Remember That Survey?

Peggy Hahn, director of LEAD (Living Everyday As Disciples), began working with Pastor Scott and Darcy as a "coach" earlier this year to assist with fulfilling Holy Trinity's mission to deepen the faith of the children and youth to serve God and our neighbors.

With Peggy's guidance and the support of the Listening Team, the following questions were presented to the congregation in early September. Six questions were divided between two 3-question surveys and many folks are curious about how the questions were answered. With more than 250 completed surveys, the following results paraphrase the most prevalent answers shared for each question.

If this congregation disappeared tomorrow, what would the families in the community and neighborhood miss?

Community Outreach, Sunday morning worship, Several "I" statements were made in reference to personal statements.

List 3 reasons why families would want to attend worship or other activities at this congregation.

Spiritual needs, it's more than a place to worship (outreach opportunities), programs/fears that programs offered in the past are disappearing.

What is keeping this congregation from growing?

Location, feeling that "we need to...," societal/cultural changes, age of congregation and disconnect among generations.

What would inspire the people of this congregation (especially families) to come together for a big project?

Inter-generational projects, projects need to be worthwhile, food and fun.

How is this congregation know for supporting children, youth, and families in this community and neighborhood?

Many folks responded with personal experience, rather than a community/neighborhood focus. Concerns of huge disconnect with families (kids know each other, but their parents don't know other parents with like-aged children). People had a hard time naming things we do for kids outside of the Holy Trinity campus.

What are 3 things about this congregation that you would never want to change?

Pastors, Community Outreach, caring and support of each other.

So, what does all this mean?  The responses sparked additional efforts to "Listen In" to the people of Holy Trinity in small ministry settings, such as choir, Bible studies, and committees. As the Listening Team continues to gather information from withIN, they are also beginning to "Listen Out" beyond the walls of HTLC.

As the next weeks and months of "listening" are taking place in and around HT, many other exciting things are happening, too! Goals are being assessed, recommendations are being made, and clarification of identity is being considered for the future of Holy Trinity.

How can you get involved? Tell someone- it's that easy! Share your ideas and commit to assisting with the mission of deepening faith and serving God.

Summit Weekend - It's a BIG deal!

Please plan to attend the ALL CONGREGATION summit meeting in the sanctuary THIS SATURDAY at 9:00 a.m and during worship on Sunday.

God is calling us into an exciting future!

While we hold fast to the foundation of faith, scripture, and tradition, the Church is a radically different thing that it was in the past. Our world is different. Our lives are different. Some say the church is dying. But we here at HTLC are confident that God continues to call us to worship, share, and give in our community and the world.

We have embarked on a journey of self discovery. With the help of a committed team of HT members designated as a “Listening Team,” this congregation will spend the next months and into the years ahead dedicated to the following:

Tune-upward – What is God up to?

Tune-inward – Who are we?

Tune outward – Where is God sending us?

Peggy Hahn, former assistant to the bishop in the TX/LA Gulf Coast Synod and Project Developer for LEAD, will guide us in further exploration of the exciting plans God has for our future.

Saturday, October 18 – Plan to gather with the whole people of God here at HTLC for a grand discussion and exploration of who we are as God’s recipients of grace and servants to the community. We will celebrate together what God has done through us in the past and dream about future mission possibilities.

Sunday, October 19 – Peggy Hahn will bring the Word at all 3 worship services sharing stories of congregations that have listened to the community around them and been blessed to grow into deeper mission with local partners.

Tune In and Stay Connected

After a summer that took members and friends away from the demands of hectic schedules, weekly commitments, and adventures to and fro, we welcome you back to Holy Trinity and look forward to gathering with you regularly.

Sunday School is back in session at 9:15 following last Sunday's Backpack Blessing and Waffle Breakfast. Joyful noises were heard throughout the morning! But there are so many opportunities for fellowship and worship, how can YOU stay connected and participate in ministry?

It's easy! Whatever format is most comfortable for you - we've got it!

• If you like browsing the web, visit the Holy Trinity website (click on the highlighted link to the left).
• Do you usually use your iPad or Windows tablet to browse? Download the Apple iPad or the Android App clicking on one of these links. You'll have up to date information at your fingertips!
• Did you know that Holy Trinity has a Facebook page? If you use Facebook, look for htlutheran and follow posts from pastors, staff, campus groups, and others!
• Maybe you'd rather pick up the phone and talk to a familiar voice. Call the church office at (480) 963-4127 with any questions or inquiries.
• Have you shared your email address with Holy Trinity? Email blasts are occasionally sent to communicate with members and friends. Contact the church office by phone or email the secretary to provide or update your email address.
• Both pastors author their own blogs. If you don't have the following blog addresses saved in your favorites, please visit Pastor Lee's blog and Pastor Scott's blog to link up with them.
• See that cute little blue bird in the graphic above all this info? If you recognize it, then you can probably stay tuned on Twitter.
• Finally, the monthly newsletter is always available in print or online (website and tablet apps).

We're in the process of Tuning UP, so we can Tune IN, and Tune OUT. So, stay "tuned" for more on all that! And look for this logo:

Welcome back!

Prayer Changes Everything

How would you answer someone who asked you about prayer? Or wondered what you pray about? Or wanted to know how often or when you pray? Do you pray intentionally? Do you ever wonder where to look for biblical text related to specific topics? 

Check out these guides, provided by Family Matters, a non-profit ministry dedicated to educating, encouraging, and equipping family members with strategies for making positive choices.

Each of the 31 Days of Prayer calendars can be emailed directly to you via the Family Matters website, or, you may simply click on either calendar, save it to your personal device, and access it directly.           

Many additional PRAYER resources are available in both App Stores for use on your tablet or phone.

 

It's okay if it takes you a minute to think about how you'd answer questions about prayers. Are you happy with your response? Will you continue praying as usual or do you have a desire to change your pattern? Strengthening your relationship with God is an ongoing journey. Seek Him and listen to His commands. Let His grace be sufficient.

The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up; and anyone who has committed sins will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective. James 5:15-16

Back To School Prayers

Many children will be heading back to school in the next weeks, likely experiencing a range of emotions from excited anticipation to anxious uncertainty. These emotions aren't reserved only for students, but for parents, teachers, and school personnel, as well.
As a church community, we can lift up our youth, their families, and their leaders in daily prayer. Don't know exactly where to start or what to say? Here are some examples:

*(click on each picture to view it larger)*

Are you an educator? The list of responsibilities is great and often, seemingly unending. May you begin each day with peace and comfort as you influence the lives of your students everyday.

Julie Sanders, from The Mom Initiative, writes about the importance of prayers FOR teachers in addition to those we pray for students.

How to pray for the new teacher in your child’s life:

• Pray for the teacher as she looks at her summer to do list; she might not’ve had a vacation or success in taking care of needs.
• Pray for the teacher as she needs to be refreshed and healthy; her summer may’ve included loss, grief, disappointment, or trial.
• Pray for the teacher as she has concerns about how her relationships will change with the school year starting: daycare, marriage, family, needy children.
• Pray for the teacher as she gets her classroom ready; she may have to move rooms, may not have supplies yet, or might have issues to address.
• Pray for the teacher as she attends staff development and meetings; she may have requirements to meet or assignments to finish.
• Pray for the teacher as she re-connects with fellow staff & faculty; some working relationships might be challenging.
• Pray for the teacher as she sorts through curriculum; a change in grade level, publisher, or requirements can be difficult.
• Pray for the teacher as she begins to do her planning; teachers have so much to pack in, and the unexpected will enter in.
• Pray for the teacher as she receives information about her students; she needs openness, insight, wisdom, and compassion.
• Pray for the teacher as she meets a whole new group of parents; parent relationships are crucial to the success of students & teachers.

Every teacher is a real person who goes to the grocery store, does laundry, has dinner with friends, cries, hurts, and worries. She needs the Kleenex and the hand sanitizer, but most of all, she needs your prayers.

Whether you put someone on the school bus this week or watch a bus drive by, talk to God.

Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go, Even when he is old he will not depart from it.

One Nation Under God

Around the nation this weekend, people will celebrate the 4th of July. They’ll attend parades, family BBQs, fireworks displays, and most events will include music: God Bless the USA, the National Anthem, God Bless America, and the like.

Pastor Terry O’Brien, of Saint Paul Lutheran in Pana, IL believes “the true independence that we Americans, that we Christians, that we Lutherans truly have is in Christ Jesus our Savior. For as we hold our celebrations it is entirely fitting for us to pause and remember that our true independence comes not from a piece of paper signed by men like Thomas Jefferson and John Adams and Benjamin Franklin, but by the suffering, death and resurrection of God’s own precious Son.”

Pastor O’Brien’s sermon continued with these words: “Because Jesus suffered and died for our sins, we have been freed from the death sentence of sin. We have been freed to live our lives as Christians who thank God for our blessings. We have been freed to show and demonstrate our faith through good works and good deeds. Our constitutional freedom of religion – and more importantly, our unshakable belief that we have been saved by God’s grace and not by anything that we have ever done or ever will do – allow us to stand up and proudly confess our faith to anyone and to everyone, believer and nonbeliever alike.”

  

He suggests that each day, and especially this Friday, July 4th, “Thank God for the blessings and privilege of living in a nation where we truly can worship whenever and wherever we wish. Thank God for the blessings and privilege of living in a nation where we can freely and without fear proclaim Jesus Christ and the true eternal independence that He has won for us. Thank God the Father for sending His beloved Son to suffer and die for our sins. Thank God the Son for willingly suffering the agonies of the cross so that we can enjoy the eternal bliss of heaven. Thank God the Holy Spirit for bringing us to faith.”

As you step out into the city for good this weekend, enjoy your fellowship with family and friends, and celebrate your gifts in God's grace.

John 8:32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. 

Psalm 119:45 I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your commandments.

Vacationing With God

Last Saturday marked the official beginning of  summer, but many folks have been enjoying the vacation season for quite a few weeks. Staycations and out of town trips are common happenings throughout the glorious months of summer, often a break from the regular worship routine and fellowship in the church community.

Whether you're in town or out of town, in church or out of church, God is with you wherever you go. Whether you're following new road signs or taking familiar paths, remember that you are not alone.

Look for God wherever you are. His majestic creations are filled with love and wonder. He is in each new experience and with you in times of relaxation.

If you feel out of sync because you're out of church, here are some things to think about when you're out of the building:

1. Pray intentionally.
2. Find a church in your vacation area.
3. Pack your Bible and/or a daily devotional.
4. Look for opportunities (where you are) to serve others and share the Good News!

1 Chronicles 16:11 Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His face continually.

Congratulations and God Bless!

Congratulations to the 2014 High School Grads!

Marissa Gautier

Brittany Meersman

Kaitlyn Nelson

Natalie Picht

Sara Stoner

Gage Sutton

Jacob Thompson

Danielle Vickers

Confirmation Sunday

Be a witness and support Holy Trinity YOUTH on Confirmation Sunday, May 18th.

Ten young men and young women will give testimony of their faith this week! Hear three or more students share their faith statements at any of the worship services.

Join the family and friends of the following students in celebration and thanksgiving:

Aidan James Zechmann

Nicholas Samuel Mootz

Morgan Juliana Chung

Natalie Donna Bak

Jackson Thomas Kolsrud

Brenna Grace Picht

Cameron Lee Lopez

Jordan Leigh Laird

Matthew James Laird

Leslie Eileen Acosta

Lift them up each day and pray for their life of faith.

Numbers 6:24-26   May the Lord bless you and take care of you; 

 May the Lord be kind and gracious to you; 

 May the Lord look on you with favor and give you peace.

I John 3:2-3   My dear friends, we are now God's children, 

 but it is not yet clear what we shall become. 

 But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, 

 because we shall see him as he really is. 

 Everyone who has this hope in Christ keeps himself pure, 

 just as Christ is pure.

Beyond Ordinary

In the routine of daily life, we often go through the motions, checking off lists, following calendar demands, and looking ahead just enough to move forward to the next task. We might even define what we do as ordinary.
Even if going to church on Sunday fits into your weekly plan, what do you do Monday through Saturday to connect with the Lord, to see Him in your daily life?

Each of us is uniquely designed by God. Look for Him, seek Him, speak to Him everyday. His plan is extraordinary and in order to serve Him, we must actively participate in knowing Him.

In response to this week's Gospel lesson from Luke 24:13-35, the ELCA suggests this prayer:
O God, your Son makes himself known to all his disciples in the breaking of bread. Open the eyes of our faith, that we may see him in his redeeming work, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
In the ordinary of everyday living, you will find Jesus. Seek. Find. Do extraordinary things with Him and for Him.

Easter Is Over, So Now What?

Easter isn't only a single day to rejoice in the Good News of Jesus and his never-stopping, never giving-up love for us. It's a time to be intentionally prayerful and personal with God.

Lysa Terkeurst, from Proverbs 31 Ministries, offers six prayers to pray the week after Easter. She references Matthew 28, where the angel spoke to the woman at the tomb.

• “Do not be afraid,” – God, I hand over to You those things that make me so afraid. Resurrect the parts of my faith squelched by fear.

• “I know that you are looking for Jesus,” – God, when my soul is searching, help me know the answer to every longing can be found in You.

• “He has risen,” – God, the fact that Jesus is risen should lift my head, my heart and my attitude. Help me to live today as if I really believe this with every part of my life.

• “just as he said,” – Jesus, You keep Your promises. Help me live as though I believe that with every part of me. Help me trust You more, obey You more and resemble You more.

• “Come and see,” – Jesus, You had the angels invite the women in to see for themselves that You had risen. You invite me into these personal revelations every day. Forgive me for sometimes rushing about and forgetting to come and see for myself … You, Your Word, Your insights.

• “Then go quickly and tell his disciples,” – Jesus, I don’t want to be a secret keeper with my faith. I want to be a bold and gracious truth proclaimer. For You. With You. Because of You. Me, the unwanted girl whom You loved, redeemed and wanted.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

What's the best time of day for you to sit quietly in prayer? Challenge yourself to find that time and be intentional about it regularly, daily, lovingly.

Do you want to memorize a verse this week? Try this one:

1 John 3:16 This is how we know what love is. Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.

Butterfly Cross of New Life and Resurrection

Butterflies are recognized around the world as symbols of change and transformation. More than 28,000 species of butterflies represent the insect's differences, though often, they are categorized as the same. Not a single human is exactly alike, yet everyone is created in the same way.

Butterflies begin life in one form, but end it in another. It begins as a crawling creature that hibernates in a cocoon and re-enters the world able to fly, often used a symbol of resurrection in Christianity. As Christ died on the cross, was buried in a tomb, and came to life again, He brought hope of life after death. The butterfly "dies" as a caterpillar, is buried in a cocoon, and transforms into new-life, able to take flight, symbolic of a human soul into heaven.

This year at HT, the traditional Easter cross will be filled with butterflies rather than fresh cut flowers. Many students in the Sunday School program will participate in making a one or more butterflies to add to the cross. However, this is a church-wide opportunity for adults to contribute time and talents, as well. You are invited to create a butterfly for the Easter cross. A few visuals are included below, however, the creative possibilities are endless. Butterflies will be attached to the cross with wire.

Begin with a random assortment of scraps and supplies, allow yourself to ponder (hibernate) for a few minutes, and create a butterfly that has transformed from simple pieces into a beautiful new life.

Holden Evening Prayer

You don't have to know how to play an instrument or sing in an organized choir ensemble to appreciate the benefits of music in your daily life.

It's influential in all cultures and results in improved memory, focused attention and physical coordination. Check out this TOP 10 list of beneficial effects:

1. Effective therapy for pain
2. Reducing blood pressure
3. Medicine for the heart
4. Speeds post-stroke recovery
5. Chronic headaches and migraine remedy
6. Music boosts immunity
7. Enhances intelligence, learning, and IQ
8. Improves concentration and attention
9. Improves body movement and coordination
10. Improves memory performance

Throughout this Lenten season, the Wednesday night service at HT includes Marty Haugen's Holden Evening Prayer. As a composer of contemporary hymns and liturgical music, Haugen wrote the piece while serving as the musician-in residence at Holden Village, a Lutheran retreat center in Washington state during 1985-86.

The lyrics are meaningful, they stay in the mind for hours and days after walking out of the sanctuary. Without intention, they may drift in and out of thoughts, bridging the gap between the chaos of daily earthly commitments and moments of sacred connection with the Lord.

From Psalm 141, on page 4 of Holden Evening Prayer, the words "Let my prayer rise up, like incense before you, the lifting up of my hands, as an offering to you. Oh God, I call to you, come to me now; oh hear my voice as I call to you...Keep watch within me God, deep in my heart may the light of your love be burning bright...All praise be to Christ and the spirit of love."

Allow these words and the melody that you know so well bring you close to Jesus each day. Receive the benefits of music in your heart, mind, and soul - and let your prayers rise up as an offering to the Lord.

No Sunday School - No Problem!

It's spring break and Sunday School is on hold for a couple of weeks. There's no better time for a planned Family Devotional to recognize the Holy Trinity. As HTLC prepares to celebrate it's 60th Anniversary as a congregation in Chandler, continue the conversation in your home and talk about God the father, Jesus -His son, and the power of the Holy Spirit.

This Sunday is March 16th, the day before St. Patrick's Day.

The holiday recognizes St. Patrick and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland.

The Holy Trinity is represented in this shamrock craft with symbols depicting Jesus, God, and the Holy Spirit.

How about a tasty treat to celebrate the Holy Trinity?

Shamrock Pretzel Bites

Ingredients Needed:

Hershey Kisses

Green M&M's

Green Tube Icing

Small Pretzels

Supplies Needed:
Cookie Sheet
Parchment Paper
Small Icing Tip

Instructions:

• Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and preheat oven to 200 degrees F.

• Place pretzels down and top with an unwrapped Hershey Kiss.

• Bake at 200 Degrees for about 7 minutes.

• Remove from oven and immediately press three green M&M candies onto each pretzel/kiss.

• When cool, use icing tip on a tube of green frosting to draw on the stems of the shamrocks.

• Enjoy!

Note: You want the Hershey Kisses to be soft but not completely melted on the pretzel. Watch them carefully and adjust as needed.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ST. PATRICK'S PRAYER

St. Patrick's prayer for the faithful captures the wonderful spirit that
made him Ireland's patron saint and one of the Church’s most beloved missionaries.
In this prayer he asks for God’s help in various ways:
May the Strength of God pilot us.
May the Power of God preserve us.
May the Wisdom of God instruct us.
May the Hand of God protect us.
May the Way of God direct us.
May the Shield of God defend us.
May the Host of God guard us.
Against the snares of the evil ones.
Against temptations of the world 
May Christ be with us!
May Christ be before us!
May Christ be in us,
Christ be over all!
May Thy Salvation, Lord,
Always be ours, This day, O Lord, and evermore. Amen.

What's Your Story?

You have a story.

It's a good one!

Is it clear to you?

Have you spent time thinking about how your faith has shaped your life?

Consider sharing your faith story.

Inviting others into your journey is courageous, has amazing power, and will encourage others.

How has loving the Lord affected your life?

Are you willing to put your story into written words?

Share your story as a guest contributor on this blog.

Submit in writing or by email to judi@htlutheran.com

Time, Talent and Treasure

"God's Work. Our Hands." It's a familiar slogan used to emphasize service in our church body, local communities, and the world.

Using your time, talent, and treasure, you can do God's work, serving people and places with your hands. Doesn't that sound amazing?

But what happens when the speed bumps in life occasionally slow down a desire to seek opportunities or change? And why is it so darn comfortable following the same routine (including service of time, talent, and treasure) day in/day out, or even year in/year out? Do you hesitate to change the path, try something new, or serve with people you don't know very well?

So here's the big question: How can you best spend your time, use your talents, and share your financial treasure? Colossians 3:23-24 Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. There are many possible (and very acceptable) answers to the big question, but where is the best place to start? Here are a few things to think about:

• Did you know that Holy Trinity has checklist to help you identify specific areas of interests? This form represents some of the opportunities that are currently available. Check the areas where you would like to serve. 

þ	Worship	7:45	9:15	10:45	Comments
	Assist with communion
	Read lessons in worship
	Usher at worship
	Greet at worship
	Volunteer at the Welcome Center
	Prepare & serve coffee after worship
	Volunteer in nursery
	Operate Sound Board

	Prepare the altar for worship (Altar Guild)
	Provide cookies for after services
	Straighten up church after worship
	Other (please describe)

  

þ	Choir &  Music	Comments
	Participate in Jr choir (gr 2 through 6 )
	Participate in Adult choir  (gr 9 and up)
	Participate in Orchestra - list instrument
	Participate in Handbell choir
	Participate in Praise Worship Music Team (10:45 Service)
	Other (please describe)

  

þ	Outreach	Comments
	Participate in Habitat for Humanity team
	Participate in Mexico Mission team
	Participate in Treasure Box Distribution
	Write articles for newspaper
	Other (please describe)

þ	Fellowship - Small Groups	Comments
	Participate in Koinonia (adult fellowship & study meets once a month)
	Participate in Campouts
	Participate in Dinner for 6
	Participate in Bible Study
	Participate in Men’s Breakfast Group
	Participate in Tuesday Women’s Fellowship & Bible Study (Circle)
	Assist in planning Women’s Events (Women’s Tea & Advent Dinner)
	Participate in Widow’s Mite (support group & fellowship)
	Participate in Quilters Group (sewing skills not necessary)
	Participate in FACESS - Young Parents Group
	Participate in Fun Team (planning Fall Festival & Annual Picnic)
	Other (please describe)

þ	Youth & Children’s Activities	Comments
	Assist with children’s activities – Indicate Grade:
	Assist with Junior High activities
	Assist with Senior High activities
	Assist with Wednesday evening Confirmation Class as a group leader
	Be a Prayer Partner for a confirmation student
	Serve on Youth & Family Ministry Team
	Other (please describe)

þ	Education	Comments
	Be a Sunday school teacher
	Be an assistant Sunday school teacher
	Be a substitute Sunday school teacher
	Assist with Vacation Bible School
	Teach/lead adult classes
	Other (please describe)

þ	Social Ministry  & Caring Ministry	Comments
	Participate in Christian Meditation
	Participate in email Prayer chain
	Visit sick and shut-in
	Prepare & deliver meals to families when needed
	Provide babysitting when needed
	Deliver Meals on Wheels (4 times per year)
	Deliver tapes of worship services to shut ins
	Assist with Divorce Care classes
	Assist with Grief Share classes
	Assist with Divorce Care for Kids classes
	Assist with Card Ministry (sending cards to prayer chain)
	Assist with Blood Drive
	Give rides to church
	Provide transportation service when needed
	Other (please describe)

þ	Finance and Financial Stewardship	Past Experience/comments
	Assist in annual stewardship program
	Count Sunday morning offerings
	Serve on Finance Committee
	Serve on Endowment Committee
	Other (please describe)

þ	Property Maintenance and Improvement	Past Experience/comments
	Serve on Property Committee
	Help on church “work days” (bi-annually)
	Gifts I can share:  paint, woodwork, electric, plumbing (please circle all you can share)

þ	Administrative Assistance	Past Experience/comments
	Assist with bulletin folding (Friday mornings)
	Assist with folding newsletter (one Thursday morning/month)
	Assist with miscellaneous office work

  

1.  These are the areas where I have served in previous church and community groups:

  

2.       These are the areas I am currently serving and participating in at Holy Trinity:

  

3.      Of all the areas I checked, my top three interests are:

1. 

2. 

3. 

• Is there something you'd really like to do, but it's not listed on the form? Talk to a church leader or a friend in the congregation. Get the conversation started and participate the magnificent effects of your time, talents, and treasure!
• Not sure what to do? Uncomfortable making a change right now? Take your thoughts, concerns, and desires to the Lord in prayer. Listen for Him. Keep asking. Keep listening. Psalm 145:18 The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.

As a church body, our ministries and programs rely heavily on the service of our members in a variety of areas-doing God's work as a caring and sharing congregation. How will you join in? Matthew 5:16 Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.