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From Pastor Riesen 508 Center Street Ashland, Ohio 44805-3341 Phone: 419-289-2126 Fax: 419-289-1381 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.trinityashland.org Trinity Lutheran Church Followers of Jesus (Disciples!) serving Ashland and beyond Dear Members and Friends of Trinity, On Ash Wednesday we gathered at Trinity, received Holy Communion, and were marked with ashes and the sign of the cross. At about the same time as our morning service, a young man walked into a Florida high school and murdered 17 people. One photographer captured a picture of a woman standing outside the school weeping. On her forehead you could clearly see the sign of the cross marked with ashes. How do we as Christians react to such horrors? Why are these things happening? Who can we blame? I’ve heard Christians on both the left and the right point their finger at the guilty. The guilty party is always someone else. For me, the more I think about this the more incomprehensible it is. I can’t wrap my mind around a young man walking into a school to murder students. What was in his head, or heart? What possessed him? The same questions can be asked of the recent church shooting in Texas, the mass murder at the concert in Las Vegas, Sandy Hook Elementary, Columbine, and the list keeps growing. What’s wrong with us? I don’t have easy answers, and I’m certainly not going to point my finger at others in the posture of the self-righteousness. What I will say is that all these acts were intrinsically evil. That means that the acts were by nature evil. There are eternal principles of truth, beauty, and justice which are intrinsically good. Then there are those which are by nature intrinsi- cally evil. It doesn’t matter if you’re Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, atheist, agnostic, or anything else. This is not a matter of religious opinion or personal moral preference. Nor do we ever outgrow these moral truths. Some things are by nature good or evil, right or wrong. They always have been. They always will be. The young man who committed this heinous act deserves our prayers. He experienced much loss and hardship in his life. He was obviously unbalanced and dis- turbed. All of that is true. But, it’s also true that what he did was intrinsically evil. To everyone’s anguish, somehow this young man missed this truth. I fear this is a truth that many are not learning. Charles Chaput, archbishop of Philadelphia, recently wrote of the prevalence of a “perverse individualism” in our society in which, “Each person forges the meaning of life for himself.” Unfortunately, many lose their way forging through the wilderness of life looking for meaning, and love, and truth. On Ash Wednesday one lost young man murdered 17 innocent peo- ple. What shall we do? How do we respond? If we point a finger at someone, let’s point to Jesus. He is the one who came to seek and to save the lost. Lord have Mercy, Pastor Eric M. Riesen Inside this issue: Lenten Vespers 2 Ministry Spotlight 3 Help Wanted 5 Holy Week Schedule 6 Women’s Lunch time Study 10 Youth News 13- 21 Calendar of Events 24

Trinity Lutheran Church ·  · 2018-03-28cally evil. It doesn’t matter if you’re Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, atheist, agnostic, ... deliver the flowering plant. Just

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From Pastor Riesen

508 Center Street

Ashland, Ohio 44805-3341

Phone: 419-289-2126

Fax: 419-289-1381

E-mail: [email protected]

Web: www.trinityashland.org

Trinity Lutheran Church

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Dear Members and Friends of Trinity, On Ash Wednesday we gathered at Trinity, received Holy Communion, and were marked with ashes and the sign of the cross. At about the same time as our morning service, a young man walked into a Florida high school and murdered 17 people. One photographer captured a picture of a woman standing outside the school weeping. On her forehead you could clearly see the sign of the cross marked with ashes. How do we as Christians react to such horrors? Why are these things happening? Who can we blame? I’ve heard Christians on both the left and the right point their finger at the guilty. The guilty party is always someone else. For me, the more I think about this the more incomprehensible it is. I can’t wrap my mind around a young man walking into a school to murder students. What was in his head, or heart? What possessed him? The same questions can be asked of the recent church shooting in Texas, the mass murder at the concert in Las Vegas, Sandy Hook Elementary, Columbine, and the list keeps growing. What’s wrong with us? I don’t have easy answers, and I’m certainly not going to point my finger at others in the posture of the self-righteousness. What I will say is that all these acts were intrinsically evil. That means that the acts were by nature evil. There are eternal principles of truth, beauty, and justice which are intrinsically good. Then there are those which are by nature intrinsi-cally evil. It doesn’t matter if you’re Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, atheist, agnostic, or anything else. This is not a matter of religious opinion or personal moral preference. Nor do we ever outgrow these moral truths. Some things are by nature good or evil, right or wrong. They always have been. They always will be. The young man who committed this heinous act deserves our prayers. He experienced

much loss and hardship in his life. He was obviously unbalanced and dis-turbed. All of that is true. But, it’s also true that what he did was intrinsically evil. To everyone’s anguish, somehow this young man missed this truth. I fear this is a truth that many are not learning. Charles Chaput, archbishop of Philadelphia, recently wrote of the prevalence of a “perverse individualism” in our society in which, “Each person forges the meaning of life for himself.” Unfortunately, many lose their way forging through the wilderness of life looking for meaning, and love, and truth. On Ash Wednesday one lost young man murdered 17 innocent peo-ple. What shall we do? How do we respond? If we point a finger at someone, let’s point to Jesus. He is the one who came to seek and to save the lost. Lord have Mercy,

Pastor Eric M. Riesen

Inside this issue:

Lenten Vespers 2

Ministry Spotlight 3

Help Wanted 5

Holy Week Schedule 6

Women’s Lunch time Study 10

Youth News 13-

21

Calendar of Events 24

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Expressions of Thankfulness

FAITHFUL GIVING

RECEIPTS

January 7 $15,580.19

January 14 $12,880.50

January 21 $15,005.68

January 28 $15,632.75

ATTENDANCE

Sunday School Church

January 7 488

January 14 215 470

January 21 256 506

January 28 218 513

OPERATING FUND

YEAR-TO-DATE

Income $61,448.94

Disbursements $89,022.85

Deficit 1-31-18 ($27,573.91)

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts, prayers, and cards during my recovery from a broken arm. I am healing well and doing much better. Ann

McPherson

Thank you very much for the beautiful pocket prayer shawl you sent me. It is lovely and just the right size to hold and it is like a hug, it lifts my spirits up. So nice of you to think of me. Judy Eagle

Thank you for remembering me with the beautiful poinsettia plant. Also, thanks to Sheila for taking her time to deliver the flowering plant. Just seeing a smiling face at the door is so very encouraging. Racine Nelson

I wish to thank the Altar Guild ladies for the lovely bouquet I received and to Cheryl who delivered them. I also want to thank the ladies who sent me birthday cards for my 90th birthday. It was a great day. Shirley Teofilo

LENTEN VESPERS CONTINUE In addition to our regular weekend worship, please take a little extra time during Lent and join us for worship at the

Thursday evening Lenten Vespers. Vespers began on February 22, and will continue through March 22. Lenten Vespers will be offered at 6:00 p.m. and will include a short meditation. This week will be given by Trinity youth director Matthew McClain, and other weekly guests will include Dr. John Jordan and Dr. Ron Sprunger. After the service, for those who can stay, there will be time for questions and conversation about the sermon. This is a great Lenten discipline. The theme for the Vesper services will be on prayer. We hope you will join us!

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Name: Matt McClain, Director of Youth Ministries

Personality Type: Otter

Educational Endeavors: Slowly chipping away at my Master’s degree from Reformed Theological Seminary. My plan is to take 3 classes each year for the next 4 years.

Best Story? Our first trip to Ashland... Soaked and stranded. “Handy Vandy” to the rescue. Marriage retreat miscues.

Office Nickname: The Brown Squirrel

Favorite Book: Chronicles of Narnia

Family: Lauren (wife), Lizzy (dog), Quinn (live in “son”)

Things you might not know about me? I managed to avoid reading all through high school, and then I meet Jesus Christ in college, and I became the guy I swore I’d never be.… a book worm theology nerd.

Favorite Author: Tim Keller

Why kids? Because they still believe they can change the world, and regardless of who you are, they will know if you’re being fake and tell you so. (Because nothing they do is half way.) Win or lose, right or wrong, kids always want to swing for the fence.

Why Trinity? The Vanderzydens have been beside us since day 1, so when they pushed me to meet Pastor Riesen and consider working at Trinity, I listened because of who they are and what they mean to me. Glad I did. Pastor Riesen is awesome, I’m learning, and the direction we’re going is ex-citing.

What Works? Relationships. Kids don’t need more stuff. They need people. People who are willing to take the time to sit with them, and listen to them, and ask them questions. When this happens regularly, we call it discipleship.

Funniest Memory so far? Jack Guenther pulling a frog out of Kiera’s pond after slip n’ slide kickball. It had the longest legs I’ve ever seen… People screamed. I screamed. Then he dropped it back in the pond. I’ve never seen kids move that fast to get out of the water!

How Can You get involved? Let’s talk Could you lead a Wednesday night small group of middle or high school kids? Retired folks. You’re not done yet. Could you mentor a small group leader? Too busy to do either of these, but you still want to get around kids?

Followers of Jesus (Disciples!) serving Ashland and beyond

Discovering Disciples – Inspiring Notes on the disciples among us The Great Commission –

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disci-ples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20 We are all called to lives of discipleship. As we grow spiritually, we are being molded into the people that God wants us to be. Please enjoy this glimpse into the life of two disciple:

Name: Juan and Hazel Acuña

Family: Four Adult Sons – Dr. David, Daniel, Martin & Justin, One Daughter - April, and Nine Grand-Children - ages 14-25.

Occupation: Both of us are retired. Juan pastored churches in Puerto Rico, El Paso, Texas and locally. He also taught Spanish & Philosophy at Ashland University, serving as chairman of the Philosophy Department. Hazel is retired from the Ashland County Law Library.

Years at Trinity: Our roots at Trinity grow deep. Hazel was baptized and confirmed at Trinity. She met Juan in 1958 when Juan was serving an internship under Dr. Kinsey. Dr. Kinsey married them in 1960 at the old downtown church.

Ministries/Activities at Trinity, at home, in the community: It’s hard to remember a time when we weren’t actively involved in some kind of ministry. Years ago when our kids were young I helped direct VBS and Week-day Church School. I accompanied the Jr. Choir for almost 10 years. I served on the Altar Guild, Church Council and Outreach Committee. For the Church-at-large, I served as the lone lay person on the Or-dination Examination Panel for two years. Currently, we serve as Hosts and Communion Deacons for Praise Worship and Hazel is also a lector for Praise Worship. We are members of the Christian Living Sunday School Class and together we help mentor High School students. Hazel is a member of the TLC Belles and enjoys playing for residents in our local nursing homes. We are ushers for the Ashland Symphony Orchestra and Hazel is a member of the Ashland Symphony Women’s League. We are also active members of The Coalition and the Ohio Christian Alliance. We enjoy frequent trips to visit our kids and grandkids and look forward to every opportunity to support them in their various sports, musicals and other school activities.

Because discipleship is a decision to reprioritize our lives so that our faith forms us, and informs all that we do, what priorities have you set that have an impact on your life as a disciple? Hazel: When I was a small child my family lived in Cleveland during WWII. The frequent black-outs, accom-panied by shrill sirens, terrified me. One night, as I lay trembling, Jesus came into my room, stood at the foot of my bed and said, “Don’t ever be afraid. I’ll always take care of you.” That personal encounter left a huge impact on me as I grew through life. It emboldened me in a way that it’s almost hard to describe. As a school girl, I was often ridiculed when I shared my faith with others, but it never deterred me. It has always been my top priority to share Jesus with others. When I worked as a Law Librarian, I probably risked losing my job of-ten when I shared my faith with all sorts of individuals, professional and otherwise, who entered the library. Living the life of a disciple is part of me and describes who I am. I love sharing the Truth of God’s Word and how it repeatedly impacts our daily lives. I especially love sharing the Miracles we have lived and witnessed over the years, of which there are many! Juan: In 1973 I invited Jesus Christ to inhabit my inner being. My life was changed forever. The Holy Spirit has been my divine guide and director in every critical situation in dealing with my fellowmen. Since Jesus came to live in my life, I have been empowered to share Him with individuals who are not living in the com-pany of His Love, Mercy, Grace and Forgiveness.

Being a maturing disciple gives way to a desire to pass that faith to others. In what ways have you invested in others in an effort to make disciples?: The Holy Spirit dwells within us and guides us as we live out each day. We pray daily for others who are lost, hurting, confused and need healing. We pray for wisdom and discernment and that God would use us as He sees fit. We try to listen to Him as He speaks to us through His Word and the Holy Spirit. Then, relying on His strength, we go forward in ministry and counseling to others - teenagers, neighbors, family and strangers, whoever God puts in our path of life.

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Discovering Disciples – continued

Juan and Hazel Acuña

What words of wisdom would you give to others about the journey of discipleship? Hazel: Aware of our own personal defects, we must Pray, Pray, Pray! Read the Word! Then listen and Pray some more. Let your life and all that you say and do reflect your faith and your love for Jesus. Ask for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, the Teacher and

Counselor, and rely on His strength and guidance to lead you on your path of discipleship. Juan: It is essential that every individual should establish a relationship with the Word of God. It is vitally im-portant to own a study Bible and meditate upon certain appropriate passages in the Scriptures. A good place to begin would be in Psalm 1:2-3; Psalm 139:13-14; John 14:26-27; Revelation 1:5-6; Hebrews 4:12-13; Isaiah 11:2-5; Isaiah 30:17-22; 1 Corinthians 2:9-16.

Followers of Jesus (Disciples!) serving Ashland and beyond

O’Bryan’s

1065 Claremont Avenue, Ashland

Saturday, March 17, at 11:30 a.m.

Let’s wear some green and have our Fifth-Annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at O’Bryan’s! They will have their wonderful corned beef and cabbage available--but if that's not your favorite you can order off their regular menu.

Our reservation is at noon and you must let us know by Wednesday, March 14, if you plan to attend so we can give them a final count. The parking at O’Bryan’s can be crowded on this day. When you reserve your spot, please let us know if you’d like to carpool from Trinity or if you’ll meet us at O'Bryan's. If you choose to carpool, we will leave from the church hallway at 11:40 a.m. This is always a fun luncheon, and we hope you will attend! Please contact Wendy Shreffler in the Church Office at 419-289-2126 or by email: [email protected].

Our Monthly Luncheon:

Occasionally we receive a call in the office from a church member asking for help to go somewhere. Usually it is to a doctor’s appointment and because it is out of town they are not comfortable with the drive. Sometimes we receive a request for a ride to church. Would you be able to help in either of these situations? We would like to put together a list of willing drivers to call for assistance when the need arises. For more information, please contact Wendy Shreffler in the Church Office at 419-289-2126 or by email: [email protected].

MnMs: Making New Memories A social group for women on their own.

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+ GOOD FRIDAY - March 30 +

12 Noon to 3 pm - Community Service Come when you can, leave when you must, but do join with

Christians of Ashland in The Seven Last Words from the Cross.

Sponsored by the Ashland County Ministerial Association

Sermons and solos by community members

8 pm - Good Friday Tenebrae We hear St. John’s account of Christ’s Passion

and meditate on our Lord’s suffering and death.

The encroaching shadows (“tenebrae”) deepen

to darkness as the candles are extinguished.

Special music by the Trinity Singers

Holy Week Schedule

+ PASSION / PALM SUNDAY - March 25 + Holy Week begins in story and song, proclamation and procession.

It culminates in the central celebration of our faith: the Lord’s passage from death to new life

celebrated in the Three Days of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter.

8:30 & 10:45 am - Passion Story / Palm Procession in the Sanctuary The Passion Reading

“The Palms” led by the Notes of Joy and Senior Choirs

Special music by the Choir, Trinity Brass and Trinity Bells 10:45 am - Praise Communion in Jack’s Place Special music by the Praise Team

+ MAUNDY THURSDAY - March 29 + We gather around the Lord’s table to receive forgiveness and

to hear Christ’s new commandment (“mandatum”) of love

11am & 7 pm - Communion Special music by the Choir and soloists

and Stripping of the Altar at the evening service

+ HOLY SATURDAY - March 31 +

6:30 to 8 pm - Easter Vigil The most festive service of the church year, beginning in darkness

and ending in the light of the Resurrection. Readings, baptism

and communion are major portions of the celebration.

+ EASTER SUNDAY - April 1 +

The Resurrection of Our Lord is the chief festival of our Christian faith.

Come and join the celebration!

8:30 am - Festive Communion Special music by the Sonrise Singers & Trinity Brass

10:45 am - Festival Communion Special music by the Choir & Trinity Brass

10:45 am - Praise Worship in the Worship Center at Jack’s Place

Special music by the Praise Team

Attention Readers: Trinity mails this newsletter at bulk rate, which the Post Office does not

forward. If you move, please let the Church Office know your new address so we can keep you up to

date!

Marks of Discipleship – Discipleship is a decision to reprioritize our lives so that our faith forms and informs all we are and do. How are you doing? Weekly Worship Daily Reading/Meditation on Scripture Spiritual Disciplines Stewardship Small Group Involvement Vocation in Daily Life Sharing Your Faith If you would like to learn more about how you can grow in any of these areas, shoot me an email or text or give me a call. I’d be happy to meet with you and discuss your discipleship journey. Michelle Vanderzyden, Director of Discipleship Ministries 419-651-1564 [email protected]

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Altar Guild Needs Coffee Cans We are running a bit short on coffee cans for Altar flowers. If you have coffee cans that will be thrown away, please drop them off at the Church Office for the Altar Guild to use. We need either metal or plastic ones. It doesn’t matter what color as we can paint them! Thank you so much! Cheryl Phillips, Flower Chairperson

Outreach Giving

Page 8 Followers of Jesus (Disciples!) serving Ashland and beyond

This is Pastor Mark from the Grace of God Lutheran Church in Columbus. They will be using Outreach Funds to update their bathrooms to make them ADA compliant.

This open discussion class, led by Pastor Riesen, is designed for anyone

thinking about membership, but all “curious Christians” are welcome.

Those who decide to become members will be received at the Easter

Vigil on Saturday, March 31, at 6:30 pm.

To register, please call the Church Office: 419-289-2126 or email

Wendy Shreffler: [email protected].

Inquirer’s Class: (It’s not too late!)

9:30 am (the Sunday School hour)

Each Sunday, ending on March 18

In the Church Home Dining Room

Wendy Anderson presents Jerry Strassburg and Linda McKibben with a check to support the S.P.A.R.K program for Appleseed Community Mental Health and Ashland City Schools.

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Opportunity .. Teenagers and adults who read music are needed to become Handbell Ringers. We have more bells than ringers! I will meet with you and share the basics before placing you in a choir. Contact Kathleen Wendling at 419-289-0788, [email protected] or leave a message at the Church Office 419-289- 2126

THANK YOU A huge thank you to all those who made the Shrove Tuesday celebration a success! Thank you to Pastor Riesen for helping us understand Lent and to Notes of Joy for sharing their music with us! Thank you to Randy Smith and Larry Spoon for all their help. Thank you to all who stayed to help clean up, the Adult Bible Study class who decorated, the SALT class who cooked pancakes, and Lori Sprinkle’s kitchen crew.

In February, Fostering Family asked churches to "Share the Love" with the 140 children currently in foster care in Ashland County. Although the number of foster parents has increased to 20, many more are needed. Foster Parent training consisting of six sessions is scheduled in Ashland County during the month of March. Many more volunteers are also needed to support these families. Please visit Welcome to Fostering Family Ministries! for more information. Plans are underway for a bowling party for all the foster children families

on March 24, at Luray Lanes. The “Share the Love” donated gift cards (for gas, restaurant, entertainment) will be distributed that day. If you are interested in donating a gift card please contact Karen Laughery (419-281-0967) or JoEllen Smalley (419-685-4117). We want these children to have a fun day and also want the foster parents to know how much we appreciate what they do.

EXPRESSIONS OF FAITH March 20, 7:00 pm

in the Trinity Room

Expressions of Faith will meet Tuesday, March 20, to craft our hand-made greeting cards. We are a group with varying paper-crafting skills from beginner on up, and all crafters are welcome.

We enjoy teaching others to make cards, and hope you will join us. Our card rack is located in the office kitchenette. You can purchase our hand-crafted cards for a donation, and 100% of the money we collect is used to support various groups at Trinity and throughout our com-munity. In March we give our support from the sale of our cards to the Fostering Family Ministry. Please contact Wendy Shreffler in the Church Office at 419-289-2126 or by email: [email protected].

Quick Bites – A Women’s Lunch Time Study: Sometimes we have hours to

simmer but other days, our faith is more like fast food through the drive

through. Take a moment and join me for a short term small group that

meets over lunch beginning on Friday, March 16, at noon at Downtown

Perk. We will take a quick bite of faith and food and look at the book, Je-

sus, CEO - Using Ancient Wisdom for Visionary Leadership, by Laurie Beth

Jones. Please contact me so I can reserve a place for you. Because food

is always better with friends, feel free to invite one!

Michelle Vanderzyden, [email protected], 419-651-1564.

No Sunday School on Easter Sunday, April 1!

Enjoy time with your family!

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March 7 Pizza, Salad, Drink, & Dessert

March 14 Turkey or Hot Ham & Cheese Sandwich, Chicken Noodle Soup or Chili, Salad, Fruit, Drink, & Dessert

March 21 Spaghetti & Meatballs with Garlic Bread or Ham Sandwich with Chicken Noodle Soup, Salad, Fruit, Drink, & Dessert

March 28 Hot Chicken or Roast Beef Sandwiches, Broccoli Cheese or Chicken Noodle Soup, Salad, Fruit, Drink, & Dessert

Cost is $4.00 for Adults, $2.00 for children age 8 and under.

All Are Welcome!!

Note: No Supper on April 4 (Spring Break)

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WHEN YOU CAN’T GET TO CHURCH THERE ARE WAYS TO “STAY IN TUNE” WITH TRINITY!

RADIO BROADCAST AND AUDIO AND VIDEO LIVE STREAMING Radio Broadcast: 10:30 am-12 noon - listen to the 10:45 Sanctuary Service by tuning your radio

to WNCO-AM 1340. Audio Live Stream: 10:30 am-12 noon - listen to the 10:45 Sanctuary Worship by clicking on

WNCO-AM and then "Listen Live" at www.trinityashland.org Video Live Stream: 10:45 am-12 noon - watch and listen to the Praise Worship Service by click-

ing on the WATCH LIVE link at www.trinityashland.org (If you have a Roku device on your TV, you can now add the Trinity channel and view live there.)

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March 8 & 22 at 8 a.m.

Meeting in North Patio Room

We will study The Challenge of Islam

Come Join Us!

Pastor Koch

“ERIN Go...Prayer Shawl Meeting”

Tuesday, March 13, 2018 At 1:00 p.m.

In the Church Home South Sun Room

For information contact Pam Tresh @ 419-289-2863

P R A Y E R S H A W L M I N I S R Y

Seeing Spirituality In Art Come and see the beauty that God produces artistically through his disciples.

Join us for a viewing of fiber artwork from Terry Hartzell representing the

Studio Art Quilt Associates and felting work from Barbara Morejon along with

discussions led by local artist Barb Zimmerman on Seeing Spirituality in Art.

Whether you are an artist or simply appreciate the work artists produce, you are

welcome to view pieces between 10:00 – 4:00 on Wednesday, March 7, in the

Main Hallway outside of Jack’s Place. 20-minute discussions can be scheduled

with Barb throughout the day by calling 419-496-3587.

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Montessori Good Shepherd Preschool Program Three-Year-Old Theology: It is Fitting One of the things Maria Montessori observed about very little children makes a very big difference in the way we provide for their spiritual formation. It can make a difference for grownups’ formation, too. At every age, persons can enjoy spiritual development that is complete and appropriate for them. Young

children are in a sensitive period for spiritual learning, and so, of course, we want to work through that. And we do. Interwoven with their regular learning about the world and how it works in the Montessori classroom are lessons on the Big Reality of God, and how God has worked through Jesus, our Good Shepherd. Like Montessori academic lessons, spiritual formation in the classroom is given in small steps that are easy to remember, and just the right size for the children. As Lent approached, we learned about why we have a cross on our altar, and what happened the Sunday before Good Friday, when Jesus gave up his life for us: Palm Sunday. Last year’s palms become this year’s ashes. This is something we will never forget. And we will always remember that God loves us and cares for us. That is the theology of Ash Wednesday for the littlest Christians. And it will carry us all the way through our lives. About Us- We use the Montessori philosophy because it embraces the whole child. The Montessori Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a specially prepared environment that meets the children’s physical, cognitive, and social needs. They will not only satisfy their intrinsic interests and learn, but will thrive with joy and wonder. The Montessori Good Shepherd program will assist the child in having a profoundly personal and joyful expression of faith that is unique to their relationship with God. If you would like to discover more about our program or have questions, please contact Cindy Duffey at 419 289-2126 or email [email protected] Blessings, Pastor Jane Jacques Cindy Duffey

Followers of Jesus (Disciples!) serving Ashland and beyond

Illness and bad weather resulted in low attendance numbers for the first few weeks of 2018. Numbers are

back up and we’re hoping that everyone stays healthy for the remainder of the year!

We had discontinued Show-and-Tell at the end of 2017 because the children were not being respectful of

each other. We are once again having it on Fridays. The children are doing a good job of listening and not

interrupting or talking over each other. They raise their hands if they have a question for the presenter and

patiently wait to be called on.

We traveled to the Coburn Art Gallery on Thursday, March 17, for the opening of the “Dear Dr. Seuss” exhibit

which is on display in conjunction with “Seussical The Musical”. We also listened to the AU Jazz Orchestra

rehearse and got a sneak peek at the stage set for “Seussical”.

While homework help is our focus, we strive to provide a safe and creative environment while also teaching

good manners and self-control. The students never seem to tire of hearing me say, “Sit nicely in your seat,”

because I still have to say it several times each day...but they are learning!

ALWAYS NEEDED

Beacon scholarships...please consider donating $57 or more to provide a 2nd

semester scholarship for a student.

“Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.” Matthew 5:15.

Martha Buckner

Beacon After School Program

The Beacon Board will be meet-

ing soon to discuss enrollment

and funding, after which we will

begin accepting registrations for

2018-2019. Stay tuned!

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Acolytes

03/04/18 Luke Denbow 8:30 AM

Kendall Minnick 10:45 AM

03/11/18 Landin Pence 8:30 AM

Time Change Spring Forward Owen Radebaugh 10:45 AM

03/18/18 Jake Rivenburgh 8:30 AM

Johnny Ward 10:45 AM

03/25/18 Eleanor Merkel Palm Sunday 8:30 AM

Emma Schaefer 10:45 AM

03/29/18 Gabe Murawski Maundy Thurs 7:00 PM

03/30/18 Will Recruit Good Friday 8:00 PM

March

Schedules

03/25/18 Andrew Prezioso Palm Sunday 8:30 AM

Banner Bearer Andrew Burgart Palm Sunday 8:30 AM

03/25/18 Sarah Hildebrand Palm Sunday 10:45 AM

Banner Bearer Savannah Barr Palm Sunday 10:45 AM

Crucifer/Banner Bearer

IF YOU CANNOT SERVE ON YOUR SCHEDULED DATE, CALL TO TRADE WITH

SOMEONE. THEN PLEASE CALL THE CHURCH OFFICE (419-289-2126) BY

WEDNESDAY NOON TO NOTIFY JOELLEN OF THE CHANGE

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FEBRUARY CATECHISM

Our middle school kids have completed yet another session of Catechism and it will definitely be a bittersweet moment for all leaders when our 8

th graders are confirmed in May! We are blessed to

have so many wonderful kids in this class. Please read over the enclosed schedule carefully for the remainder of the Catechism year as there have been changes to the schedule in the last month.

Sunday, March 11, @ 4:00-7:30 Catechism Session on the Apostles’ Creed -8

th Graders will be dismissed at 7:00 pm

-7th

Graders will have a small group discussion with Pastor Riesen and will be dismissed at 7:30.

Sunday, April 8, @ 4:00-8:00 pm -8

th Graders – All 8

th grade students wanting to be confirmed are required to sign up for a

“Catechism Conversation” with Matt and Pastor Riesen. The available time slots (4:00-8:00) will be posted outside of Matt’s office. -7

th Graders- We will meet from 6-7:30 and have a review session to go over everything we have

done this year. This session will be led by Cheryl Benway and Mike Schaefer.

Sunday, May 6, @ 5:30 pm (Confirmation Dinner) -8

th Graders-Celebration dinner for 8

th graders wanting to be confirmed and their families. Please

RSVP text to Cheryl with your name and number of attendees. -7

th Graders-Long standing tradition to be servers for the 8

th graders and their families.

Sunday, May 20, (Confirmation Sunday) -8

th graders- pictures will be taken at 9:30 am during the Sunday school hour, followed by a final

walk through with Matt and Pastor Riesen and prayer for each confirmand. The Confirmation Ceremony will take place during the 10:45 Sanctuary service. -7

th graders- You are encouraged to attend this service to support those being confirmed.

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TRINITY YOUTH MINISTRIES

When we think of our roots, we think of

strength, reliability, trust and faith and the

more grounded and intricate the roots

become the stronger the foundation for a

Christian life. 1Corinithians 3:11 says “For

no one can lay a foundation other than

the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.”

While working towards his seminary

degree, Matt McClain had the opportunity

to take a class on Lutheran Liturgy.

Studying the focus and structure of the

Lutheran church was an eye opening

experience for Matt (and not just because

if you name drop “Pastor Eric Riesen” you

will get doors opened for you ) What

Matt found was that the biblical roots, the

structure and the focus of worship are all

there for a reason and that reason is

GOOD. While Matt continues his seminary

studies over the next several years he will

continue to strengthen his roots through

the foundation that Christ has laid for us.

Upcoming Youth Event for MARCH

For more info about our Youth Ministry or details on specific activities, go to www.trinityashland.org.

Altitude Trampoline Park

**SAVE THE DATE** Sunday, April 15, @ 1:30-4:30 pm

Let’s soar to new heights together at the new Altitude trampoline park in Mansfield! Come and burn off that energy with their high-performance trampolines, two basketball hoops, two extreme dodgeball courts, two battle-beams, multiple foam pits, and a rock climbing wall. The church vans will leave the parking lot at 1:30 so don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity! For more information or to sign up for this event, please contact Heather Jurjevic @ 419-651-2455. If you plan on attending, parents will need to fill out an online waiver before departure. Stay tuned for more details.

Masterminds Sunday, March 18, @ 1-4 pm

Ready! Set! Go! You have 60 minutes to prove you can beat the master!! Do you have what it takes to escape?? Please join us for an afternoon of fun and games. We will spend the afternoon experiencing the escape room, followed by time in the game library! There will be a discounted cost of $15 per kid. If you would like to join us for this event, please contact Heather Jurjevic @ 419-651-2455 or sign up for this event outside Matt’s office.

Matt McClain: Director of Youth Ministries

419-289-2126 x 113 (office) 567-215-7807 (personal cell)

[email protected]

Heather Jurjevic: Youth Ministries Assistant 419-651-2455 (personal cell) [email protected]

Matt & fellow Lutheran Class Members

Followers of Jesus (Disciples!) serving Ashland and beyond

2018 Youth Campership Application

This opportunity is available to those students who are Trinity Members in Grades 6-12. Your relationship with Jesus Christ is the most important relationship you will ever have, and we know Christian summer camps provide a great place for this relationship to start and a great opportunity for this relationship to grow. After completing the application process, students will be required to meet with Matt both before and after their trip. Each student will be given $200 off the cost of their camp. Please fill out the following Application form and hand it in to the Church Office no later than May 5, 2018.

Student’s Name: __________________________ Student’s Cell: _________________________ Parent’s Name: ___________________________ Parent’s Email: _________________________

Name of Summer Camp: ______________________________ Dates of Summer Camp: _______________________________ Cost of Summer Camp: ________________________________

Why do you want to go to this Camp?

What do you hope to gain from your time at Camp?

TRINITY CAMPERSHIP APPLICATION

Page 18

Page 19 Followers of Jesus (Disciples!) serving Ashland and beyond

2018 Mount Moriah Summer Mission Trip

Maple Heights – July 9-13, 2018

This July we’re headed to Mount Moriah where we will work alongside Dr. Wilson Arimi and his church to help them serve their community. During the

mornings, we will help run a VBS for kids in the Maple Heights community, and during the afternoon, we will head up a Rake n’ Run summer cleanup for homes around the church. For those of you who don’t know Wilson, his heart for connecting people to Jesus and to each other is contagious. If you are interested in participating in Trinity’s mission trip to Wilson Arimi’s church in Maple Heights, please fill out the following Application form and hand it in to Matt’s office no later than April 8, 2018. Acceptance to go on this trip is not guaranteed. Acceptance is dependent on trip capacity, skillsets, and spiritual maturity. Priority for this trip will be given to Trinity members. Those applying must have completed 8th grade. Student’s Name: _____________________ Student’s Cell: ______________________________ Parent’s Name: ______________________ Parent’s Cell: _______________________________ Why do you want to come on this trip? What do you hope to gain from your time on this trip? Name of Reference: ________________________ Reference Cell: _______________________ How do you know this person?

Page 20

FAMILY EVENT!

GYM & SWIM AT THE ASHLAND “Y”

SUNDAY, MARCH 11, 2018 1:00-4:00pm Ashland Family YMCA –207 Miller Street, Ashland

Join us for basketball, tumbling time in the gymnastics room, swimming, and fellowship.

Cost: $1/person (Bring Suit and Towel)

OUTREACH PROJECT: God has blessed us with strong bodies and an abundance of energy! To honor

these gifts, we are collecting cash donations to support the members of the

Ashland Dragons Special Olympics Team. It costs over $100 to sponsor an athlete, so bring

those donations!!!

To RSVP by March 8, or for more info contact Dawn at Trinity Lutheran Church, 508 Center Street, Ashland, Ohio, 44805,

(419) 289-2126 or [email protected].

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Operation Christmas Child Now it is time to start collecting for next November!! March’s theme is quality crafts! Remember they have to fit in a shoe box! There will be

collection boxes in every children’s Sunday school

room.

Toddler Time in Jack’s Place continues! We have had such a good turnout for the Toddler Time in Jack’s Place each Thursday morning from 9-11 a.m. that we are continuing through March 8! Join us for great fun for the kids and fellowship for the adults! Mr. Mark will be joining us each week and we hope you can join us as well! If you know a young mom with small children who might like some time out with other moms, please let her know about this time in Jack’s Place!

4TH

& 5TH

GRADERS BOWL AND SUPPORT OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD Our 4

th and 5

th graders had a great time at Luray Lanes on Sunday, February 18, and

helped others at the same time! We had lots of fun bowling (Ask Kelsey Kaeser about her score for the first game!) and collected items for Operation Christmas Child. We are

already looking forward to the time when we put the boxes together in November! How awesome is that?? In addition, we welcomed two new friends to the group who hadn’t been to a Trinity Kids’ event in a while! What a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon!

Followers of Jesus (Disciples!) serving Ashland and beyond

March Preaching Schedule March 3/4: 6:30: Pastor Riesen 8:30: Pastor Riesen 10:45: Pastor Riesen 10:45 Praise: Pastor Koch

March 10/11: 6:30: Pastor Riesen 8:30: Pastor Riesen 10:45: Pastor Koch 10:45 Praise: Pastor Riesen

March 17/18: 6:30: Pastor Koch 8:30: Pastor Riesen 10:45: Pastor Riesen 10:45 Praise: Pastor Koch

March 24/25: 6:30: Pastor Riesen Palm Sunday 8:30: Pastor Riesen 10:45: Pastor Koch 10:45 Praise: Pastor Riesen

March 29 11:00a.m.: Pastor Riesen Maundy Thursday 7:00p.m.: Pastor Riesen

March 30 7:00p.m.: Pastor Koch Good Friday

March 31 6:30: Pastor Riesen Easter Vigil

Sunday March 4 8:30 a.m. Sanctuary

Saturday March 10 6:30 p.m. Folk Service

**Note: Daylight Saving Time begins March 11**

Sunday March 11 10:45 a.m. Praise Worship

Saturday March 18 10:45 a.m. Sanctuary

Saturday March 24 6:30 p.m. Folk Service

Sunday March 25 10:45 a.m. Praise Worship

Thursday March 29 11:00 a.m. Maundy Thursday

Thursday March 29 7:00 p.m. Maundy Thursday

Saturday March 31 6:30 p.m. Easter Vigil Folk Service

Baptism

Selah Rose Lynn Wolbert

Funeral

Philip Wesley Culler

We are Trinity Lutheran Ashland, on Facebook.

Use these QR Codes to access our website and Facebook page on your Smartphone

Trinity Website Trinity Facebook

OUR 10:45 RADIO BROADCAST on

WNCO-AM 1340 is sponsored by Sponsored by Donna Brubaker in

memory of her husband, Dale.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROSITY: We are happy to report that 113 bags of food and items were taken

to the Ashland County Food Bank . Thank you for your support of this important ministry.

Page 22

BIRTHDAY GREETINGS TO:

Betty Lawrentz on March 3; Racine Nelson on March 20; Frances Bahr on March 30; Marlene Rose on March 30.

PLEASE REMEMBER… If you have moved,

changed your phone number, dropped your landline, or have a new

email address, please notify the Church Office of the changes by calling

419-289-2126.

ALTAR FLOWERS For March 3&4 Given by: Stan Hunt & family in memory of loved ones; Rachel & Adam Benway in memory of their grandmothers, Barbara Prinz & Maryann Benway; Mr. & Mrs. Lee Mowry & family in memory of Virginia Young Green & Carl W. Green, Virginia Doyle Mowry & Arthur F. Mowry.

The deadline for contributions is Sunday, March 18, 2018

_______ Praise Worship Service ______ Sanctuary Service

PLEASE PRINT DONOR(S) NAME:

PLEASE PRINT NAMES OF PERSONS TO BE MEMORIALIZED:

Thanks to your generous donation the lilies will be

distributed to our shut-ins after Easter

Easter Lily Memorial The Altar Guilds are now planning for Easter. If you

would like to help with Easter Lilies and memorialize

loved ones, please send this slip with your contribution

to the Church Office, or place it in the offering plate.

Your contribution can be for any amount. (Suggestion:

at least $3.00 for each loved one memorialized.) Make

your check payable to the Altar Guild, Trinity Lutheran

Church.

The ones memorialized will be listed in the

memorial brochure for Easter.

All Daughter Banquet Tuesday, May 1, 2018

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Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1 8:00 AM MGS Pre-

school 8:30 AM Ruth Circle 9:00 AM Toddler Time 9 30 AM Brass

12:00 PM Luther Club 1:30 PM TLC Belles 6:00 PM Lenten Ves-

pers 6:15 PM Praise Team

Rehearsal 7:00 PM Steele Lent

Group 7:00 PM Trinity Singers

2 8:00 AM MGS Pre-

school 8:30 AM Moms in

Prayer 11:30 AM Walk

Through the Bible Study

3 6:30 PM Folk

Service

4 8:00 AM Sonrise Singers 8:30 AM Holy Communion 9:30 AM Inquirer's Class 9:30 AM Sunday School 9:45 AM Choir 10:45 AM Praise Worship 10:45 AM Worship 2:00 PM Koch Lent Group

5 8:00 AM MGS Pre-

school 9:00 AM Piece Makers

Quilt Group 7:00 PM Sonrise

Singers

6 8:00 AM MGS Pre-

school 9:00 AM First Place 4

Health 4:15 PM Creative Move-

ment 6:00 PM Women's

Stretching 6:30 PM Trinity Brass

7

8:00 AM MGS Pre-

school 2:00 PM Bible Conver-

sations 5:15 PM Supper 5:30 PM Nursery for

older children 6:00 PM Discipleship

Essentials - Continued 6:00 PM First Place 4

Health

8

8:00 AM Men's Bible Study 8:00 AM MGS Pre-

school

9 30 AM Brass 1:30 PM TLC Belles 6:00 PM Lenten Ves-

pers 6:15 PM Praise Team

Rehearsal 7:00 PM Steele Lent

Group 7:00 PM Trinity Singers

9 8:00 AM MGS Pre-

school 8:30 AM Moms in

Prayer 10:00 AM Friday Brass

10 6:30 PM Folk

Communion

11 Daylight-Saving Time Be-

gins 8:00 AM Sonrise Singers 8:30 AM Worship 9:30 AM Sunday School 9:45 AM Choir 10:45 AM Praise Commun-

ion 10:45 AM Worship 2:00 PM Koch Lent Group 4:00 PM Catechism

12 8:00 AM MGS Pre-

school 9:00 AM Piece Makers

Quilt Group 7:00 PM Altar Guild

13 8:00 AM MGS Pre-school 9:00 AM First Place 4

Health 1:00 PM Prayer Shawl

Ministry 4:15 PM Creative Move-

ment 6:00 PM Women's

Stretching 6:00 PM Youth Commit-

tee Mtg 6:30 PM Trinity Brass 7:00 PM Council 7:30 PM Trinity Singers

14

8:00 AM MGS Pre-school 8:00 AM Montessori

GS Volunteer Session 2:00 PM Bible Conver-

sations 5:15 PM Supper 5:30 PM Nursery for

older children 6:00 PM Discipleship

Essentials 6:00 PM First Place 4

Health 6:00 PM Mother's

Group

15 8:00 AM MGS Pre-

school 9 30 AM Brass

1:30 PM TLC Belles 6:00 PM Lenten Ves-

pers 6:15 PM Praise Team

Rehearsal 7:00 PM Steele Lent

Group 7:00 PM Trinity Singers

16 8:00 AM MGS Pre-

school 8:30 AM Moms in

Prayer 11:30 AM Walk

Through the Bible Study

17 12:00 PM MnM

Luncheon 6:30 PM Folk

Service

18 8:00 AM Sonrise Singers 8:30 AM Worship 9:30 AM Inquirer's Class 9:30 AM Sunday School 9:45 AM Choir 10:45 AM Holy Communion 10:45 AM Praise Worship 1:00 PM Masterminds 2:00 PM Koch Lent Group

19 8:00 AM MGS Pre-

school 9:00 AM Piece Makers

Quilt Group 10:30 AM BLOODMO-

BILE

20 8:00 AM MGS Pre-

school 9:00 AM First Place 4

Health 4:15 PM Creative Move-

ment 6:30 PM Trinity Brass 7:00 PM Expressions of

Faith

21 8:00 AM MGS Pre-school 2:00 PM Bible Conver-

sations 5:15 PM Supper 5:30 PM Nursery for

older children 6:00 PM Discipleship

Essentials - Continued 6:00 PM First Place 4

Health

22 8:00 AM Men's Bible Study 8:00 AM MGS Pre-

school

9 30 AM Brass

1:30 PM TLC Belles 6:00 PM Lenten Ves-

pers 6:15 PM Praise Team

Rehearsal 7:00 PM Steele Lent

Group 7:00 PM Trinity Singers

23 MGS Preschool 8:30 AM Moms in

Prayer

24 6:30 PM Folk

Communion

25 FOOD BANK Palm Sunday 8:00 AM Choir 8:30 AM Worship 9:30 AM Choir Breakfast 9:30 AM Sunday School 10:45 AM Praise Commun-

ion 10:45 AM Worship 2:00 PM Koch Lent Group

26 8:00 AM MGS Pre-

school 7:00 PM Worship &

Music

27 8:00 AM MGS Pre-

school 9:00 AM First Place 4

Health 6:30 PM Trinity Brass 7:30 PM Trinity Singers

28 8:00 AM MGS Pre-school 2:00 PM Bible Conver-

sations 5:15 PM Supper 5:30 PM Nursery for

older children 6:00 PM First Place 4

Health

29 Maundy Thursday No MGS Preschool

11:00 AM Communion 1:30 PM TLC Belles 6:00 PM Choir 6:15 PM Praise Team

Rehearsal 7:00 PM Communion

30 Good Friday No MGS Preschool 8:30 AM Moms in

Prayer 12:00 PM Community

Service 7:00 PM Trinity Sing-

ers 8:00 PM Tenebrae

31 6:30 PM Vigil of

Easter

Regular Wednesday Evening Activities 4:30 Chime Choir 5:00 PM Saturday Night Musicians 5:15 PM Supper ($4 Adults and $2 Children 8 & under. All are welcome) 5:30 PM Mosaic, Youth Ministry 6:00 PM Music Makers, Notes of Joy Choirs; Woodworkers’ Group, Trinity Bells 7:00 PM Senior Choir, Youth Choir

Trinity Lutheran Church

508 Center Street,

Ashland, OH 44805

419-289-2126

www.trinityashland.org

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