Today at a Glance: Sunday, Aug. 30, 2015

8 a.m. Traditional Worship

9:15 a.m. Annual Meeting—Community Center

11 a.m. Last Outdoor Contemporary Worship

Noon Church picnic—Outside

7 p.m. Lifetree Café—Gumbo’s, 53 N. Walnut St., Mt. Clemens

>What’s Happening at Trinity

LIFE WITH JESUS—Whether you’re a lifelong believer or interested in finding out more about Christianity, this 12-week class is for you. Life with Jesus is required of those considering membership, but doesn’t obligate you to become a member. Class meets Mondays, Sept. 14 – Nov. 30, 7–8:30 p.m., in the Church Lounge. Childcare is available. Questions? Contact Sue von Fange, 463-2921 ext. 103 or svonfange@trinityct.org. To register, contact Robin Shuell, 463-2921 ext. 143 or rshuell@trinityct.org. ENGAGE GOD: Check out the inside of the announcer for a more complete listing of Spiritual growth opportunities (Bible Studies, Sunday School, Faith Stepping Stones, Confirmation, etc.) that are beginning in September or check out our Website www.trinityct.org/classes-and-bible-studies

SATURDAY WORSHIP—Our final Monday night service of the summer is Monday, Aug. 31. Saturday evening (5 p.m.) worship begins on Saturday, Sept.12. BLESSING OF THE BACKPACKS—Join us the weekend of Sept. 12/13 as we hold the annual blessing of the backpacks at all services. All Students are invited and encouraged to bring their backpacks. Each will receive a special zipper pull and a prayer for the school year.

This Week at Trinity Aug. 24-29, 2015

8 a.m. Traditional Worship

9:15 a.m. Annual Meeting—Community Center

11 a.m. Last Outdoor Contemporary Worship

Noon Church picnic—Outside

7 p.m. Lifetree Café—Gumbo’s, 53 N. Walnut St., Mt. Clemens

Trinity Christian Counseling is available to help everyone at any stage of life, who might be dealing with challenges such as anxiety and depression to martial issues and life changes that cause stress. Call 586-468-0401 or email counseling@trinityct.org to make an appointment with our state-licensed and nationally-certified counselors David Brown and Kristin Hardy.

PRAYER LIST Members Who Are Ill/Recovering

Carol Kinch, Jennifer Kaferle, Carole Toby, Shirley Bassett, Richard Briggs, Beth Chaiser, Barbara Sink, Dawn McDonald, Benjamin and Brandon Vandevelde, Isaac and Jonah Brown, Anna Puranen, Sandy Knopf, Don King, Elaine Hall, Ken LaForest, Kris Pauli, Kathy MacRae, Helen Luft, Wendi Kenny, Terri Cory Others Who Are Ill/Recovering:

Joel Fanning, Libby Aho, Peter Doering, Cheryl Harris; Dale & Bob, Michele Lorett, Larry Koitz, Angela Snay, Brette Moore, Nathan R., Trina Martin, Don Leal, Sandy Wilson, Harry Cole, Ken Meerschaert, Lisa Miller, Butch Salvatore, Irene Sullivan, Sara Hicks, Danny, Walt Hempel, Cameron Holloway, Tom Cucuru, Rod O'Clair, Steve Marsh, Lois Nelson, Paula VonKampen, David Fischer, Colleen Caster, George Wise, Lani Nolan, Louis and Elaine Carr, Lee Smith, Emma Webb, Margie McConnell, Daniel Morris, Darlene Dzierbricki, Kim Spencer, Kaye Langley, Jerry Smigielski, Easton Jeffrey Irwin, Dean Destefano, Donna Nobles, Baby Duquet, Courtney Blenc In Memory: Earl Jayroe (Grandfather of Stacy Williams) Those Serving in the Armed Forces Eric Arthur-Navy; Sgt. Major Louis Cage, Army, Afghanistan; Madeline Casey, Navy; Evan Ciesliga-Marines-Japan; Shelby Clippard- Navy; Lt. Colonel Joe Cognitore-Army; Mike Cuneo-Coast Guard; Chad Czischke , Chaplain-Army, Kuwait-Spc. Sgt. Lt. COL Richard Dembowski-Army; W.O. Jorge Dimmer- Marines; Major Don Ehrke, Pentagon; Melissa Flood, Navy-Bahrain; Isaac Gibson-Army, South Korea; Nathan Holloway-Air Force; Staff Sgt. Joseph Jedenasty-Army, New Mexico; Michael Kayser; Alec Kohler, Navy; Kory Kramer; Sgt. Garret LaBudde-Army Africa; Thomas LeClair-Air Force-Qatar; Ethan LeClair-Army-Korea, Senior Chief Jason Lipka, SN Christopher F. MacArthur-Navy; David A. MacArthur-Army; Sally Maize-Navy; Pvt. Anthony Marsack-Army; Lt. Mario Marval-AF, England; Spc. Robert McDonald-Army; Lt. Scott McCormick- Army; Rodrigo Mendoza-Army; Gary Mifsud– Navy; Lt. Matthew Moeser-Navy; Sgt. Clayton Muller-Army; Michael Niemczyk-Coast Guard; Renae Niemczyk-Air Force; Cpt. Derek Olivares-Air Force-England; Joseph Pomaville-Navy-California; Graham Puranen-Navy; PFO John Renard-Army; Zachary Rice-Navy, Japan; WO Michael Rich; Afghanistan; Cpt. Sean Schess-AF, Texas; Troy Sears-Air Force; Joshua Schumaker, Army, Hawaii, Brandon Spader-Air Force, Iraq, Nicky Spader, Air Force , Sgt. Christopher Stanifer-Army; Randy Tirsell-Army; Thomas Woloszyk-Air Force, England; Randy Yates, Army, Afghanistan, CPT; Jacob Yore; Jeremy Bridgeman, Navy, S. Carolina; Matthew Hudson, Navy, S. Carolina; Tyler Rakowski-Marines, Afghanistan, Art Baker-Navy, Melissa Flood, Navy Bremerton, Washington; Daniel Bergstresser— Air Force Civilians Supporting Military - Paula Smith

>ENGAGING GOD FALL SERMON SERIES: Renewed! Join us beginning Sept. 12 as we renew our faith by getting back to basics and taking a look at some of God’s timeless truths. SEAT CUSHIONS—For some adults, the church pews can be hard and uncomfortable to sit in for any length of time. To help everyone be comfortable during worship, Women’s League has purchased seat cushions for those adults who need one. You may get one in the Tape Ministry room, or ask an usher for one. SECOND GRADE PARENTS be on the lookout for a letter in your mailbox with details about the Second Bible Stepping Stone: an opportunity for parents and kids to learn together about this thing called the bible. It’s an opportunity to lead your children in faith and shepherd them into the arms of Jesus. MIDDLE SCHOOL PARENTS—Attention parents of 6th, 7th & 8th Grade!!!! Parents and students are

asked to join us on Sept. 12 from 9 a.m.-noon, for a middle school kick-off. We will have games, info and an opportunity to learn from your students about their lives of faith. If you have any questions, email pastorbrian@trinityct.org.

NOT YOUR AVERAGE SUNDAY SCHOOL—Want to know where you kids should be at 9:30 a.m. on a Sundays? In the Mini-gym for 252: not your average Sunday School. Beginning Sept. 13, children in grades K-5, can experience the wonder of our great big God - through a large group teaching and time with their peers! All led by caring adult volunteers. Pre-registration begins online at trinityct.org, Sept. 1. Questions - email Jeremy Ashley at jashley@trinityct.org

SUNDAY SCHOOL FOR PRESCHOOLERS—"Sunday school is one of the most fun things in the world” ~ 4 year old. “Miss L is aaaammmmmaaaazing” ~ 4 year old. This is what Pre-School Sunday School is. Beginning Sept. 13 at 9:30 a.m., Mrs. Laskowski will continue to shepherd our preschoolers in the Kindergarten classroom. We’d love to see them there!

ADULT BIBLE CLASSES AND SUNDAY SCHOOL PLEASE NOTE: NO Sunday School or Adult Bible Classes TODAY due to the Congregational Meeting at 9:15 a.m. (NO classes on Sept. 6 due to Labor Day weekend).

THE STORY OF JESUS – Class will resume September 6. NEW FALL SUNDAY BIBLE STUDIES – Starting Sept. 13 at 9:30 a.m. PASTORS’ BIBLE STUDY - The Life of Jesus – From the Gospel of Mark. This discovery and discussion class is intended for those who are new to reading the Bible and/or for those who want a “guided tour” through the life of Jesus. Pastor Gary and Pastor Ken will be your tour guides. Starts Sunday, Sept. 13, 9:30 a.m. Location: Chapel THE POWER OF WE – When a few years of married life has past, it often helps to have a “refresher” or “review” of relationship essentials to help keep the marriage fresh, strong and vibrant. This six-session video and Scripture series gives practical day-to-day and spiritual wisdom to make your home a "safe-grace-place" where husbands and wives share and care for each other with the love of Christ. Sundays 9:30–10:30 a.m. Leader: David Brown Location : Church Lounge BEING A SPIRITUAL INFLUENCE - Explore ways to cultivate caring connections, build trust, create curiosity about faith, and tell your faith story invitingly in natural and non-threatening ways in this interactive and DVD-based 6-weeks class. Leader: Sue von Fange. Sundays at 9:30 a.m. Location: Room 3 IS GOD IN CONTROL OF MY LIFE? - This fall we’re continuing the Fearless Conversation series with “Is God in Control of My Life? Based on discussions from the Old Testament books of Joshua, Ruth and Esther. Sample questions include: Does God expect me to be strong and courageous? Why does God’s plan seem so complicated? Leaders include: Allen and Debbie Pienkowski, Vicki Marshall and Greg Gellert. Sunday mornings 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Various locations.

NEW MIDWEEK BIBLE STUDY AND GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES MEN’S BIBLE STUDY – “The Cross” Christian faith is centered in the cross. This study will bring you to the heart of the cross with an understanding of what Christ accomplished there on your behalf. Continues on Wednesdays from 6–7 a.m. Location: Church Lounge. (study guide, coffee and pastries provided).

NEW WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY – “Growing Older and Wiser” - Wisdom does not automatically come with age. However, we can get wiser as we get older, if we tap into the eternal wisdom of God. Explore a biblical perspective on aging. See how powerfully God can use those who have grown wiser with the years. Throughout all of these stories you will find the constancy of God. Starts Tuesday, Sept. 8

, 9:30–

10:45 a.m. Location: Meeting Rooms 4-5. Leaders: Lila Tirsell and Mary Hartman

NEW BETH MOORE SERIES – Women’s Bible Study, “Living Beyond Yourself - Exploring the Fruits of the Spirit" study of the fruit of The Holy Spirit as presented in the book of Galatians. Leader: Bonnie

Young . Starts Monday, Sept. 14 at 7 p.m. in the Chapel. (book donation: $15)

A WOMAN OF BEAUTY – “1, 2, & 3 John, Becoming More Like Jesus” will take you through 12 weeks of lessons from Dee Brestin where she reveals beauty secrets found in the letters of the apostle John. As you practice them, your confidence, joy, and love will increase—giving you a radiance that will not fade, and causing you to be a reflection of Christ to the world Starts Tuesday, Sept. 1 at 9:30 a.m. Leader: Linda Gawinski. Location: Room 1

>ENGAGING GOD’S PEOPLE STEPHEN MINISTRY AT TRINITY is looking for people who want to walk alongside others through life challenges. Prayerfully consider if you are suited to be someone that others could trust and benefit from your weekly visits. Stephen Ministry is a two-year commitment and requires 50 hours of training. Trinity will supply all training and materials. Expect to be positively impacted by the training and the experience. Questions? See Pastor Gary or email pastorgary@trinityct.org. STEPHEN MINISTRY- O Lord, our good shepherd, just as You care for your flock and for the lost sheep, You call us to care for those within and outside our congregation who are struggling with challenges. Help each of us to recognize their needs so that we can reach out with Your love and compassion. Help us also to recognize those who could benefit from additional care so that we may guide them to our pastors and Stephen leaders. We pray in the name of Jesus Amen. Call the church office to reach a Stephen leader. BARNABAS MINISTRY is a friendly visit to anyone who would like someone to talk to. Keeping connected with each other through home visits, phone calls and encouraging cards, letting them know we care for them in Jesus name. For more information, contact Edna Grogan at (586) 212-1092. VOICES IN PRAISE choir rehearsal begins Sept. 10, 7 p.m. in the choir room. All are welcome to join. ALTAR GUILD—If you’re looking for a way to serve at Trinity consider the Altar Guild. We provide support for our worship services. For info, contact Crista Collins at csc14@comcast.net or 586-949-7126. LET YOUR LIFE SPEAK - Let Your Life Speak is a seven-week class that picks up where Living Your Strengths left off, with a primary emphasis on discerning your calling. Tuesdays, 7-8:30 p.m., Sept. 8 - Oct. 27. Sign up at the Welcome Center. Questions about the process? Please contact

Kathy Reither, at genghireither@gmail.com. STILL GOING STRONG For all you Living Your Strengths "graduates," a Still Going Strong event is planned for Wednesday, Sept. 23 at 7 p.m. in the church lounge. Plan now to take this chance to have some Inspirational Fun, and look for more details to come. LIVING YOUR STRENGTHS JOURNEY–God has uniquely designed each of us with a set of talents. The seven-week Living Your Strengths Journey will be offered on Wednesdays, 7-8:30 p.m., Sept. 9 – Oct. 28. The book cost is $15. Great Start Parenting Coalition of Macomb County provides the book at NO COST to parents living in Macomb County with a child 12 or under. Those completing the class will also receive Strengths Based Leadership. For info, contact Sue von Fange at svonfange@trinityct.org. Following is 1 of 34 themes and how it’s designed to bless. THE BLESSING OF THE TALENT OF CONSISTENCY involves both the way you think and process

information and the way you see what is fair and equitable. While others often take a long time to determine what is fair, you can quickly figure out a solution to problems in ways that treat everyone in an equal manner. This often involves processing a great deal of information, yet you sort through it so quickly and easily that you may not see anything special about what you do. Your Consistency talent enables you to treat everyone equally and consistently, and this helps you win the confidence of others. How do you use your Consistency talent in service of God and others? MOTHERS OF PRESCHOOLERS Are you a mom of young children, from infancy through kindergarten? Are you interested in learning more about great mothering? Do you have a desire to make friends with other moms? Join MOPS! Registration is underway. We meet the first and third Wednesday of each month from 9-11 a.m., starting Sept. 16. For more information or to sign up, please contact Jamie McMahon at jamie.jeff@hotmail.com or (586) 419-3305. GROWING TOGETHER-Thinking about marriage? Already engaged? Here's a way to explore and talk through key relationship issues like: communication, conflict resolution, finances, spirituality, sexuality, personality, and much more. Couples take the online, customized, "Prepare-Enrich" relationship inventory. The course is designed around six group sessions and includes feedback, private couple discussion time and brief presentations. Starts Sunday, Sept. 13 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. $60 per couple (advance registration required) Leader: David Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor 586-463-2921, ext. 108, dbrown@trinityct.org

>ENGAGING THE WORLD BACKPACKS FOR MCREST - Every year, while hosting MCREST, each guest is provided with a backpack full of "goodies" on Christmas Eve. For many, it is the only Christmas present they'll receive. With the beginning of school, backpacks are now on sale in many stores. We need to collect 60 backpacks: 30 men, 20 women, 10 kids. There will be a collection bin near the nurse's office. Questions? Contact Deb Graham-Large at 586.463.9592.

SUPPORT THE PANTRY—The Meijer Simply Give program has returned! For every $10 Trinity raises, Meijer will provide $30 to support our food pantry. Trinity uses the money throughout the year to ensure that the food pantry can support the need of those in the community. Donations must be received by TUESDAY, Sept. 1. and can be made to the church office labeled for the Meijer Simply Give.

STOCK THE SHELVES—The food pantry is in need of boxed potatoes, pancake mix, pancake syrup and canned fruit. FOOD PANTRY HELP—The food pantry needs help! We are looking for help distributing food. If you are interested, please contact Sally at 586-465-4218. LIFETREE CAFÉ-Lifetree uses personal stories on video to explore topics, gain new insights, and see God-at-work. Sundays, 7 p.m., at Gumbo’s, 53 N. Walnut St., Mt. Clemens. Questions? Contact Pam Jones at 586-790-2004 or mspamelaj@yahoo.com. Upcoming topics include:

Aug. 30—Blowing the Whistle on Abuse

Sept. 6—An immigrant in the sanctuary

Sept. 20—Is marriage obsolete?

Sept. 13—A day in the life of the hidden homeless

Sept. 27—Leaving God? HELP HOST A TEEN ASPERGER FRIENDSHIP CLUB—This is a social night for students and families who live with Asperger’s. In order to provide a quality fun-filled evening, we’ll need volunteers, including: setup, take down, food prep/distribution and room monitors. If interested, contact Sandy Dobner at sandy.dobner@joakmacomb.com or text/phone 586.822.2743

THE MITE BOX will be on display in the foyer on Sunday, Sept. 6 to give all those who collecting coins a chance to empty their mini Mite boxes. Our Michigan District Lutheran Women’s Missionary League Mission Grant goal for this biennium 2014-16 is $235,000. Information on the grant recipients and additional Mite Boxes will be as well. Stop, visit and have a Mite-y Muffin.

>SCHOOL AND EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

WELCOME BACK—Trinity Lutheran School students begin the 2015-16 school year TOMORROW! The students will participate in opening chapel at 8:30 a.m. This service is open to all who wish to worship with us. PRESCHOOL AT TRINITY—Trinity Early Childhood Center has a few openings left in our half-day preschool afternoon sessions for 3’s, 4’s and Young Fives. If you have not yet enrolled, please call the center at 586-463-8803.

>ANNOUNCEMENTS BLOOD DRIVE—Help save up to three lives! Please join us in the Community Center on Thursday, Sept. 3 (1-6:45 p.m.) for the Red Cross blood drive. For an appointment, please call Suzanne Westen at 586-215-9688.

>COMING SOON (BEGINNING IN SEPTEMBER) ANNOUNCEMENTS—Congregational announcements will take place approximately 3 to 5 minutes before the start of our service; either live or by video. If you want to hear about what’s happening at Trinity you’ll need to arrive a little early.

WEEKLY ANNOUNCER—We will soon only print a small number that can be picked up in the foyer for those who don’t use email and for our guests. Others are asked to subscribe to the Announcer and have it sent directly to your email, go to trinityct.org – click on TODAY AT TRINITY.

BULLETIN FORMAT—In an effort to save time, paper, and money we will be simplifying bulletins. In other words: fewer parts of the service will be printed out for you.