December 11 – Lessons and Carols 8:30 and 10:45 worship Led by Senior Choir and Handbells. Favorite carols included in this service are “The First Noel,” “Coventry Carol,” “Oh, How Beautiful the Sky,” “Angels We Have Heard On High” and “O Come, All Ye Faithful” among many others. Services are open to the public - guests are welcomed.

Dec 18 8:30 and 10:45 Worship

‘O Holy Night’

Children’s Christmas Program

Dec 24 Dec 24 Dec 24 Dec 24 –––– 3:30 and 5:30 p.m.3:30 and 5:30 p.m.3:30 and 5:30 p.m.3:30 and 5:30 p.m.

Candlelight Worship with Holy Communion

Dec 25 (Sunday) – 9:30 a.m. only

Happy New Year! January 1, 2017

Worship at 9:30 only. No Sunday School

Trinity Lutheran Church Women will

meet on Thursday, Dec 1 at 1:30 p.m. in the Gathering Place for their year-end business and social meeting. Remember: TLCW will not be meeting in January, February nor March.

TAKK SKAL DU HA,

TACK, GRACIAS, TAK,

KIITOS תודה רבה לך, DANK JE, GO RAIBH

MAITH AGAT There so are many ways to say it,

but they all mean one thing: THANK YOU!!!

So far $226,500 has been committed for “Strengthening Tomorrow” 2017 Stewardship Appeal! Trinity is truly blessed to have members committed to Trinity’s vision of ministry and mission. Our goal with this year’s appeal, however, is not only measured in dollars, but also in responses received from

members. We have had responses from only 28% of Trinity member units. Trinity has 100% response from its leadership – the staff, church council and stewardship committee – they have all taken this appeal seriously and are committed to this challenge. If you haven’t had the opportunity to turn in your intent card, please do so by December 15. The stewardship committee will be following up with those who haven’t turned in a card. Trinity has a lot to look forward to in 2017 and beyond. We truly need everyone’s help to keep Trinity strong next year and beyond. Again, THANK YOU for keeping Trinity in your prayers as you reflect on what this congregation and it’s ministry means to you. God’s Blessings, Your Stewardship Committee

Sunday, December 18 at 6:30 p.m.

The Christmas Season can be tough. Join us on December 18th at 6:30p.m. for A Blue Christmas Service at Trinity Lutheran Church of Blue Earth. All are welcome to come, reflect and hear a message of hope in this quiet service. Those experiencing any type of loss are especially welcome.

The Trumpet December, 2016 Trinity Lutheran Church, ELCA 235 East 7th Street, Blue Earth, MN The mission of Trinity Lutheran Church, as God’s chosen and baptized people, nurtured by word and sacrament, is to live for others boldly sharing the good news of Christ; using all the gifts we have been given.

Information from your

Church Council GIVING THANKS

SHARING GIFTS

These days between Thanksgiving and Christmas are very special and unique. We enjoy time with family and friends, good food, special church services and music, reflection, exchanging gifts and so much more. It is a time to be thankful for our many blessings, freely given to us through grace. And each year the Advent season helps us prepare for and commemorate the birth of our Savior. On behalf of the Church Council, I hope this year’s holidays will be especially meaningful and rewarding for you. Those of us who serve Trinity as officers and Council members are very aware of the contributions of our members who make Trinity a special place. We appreciate your attendance at worship, your willingness to serve in various capacities, your financial support and your prayers. As the days of 2016 wind down, we reflect on what an eventful year it has been for our church family. There is no doubt that we are in a better place now than we were a year ago at this time. Again, we have much to be thankful for. We also have much to look forward to. And just as it took the action of many people to get us through this year of

transition, it will take many of us to keep moving ahead. As you prepare to share gifts with your loved ones, please also consider ways in which you can share your gifts with Trinity in the New Year. The Council will be making plans to continue the mission efforts of our congregation. If you can contribute to these efforts, you will learn again that “it is better to give than to receive.” There are always opportunities to get involved in committees, take part in our music programs, help with the education of our youth and serve those in need. Thanksgiving and Christmas remind us that we have been blessed. Psalms 118 reminds us to “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good and His mercy endures forever.” The Church Council thanks you for your goodness and we encourage you to pass your blessings on to others in the name of Christ.

Steve Frederickson Council President

PERMANENT

NAME TAGS

As part of our goals for hospitality at Trinity, we would like to move from “sticky” name tags to permanent name tags. Worship/Art/Music Committee has been researching name tags with a magnetic back so they will be easy to attach to clothing without damaging it. This will also make it easy to attach to a metal board in the back of the sanctuary as you leave. The WAM Committee would like to give you the opportunity to tell us how you would like your name to look on your name

tag. We would also request a donation to help pay for these name tags. There is a form in the church office to indicate how you would like your name to appear on your name tag. The WAM Committee would like to order the permanent name tags for use in January. Updated information will be in the Sunday bulletin announcements.

Trinity Church Council met on Nov 8, 2016. The Council will be reading Almost Christian as our study book. Property Committee reported that the leak in the Education Wing roof has been repaired. They are looking into a light to shine on the parking lot area. Snow removal has been contracted. Stewardship Committee had report on Intent Cards. The Budget Committee has met and will have a proposed 2017 budget at the December 13 meeting. Discussed names for Nominating Committee and new signage throughout the church. Reviewed Trinity’s wedding policy and pastor’s honorarium for weddings. Complete copy of minutes is available on

the display rack outside the office.

Sunday, January 22 at 9:45 a.m.

in the Gathering Place. Note time change – between services!

When it comes to seasons of the Church year, Lent can be described as a “spring cleaning” of our spiritual selves. A chance to reflect, ask for forgiveness, and weed out the excessiveness in our lives. Advent is a bit different. As many of us decorate and prepare our homes for guests and celebrations, perhaps even setting out that one special Christmas ornament, Advents asks us to prepare. But the prepare we are asked in Advent, the Church season, is a bit different than how we prepare our homes for the cultural Christmas season. We are asked to prepare a place for Jesus. A place for Jesus, not just on our mantle in a manger scene or on our lips with Christmas carols, but a place in our hearts. Why has Jesus come? What does this mean for me? How does that change things? How does that change my life? These are big questions. These questions matter. In the midst of the hustle and bustle, surrounded by people, one can still feel lonely. Christ’s coming means God is with us. Eventually the Christmas lights and shining decorations are put away. And yet we are given the Light of the World which can

never be snuffed out. God’s love and presence can shine in the darkest of places.

When the powers of the world seem cruel, evil, or corrupt we are convinced they will not last. Even a cross and government execution,

a cold dark tomb and large stone cannot stop God who brings life. God even turns that cross into a symbol of hope. In Advent we prepare to declare a baby, king. So I encourage you to prepare. Perhaps it means saying “no” to being swept up in the stress and bustle and worries of the holiday season. In saying “no”, we often say “yes” to something different. What will it be for you? It could be a variety of things. Create a prayer list. Say “yes” to a quiet evening that involves the Christmas story with those you care about. Take time to see, taste, hear and smell the preparations and give thanks for how they came to be. However you prepare, know that God is not looking for a Hallmark Christmas, a perfectly set table, clean floors or carols sung in tune but a place in you. Your heart and your life. That’s what God came for in the first place. Blessings as you prepare! United in Christ! Pastor Jeanette

P.S. We will be doing an Advent series in the coming weeks,

including lighting our advent wreath and learning about how to prepare for Christ’s coming. Special thanks to all who have helped with our Advent children’s messages, we will be sharing items to remind one to prepare!

HELP POINT THE WAY!

Trinity has a great location, a convenient new parking lot and a handicapped accessible elevator. What we do not have is a network of signs that help visitors and others find their way around our building. The Church Council is asking for volunteers to help remedy this deficiency. We hope we can find a small committee of 3-5 members who would be willing to investigate the need for better signage around the building and make suggestions. Specifically, we would like to know what type of signs would work best and where they should be placed. Once the committee has made its recommendation to the Council, their work would be done. If this is an opportunity that interests you, please contact Donna in the office. Thank you for your consideration. Steve Frederickson Council President

December 8:30 Tom Bromeland Darwin Olson Perry Olson Matt Dikken 10:45

Dave Pirsig, Bill Rotterman Harley Willmert, David Lein

Reminder: Contributions must be postmarked before Dec 31 to be included on your 2016 statement.

These are birthdays of members listed in the church active data base. If there is an addition or correction, please call the church office (526-3463). Dec 1 – Judy Orvedal, Don Mueller, Hudson Stine 2 – Troy Stindtman 3 – Tom Bromeland, Bonnie Gartzke, Todd Hanevik, Peggy Surratt 4 – Ann Ekse 5 – Scott Determan, Bud Schwab 6 – Pam Berndt, Kathy Johnson Deb Olson, Cali Teems 7 – Lois Willmert 8 – Lane Casey, Ray Hornke, Thomas Lindsey, Paul Peterson 9 – Kendall Surratt 10 – Jenna Hansen, Becky Jacobs, Phoebe Loge Louise Martig 11 – Katelyn Frahm 12 – Mary Amundson, Kevin Benson, Karli Olsen 13 – Emily Johnson, Barb Rame, 14 – Ray Rhoda, Jennifer Smith, Rhionna Weerts 15 – Donna Anderson, Carole Haugen, Gavin Hledik, Greg Keebaugh 16 – Riley Anderson 17 – Cassandra Hagedorn 18 – David Amundson, Jan Baker, Ronda Hanke, Jan Sohn 19 – Becky Benson, Lauren Schavey, Ella Schmidtke, Danika Stindtman 20 – Kari McGregor 21 – Sue Cassens, Jerry Sonich 22 – Travis Hagedorn, Hanna Knudtson, Donna Perryman

23 – Matthew Meier 24 – Chandler Kienitz, Stephanie Stine 26 – Jacob Dikken, Rodney Peterson, Ashley Skaden, Harley Willmert 27 – Lulu Frank, Shirley Hannaman, Tasha Ruser 28 – Nancy Bohling, Jeff Eckles, Marilyn Olson 29 – Ryan Bromeland, Jared Resutek, Carey Weber 30 – Mark Evans, Craig Hougen,

Maria Lindberg, Clarann Sayre, Les Wiborg, Kyle Zierke

31 – Cristine Schug, Bryce Wirth

Office hours are Monday through Friday 8:30 – 5:00 507-526-3463

General Church e-mail

Trinity@bevcomm.net Donna Perryman, Office Admin.

Pastor Jeanette Bidne prjbidne.betrinity@gmail.com Kim Jacobson, Kim Jacobson, Kim Jacobson, Kim Jacobson, Children/Children/Children/Children/YouthYouthYouthYouth and Familiesand Familiesand Familiesand Families MinistryMinistryMinistryMinistry KimmyKimmyj@gmail.com

If you would like to receive your Trumpet newsletter electronically, just send Donna an email at trinity@bevcomm.net

Pastor Jeanette’s mailing address is:

Pr Jeanette Bidne and Pr Dan Foster P.O. Box 234 Vernon Center, MN 56090

St. Luke’s Lutheran Care Center Annual Meeting, Tuesday, December 6 at 7:00 p.m. in the Chapel at St. Luke’s. Delegates from Trinity are welcome to attend this meeting. St. Luke’s Lutheran Care Center is in the process of replacing the old tables in the Plantation Dining Room. Average cost of each table is $425. Your generous financial support will enhance the ambience of the dining area. Checks can be written to St. Luke’s with a notation of “Tables”.

MITTEN TREE Dec 1 – 30th New mittens, gloves, hats and/or

scarfs to be placed on the tall tree in the foyer. Items are being collected for Blue Earth elementary children and those at Little Giants. THRIVENT ACTION TEAM: CHRISTMAS AT CRESCENT Christmas Day is on a Sunday this year. Some people will not be able to spend it with their immediate family. I have received approval for another Thrivent Action Team project: 'Christmas at Crescent' (Apartments) on Christmas Day, Dec 25. With these funds, there will be an informal meal of PIZZA, Pop and PIE, served at 11:30 a.m. in Crescent's dining room. Following the meal, we will be playing Christmas BINGO, with awesome prizes -- enough for everyone! If you would like to provide additional funds for this project or want to help with this new Christmas Day event, contact Donna Perryman in the church office, 526-3463.

ke to present one to someone special in your life.

The Children’s Christmas

program will be Sunday,

December 18th, at the 8:30

and 10:45 services

December Children/Youth

and Family Newsletter

December Children/ Youth and Family Newsletter

***********************************************

In the midst of so much imperfection, the night Christ was born can be considered one of the most perfect nights ever in the history of mankind. God used imperfect circumstances and an imperfect location in the form of a humble manager to bring His perfect and holy Son into the world. God could have easily made Jesus’ birth triumphant, but He chose not to. It is through all that imperfection that made this night so holy and so perfect.

The way God brought His son into the world is much the same way He works within our lives. Oftentimes God takes the imperfections in our lives and uses them to perfect us. God loves to take the physical and emotional scars and use those to grow us into stronger people. He also desires us to take what we learned from our imperfections and help others who may be struggling with the same things. Just as Jesus was a light to reveal God to all the nations, we can be that same light as well.

Don’t let your imperfections hold you back. Instead, allow God to use them to shape you into the person He designed you to be, which is a light in a dark world. Give God your weaknesses so that He can turn them into your greatest strengths.

What weaknesses do you need to give God so that He can perfect you? In what ways do you see yourself as being a light to reveal God’s truth to others?

May this special season be blessed with love, peace and Joy.

Merry Christmas

Kimberly Jacobson

Director of Children/Youth & Family Ministries

507-525-0747

Kimmykimmyj@gmail.com

The Children’s Christmas

program will be Sunday, December 18th, at the 8:30 and

10:45 services

NO SUNDAY SCHOOL on

Dec 25th nor January 1st

NO RELEASE TIME on Dec 28th, resumes on January 4th

SALSASALSASALSASALSA: (Junior high youth group

4:00 pm) December 7th, 14th and 21st, NONE on Dec 28th. Will resume on January 4th

Confirmation: (6:00 p.m.)

December 7th, 14th and 21st, NONE on Dec 28th.

Will resume on January 4th

SWAP: SWAP: SWAP: SWAP: (7:30 p.m.) December 7th, 14th and 21st, NONE on Dec 28th. Will resume on January 4th

LOOKLOOKLOOKLOOKing Ahead:ing Ahead:ing Ahead:ing Ahead: 3333RDRDRDRD annualannualannualannual Mission MealMission MealMission MealMission Meal

Sunday, Feb 12, 2017 Sunday, Feb 12, 2017 Sunday, Feb 12, 2017 Sunday, Feb 12, 2017 Brought to you by the Brought to you by the Brought to you by the Brought to you by the

Trinity youth!! Trinity youth!! Trinity youth!! Trinity youth!!

Watch for more details to come!!Watch for more details to come!!Watch for more details to come!!Watch for more details to come!!

Mark your calendars now Mark your calendars now Mark your calendars now Mark your calendars now