<![CDATA[Welcome to Trinity Lutheran Church! - OUR STORY BLOG]]>Fri, 03 May 2024 10:54:15 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[Youth Small Group: Girls]]>Tue, 20 Feb 2024 21:02:16 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/youth-small-group-girlsPicture
Being a teenage girl in today’s society is, to say the least, challenging. There are so many forces pulling and pushing at all times. It’s often difficult to find a stable perch from which to view the world. Fortunately for Trinity’s young women, there is an incredible place that offers grounding. Every Wednesday morning our Deacon and Youth Director, Tammy Rismiller, opens her doors to the loveliest motley crew of beautifulness. In rotation, the high school girls one week and the middle school girls the next, come to give and receive support, friendship, and love. 

Scripture calls us to gather together in His name. We are created to thrive in relationship, not only with God, but with each other. Celebrating our sisterhood in Christ together nourishes the soul, promotes a sense of belonging and strengthens us for the joys and sorrows of a complicated life. This is so important to Trinity’s girls that they faithfully show up each Wednesday at the crack of dawn (6:30 am!), to share a simple meal and friendship. It’s a safe place to be their serious or silly selves, to share their successes and challenges, and feel the strength of the Holy Spirit as they are surrounded by His love and comfort. Matthew 18:20 "For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there..."

As they read and discuss a little scripture and grow their faith together they are encouraged to write their prayers on papers that are added to a Mason jar that’s been decorated by the girls. There, the prayers mingle and settle-in as continuous messages to God. They don’t always have time to dig deep into each of their prayers, but in this way, they can all be ‘heard’ and the girls have a small, sacred moment to capture their thoughts and send them to God. When the jar gets full, they gather all the prayers and put them in the church’s prayer chest in the sanctuary along with the prayers of the rest of the church (the leatherbound prayer book used in worship). 

We are so grateful for your prayers and tithes that allow Trinity to offer this important ministry. As adults, we know the rocky road that teens have to navigate. Let us continue to surround them with our love and prayers so they grow in the secure knowledge that they are valued, safe, and most of all well loved. Amen
]]><![CDATA[CONSTITUTION]]>Tue, 20 Feb 2024 20:59:06 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/constitutionPicture
Have you ever read Trinity’s Constitution? Probably not. Most of us haven’t; it’s 17 pages long! It does cover some very important logistical pieces of church life, but quite honestly we probably don’t need to read it in order to sustain our relationship with Christ and with each other. But, there are some powerful words in there that speak directly to the things we’re discovering in our Weekly Walk Humbly stories.

Trinity’s Constitution begins with the section “Confession Of Faith” which includes: “This congregation confesses the Gospel... as the power of God to create and sustain the Church for God's mission in the world.” 

It goes on to detail how we will participate in God’s mission. It says that together we will worship, teach and proclaim with global awareness.  

We will:

“Serve in response to God’s love to meet human needs, caring for the young, sick and the aged, advocating dignity and justice for all people, working for peace and reconciliation among the nations and standing with the poor and powerless, and committing [ourselves] to their needs.”

“Nurture [our] members in the Word of God so as to grow in faith and hope and love, to see daily life as the primary setting for the exercise of [our] Christian calling, and to use the gifts of the Spirit for [our] life together and …[our] calling in the world.”

“Manifest the unity given to the people of God by living together in the love of Christ and by joining with other Christians in prayer and action to express and preserve the unity, which the Spirit gives.”

Wow! Take a minute to read that slowly. 

It paints a beautiful picture doesn’t it? A dramatic and sweeping portrait of Trinity’s love and compassion. These Weekly Walk Humbly posts represent many different colors in that incredible picture. Each one unique and magnificent. As we celebrate our advent season let’s take a pause and reflect on those vibrant and powerful colors, painted by YOU, servants of Christ walking humbly with our God. 

If you missed any pieces of this extraordinary picture, you can read them here:

]]><![CDATA[PRAYERS]]>Tue, 20 Feb 2024 20:55:12 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/prayersPicture
Our collective prayer journal here at Trinity is beautiful. Leather bound, pages like ancient papyrus, stitched together with both leather and love.

It sits at the back of the sanctuary during each service, where we write the prayers we wish to have prayed out loud later in service. Prayer can be both personal and communal. During service we have an opportunity to light a candle under the banner of Grace. The light signifies the words of our prayer, offered in faith, entering the light of God. The flame holds the prayer before God, just as it lives in our heart.

When the prayer book gets full, it is placed in the prayer chest, under the candles for prayers, under the banner of Grace. In this way, we continue to hold our prayers before God, and are able to reflect on God's faithfulness as we remember the things we have prayed for in the past. If you find yourself with a few moments the next time you are at the church, find the prayer book in the prayer chest and take a look at all the faithful prayers of Trinity. We worship together and pray together; this book and these candles are but one way that we hold each other in love.
]]><![CDATA[SUNDAY BREAKFASTS]]>Tue, 20 Feb 2024 20:50:21 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/sunday-breakfasts
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We are meant to walk with Christ together. There are many verses in the Bible that profess the importance of fellowship and breaking bread together. Food is not just physical nourishment. It is psychological nourishment as well. Eating a meal has a social, communal, and deeply spiritual meaning. Most of our social functions and activities are centered around food. The first thing we offer a guest is something to eat or drink. This seems to be near universal among vastly different societies. Eating is essential to our survival, but it is more than that. Eating is the framework of our society. We all have to do it. It brings us together. Food is life. When we eat, it makes us feel good, and when we are around others, we begin to feel His presence.

Trinity’s morning breakfasts, held the second Sunday of each month between services, brings God’s people around the communal table to break bread and share their support and love for each other and for Christ. This is one of our cherished opportunities where multiple generations gather together in one place. Children delighting in the sweet treats set out on the table with love. Grandparents delighting in the smiles and laughter of the children. And parents having a moment to just sit and take a breath. It’s a beautiful sight to behold. 

Next time you come, take a moment to stop at the bottom of the stairs and observe from a distance. Take in the scene as a whole. Watch as the children shyly smile at another child’s grandpa who helps them reach the plates. Or a mother knelt down to help a friend’s preschooler pour her juice. Little acts of kindness and small moments of joy, that when observed together, can’t help but bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. 

Sometimes in our hurriedness to just ‘get through’ our daily lives we miss the small things. The Sunday breakfast may seem an impossible addition to a busy family’s schedule, but we promise, if you take a moment to just ‘be’ and take a breath, you will experience the love and joy of Christ fill the room. Food IS life; When we eat together, it makes us feel good, and when we are around others, we begin to feel His presence.
]]><![CDATA[WOMEN'S BIBLE STUDY]]>Wed, 14 Feb 2024 21:45:51 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/womens-bible-studyPicture
In ones and twos the women file into the upstairs gathering room. Some chatting animatedly together, others sitting quietly with their thoughts, waiting to begin. A few burst into the room with joy and energy. All are unique. Some are moms, some are grandmothers, some are teachers, others are retired. Some are new to Bible studies, others have led studies themselves for years. All are welcome.

God has brought so many families to Trinity over the last few years. There is a new energy that is manifesting itself in connections through Christ. Last January the women of Trinity decided it was time to harness this desire to connect and gather together for fellowship and study. They began with a Beth Moore study on Galatians. It was a heavy study, rich in academics and full of messages of Grace. Each woman tuned into different parts, different passages, that spoke to their own hearts. And, while the details of the study were discussed, something much bigger, much deeper was happening in that room.  

Women are designed by God to nurture and comfort. But women also need nurturing and comfort. No one understands a woman of Christ like another sister in Christ. While moving through the study and sharing answers to heady questions, the women share their stories, their struggles and their joys. Sometimes there are tears, much of the time there is laughter (sometimes together!), but what has grown strong over the last few months is the incredible strength and support these women give to each other: encouragement for new beginnings, prayers for healing, celebration for successes, understanding of failures. 

They are discovering that the message of Paul has always been one of community, one of love, and one of unity in Christ. Relationships among women are unique and powerful. God has blessed Trinity with so many women of faith and is bringing them together to love and support each other in a way that only another woman in Christ can truly understand.
]]><![CDATA[OUR SANCTUARY]]>Wed, 14 Feb 2024 19:31:04 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/our-sanctuaryPicture
October 7, 2023

Three years ago we emphasized the quiet reverence of the sanctuary. Covid had limited our gatherings, but we found ways to use our building nonetheless. The sanctuary is a safe place where a person comes and feels God's presence. From the recovering alcoholic that simply needs a safe place to reconcile at their weekly AA meeting to the widower who finds comfort and peace during his wife’s funeral. Trinity is literally a sanctuary filled with God’s grace and mercy. As Psalm 46 states, "Be still and know that I am God."

Since that time, the joyful sounds of large crowds of people have returned to our sanctuary. Pictures from VBS hang on the walls, the new baptismal bowl reflects the light streaming in through the windows, and music fill the air. A highlight for many people is the final song of our 10:30 service, when kids race to grab a percussion instrument from a basket in the back and play along with the sounds of praise.

As someone who supports Trinity with your prayers, your devotions, your tithes or your time, know that God is working through you. You are God’s loving presence for our neighbors in times of struggle and times of joy. Without you, our Trinity family would be so much ‘less’. Thank you for helping the addicted, the grieving, and the joy-filled find a place where grace lives.
]]><![CDATA[Dorcas Circle]]>Fri, 26 Feb 2021 08:00:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/dorcas-circle
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Acts 9:36 In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor.

The ELCA honors Dorcas (also known as St. Tabitha) on the liturgical calendar with a joint commemoration, including Lydia of Thyatira and Phoebe, on January 27th.  In several Christian traditions Dorcas is celebrated as a disciple of Christ who had a charitable ministry, providing clothing to widows in the community of Joppa.

At Trinity, Dorcas is the name of one of our longest running women’s circles. There are currently about 6-8 active members of Dorcas Circle. “There was a time,” says Linda Kurz, one of Dorcas’s long-time members, “when it was a pretty big group. But now many of the women have gone on to rest with our Heavenly Father.” Still, the women who make up Doras circle now all agree, they are extremely close, leaning on each other when they need to and celebrating their joyous moments together. “We are not only Dorcas Circle sisters, we are sisters in Christ,” explains Linda. “We pray together, laugh together and stick together.”

Like so many Trinity groups, Dorcas has put their meetings on hold, for the most part, during Covid. Gretchen Graybeal, a Dorcas member since about 2015, explains that the group usually meets once a month, on Tuesday evenings. “We did finally have a chance for four of us to get together a couple weeks ago to celebrate one of our birthdays,” Gretchen says, “I didn’t really realize just how much I missed my circle-friends. I didn’t realize just how special our time together really is until we were able to meet again.” You could hear the smile and joy in her voice when she shared how they sat, socially distanced, and just talked for over 3 hours. Although Gretchen may be relatively new to the circle, she explains how they have become a huge part of her life. When her husband passed shortly after they moved to Buckley, she was so thankful to the women who invited her to join the circle. “They were such a big influence on helping me feel that I was truly where I was meant to be. It goes to show how God takes us by the hand and puts the people we need in our lives.”

Elizabeth Snodgrass has been a member of Dorcas circle for over 20 years. She laughs as she says, “I think I may be one of the youngest members of the group!” But you can hear the reverence as she says, “It has been so wonderful. I’ve gotten to know women of the church that I may not have gotten to know otherwise. I have learned so much from their wisdom and their deep faith.” 

The women of Dorcas circle use ELCA’s Gather Magazine for their monthly Bible study. They work through it together, sharing and exploring their faith. At the end of their time, they always share their prayer requests with each other. All the women agree, this is a powerful time of sharing and bonding. “We do prayer requests at the end of our time,” Elizabeth says, “which has been such a blessing.” Then she laughs when she reveals, “We end with prayer, but we always START with dessert!”

Just as the Biblical Dorcas was a woman of great charity, so too are the women of her namesake circle. Each month they take up an offering, and twice a year they give to a worthy cause related to women’s issues. They have given to a local hotel that offers shelter to women fleeing domestic situations. They have worked with the police providing funds for women who need it to find transportation to a safe place. And, they provided suitcases to foster children who are often suddenly uprooted from their homes with their belongings in a pillowcase or garbage bag. “We are a quiet circle,” explains Linda, “We help out when we can, while we can. We love the Lord and make it our goal to go where he leads us.”

Dorcas’s story in The Book of Acts
Acts 9:36 In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor. 37 About that time she became sick and died, and her body was washed and placed in an upstairs room. 38 Lydda was near Joppa; so when the disciples heard that Peter was in Lydda, they sent two men to him and urged him, “Please come at once!”
39 Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was still with them.
40 Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, “Tabitha, get up.” She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up. 41 He took her by the hand and helped her to her feet. Then he called for the believers, especially the widows, and presented her to them alive. 42 This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord.
]]><![CDATA[Small Groups of Youth]]>Sat, 23 Jan 2021 11:00:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/small-groups-of-youth
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Youth Group at Trinity is incredibly special, at times it’s crazy and at times it’s somber, but it is always meaningful. Building relationships with other like minded people  is an important part of the Christian human experience. Our youth leaders also recognize the need for small groups within the larger group, to provide for moments of deep connection and indelible trust. Trinity provides young women and young men with that opportunity in the High School girls and boys small groups. They gather once a week  for prayer, sharing and communion with God and each other. They often will serve their community in addition to the larger youth group service projects. Last month the High School girls small group served at Full Bellies. 

Full Bellies is part of Rainier Foothills Wellness Foundation’s Neighbors Feeding Neighbors programs. It is a weekly, FREE hot meal for everyone in our Community.  They provide a warm family-friendly, safe environment for anyone who wants to come.  The meals are prepared and served by various groups from within our community in the basement of Calvary Presbyterian. Those who attend range from the area’s population without homes, to senior citizens looking for a bit of companionship, to members of several churches in town.  It’s a powerful ministry, highlighting the oneness of God’s people by gathering together for a simple meal. During the pandemic, Full Bellies looks a little different. They provide sack meals ‘to go’.

Every year Trinity member Mike Qualls donates the funds to do several Full Bellies per year. He donates as a beautiful tribute to his late wife, Laurel Allison-Qualls, who had a tremendous heart for service in our community.

On December 3rd, the girls gathered to prepare and serve Chicken Sandwiches ‘to go’ outside of Calvary Presbyterian. They tell us, “In these crazy COVID times- it’s good to remember the simplicity of goodness. A warm meal, giving hearts, and wonderful people.”  

Just one more way that your prayers and support and serving as Christ’s hands and feet in our community. Amen.

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]]><![CDATA[God Is An Opportunist]]>Sat, 09 Jan 2021 09:00:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/god-is-an-opportunist
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On our list of Weekly Walk Humbly is Trinity’s extraordinary youth program. It has been one of this church’s strengths for over 20 years. We are incredibly blessed by our Youth Director, Tammy Rismiller, and all the adult and youth leaders who make this program shine the light of Christ all over our community and world. But, rather than explain the minutiae of the program, we thought we’d let some of our amazing former youth tell their stories.

In 1996 a young man of 16 was struggling with some really tough questions. God, in His almighty wisdom, used a girl, an empty seat in a car, and Trinity’s youth group as an opportunity to reach him.

A year earlier, Keith (Marshall, yes, the one who now leads Hope Lutheran) lost his mother when he was just 15 years old; a tragedy that will rock any child’s world. Keith says, “I cried the day she died. But I didn’t cry again until the day I saw that poem at her funeral.” The poem is the well known Footprints In The Sand poem, by Mary Fishback which ends, When you saw only one set of footprints, It was then that I carried you.  “That was a defining moment for me,” Keith explains, “even though I didn’t know it then. Sitting in that wooden pew at my Mom’s funeral, the words from that poem hit me hard. God was carrying me. It made me cry.” But, God works on his own time and it wasn’t until about a year later when Keith’s brother’s girlfriend came to pick his brother up to go to youth group at Trinity. Keith’s brother wasn’t home so on a whim, Keith hopped in the empty seat and went instead. 

“When I look back now, I see how God works in remarkable ways that no one could ever plan for,” Ketih says. “There I was, filling an empty spot in a car and now I am a pastor.” There were, of course, many years in between, but it all started when God used Trinity’s youth group to reach a young man searching for answers.

Philippians 1:6, NIV: "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."

Keith’s first youth group was actually Tammy Rismiller’s (Trinity's current Youth & Family Director) first youth group ever. “It was before she was officially hired,” Keith recalls, “I think it was the final part of her interview process...to lead an actual youth group night.” Without any real expectations Keith enjoyed it and youth group quickly became a central part of his life. “It was like a second family to me. I spent more time there than anywhere. It was a safe harbor for me during a very difficult time.” 

Keith explains how he became that kid that volunteered for everything. “I was one of Luther Frerichs’ most consistent students during his Sunday school. I helped out every time there was an opportunity. I’m sure Tammy got sick of having me around!. I especially looked forward to going on mission trips.”  Keith developed deep relationships with friends that he maintains to this day. “It went beyond the programming and activities,” Keith says, “It was about connection and relationships, coming to this place to work together and do something good. I had a sense of community, of belonging. I felt loved and cherished by the church, even though I wasn’t actually a member and my family didn’t participate.” It wasn’t just the youth connections either. Keith remembers one of the most influential adult leaders for him was Jason Bredeson. “I was a kid with no connection to church or faith, asking big life questions. The relationship I had with Jason was such a huge influence in my life. He committed to the guys in the youth group in a way I had never experienced before in my life. He made me want to be that person for other people, too!"

Keith went on to graduate from Trinity Lutheran College (Lutheran Bible Institute) with a degree in Youth & Family Ministry and worked in youth ministry for several years. “But, I was called further by my relationships. I felt a nudging. God wasn’t finished with me yet.” Keith attended seminary while working at Christ Lutheran Church in Lakewood, WA and, 24 years after his Trinity youth group experience, he was called back to Enumclaw to be Pastor at Hope Lutheran. Keith looks back now and realizes how God had carried him through those tremendously difficult years, patiently answering his big life questions. “I clearly recognize it now as the work of the Holy Spirit. If my brother had been home, it wouldn’t have happened.” As to where he is today, Keith says, “It is an incredibly humbling experience to know that God is now working through me. I am so grateful to churches like Trinity that make a commitment to people and youth, even when they don’t know what the eventual outcome will be.”
]]><![CDATA[Faith Sharing]]>Sat, 19 Dec 2020 09:30:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/faith-sharingby Elaine Olson
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As we all try to navigate this challenging time, two wonderful women of faith have been working together to help Trinity put sharing our faith at the center of our focus. Sandy Dodge and Kathy Kunkel are Trinity’s previous and current “Faith Sharing” council members, respectively. Sandy served in the position for two years and has recently handed the reins over to Kathy Kunkel. I had a chance to sit down (via Zoom) and talk with these two amazing ladies about what Faith Sharing means to them, and how it has changed due to the pandemic.

“It’s about connecting,” Sandy told me without missing a beat. “The heart of it is being together in faith.” She went on to describe all the incredible activities and gatherings Trinity has offered over the years: camping trips, baseball games, breakfast gatherings and more. Sandy fondly recalls times around the common campfire at Lutherwood. Everyone settled in for the evening, families snuggled together by the fire, talking and laughing together. No one in any particular hurry to leave. “It is an extraordinary time of sharing. Everyone is just relaxing into the comfort of knowing that right here, at this time, there is no judgement, no competition. We are all gathered together in Christian love, to share and support one another. It’s a very peaceful feeling.”


One of Kathy’s joy filled memories is making and serving breakfast on Sunday mornings. “It is such a joy to my heart to see everyone, men, women and children, doing the work together. We laugh and everyone pitches in and before we know it, the work is done and we are left with a feeling of having had the best time together.” Kathy goes on to explain, “Sometimes I hear people say that some of the more judgmental people are the people who go to church. But faith sharing is where we get to show how untrue that can be. We can demonstrate our faith by ‘doing’...not just in words, but in actions.”

Our conversation over Zoom eventually turned into a discussion between Sandy and Kathy about how to move forward with this important work during Covid. As I sat back and simply listened to them I was in awe of their huge hearts for this mission. These women are passionate about ensuring that everyone at Trinity feels connected and part of our larger family. They animatedly shared their ideas for helping our shut-ins stay connected with mailings that include cards, book marks, and paper Christmas ornaments. They worked through the details of maintaining our traditional “mana deliveries”, where home baked bread is delivered to visitors or members who may have returned after a long absence. And, they talked about the upcoming Christmas video that Trinity will be making and how to best distribute that so everyone can feel part of the celebration of God’s Christmas gift, together. 

“Faith gets us through tough times,” Kathy explained after they had hammered out some of those details. “As humans we have a tendency to hide our struggles. I’m simply trying to help people know that faith is what helps get us through. When we share, even just a little, it can make all the difference. We just never know who really needs to hear our story.” Both women agreed that Faith Sharing is about being humble. We are all God’s people. Christian life isn’t good and perfect all the time, but when we ‘do life’ together, we find the strength and courage we need to be the best we can be. And in that, we will always find joy and comfort. 

Trinity’s family is grateful to each and every one of you who share your joys, sorrows, challenges and sometimes straight-up messy lives with each other.  As we rest together in Christ’s abiding love, we know we have a family who cares deeply and will always be here when needed.
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]]><![CDATA[Extra Years of Zest - XYZ]]>Sat, 12 Dec 2020 12:00:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/extra-years-of-zest-xyzby Elaine Olson
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When I was a new member at Trinity, about 22 years ago, I was a young Mom in my late 20’s. I remember sitting in the back pew looking at the bulletin and reading about the XYZ group that met once a month. They apparently played games, had BBQs and picnics, and, it seemed, they simply had all kinds of fun! I made a note to check it out and see how I could join this group that sounded so amazing.

The next week during announcements Dorren Zimbleman, one of Trinity’s beautiful, late matriarchs, stood up and made an announcement about the next XYZ group meeting. I was thinking, “Great! This is my chance!”  Then she explained that XYZ means Extra Years of Zest!  I laughed to myself thinking that, at 29 years old I probably didn’t qualify, even if they might let me in!

Twenty Two years later, this group of Trinity members, with ‘extra years’, is still going strong! (During non-Covid times anyway.) They are the perfect example of the righteous people in Psalm 92:14, where it says, “In old age they still produce fruit; they are always green and full of sap” .

Bette Guenther tells me she has been a member since she moved to Enumclaw some 50 years ago, “I think it’s been going for at least 70 years or so.” I asked her what keeps her going back after all these years. She doesn’t miss a beat when she says, “Friendship...friendship and fellowship.” Bette explained that she became even more involved after her husband passed away. “It filled a void,” she said, “I really looked forward to it each month...being with my friends and just getting out.”

Evie Bjornson has been a member of XYZ for about 10 years. She agrees with Bette, “It’s about fellowship. You get to know different people. And, it’s a chance to get to know the pastors.” She says pastors in plural because both Trinity and Hope Lutheran churches participate. It is usually a potluck on the last Tuesday of the month and typically one or both pastors make an appearance. “Whoever shows up, shows up,” Evie explains, “And we eat, and talk, and just have fun!” Not everyone has easy transportation to get there; some don’t drive anymore. But, it’s a beautiful thing to see how the members help each other, giving rides and making sure everyone who wants to go can get there.

Even though XYZ is mostly retired people, there are times when young ones visit. Evie’s granddaughter, Daisy, makes it a point to visit the group once in a while. But mostly, it is a time of gathering and fellowship for folks who don’t have a chance to get out and be social all that often. Aging isn’t always easy, and can often be lonely as we lose friends and family along the way. XYZ is a chance for many to experience the companionship that goes along with being part of a larger church family. We are so grateful that our congregation values and honors our members with a few “extra years of zest”. Without your support, prayers and kindness, many of these folks would be spending their ‘extra years’ alone.

Sadly, I don't have any photos of these amazing people to share. They are all too busy having fun to take photos of each other!
]]><![CDATA[What Do We Do With It?]]>Sat, 05 Dec 2020 12:00:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/what-do-we-do-with-it
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Did you know that Trinity Lutheran Church is a landowner? Did you know we are also landlords of a rental house and, previously, horse pastures? Have you ever wondered where the preschool is located? 

In the late 90’s Trinity Lutheran Church took a leap of faith. It appeared that the congregation would soon outgrow our current building, so, with much deliberation and discernment, it was decided to look for a piece of property that could be the future home of a larger Trinity Lutheran. It was only after a long and thoughtful process that Trinity purchased 11 acres on Griffin Avenue (next to Sacred Heart Catholic Church on the left on the way out of town).  It is a beautiful piece of property full of potential! It contains two houses, one of which has been turned into our amazing Preschool and one of which became a rental house. The land has provided space for Trinity’s Garden and, at one point, home for some horses. But, you may be asking, “If we bought it to build on, why isn’t it now home to a new church building for Trinity?”

The answer is complicated. As it turns out, Trinity’s congregation stopped growing after about the year 2000, at which time we began to go through a series of transitions, including new pastors. It became apparent, after much research and discernment, that constructing a new building was not the prudent thing for our congregation to do. God had other plans. 

Fast forward to 2020. Trinity now owns a gorgeous piece of property full of possibilities. It was paid off in less than 10 years and has generated some income each year. It has provided a place for our littlest members to grow in love and faith at the preschool. And, for several years, it has provided a bounty to help feed people through our community garden. But, it’s time to once again, begin a process of discernment. God has provided this amazing asset for Trinity. What is it He would have us do with it? The possibilities are many, and we hope you will become part of the process. 

When you get a chance, take a drive out that way and take a look. 24711 SE 440th St. While you are there, say a little prayer, asking God to help us figure out what would be the best use for this property. Join us for discussion about how to move forward in making plans. The council has been hard at work trying to tell the story of the property and begin to gather ideas. We invite you to be part of the conversation!  Here is a rough time table outlining the process:

A Discernment Process for the Future of Trinity's Griffin Avenue Property
  • November 2020: Offer information sessions to learn more about the property itself.
  • November 2020 - February 2021: Engage with other local organizations to assess our community's strengths and needs.
  • January - March 2021: Congregation members publicly share ideas and proposals.
  • April - May 2021: Congregation members offer feedback to the Church Council on ideas and proposals.
  • May 2021: The Church Council uses congregational feedback to prepare and present ideas and/or proposal(s) at Trinity's Semi-Annual meeting.

We know we have many creative minds in our congregation. Trinity has a long tradition of using God’s gifts for the good of the community. As we continue to endeavor to walk humbly with our Lord, help us discover God’s will for this land.

To view a couple 'walk-around' videos click HERE and HERE

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]]><![CDATA[Winter Shelter]]>Sat, 21 Nov 2020 14:00:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/winter-shelter
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What I Learned From Winter Shelter - by Elaine Olson

The Plateau Ministerial Association is a collaboration among leaders of Enumclaw’s churches. One of the primary efforts of this Association in recent years has been the Winter Shelter Program. Trinity has been participating in Winter Shelter* for several years. We haven’t hosted guests in our own building, but once or twice a year, a Trinity group, often the youth, volunteers to make dinner and fill the overnight shifts. Last year was my first time and I admit I was a little bit nervous! I really wanted to feel comfortable chatting with this group of folks, but I didn’t’ know if the questions I normally ask in a group setting would apply: “What do you do for a living?” “How long have you lived here?” “Where did you go to school?” “What brought you to Enumclaw?”

As the guests came in (arriving by van from Calvary Presbyterian where the sign-in is located) they all knew the routine. They got their sleeping mats from the storage area along with their assigned bed pack which contains a blanket, pillow and sheet, and staked out a spot in the sleeping area. As they walked past me, standing there feeling all awkward, they greeted me with warm smiles and ‘good evenings’! THEY were making ME feel more comfortable!

Pretty soon, the volunteer team had dinner ready and we prayed and began to serve the 13 guests. Each one received their bowl of chili with absolute gratitude. Again, they offered warm smiles and genuine thanks. Some were a bit shy. Others were jovial and chatty, while a few seemed to be quietly lost in their own thoughts.
After all the guests were served, I grabbed my own bowl, took a deep breath and nervously chose a table. The two gentlemen I sat with immediately greeted me with quiet smiles and asked how my day was. I told them I had been working on my Spanish lessons, and Will (not his real name) tilted his head and asked with genuine interest, “Why do you want to learn Spanish?” As I explained, the conversation just flowed, like it would at any social gathering. I hadn’t needed to worry about conversation starters after all!

Each of these kind souls has a story. I didn’t really learn all the details, but you can see in their eyes, their desire to share love and compassion. They doled out kindness left and right that night, to each other, and to all of the volunteers. A few asked for prayers for success in dealing with their struggles. Several worked with King County’s Coordinated Entry Liaison who was there to do evaluations for housing solutions for the guests. And, a few others would be visiting Plateau Outreach Ministries (POM) for case management since Shelter was coming to an end in a few weeks.  But they all got to experience the momentary peace that comes from a group of people, gathered together sharing kindness and love.

Sometimes it is just that simple. A small  moment of peace, a seed of compassion, that grows into a desire to find a way out of crisis. Jesus tells us we’ll always have poor among us. But he also assures us that in caring for the broken and suffering, we are fulfilling the greatest commandment to “Love thy neighbor”. It is because Trinity provides me a place to grow in faith and receive His grace that I find the strength to serve, even when it is outside my comfort zone. I am grateful for all of you who make up this small but mighty Christian community. I am blessed.

*Winter Shelter is a nightly program during the cold winter months for those living in our community without homes. Sponsored by the Plateau Ministerial Association (PMA), it provides a warm, dry place to sleep and  hot meals for dinner and breakfast. Various churches on the Plateau take turns hosting and volunteers provide the food and staff the overnight shifts. Plateau Outreach Ministries provides the mat and bed-pack, handles the background checks, and provides volunteers for nightly sign-in. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the PMA recently announced the cancellation of the 2020/2021 Winter Shelter season. Local churches and Plateau Outreach Ministries are working to find other ways to care for our local homeless.
]]><![CDATA[Life Changing Kits]]>Sat, 14 Nov 2020 14:00:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/life-changing-kitsPicture
James 2:14-17 What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food.  If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?  In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.

Each year Trinity’s elementary age youth gather to assemble life changing kits for Lutheran World Relief (LWR). These kits are called “Personal Care Kits” and include the most basic items of soap, towels, toothbrushes and combs. These gifts seem simple to us, but for those living in desperate conditions in a refugee camp, or those who have lost everything in a natural disaster, they are an incredible blessing. Imagine not having access to soap or a comb... EVER. Days, weeks, even months go by and you can’t shower, comb your hair, or even wash your hands. It’s impossible to fathom, but for so many around the world, it’s a stark reality. 

During non-Covid times, the children of Trinity would assemble the kits and when they were finished, they would gather around, encircling the kits with love, and lay hands on them. Together they would say a prayer for the families and children they would eventually bless.  Then on Sunday, during offering, each child would solemnly carry their gifts down the aisle to the altar...their own personal offering to God. It is a powerful moment. The light of Christ shines through each child, offering a simple but powerful gift, made with their own hands.
This year many of the more interactive steps of the process couldn’t happen, but the children still assembled kits, and those kits have been blessed alongside our quilts in worship. Our youth are learning ways to share the love of Christ with those who need it the most. They learn that even the most modest of items, wrapped in a towel with love, can travel across the globe and touch the life of another youth, just like them. Or perhaps it will help a family rise up out of poverty so their own children can begin to thrive. 
In the Andes, for example, these kits are helping dairy farmers practice proper hygiene and, in turn, improve their dairy products through sanitary milking practices. The Andes is renowned for its artisanal cheeses. But poor hygiene practices and rustic facilities of the peasant farmers affected the quality of the cheese and made it all but impossible to compete on the open market. Lutheran World Relief, along with a project called ‘Ready Pack’, worked with the farmers to bring their manufacturers and dairy farmers to world class standards. Personal Care Kits helped cement lessons and provided the tools necessary for the farmers to double their production and improve their quality of their milk and cheese which is now sold on the regional and national market.

In addition, the children of this rural area were provided kits that helped promote these same hygiene practices in their homes and schools. The fact that children are learning good practices at school helps promote best practices throughout the farming and manufacturing communities.(Watch video here)

We can’t control when disasters strike and we can’t end poverty overnight. But there are things we can do now to help people around the world reach their full potential. These simple items, packed with compassion by Trinity’s youth, are transforming lives. Without you, your prayers, and your support, this couldn’t happen. Through our church, you are providing help and hope to so many who need it the most.

Learn more here

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]]><![CDATA[Koinonia]]>Sat, 07 Nov 2020 10:00:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/koinonia
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The Greek word Koinonia appears 19 times in most editions of the New Testament. Loosely it means fellowship, or community. But, Paul uses it for things like sharing and generosity.

2 Cor 9:13 “They will glorify God because of … the generosity of your contribution (koinonia) for them and for all others.”

Phil 3:10 “That I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share (koinonia) his sufferings, becoming like him in his death” 

Acts-2 focuses on the relationship among believers while 2-Cor-9 uses koinonia to express generosity in community. The variety of uses in the New Testament reveals that koinonia involves a deeper level of fellowship than an informal social gathering. The essential element of koinonia is participation—Christ is the connection.

At Trinity, Koinonia is the name of one of our longest running women’s circles. During the early 1970’s a group of women decided to start their own circle for some of the younger women in the church. Nearly 50 years later, many of those women are still members of this amazing group. Sharon Fagnan tells me that she joined in 1985. “I joined the circle even before I started attending Trinity.”  she explains, “Dianne, Louanne and I moved to Enumclaw around the same time and we’ve all been members since.” She doesn’t hesitate for a second when I ask her what keeps her going back. “Friendship,” she says without missing a beat, “All those years, you go through a lot together.” Dianne (Meserve) agrees. “We get together [during non-Covid times] once a month. It’s just a chance to talk things over, share in each other’s lives.” 

The women choose a study to focus on each month. “It varies a lot.” Dianne says, “Sometimes the study will be on a specific book of the Bible. Other times we choose a book or maybe a themed Bible study.” One thing all the women agree on is that they enjoy the variety. It keeps their conversations open and flowing. There is a level of comfort among a group of women who share a deep faith. “It’s not like we have to talk about it.” Sharon explains, “Everyone knows we all have that foundation that we are working from. It’s like we are all on the same page.”

Another aspect that the women all agree on is service. For as long as they can remember, Koinonia has served the community in one way or another. They have taken up collections and donated to Mary’s Place (which provides shelter for women and families), Child Haven (which helps strengthen families dealing with childhood trauma), and more. Most recently the women work to put together Baby Care Kits that Trinity ships twice a year to Lutheran World Relief. The kits are distributed to women all over the world who are struggling with adversity, poverty, or tragedy. The women of Koinonia shop all year long at thrift stores and garage sales to gather the necessary items. They also sew diapers and blankets from old flannel sheets. When I asked Sharon what keeps the circle faithful in their service to others, she says, “Oh, well, it’s just part of it isn’t it? Friendship, love, compassion, it’s all woven in together.”

What a blessing to have a church community that provides for these opportunities to gather in faithful communion year after year and to serve our larger community, nation and world in the name of Christ. Many families, women and children have been immensely blessed by the humble servants in Trinity’s Koinonia circle.
]]><![CDATA[Quilting For The Love of Christ]]>Sat, 31 Oct 2020 12:00:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/quilting-for-the-love-of-christ
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No one seems to remember exactly when Trinity’s quilting group started, but most agree it was likely in the 1950’s! That’s a LOT of years making quilts! It’s truly incredible to think about how high that stack of quilts would be, each one blessing someone in need. That’s a lot of ‘quilting love’! 

The quilters are a group of Trinity members who make quilts that are sent to Lutheran World Relief (LWR), a nonprofit organization that helps families in the world’s poorest communities build the resilience they need to thrive. They are providing comfort in a very powerful way to people they’ll never know, people they’ll never see. It’s truly a ministry of love. 

When asked about their role in the group, each woman pointed out another woman saying, “Well, she really does more of the work.” or “I’m really a newcomer, they’ve all done so much more.” These humble and faithful servants gather once a month (at least pre-Covid, and hopefully again soon) in the church basement to share friendship, laughter and love while serving in the name of Christ.

Mary Lou Manus, who started quilting with the group about 25 years ago, explained how it works, “Several of us bring quilt tops that we prepared at home and we’ll put them together with batting and a back and then finish them by tying them. Once they’re done they go in the finish pile and wait to get shipped out to Lutheran World Relief.” Cathy Dormaier, a 10 year member, says, “It’s very rewarding to know how much these quilts do for those in need.” The LWR website says “The Mission Quilts create a tangible, lasting bond between the people who lovingly assemble them, and our neighbors around the world, who receive quilts in their greatest times of need.”

The women also wrap Trinity’s high school seniors in love every year by providing each of them with a hand-made quilt to take them into adult life, knowing their church family will always be within reach. When I thumb through the scrapbooks kept by the quilters I see page after page showing photos of beautiful young adults, wrapped in their quilts standing next to one of our church matriarchs, both beaming with joy and love. What an amazing Trinity tradition! It dates back at least 20 years. That’s a lot of quilts hanging in the houses of youth-turned-adults all over the nation.

But the women get something out of it too. The act of serving together is an incredible way to build lifelong bonds. Cathy says, “It’s totally about relationships. We are there for each other if someone needs prayer or is having issues with health in their family. We discuss what is happening in our community.” Mary Lou adds, “It’s my social time, that and my circle. It’s my life since I retired and moved here.”

“And let us consider how to stir one another up to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together.” (Hebrews 10:24)

Most of the material and items needed are donated by members of the church. The women explain,  “Material is expensive but we never run out! We just put a call out and people in the church donate their extra or shop the thrift stores and garage sales to help replenish our supply.” The church also holds a special collection on “Blessing of the Quilts Sunday”to help pay for the shipping. LWR distributed its first quilts in 1945 to families in war-torn Europe following the Second World War. Within a decade, the ministry was reaching around the globe to villages far removed from the world’s attention. Today, an average of 300,000 quilts are lovingly given worldwide each year. Trinity’s quilting group has been part of this mission for a very long time. 

If you’d like to get involved call Trinity’s office and Ayme will put you in contact with the group.
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]]><![CDATA[Learning To Practice: Jay Osborne]]>Sat, 24 Oct 2020 12:30:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/learning-to-practice-jay-osbornePicture
𝑂𝑛 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑙𝑖𝑠𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑊𝑒𝑒𝑘𝑙𝑦 𝑊𝑎𝑙𝑘 𝐻𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑙𝑦 𝑖𝑠 𝑇𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑦’𝑠 𝑒𝑥𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑟𝑦 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑡ℎ 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚. 𝐼𝑡 ℎ𝑎𝑠 𝑏𝑒𝑒𝑛 𝑜𝑛𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑐ℎ𝑢𝑟𝑐ℎ’𝑠 𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ𝑠 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑟 20 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑠. 𝑊𝑒 𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑟𝑒𝑑𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑦 𝑏𝑙𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑒𝑑 𝑏𝑦 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑌𝑜𝑢𝑡ℎ 𝐷𝑖𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑜𝑟, 𝑇𝑎𝑚𝑚𝑦 𝑅𝑖𝑠𝑚𝑖𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑟, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑢𝑙𝑡 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑡ℎ 𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑤ℎ𝑜 𝑚𝑎𝑘𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑠ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝐶ℎ𝑟𝑖𝑠𝑡 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑚𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑦 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑤𝑜𝑟𝑙𝑑. 𝐵𝑢𝑡, 𝑟𝑎𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑛 𝑒𝑥𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑢𝑡𝑖𝑎𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚, 𝑤𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑤𝑒’𝑑 𝑙𝑒𝑡 𝑠𝑜𝑚𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑎𝑚𝑎𝑧𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑒𝑟 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑡ℎ 𝑡𝑒𝑙𝑙 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑖𝑟 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑠.

Jay Osborn is one of Trinity’s most active members. He and his family attend most Sunday services (pre-Covid) and are incredibly active with the youth program. But it wasn’t always this way. Jay didn’t grow up in the church. As a kid he sporadically attended Sunday School with a friend, but for the most part, his Sundays were spent doing other things. However, God had plans for Jay. It was during his senior year in high school that a friend invited Jay to Trinity’s youth group on a random Wednesday night. “To be honest, it was a little scary and overwhelming at first.” says Jay. “I didn’t go back right away. I realized I was totally oblivious to all the Bible stories and what it meant to be a Christian. Even though I was with trusted friends, I let it get in my head that I knew absolutely nothing.”

But, eventually Jay did go back. He said he kept thinking about it and wanted to know more. “So I went back, and kept going more and more until it was just a consistent part of my week.” Jay explains, “I began learning new information, things I had never even thought about before. It was neat to experience it at an age where I could make my own decisions.” Jay’s passion for Christian living comes through in his voice each time he uses the word practice. “It was more than the fun and games. It was about practice. I learned what it truly meant to live a faith-based life, to be part of a Christian family. I became closer to my friends in youth group because they were not judgmental. It was a safe place.”

When Jay graduated in 2000 and set out to begin his adult life, he says he didn’t really go to church. He really hadn’t attended Sunday worship during high school, just the youth group. But Jay says, “I always remembered what I learned, how to practice being a Christian. When life started getting hard for me four or five years later, I wanted to be part of that kind of family again. I wanted to share a life of faith with people like me.” He says he remembered the stories, the feeling of family, and he knew God was there for him. “God led me back to church and I’ve never left.”

When Jay met his wife Jamie they began to attend Trinity together. They became very involved, even volunteering to lead the youth program for a year in between youth pastors. Now, twenty years after his life of faith began on that fateful Wednesday evening, he is the father of four beautiful children who are experiencing the joys of growing up in a faith filled home. When asked how his youth experience has shaped his life as an adult Jay says, “There is more depth in my life. I learned to give back, to serve and to be part of something bigger than myself.” He adds, “Not everyone who grows up in church finds a life of faith. And, many who do not go to church as a youth, end up living their best Christian lives. There is power in making that decision on your own, not on someone else’s time-frame. Everyone finds themselves in different places in life. I’m just glad God brought me to Trinity when he did.”

If you’ve ever wondered what becomes of our youth after they’re “done” being teenagers, here is your answer. We are grateful to all who support Trinity so that our youth can experience these powerful moments that bring them closer to God.

*𝐽𝑎𝑦 & 𝐽𝑎𝑚𝑖𝑒 𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑐𝑒𝑠𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑚𝑜𝑣𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡𝑜 𝐼𝑑𝑎ℎ𝑜 (𝑎𝑡 𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑠𝑡 𝑎𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑤𝑟𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑖𝑛 𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑙𝑦 𝑆𝑒𝑝𝑡𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟). 𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑦 ℎ𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑒𝑛 𝑎 𝐻𝑈𝐺𝐸 𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑇𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑦’𝑠 𝑓𝑎𝑚𝑖𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑤𝑒 𝑤𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝑚𝑖𝑠𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑚 𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑟𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑦. 𝐽𝑎𝑦 𝑠𝑎𝑦𝑠, “𝑇ℎ𝑒 ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑎𝑏𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑚𝑜𝑣𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝐸𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑐𝑙𝑎𝑤, 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑏𝑜𝑡ℎ 𝐽𝑎𝑚𝑖𝑒 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐼 𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑤 𝑢𝑝, 𝑖𝑠 𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑐ℎ𝑢𝑟𝑐ℎ. 𝑊𝑒 𝑘𝑛𝑜𝑤 𝐺𝑜𝑑 ℎ𝑎𝑠 𝑎𝑚𝑎𝑧𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑛𝑠 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑓𝑎𝑚𝑖𝑙𝑦, 𝑏𝑢𝑡 𝑤𝑒 𝑤𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝑚𝑖𝑠𝑠 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑇𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑦 𝑓𝑎𝑚𝑖𝑙𝑦 𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦 𝑚𝑢𝑐ℎ.” 𝑃𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑠𝑒 𝑘𝑒𝑒𝑝 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑖𝑟 𝑓𝑎𝑚𝑖𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑖𝑟 𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑖𝑛 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑝𝑟𝑎𝑦𝑒𝑟𝑠.
]]><![CDATA[Caring For The Greatest Generation]]>Sat, 17 Oct 2020 09:30:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/caring-for-the-greatest-generation
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“Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life.” (Proverbs 16:31)

Several of Trinity’s wisest and most enduring members now live together in one special place. They all come from different families, different backgrounds, but they have one thing in common; they’re Lutheran! Okay, two things, they all now live under the roof of High Point Village which includes independent and assisted living options. For several years, Trinity’s pastors have been privileged to gather with these folks once a month to share a meal, pray and take communion. “It’s truly a special gift to me.’ says Pastor Eric. “It’s an hour of social time for them, but I am the one who leaves feeling blessed.”

Each month Pastor Eric  visits (pre-Covid...and God willing, post Covid again soon) High Point Village during their afternoon meal and simply shares in wonderful conversation and prayer, and then offers communion. Evie Bjornson organizes the time, High Point provides the food, and Jesus blesses the whole affair.

“Many of our members there cannot get out to attend church with us at Trinity.” Pastor explains, “So it is my honor to bring a little worship time to them.” I can hear the smile light up Pastor’s face as he recalls some of their conversations over their lunch. “I’m the ‘new guy’...the new pastor, so I don’t know much about their stories. When I ask questions that they’ve probably been asked a million times before, they are excited to share, knowing I have fresh ears that haven’t heard the answers before. It often morphs into really cool stories about their eighty (or so) years of life on this earth.” 

The conversations are often light and fun, including a lot of smiles and laughter.  Pastor recalls, “During one of our most recent conversations, one member was reminiscing about his favorite Christmas carols. He mentioned one in particular and the face across from him lit up as they exclaimed, “I love that one too!” It is such a delight to see how they enjoy each other’s company.”

These lunch dates maintain the deep sense of belonging for our members at High Point. Knowing they are a valued member of a loving Christian family is an incredibly powerful life force. It is only because of all of you who pray for and support our church family that we can continue to sustain this meaningful connection. Thank you.
]]><![CDATA[Men Of Faith]]>Sat, 10 Oct 2020 07:00:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/men-of-faith
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It’s early on a Saturday. The morning dew is just becoming visible as the mist rises off the grass of the golf course. The men trickle in to the café with Bibles in hand. Between the “good-mornings” and the “how’s the family” coffee is poured and breakfast ordered. Eventually, the men  settle down to the business of their Bible study. 

“Man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4)

Each week a small group of faithful men gather at Enumclaw’s golf course café (pre-Covid) and share some amazing fellowship time. Bob Lurry, a long time member of the group and Trinity, explains, “It’s really pretty casual, but it is important to each of us in a different way.” He chuckles when he says, “ We talk, laugh and sometimes actually get around to talking about the Bible study!” About 7 men from several different churches have been getting together for about 6 or 7 years. “It’s not exclusive at all!” Bob says, “We’d love to see any men from Trinity join us. We’re just a bunch of guys wanting to hang out and share a little bit of our faith with each other.” 

The beautiful thing is, that even though these men come from many different denominations and backgrounds, they still come together to share in faith. It is a portrait of how Trinity members can work in the larger Christian community, joining forces for good. The men are fathers, husbands, business owners, community leaders and professionals. Bob says their conversations can go far afield sometimes, “But, they always circle back to faith and what we, as Christians, are doing in the world. We support each other as we grapple with struggles and celebrate successes in our lives.”

During Covid times the men, like so many others, had to take a little break and meet on-line, but they are back up and running (taking appropriate precautions), meeting each Saturday morning at 7:30 a.m. in the tent next to the Kettle (for now).  They have spent years studying the ‘Red Letters of Christ’. Bob laughs as he explains, “It’s been years because we are so slow. We joke about how long it is taking us! We’ve made it through about 2 and half gospels in all these years.” But, they simply enjoy the casualness and freedom of letting their biblical conversations flow, knowing they have the time, if they need it, to support one another’s efforts to live out their faith as Christian men in the world.

If you’d like to join this group of men, feel free to call Trinity’s office 360-825-8961 and ask Ayme for Bob Lurry’s phone number. He’ll be glad to share the details with you.

]]><![CDATA[Vacation Bible School]]>Sat, 03 Oct 2020 07:00:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/vacation-bible-school
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"We will tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord” (Psalm 78:4)

Have you ever been in Trinity’s sanctuary while hundreds of little feet are pounding up and down, dancing and singing at the top of their lungs...literally shouting with joy? It’s an incredibly powerful experience. Not just because the floor feels like it might bounce right out of the building, but because each of these little voices is a child of God experiencing His magnificent love. The air becomes thick with it. As you look out among their little faces, dancing with abandon, time slows, your heart fills, your face can’t help but smile, and you just know God’s mysterious ways are hard at work. 

This is VBS - Vacation Bible School - (at least during non-Covid times) at Trinity Lutheran Church. Each summer a dedicated team of parents and youth leaders gather our community’s children for a week of sharing the love of Christ. It has long been one of Trinity’s most powerful ministries, sometimes experiencing attendance of over 100.

Over the years, we’ve held both daytime and evening VBS. Sometimes we’ve partnered with other churches, and sometimes we’ve gone it alone. But it always results in faithful sharing of the Gospel, one child at a time. This year, the result was the same, but it looked a bit different. Because Covid-19 prevented gathering in person,  the youth advisory committee  got creative and developed a plan to take VBS into the backyards of Trinity’s  little ones. They designed a unique curriculum with the theme “Jesus Rocks” which focused on Bible stories involving, you guessed it, rocks! David, who slew Goliath with a small rock - the stone that was rolled away from Jesus’s tomb on Easter - the 10 commandments which were written on stone tablets.

The VBS ‘teachers’ were Tammy Rismiller, Trinity’s Youth Pastor, Carry Schmitt, Trinity’s Preschool Director, and Pastor Eric. Once a week for five weeks, one of them would show up at the children’s homes, armed with supplies for a VBS adventure! Each child received their own kit, including a Bible, paints, markers and more. “It was so special. The kids were so excited to have us come to their own homes!” Tammy said. “And we just loved having that individual time with each family.”

Pastor Eric reflects on his time spent with the children, “This year we had to do things very differently, but it was surprisingly successful! The one-on-one interaction was so delightful. Normally I only get to interact with our youth in short bursts, but being able to spend an hour or so,dedicated just to them, was wonderful. I got to really experience what was happening in each of their lives. That was an unexpected blessing for sure.” 

How marvelous that we can help our children to know that they are so incredibly important to God, the church, and our community that they received personalized VBS right in their own backyards! There was laughter, sharing, smiles and a few shy faces, but present throughout was the love of Christ. Next time you are at the church parking lot, look for some specially painted “Jesus Rocks” that have been lovingly placed by a child of God (who is super excited for you to find one)! In the midst of so much uncertainty and upheaval in our world, these beautiful children experienced the unconditional love of God that gives hope, even during confusing and anxious times.

Thank you dear Trinity, for being a community that comes together in strength and courage to wrap our little ones in love and encouragement. It couldn’t have happened without your prayers, support, encouragement and love.

To watch a video of some of the children’s experience: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tb67bcXDiy0&t=22s
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]]><![CDATA[Serve, Nurture, Manifest]]>Sat, 26 Sep 2020 12:00:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/serve-nurture-manifestPicture
Have you ever read Trinity’s Constitution? Probably not. Most of us haven’t; it’s 17 pages long! It does cover some very important logistical pieces of church life, but quite honestly we probably don’t need to read it in order to sustain our relationship with Christ and with each other. But, there are some powerful words in there that speak directly to the things we’re discovering in our Weekly Walk Humbly stories.

Trinity’s Constitution begins with the section “Confession Of Faith” which includes: “This congregation confesses the Gospel... as the power of God to create and sustain the Church for God's mission in the world.” 

It goes on to detail how we will participate in God’s mission. It says that together we will worship, teach and proclaim with global awareness.  

We will:

“Serve in response to God’s love to meet human needs, caring for the young, sick and the aged, advocating dignity and justice for all people, working for peace and reconciliation among the nations and standing with the poor and powerless, and committing [ourselves]  to their needs.”

“Nurture [our] members in the Word of God so as to grow in faith and hope and love, to see daily life as the primary setting for the exercise of [our] Christian calling, and to use the gifts of the Spirit for [our] life together and …[our] calling in the world.”

“Manifest the unity given to the people of God by living together in the love of Christ and by joining
with other Christians in prayer and action to express and preserve the unity, which the Spirit gives.”

Wow! Take a minute to read that slowly. 

It paints a beautiful picture doesn’t it? A dramatic and sweeping portrait of Trinity’s love and compassion. The last 14 weeks of Weekly Walk Humbly posts (and those to come) represent many different colors in that incredible picture. Each one unique and magnificent. As we draw our summer to a close and welcome fall let’s take a pause and reflect on those vibrant and powerful colors, painted by YOU, servants of Christ  walking humbly with our God. 

If you missed any pieces of this extraordinary picture, you can read them here:

]]><![CDATA[Ruth Circle]]>Sat, 19 Sep 2020 08:00:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/ruth-circle"...JOYFUL, HUMBLE, LOVING WITH DEEPLY ROOTED FAITH"
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The Biblical character of Ruth is symbol of abiding loyalty and devotion. When both her husband and father-in-law die, she and her mother-in-law, Naomi, develop a fiercely loyal relationship. It is a wonderful example of female strength and courage. It is no wonder then, that one of Trinity's oldest circles is named after this amazing woman. Where you go, I will go. Where you stay, I will stay. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God. (Ruth 1:16)

Women’s circles—intimate gatherings where women discuss goals, concerns, stories, and advice—have been around since prehistory. Women’s circles offer a safe and supportive space for camaraderie and networking. It’s a simple fact; women need other women in their lives. God has created us to be in communion with each other, to gather in His name, worship and serve. Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. (1 Cor. 12:27)
 
God endows each of us with different interests and passions in order that His creation be wholly cared for. Trinity has long provided a place where women with similar interests and passions can connect in friendship and service. Ruth Circle is one of Trinity’s thriving women’s circles. About eight women gather, once a month, normally in Trinity’s narthex (but during the pandemic it has been put on hold) to enrich their relationships with each other and with God.
 
The women agree that staying connected to each other helps keep them connected to the church, which is important to them. “It is part of being in a church family, part of a Christian family,” says Linda Brooks who has been a member of Ruth Circle for about 15 years. She laughs when she tells me, “We try to do a Bible Study each time…that is if we don’t get carried away visiting too much!”  Mary Lou Manus, also a long time member of Ruth Circle, says she misses meeting with the women now that Covid has made it impossible to get together. She says, "It was my outing, that and quilting. It's been a big part of my life since I moved here."
 
Attendance varies from month to month, mostly because each of the women in Ruth Circle seem to have big, huge servant hearts. Many of them volunteer doing other things. But that is part of what draws them together. For some time now Ruth Circle has put together the school kits for Lutheran World Relief (LWR). They hit the back-to-school sales once a year to get the best deals on the needed items, make the bags that the supplies are packed into, and gather together to prepare the kits for shipment. Education is one of the strongest tools a community has for breaking the cycle of poverty. Ensuring that girls attend school, especially in places where their access is de-prioritized, has even stronger results. School Kits contain essential supplies to help children – and in some cases, adults – continue learning in the face of serious obstacles. That learning leads to a better life for them, their families and their communities.*
 
The women support other organizations too, many of them local. “We put a collection bowl out at each meeting,” Linda tells me “People give what they feel they can and once a year we gather to decide where to donate what we don’t use for the school kits.”
 
“Our group is about friendship and service,” Linda explains, “It’s an important part of all of our lives.”

Circles attract women of all ages. Around 2001, Tammy Rismiller was a young mom who joined Ruth Circle. (See her photo below). She says, "I took the photo at my house. It was the day I learned how to make coffee. Jean came over early to teach me." Tammy took a leave of absence after her second child was born and when she was ready to join with a group of women again, she developed a circle with other young mothers. But she says, "These ladies made a huge impact on my faith. They were joyful, humble, loving and each had a deeply rooted faith. And Doreen made the most interesting brunches! Her's was the first...and only... time I ate plum pudding! I miss those ladies."
 
*To learn more about LWR school kits click here https://lwr.org/schoolkits

To learn more about active circles at Trinity contact Ayme in Trinity's office at inquire@trinitylutheranenumclaw.org
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Ruth Circle Circa 2001 - L to R Joyce Branch, Doreen Zimbleman, Margaret Anderson, Ruth Runland, Elois Fredrickson, Mary Lou Manus, Garrett Rismiller, & Jean Sorrensen. (Photo Taken by Tammy Rismiller)
]]><![CDATA[Embedded In My Veins: Erin Thim]]>Sat, 12 Sep 2020 07:00:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/embedded-in-my-veins-erin-thim
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“Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.” 1 Corinthians 16:13.

On our list of Weekly Walk Humbly is Trinity’s extraordinary youth program. It has been one of this church’s strengths for over 20 years. We are incredibly blessed by our Youth Director, Tammy Rismiller, and all the adult and youth leaders who make this program shine the light of Christ all over our community and world. But, rather than explain the minutiae of the program, we thought we’d let some of our amazing former youth tell their stories.

Today we hear from Erin Thim (formerly Snodgrass).

Erin graduated from High School in 2003. “I was really involved in sports in high school so I didn’t do as much in the youth group as I did in middle school.” Erin shares. And, even though Middle School was a long time ago, she has wonderful memories of being involved in Trinity’s youth program. “Those years in middle school youth group formed the base of my faith,” she explains. Erin’s family lived in Buckley, so she didn’t go to school with most of the kids in youth group. But she remembers relishing the opportunity to develop friendships with other Christian kids. “It was a safe place to just ‘be’ with other people who had similar values and faith. We could ask questions about the world and talk about school and not feel judged. We could be vulnerable with each other, which is so hard to do at that age.”

Erin remembers the 30 Hour Famine being one of the most powerful experiences of her young life. “We spent 30 hours doing service projects together, doing food-drives together, and being hungry together! It totally made me think of my faith in a different way,” she recalls, “We broke the fast with communion, which was so powerful to my young mind. That moment of being all together, experiencing something so sacred, with just kids, just people your own age, was incredible.”

Another powerful ritual that Erin remembers well was the candlelight prayer-vigil where they all wrote their concerns, worries and sins on paper and nailed it to a cross, letting go and giving their worries to God. “I vividly remember that moment. I still use that technique, at least in my head, when I pray today. It is a powerful way to ‘let go and let God’...”

As an adult, Erin now reflects back on her time in Trinity’s youth group. She says, “I used to bring friends with me, and I know there are some for whom the experience sparked their relationship with Christ and church. We really have no way to gauge the enormous impact the program makes on people’s lives.”

Erin is now a young mother and wife. (Her husband also attended Trinity’s youth group a few years before Erin, but they didn’t know each other then!) She says her experience with the youth group gave her another layer of foundation upon which to build her own family’s faith. “Faith and Church are just embedded in my veins. I can’t imagine my life without the patterns of church, the community of church. It feels like it has always been in me and I want my kids to have those same patterns.”

If you’ve ever wondered what becomes of our youth after they’re “done” being teenagers, here is your answer. We are grateful to all who support Trinity so that our youth can experience these powerful moments that ‘embed Christ in their veins’. 

]]><![CDATA[Mary Martha Circle]]>Sat, 05 Sep 2020 07:00:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/mary-martha-circle
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Women, Christian or not, are all different. There is no more obvious example of this than the story of the sisters Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42). When Jesus comes to visit their house the two women take on very different roles, Martha bustling about trying to care for Jesus in the way she knows how, through food and service, and Mary sitting at His feet, giving his teachings undivided attention. No matter how you interpret their actions, the story is a powerful example of how women’s relationships are complicated and beautiful all at once.

Around 50 years ago (no one seems to really know how long ago), a group of women started the Mary Martha Circle. They  must have seen the beauty of this complicated relationship and honored it by naming their women’s circle after these two Biblical women. Harriet Fromke has been a member of this circle for at least 15 years. She explains, “Over the years Mary Martha Circle has had as many as 14 members. Today, as some have passed or moved, that number has shrunk to about 4 or 5. But we are still steadfast in our relationship.”  Before Covid, the women would meet once a month, usually in the narthex at church, but sometimes at each other’s homes.  I asked Harriet if they’ve been able to meet since the shut-down and she said, “No, and we miss it. In fact, I was just talking on the phone to Evie and Fay, and we want to try to find a place to meet outside somewhere as the weather gets nice. We miss each other!”

When asked what drew her in to join the circle in the first place Harriet chuckled and said, “Well, I suppose I’ve just always been part of one! It used to be called ‘Ladies Aid’ a long time ago.” She explains, “Christian women’s circles are unique because the relationships you have are different from relationships you might have outside of church. Those are good too, but they are not the same.”  She says she looks forward to working with the other ladies to “do something good, to be able to help.” Once a year they gather all their offerings from the last several months and decide which local charity they want to support. Harriet digs through her memory to recall the many they’ve supported, “POM, Domestic Violence, Preschool, Pastor Assistance Fund.”

Trintiy’s women’s circles give women a chance to gather and just ‘be’. It’s a social hour yes, but, each woman I’ve talked with seems to express that they couldn’t imagine their lives without the women in their circle. Having a church family allows those relationships to grow and flourish.  In Matthew 18:20, Jesus promises, “When two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.” The women in Trinity’s circles know this to be true, and are grateful for everyone who supports the church and keeps these opportunities available.

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]]><![CDATA[Caring For The Grieving]]>Sat, 29 Aug 2020 07:00:00 GMThttp://trinitylutheranenumclaw.org/our-story-blog/caring-for-the-grieving
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"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."   Matthew 5:4

One of the most sacred rituals a church building ever hosts is a funeral. We often call it a “celebration of life,” emphasizing that the laughter of memories and the tears of grief can exist together in the same space. And while we gather to rejoice in the moments we shared with the departed, it is no less painful for family and friends who find themselves with a human size hole in their hearts.

For several years Trinity has been blessed by Evie Bjornsen, who gently walks alongside those who have experienced loss and need to organize a funeral reception. “It’s God’s gift that I’m able to do this for others.” Evie explains.  She meets with the family several days prior to the reception to develop a plan. Often it is a person’s first time planning an event like this while struggling with such painful loss. Evie understands. “I’ve been through it so many times myself. I know what it meant to me when my mother and my husband passed.” 

Evie knows how to ask the right questions. ‘What mementoes would you like to display?’ ‘What photos would mean the most to you?’ She has done it so many times now, that she can walk through the process with the family in a way that lightens their burden. They talk about  food, table set up, numbers, and flowers. Details that can seem trivial and overwhelming for one whose brain is swimming in grief. But Evie’s quiet competency helps decisions flow and provides peace. And, of course, there are often deeper questions interspersed in the conversation. ‘How long will this feeling of agonizing loss last?’ ‘How long will I be in misery?’ Evie knows there are no simple answers to these questions. “I know what they’re feeling. I’ve been there. There are so many bumps in the road of grief, but you keep pulling yourself up. I let them know they should grieve as long as they need to.”

Evie explains that years ago Trinity had three groups of 5 women each that would take turns helping to plan funeral receptions. But, many of them have passed or aren’t physically able to do the work anymore. So now, Evie is the one Pastor calls when a family needs help. She has a few helpers along the way, Dianne Meserve, Jane Bredeson, and Harriet Fromke and her granddaughter, Daisy, all pitch in when they can. But it’s Evie’s gentle touch that God brings to the families when they need it the most. Evie remembers one funeral where “there must have been 400 people there! We used every chair the church ever owned and still they were sitting on the stairs. The choir loft was stuffed full. People had to eat standing up!” And, even though it was a LOT of work, she explains, “It was a beautiful tribute to a man that touched so many lives. To know that so many people in our community came to show love and support was very touching.”

Trinity is blessed to have such a beautiful and sacred building and community to provide this ritual. A place where God’s church wraps their arms around those who are grieving, offering a united moment of mutual sorrow, where the body of Christ comes alongside the grieved, to help shoulder the burden of loss. Thank YOU for choosing to be part of this service to others. Your prayers, support, and tithes keep the light burning as an offering to all those who come to Trinity to find peace amidst their loss.

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