutheran Malaria Initiative, introduction of new rostered leaders in the Synod, and fiscal 2011 budget. Then we went to workshop projects. Mine was titled “Principles for Urban Ministry,” by the New City Parish pastors who are participating in the outreach and receiving care. When that was over we dressed for the Banquet. The Spirit Chorale of Los Angeles singers sang beautiful and inspiring Gospel songs. They were great. I really enjoyed the whole assembly and hope to go again.
Your sister in Christ,
Nadine Johnson

Studying the Book of Luke

The Bible Study of the Book of Luke, taught by Pastor Josh, meets Sundays at 9:00 a.m. and Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. We take an in-depth look at what Jesus is saying or doing, and the implications of that for his day and for our lives today. What is the real meaning behind a certain parable? What is the significance of Jesus’ healing for us today? The class is a great learning experience. We’re just on Chapter 15—there are many chapters yet to cover. Everyone is encouraged to attend.

Serving Christ in the World: Youth in Mission
By: Cheyenne Williams
Dear friends at Trinity,

At the beginning of this summer, I had the chance to participate in Serving Christ in the World, a program of Youth in Mission at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago. I didn’t know what to expect going into the program, but at the end, I didn’t want to leave.

High school students from all over the ELCA gathered together to participate in the program, along with our seminary mentors and leaders. We came from different backgrounds, but during the program, we became a family. We talked, prayed, worshipped, traveled, and
learned together.
For me, the best of the trip was making new friends. We all got the chance to learn so much, and to do it together made it that much better. Making new friends is always hard
but I feel that God brought us all together for a reason.

Serving Christ in the World broadened my mind. In three weeks away from home, I learned to live on my own, and make choices, and make friends in a different way than I had before. I learned how to think outside of my comfort zone and listen to other people’s stories.

Serving Christ in the World opened my eyes. Meeting families and communities in Mexico and talking about border and immigration issues gave me a global perspective on faith, and showed me how Christ is at work in different parts of the world. This program taught me
how to look at my own life and my own faith differently than I did before.

Serving Christ in the World gave me a mission. Our group was called Youth in Mission, but it wasn’t the kind of mission where we go and build a house or a well or something like that. It was a mission to listen. Everyone has a story, and I was challenged to do the job of listening to those stories. It may not be easy, but I will try. I got some practice listening to people in Mexico, but there are people everywhere whose stories still have to be heard.

Serving Christ in the World changed my heart. More than anything else, this trip was about God. It helped me to make a spiritual connection to people and to look at our differences to
find that we share something deeper: hope in Jesus Christ.

Serving Christ in the World empowered my hands. I learned that my life can change the lives of other people. That’s what it means to carry out my faith in my everyday life: God has called me to do what I can with what I’ve been given. I can use my hands, my ears and my heart to do God’s work!

An Update on Rebekah

The “Rebekah” referred to above is known to many of you as Rebekah Nelson. That’s right, except last July 17, 2009, Rebekah Nelson married Chris Dedafoe. Recently, Rebekah provided this update:
“I am doing well. I will be reenlisting in August into the contracting specialist job field, and promoted to Sergeant shortly after making the change. My husband Chris and I are doing well. He is currently stationed in San Diego, I am still at Lejeune [North Carolina, the largest Marine Corps base on the East Coast] and hopefully will be moved to join him in the fall. Other than that I am still working on college courses and will hopefully be done with my associates by next summer.”

Prayer for Others

Prayer changes things. One kind of prayer is intercessory prayer - one or more persons pray for another person. Pray for healing for: Coach Mike, Michelle Allen, Terry Armstrong, Lorraine Buckley, Raymond Buis, Jessie Carroll, Ella DeWeiss, Pamela Doucette, Wendy Fields, Bryan Gaffney, Doloris Job, Katrina Jackson, Larry Morris, Pastor Vince Negron, Esther Paquyo, Joyce Riley, Patsy Sampson, Gwen Sliger, Donna Thompson, Lindsay Truitt, Freda Tyler, Louise Villarreal, Estelle Wilkens, and Jeff Williams. Pray for peace and comfort for: Jayne Elizabeth Beall and Joan Hancock. Pray for protection for: Kenneth Gary, Rebekah Dedafoe, Tiffany Poe, Michael Rankin, John Sablan, Michael Whitaker, and Rapheal Winslow. Pray for guidance for: Pastor Joshua Ebener, Bishop Mark Hanson, and Bishop Dean Nelson. Pray for strength for: Steve Chaney, Joanne and James Crutcher, Erica Hollomon, Carol LaFever, Connie Martinez, and Terri Park.

Bob Pedder
President 2003-2010
Trinity Lutheran Church

The cup said "Celebrate Life"
The plaque said "The Best Sermons Are Lived, Not Preached"
The balloon said "Thank you"

Saturday evening, July 31, about 50 members and friends of Trinity gathered to express their sincere appreciation and thanks to Bob Pedder for the many ways he has served while President at Trinity, the many ways he has impacted their lives. Bob's son Rick and daughter-in-law Kathy joined us for the event. Attendees enjoyed a tasty Italian dinner, followed by a wide array of desserts. Thanks to all who brought desserts. Thanks to all who expressed their appreciation to Bob before the group. Thanks to Arline and Mike Walter for providing funding for the event. And, again, thanks to Bob Pedder. A good time was had by all.

An Inspiring Author!

Attention, all of you who are receiving monthly issues of The Lutheran. A new series of articles, under the theme “A Lutheran Christian life for today,” was introduced with the July issue. You can’t miss the articles—they’re the first ones in the issues. The author is Rev. Peter W. Marty, a pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Davenport, Iowa—that’s Pastor Josh’s home church, and he knows Rev. Marty well. Just ask him! In the August 2010 issue, for example, Rev. Marty writes: “But Lutheran Christians are at their best when they prize humility more than certainty…The opposite of faith isn’t doubt—it’s certainty. Doubt is really quite beautiful…”

What Do You Think?

Sincere thanks to the more than 20 people who took the time to complete the worship questionnaire. We have accumulated the responses to each question and will continue to study them as we make recommendations/decisions regarding our worship services.
– the Discipling Committee

Church Council Highlights

The Church Council met Tuesday, July 20, 2010. Highlights of the meeting follow.
1. Pastor Ebener stated that Trinity's hands-on involvement in the Thrivent Builds/Habitat for Humanity project in Lynwood on Saturday, July 17, was highly successful, with participation of 14 persons associated with Trinity. Kistyn Gritney summarized the day's activity as "a lot of hard work, but a good opportunity to work together."
2. Regarding Saturday programs, Pastor Ebener is writing a grant application that may secure computers and related supplies for Saturday programs through the Connected Corridor program. As the Pastor feels that music is an important part of the new service, he is engaging in conversations with a talented performer and teacher who may be willing to provide additional music for that service.
3. Sunday, January 24, 2011, Mark S. Hanson. Presiding Bishop of the ELCA, will participate during an afternoon worship service at Trinity. This event, open to all, will be held in conjunction with the Bishop's Colloquy for pastors of the Southwest California Synod.
4. June Total Budget Receipts were $27,010, $10,091 of which was Miscellaneous income. The latter figure was enhanced by a $4,911 transfer from profits previously recorded in Designated Receipts as Filming/LB Locations, a $300 donation from the George Rice family, and a delayed use of facilities donation from the Iglesia Monte Sinai congregation. Disbursements in June appear abnormally high because funds from two matured Certificates of Deposit, which had temporarily been held in the Designated checking account, were reinvested in two new CDs at US Bank. These transfers account for roughly $51,000 of the June Disbursements, which totaled $76,454. Total Budgeted Disbursements were $18,246.
5. Samples of the welcome packets given to first time visitors at worship services were distributed. The items included in each packet are an informational brochure about Trinity, a pocket calendar or an engraved ball point pen, a key chain, a package of M&M candy, the Pastor's call card, and a stamped, addressed post card to provide the church with feedback about the guest's experience at Trinity. Ms. Bohl writes the print material distributed in the packets; Kathy Glendening provides the copy services; and Jim Young provides necessary funding.
6. The Outreaching Committee is considering an activity to secure donations of surplus foods from supermarkets and then distribute such items to the needy. The group is considering charging a fee for caps and/or t-shirts bearing a Trinity logo, to be worn especially by those participating in church activities in the neighborhood.
7. Ms. Bohl stated that half-way through the year budgeted expenditures should amount to roughly 50 per cent of the amounts provided in the adopted budget, which totaled
$204,757.48. Total Budgeted Disbursements during the period amounted to $93,643.35 plus $7,953 in repair costs offset by a Council authorized transfer from Building Fund Reserve. Member Envelope Giving in 2010 was estimated at $52,000 when the Projected Income statement was developed last fall. Half-way through the calendar year we have received $28,000 in Envelope Giving. Other Income has also increased, chiefly attributable to receipts from filming, raises in residential rental rates in two apartments, and a lack of extended vacancies in the rental units.
8. Vice President Steve Sliger is willing to continue serving as Vice President and as acting President during the remainder of the current terms of these offices, which will expire in January 2011.
--Bob Jackson, Council Secretary

“As each has received a gift, employ it for one another, as stewards of
God’s varied grace…in order that God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.”
— 1 Peter 4:10--11

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- The Editorial Staff of Trinity Trumpeter
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