Newsletter

New Life All Around

From Pastor Kevin

The season of Easter and of new life is upon us. As we enter May the time for Spring cleaning, garden planting, and lawn mowing is upon us. The new life all around us in Spring often means a lot of new work. When we begin to lament the labor before us we can look back to the short, cold, dark days of winter when we longed for all of this. That work is the cost of freedom from what once held us indoors!

New life in Christ is like that too. As we celebrate the resurrection, and the gift of new life that Jesus gives to us. When we feel lost and overwhelmed by sin we long for freedom and new life. When we are given those gifts suddenly the exercise of that freedom is transformed within our hearts into something that sounds like work.

In some way all of life could be seen as work. What is the difference between being excited to cook for the family and having to get dinner out of the way? What makes fixing up one car a restoration, and fixing another a nuisance?

What transforms something we might enjoy into “work?” The answer is desire. What does your heart truly desire? Often the answer is not the same as the stories we tell ourselves. To truly desire something is not simply to feel want, but to be willing to seek after a thing whatever the cost. As God’s people, indwelt by His spirit, part of the gift of new life we have in Christ is a new desire to follow Jesus. We do not simply “want” His kingdom to come, we desire to live in his coming kingdom. We seek after Him, and work as needed to bring that kingdom we long to see. These are the hallmarks of new life.

In these seasons of Spring and Easter, seasons of new life, I pray you find yourself in a season of new life by faith in the life-giving son of God.

Pastor Kevin McClain
Lead Pastor

A Note from Pastor Charles: A New & Wonderful Opportunity

I have been invited to join the faculty of Drury University in Springfield, Missouri this fall in the role of Professor of Religious Studies, University Chaplain, and Director of Religious and Spiritual Life. I will also pastor a small United Methodist congregation in Springfield starting mid-July.

It has been an absolute joy serving Trinity Lutheran Church these last two years in the role of pastor for congregational care. Our senior and homebound members are truly wonderful and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed visiting with them each week, getting to know them one-on-one, and hearing their amazing stories. I’ve also enjoyed participating in the rich worship life of the church and having the opportunity to interact with almost everyone in the congregation sometime during my tenure. My family and I have greatly appreciated the kind words, warm smiles, and generous hearts. We will certainly remember our time at Trinity with fondness.

My final Sunday with Trinity will be June 29th. I will be away a few weeks during May and June preparing for the big move, but will be continuing my visitation duties all the way to the end.

Highlighted

Announcements

Spring Rummage Sale

Fri & Sat, May 9th & 10th | Jack’s Place

We can’t wait for the annual spring rummage sale! Collections will take place May 5th – 8th. The sale itself will be open Friday and Saturday, May 9th & 10th. On Friday, the sale will run 9am-4pm, and on Saturday, 9am-12pm. All proceeds will go to purchasing items for Operation Christmas Child boxes!

If you’d like to volunteer to help, find more details in the Get Involved section.


Wednesday Dinner Summer Break

Our Wednesday Dinners will take a break for the summer months. Enjoy the summer, and we look forward to seeing you again in the fall!


graduation cap2Senior Graduation Sunday & Celebration Breakfast

Sunday, June 1st | 8:45am Traditional Service Join us as we honor our graduating High School Seniors during the Traditional Service on June 1st. Following the service, there is a breakfast in Mitchell Hall to celebrate all the graduating seniors-all are welcome to join with RSVP!

Any high school seniors not yet signed up can contact the church office to be recognized on Senior Sunday.

Anyone planning to attend the celebratory breakfast can sign up by May 16th.

Celebrations

Celebrating May Birthdays

Let’s shower our cherished members 85 and over with lots of love and well-wishes as they celebrate their birthdays this month!

  • Carol Obrecht | 86 years | 05/03/1939
  • Myron Amstutz | 86 years | 05/10/1939
  • Donna Shaw | 88 years | 05/13/1937
  • Robert G. Carver | 91 years | 05/17/1934
  • Richard Obrecht | 89 years | 05/28/1936
  • Betty Burkholder | 98 years | 05/28/1927
  • Carolyn Bonesteel | 91 years | 05/31/1934

Kids

Ministry

vsb true north

Vacation Bible School – Save the Date

June 9th – 12th | 9am – 12pm | Ages 4 – 5th Gr.

Mark your calendars now for an amazing week full of fun at “True North” Vacation Bible School 2025. Kids get to explore how easy it is to lose sight of what’s true in our wild world today, and they will learn that JESUS is our true north. Join us for a week full of faith discoveries, music, and epic adventures that help kids grow in friendship with Jesus!

If you are willing to be a volunteer for the week, contact one of the VBS directors: Amy Atterholt, Angela Baker, Kari Emmons, Kristen McClain or Dawn Forbes for more info. Don’t wait till June! Get your favorite spot NOW!!

Youth

Ministry

senior graduationSenior Dinner Celebration: Honoring Accomplishments

Wednesday, May 21st | 6-7pm | Youth Room

On May 21st, we’re hosting a special dinner in the Youth Room to celebrate our graduating seniors! Come honor their accomplishments, hear their advice for underclassmen, and join us in praying for their future. This informal gathering is a wonderful way to connect and support our senior class as they move into the next exciting chapter of their lives.

Music

Ministry

Choir Rehearsal Schedule

Various days & times | Beginning in September & October

Join us in creating music, community, and worship! No prior singing experience is required. View the schedule for our various choirs below, and contact Kim Wolbert for more information at kim@trinityashland.org.

  • Children’s Choirs (Pre-K – Grade 6) | Wednesdays 6- 7pm | Trinity Preschool & Assembly Rooms
  • High Praise Youth Choir (Grades 7-12) | Downstairs Choir Room
  • Men’s Choir | 9/17, 9/23, 10/1, 10/7, 10/10 7-8:30pm | Sanctuary
  • Adult Choir | Wednesdays 7-8:30pm | Choir Loft
  • Luther Bell Choir (Grades 2-6) | Wednesdays 4:30-5:15pm | Mitchell Hall
  • Trinity Bell Choir (Experienced) | Wednesdays 6-7pm | Mitchell Hall
  • Sunrise Singers | First Monday of each Month at 7pm | Music Room

 

Senior

Ministry

casa for familiesLuther Club

Thursday, Apr 3rd | Noon | Jack’s Place

All seniors are invited to join us for a delicious lunch and some great fellowship! On the menu is potato & chicken casserole and yellow cake with chocolate frosting. After lunch, we’ll hear from speaker Jenny Keesee from CASA. The cost is $7, and an RSVP is required. We hope to see you there!

Women's

Ministry

Men's

Ministry

Missions & outreach

Updates

Christian

Education

Preschool

Montessori

Preschool registration now open

Serving ages 2 ½ to 5 years of age. We follow the Montessori philosophy. In addition, we offer spiritual formation and experiential music enrichment. Our program provides individualized learning. Enrollment packets are available outside the Montessori office. For additional questions, please contact Cindy Duffey at (419) 289-2126 or montessori@trinityashland.org.

Get

Involved

WHERE WILL YOU SERVE? EXPLORE OPPORTUNITIES

Job Opportunities

Please visit our job opportunities page for a full list of qualifications and full instructions on how to apply.

Volunteer Opportunities

At Trinity, we strive to serve others and make a difference in our community, just as Jesus calls us to do. We need your help continuing our mission through these service opportunities:

  • Event Setup: We’re looking for volunteers to join a list of people who can be called upon to help set up tables and chairs for various church events. It often takes a long time for one person to handle this alone, so having a team will make the process much quicker and easier. If you’re available and willing to assist, please contact Jeff Gray at jwgray1@outlook.com. Ideally, we’re hoping to gather a list of 10-12 volunteers. Your support is greatly appreciated! Thank you for helping serve our church and the greater Ashland community by helping our events run smoothly.
  • Food & Fellowship: Do you enjoy baking or connecting with new people? Our Olive Tree Cafe needs bakers to donate tasty treats and friendly hosts to greet visitors. You’ll be providing hospitality and helping newcomers feel welcome.
  • First Impressions: Help make a great first impression by volunteering at our Information Desk, welcoming new faces, and guiding people to classes and services. Your warmth and assistance can make someone’s day.
  • Radio Ministry: If you prefer behind-the-scenes work, we need help running our radio ministry programs. You’ll be spreading God’s message near and far from the comfort of our church.
  • Rides: We have members in need of transportation to attend church events. Are you willing to be the hands and feet of Jesus by providing the occasional ride? Any time you can volunteer is greatly appreciated and makes a lasting difference. Please contact the church office if you can help or know someone who can. As a Trinity family, let’s make sure transportation is not a barrier to participating in our church.

Jesus tells us that whatever we do for others, we do for Him. Through volunteering with us, you can share your gifts and passions while walking in Christ’s footsteps. Contact us today to get involved!

Community

Partnerships

Attendance

& Giving

March 2025 Attendance
Date Sunday School Church Services
3/1-3/2 75 322
3/5- Ash Wed n/a 216
3/8-3/9 106 405
3/13 – Vespers n/a 50
3/15-3/16 107 281
3/20 – Vespers n/a 47
3/22-3/23 118 337
3/27 – Vespers n/a 51
3/29-3/30 74 355
March 2025 Receipts
3/1 $16,135
3/8 $18,375
3/15 $11,490
3/22 $15,607
Operating Fund YTD
Income $234,742
Disbursements $359,814
Deficit -$123,442
Weekly Income Needed for Operating Budget $27,678

COUNCIL NOTES

& NEWS

Opening & Pastor’s Report

  • Pastor Kevin shared gratitude for council members, especially those completing their terms: Larry Franks, Kim Oberholtzer, Stephanie Stoll, and Lay Leader Kenny Oberholtzer.

Key Updates & Reports

Pastoral & Staff

  • Pastor Neff will leave in June for a university position in Missouri. A replacement is being considered, with longer-term plans to develop lay ministers.

Annual Meeting Preparation

  • Agenda and financial reports are being finalized. Council nominee bios will be added before distribution.

Christian Education

  • First Communion classes successful. Over 30 children attended the Resurrection Celebration. No Sunday School on Easter Sunday (April 20th).

Finance

  • Accounting adjustment approved to correct Children’s Ministry Fund from 2024 errors.

Grounds

  • Garden pots replaced, porch/garden tiles deteriorating, diseased boxwoods under discussion. Fountain opening soon; volunteers needed. Rose beds resting due to disease. Apex continues mowing.

Kitchen

  • No report

Missions

  • Committee meeting upcoming to discuss better communication of mission work. May 25th visit from Jayan & Molly Varghese (Child Evangelism Fellowship of India) canceled.

Montessori

  • April open house had 3 families attend. Closing picnic set for May 22nd. Director Cindy Duffey resigning at end of school year.

Nurture

  • Discussion on support of Ashland Pregnancy Care Center; policies in development to ensure balanced support of local ministries.

Outreach

  • Returning to previous outreach form process. Marsha McNutt and Kenny Oberholtzer will co-serve as secretaries; Pastor Ben to serve as pastoral rep.

Personnel/Lay Leader

  • No report

Property

  • Approved funding for flooring and roof repair. TLC Properties March ending balance: $25,004.70 after $7,920 dispersal.

Safety

  • No report

Senior Ministries

  • Planning bus trip to Columbus on June 13 and 4-night cruise in November. MnM’s, Euchre Club, Luther Club continuing strong. 44 members receiving home communion.

Women and Children

  • Final Girls Night Out took place with 38 women attending. VBS and Summer Reading planning underway. Montessori Board working to fill preschool director role.

Worship and Music

  • Positive feedback on Holy Week bulletin designs; plan to continue more inviting covers.
  • Easter Praise Choir has 40+ members.
  • Holy Week services included Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Tenebrae, Easter Vigil, and two Sunday services.
  • Organ recital with George Sargeant set for April 27 at 4 p.m.
  • Rally Day plans in progress—will include ministry fair, teacher commissioning, and fellowship.
  • Broadway revue rehearsals begin after Mother’s Day; planning continues for a potential Christmas Pageant.

Young Adult & Youth

  • No reports

Adjournment

  • Meeting concluded with the Lord’s Prayer. (Motion to adjourn: Stephanie)