February 23, 2011                                                                                  

Holy Trinity Lutheran  Church   





Reverent
Relevant
Real
eNews
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
Greetings!

crocusesIn some areas of the land (though not in Chicago yet!) crocuses are beginning to push through the snow. In other places, birds of paradise have bloomed all winter. Winged birds are starting to migrate. Consider the lilies of the field, Jesus says. Look at the birds of the air. Do this to counteract worry. Such are the images in next Sunday's gospel from Matthew 6:24-34.

It sounds so simple. But what sets us apart from lilies and sparrows is our capacity to look ahead--to anticipate the movements of mammoth or saber-toothed cat so we can feed or defend ourselves. That same ability to imagine the future--to envision and dream and plan and create--can also paralyze us with worst-case scenarios. Then we may worry that we worry too much. Or we can consciously resolve to trust God, yet still wake screaming from a nightmare. A complex universe contains many things over which we have no control, and understandable reasons for worry. Moreover, if nobody worries over injustice and damage to the earth, something has gone terribly wrong.

Do not worry about food and clothing, your life, tomorrow? Consider the flowers, the birds? These words are meant not to deny reality, but to spring us free when we have become frozen in fear. Shift your focus, Jesus says, to the beauty and wonder all around you. Resist letting possible disaster ruin today. Refuse to give the victory to death. We hear these words from the vantage point of resurrection.

Seek first the kingdom of God, and all these things will be given to you. God's reign is known in the assembly, as food and goods are lovingly distributed and we become part of the story of the crucified and risen Christ. Beautiful Gethsemane is where he shared our worry, sweating blood over his own "tomorrow." Small wonder that on Easter morning Mary Magdalene took him to be the gardener.

From Sundays and Seasons.com. Copyright 2011 Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved. Reprinted by permission under Augsburg Fortress Liturgies Annual License #26481.

UPCOMING SUNDAY
Epiphany 7Christians recognize that the source of all good things is the God who feeds the birds and clothes the grass of the field. We rejoice that we are held in the palm of God's hand. God cannot forget us any more than a woman could forget her nursing child. Nourished at the Lord's table, we share these gifts with those who are anxious, hungry, poor, or in any kind of need.

Schedule this Sunday:
  • 8:30 a.m. - Simple Eucharist
  • 9:15 a.m. - Choir Rehearsal
  • 9:30 a.m. - Adult Forum and Sunday School
  • 10:30 a.m. - Sung Eucharist
    • Cantor: Natalie Ford; Viola: Sean Diller
  • 11:45 a.m. - food4thought (see below for info) 
Sunday Forum

Economy of the Kingdom: Do Not Worry
Ray Pickett - 9:30 a.m. (St. Mark's Room - upstairs)

In light of the current economic crisis, Professor Ray Pickett from Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago will lead a study of the appointed gospel for today in which Jesus invites his followers to not worry, but trust in God's providence. The forum will be a wonderful preparation for the food4thought presentation which will follow the 10:30 a.m. service.

Lessons for Next Sunday

Prayer of the Day
God of tender care,
like a mother, like a father, you never forget your children,
and you know already what we need.
In all our anxiety give us trusting and faithful hearts,
that in confidence we may embody
the peace and justice of your Son,
Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.
In This Issue
New And Noteworthy
Upcoming Events, Opportunities, and News
Calendar
Article Headline
Quick Links
VolunteerHub
CELEBRATIONS
BIRTHDAYS:
Gavin Bender  2/23
Amy Buzby  2/23
Sygne Stole  2/23
Brian Von Rueden  2/24
Julie Sevig  2/25
Chris Stelter  2/25
Maxine Kreiter  2/26
Beth Morris  2/26

BAPTISMS:
Richard Bough  2/26
Curtis Duffy  2/28
Ava Duffy  2/28
Scott Johnson  2/28
Jason Pagels  2/29

ANNIVERSARIES:
Kristi Harreld & Mitchell Kittlaus  2/27
FOOD 4 THOUGHT - THIS SUNDAY

Food For Thought 

food4thought.................................
Sunday, February 27, 11:45 (following the 10:30 a.m. service)
 

   

 

Economy of the Kingdom: Jesus on the Practice of Grace   

Led by Ray Pickett, professor of New Testament at Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago

 

The current economic crisis provides an opportunity to look at the market economy as a totalizing system that defines value and deforms desire. In this session we will discuss practical wisdom from the teachings of Jesus about how the practices that release us from captivity to an economic system that keeps us beholden can improve the quality of our life together.

 

Meet some of the great people of Holy Trinity

Enjoy a healthy, delicious meal 

Engage a stimulating topic


*** SPECIAL NEED! Several persons to help prepare the meal from 9:15 - 11:40 a.m. Please email the church office if you can help.  

The meals prepared for food4thought support local farmers, educate volunteers from the congregation in healthful cooking, and help us care for creation through organic and sustainable food systems. 

Menu for 2/27:
-- Spinach Quiche
-- Bread
-- Herb Roasted Potatoes
-- Fruit Salad

NEW AND NOTEWORTHY
Attendance Last Sunday
8:30 - 22; 10:30 - 156

Tonight 7 p.m. -
Taize Service

Itaizef you like the use of the piano in worship, if you like a quiet, contemplative service, if you appreciate candles and incense, if your spirit seeks some spiritual nourishment, we hope you will come to the Contemplative Eucharist in the Style of Taize. The liturgy includes some simple repeated chants, and a generous period of silence. We appreciate Andrew Fredel coordinating these monthly services.

New Meditation Group Beginning at Holy Trinity

An existing meditation group will begin meeting at Holy Trinity every Monday at 7:00 p.m. beginning March 7. Holy Trinity members and friends are welcome! You are welcome as a beginner or as an experienced meditator trained in a specific method. Meditation brings a greater sense of peace, equanimity and physical health. The group uses the teachings of Buddhist writers to enhance an understanding of meditation, but there is no expressed requirement that you espouse any particular method, belief or faith tradition. They borrow liberally from them all in an attempt to enhance our own ability to navigate life through spirituality. Try the group out and see where it takes you with a meditation practice. The 90 minute session includes a check-in, two meditation periods, and a short teaching. If you prefer to sit on the floor for meditation, please bring your own cushion, blanket, yoga mat or foam blocks-
-whatever it is that makes you most comfortable when you sit. There are folding chairs there for those who prefer to sit in a chair. This is a drop-in group and you can attend as you are able. For more information, and to RSVP through the website for each session, click here  

Two Young Adult Lenten Groups 

This Lent Holy Trinity is offering two discussion groups especially for young adults in their 20's and 30's.
1. BIBLE AND LIFE: Tuesday evenings
Does the Bible contradict itself?  Why did only these gospels make the cut?  Did Paul really say that?? This Bible study will examine how we read scripture and use it in our everyday lives.  We will look at our sacred texts with both critical and faithful eyes.  We will discuss the broad biblical canon as well as specific texts.  Bring your tough questions and be ready for challenging answers. This group will have its first meeting in the St. Mark's Room at church and will subsequently meet weekly in participants' homes during Lent. Leader: Seminarian Cuttino Alexander. First meeting: Tuesday, March 15, 7:00 p.m. 

 

2. BOOK DISCUSSION ON REDISCOVERING VALUES: Sundays at noon

Read and discuss Holy Trinity's book for Lent, Rediscovering Values. We will meet Sundays after church beginning March 13. We will discuss meal options at the first gathering. Led by Seminarian Steven Dickens.

Sign-up for either group at the back of the church or
here.  


Support Music at Holy Trinity

The music at Holy Trinity is inspiring and beautiful not only on festivals and at special musical events, but at every liturgy. Though our operating budget includes funding for choir music, instrument maintenance, and contract musicians, it does not cover the costs of our annual music program and special music series. Help support this important ministry of music with which we are so blessed! Write a check to Holy Trinity with "Music Series" on the memo line, or give online now. Special music events this year:

  • Bach Cantatas in worship (likely March and October)
  • Brass quartet at both Easter services
  • Vocal recital by Dr. Steven Lancaster (teacher of vocal studies at Notre Dame)
  • Annual Advent Lessons and Carols
VOICES Initiative: Purpose & Principles

After five months of conversations and listening, see the results of our hard work! Read through our Purpose Statement, Guiding Principles, and Strategic Directives here.

LAST SUNDAY'S SERMON

February 20, 2011
Seventh Sunday after Epiphany
Matthew 5:38-48
Pr. Craig M. Mueller

HOW TO BE PERFECT

nobodyperfectA quote by Wilt Chamberlain is a good way to get us started: "They say that nobody is perfect. Then they tell you practice makes perfect. I wish they'd make up their minds."

What shall we do with Jesus' words in today's gospel: Be perfect as God is perfect. How are you doing with your goal to be perfect? The imperative in Leviticus isn't much easier: You shall be holy as I am holy, says the Lord. 

Read the rest of the sermon here
Listen to this sermon here  

FURTHER UPCOMING EVENTS, OPPORTUNITIES, AND NEWS
Books Available: Rediscovering Values

Each year Holy Trinity designates a book for our community to read together in Lent. Lent is still a month away, but we want you to get a head start on reading this wonderful book! Through a special sale we were able to get the hardbound books for $10. They are available at the back of the church! There will be several discussion options offered during Lent.

wallisRediscovering Values: On Wall Street, Main Street and Your Street.
By Jim Wallis, bestselling author, public theologian, and international commentator on religion and public life.
Wallis invites us to use our economic uncertainty to find moral clarity. Too often we have been ruled by the maxims that greed is good, it's all about me, and I want it now. Those can be challenged only with some of our oldest and best values--enough is enough, we are in it together, and thinking not just for tomorrow but for future generations. Wallis challenges us to wrestle with the questions of values together: as families, friends, churches, mosques, synagogues, and entire communities.    

PARTICIPATE IN A LENTEN DISCUSSION GROUP on

Rediscovering Values:

1) Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. as part of the Sunday forum; beginning Sunday, March 13
2) Sunday noon - Special young adult (20's/30's) group, discuss over lunch after church; beginning Sunday, March 13; more information above
3) Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. - for those free on Thursday mornings; beginning Thursday, March 10 

 


Winter 2011 Dinner Groups: DEADLINE TODAY

Always popular here at Holy Trinity, these groups meet in a home for dinner in which the host provides the main course and others provide the side dishes. Sign-up as a couple, with a friend, or by yourself at the back of the church or by emailing the office by today. Let us know if you are willing to host 8 - 10 people and if you request a location near an el stop. After that we will divide the participants into groups; the host will contact you by e-mail and your group will set a weekend date in late March or early April. Over 50 people participate in dinner groups at Holy Trinity; it's a great way to meet new folks in our community!

"Team Trinity"

Please consider joining Team Trinity today! VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Check out Volunteer website for upcoming opportunites.  It is Holy Trinity's goal to register as many members on-line to assist in helping with our ministry projects within the community.  Simply log-in now and sign-up online to volunteer today: http://holytrinity.volunteerhub.com.  Let's serve those in need together!

VolunteerHub

Dates to Remember:

New Members: View pictures/bios of recent new members: October here, December here, February here.
Next Baptism Dates: May 15, June 26, August 21, October 23, December 4. More info.
Next New Member Orientation Date: May 1, 2011.  More info.

Office Hours: Mon., Tues., Thurs., 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.; Wed., 1:00-8:00 p.m.; and Sun., 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. 
CALENDAR
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23
    7:00 p.m.  Contemplative Eucharist - Taize Service
    7:30 p.m.  AA & SAA (St. Mark's Room & Passavant Hall)
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24
    10:00 a.m.  Weekly Bible Study
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26
    5:00 p.m.  Common Solutions
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 27
    8:30 a.m.  Simple Eucharist
    9:15 a.m.  Choir Rehearsal
    9:30 a.m.  Adult Forum and Sunday School
    10:30 a.m.  Sung Eucharist
    11:45 a.m.  food4thought
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2
    7:00 p.m.  Contemplative Eucharist
    7:30 p.m.  AA & SAA (St. Mark's Room & Passavant Hall)

 

COMMEMORATIONS FOR THE WEEK

Wednesday, February 23 - Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna, martyr, died 156
Because he is said to have been known by John, the author of Revelation, as well as the important early church fathers Irenaeus and Ignatius, Polycarp serves as a vital link in church history. He was burned at the stake at age 86 for refusing to renounce his faith.

Friday, February 25 - Elizabeth Fedde, deaconess, died 1921
Born in Norway and trained there as a deaconess, Fedde was asked to come and minister to the poor and to seamen in New York City. She established the Deaconess House in Brooklyn as well as Deaconess Hospital in Minneapolis.

Tuesday, March 1 - George Herbert, hymnwriter, died 1633
An excellent scholar, Herbert served briefly in the English parliament, then became a parish priest. He was known for devoted care of his parishioners, as well as for writing poetry and hymns, including "Come, my way, my truth, my life." He died at age 40.

From Sundays and Seasons.com. Copyright 2010 Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved. Reprinted by permission under Augsburg Fortress Liturgies Annual License #26481.

   
AMONG OUR COMMUNITY
Please send news about awards, new positions, life passages and other important events in your lives for this section of our e-news.  
IN OUR PRAYERS
Those ill or in special need: Amy Rouce's father, Phil, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer; Mary Nack and family, grieving the death of her mother; Kathy Lund, those struggling with infertility; Susan Pare, Bruce Beal's mother; Tish Depner and her family; Paul Hanson; Tish Depner, friend of Greg Zinkl; Liam Anderson; Victims of the shooting in Tuscon, Arizona and their families; our political leaders and our country; Bob & Carol Stoher; Sam Zangri; Paul Geist III; Christine, friend of Susan Twetten; Mary Cannon; Sam Patitucci; Patti Ann Smith; James Emery; Brent Vicknair; Sam Horcher; Colin and Veronica Fiegel; Sam and Ang Zangri; Mark Sauer; Barbara Wahler's friend, Jim Haring; Bill Glawe, Garrett Glawe's grandfather; The Levine family; Alan Stang, Jeff Stang's father; Paul Weber; Scott Johnson's mother, Virginia Johnson; Chris Stelter's grandmother; Rick Boyum's mother; Victor Jimenez; Vivian Carter; Marji Shannon's sister; Ken Duckmann's nephew, Anthony Drago.

Those in leadership:
President Barack Obama, congress and judges; Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson and Metropolitan Chicago Synod Bishop Wayne Miller; the pastors, staff and congregation council at Holy Trinity. 


Serving in the Military:
Benjamin Brackley, in Afghanistan.   


Metropolitan Chicago Synod Prayer Rotation:
  
  • Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. Luke, Chicago IL 
  • Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, Archbishop Jukka Paarma
  • Greater Milwaukee Synod, Bishop Jeffrey S. Barrow 
Ministries Supported by Holy Trinity: ELCA World Hunger Appeal; RefugeeOne; Lakeview Action Coalition; Lakeview Pantry; The Crib; Lutherans Concerned; The Night Ministry; Christian Peacemaker Teams; Arise Chicago; Chicago Coalition of Welcoming Churches; The Lutheran Volunteer Corps; Anti-Racism Team of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod; Holy Family Lutheran Ministries; Lutheran Youth on the Northside (LYONS).  
 CHECK IT OUT!
Online Daily Prayer
Oremus 

HOLY TRINITY E-NEWS is the weekly electronic newsletter of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Chicago. To unsubscribe click on "safeUnsubscribe" below. E-newsletter submissions and prayer requests should be sent to office@htchicago.org by Monday at 4:00 p.m.

Website: www.holytrinitychicago.org
 
Josh Judd-Herzfeldt and Craig M. Mueller
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church