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Gift of Faith

From Pastor Kevin

As Christians we confess that we are saved by grace through faith, but can any faith save? Faith plays a central role in every religious understanding. The word faith is often used interchangeably with the word religion as though they were the same things. People talk about their faith or where they place their faith. What exactly is this faith that everyone talks about?

Many people speak of faith as though it is a capacity or a power that all people naturally possess. As Lutheran Christians we speak of faith a bit differently. Faith isn’t about what you possess, but rather what possesses you. It is a gift of God that allows you to live out trust in God. In the Small Catechism Luther explains the 3rd article of the Apostles Creed saying: “I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in my Lord Jesus or come to Him, but the Holy Spirit has called my by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the one true faith”

We confess that it is God Himself who calls us into faith in Christ; to say it another way: Faith has us.

Faith is a gift that God gives to all He chooses to bring us to Him. This faith does save us. God gives us this faith so that we can lay hold of His grace in Christ. He does everything in our salvation. This is wonderful news because we do not have to worry about the quantity or quality of our contribution, nothing depends on us, everything depends on Jesus.

I pray that this truth gives you peace and the ability to rest in Christ. He has done it all for you.

Pastor Kevin McClain
Lead Pastor
Read More Notes

Kitchen Updates Complete

A Heartfelt Thank You to Everyone Who Lent a Hand

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of the staff members, volunteers, and work crews—past and present—who have faithfully served in our kitchen and helped care for this important ministry space over the years. We are also deeply thankful to those who recently gave their time and energy to clean, organize, and renovate the kitchen. From washing dishes and organizing drawers to moving utensils, shelving, boxes, and more, your hard work has helped restore this space into one that will continue to serve our congregation well. Because of these collective efforts, the kitchen is now fully functioning once again, complete with brand new tile that makes it easier to wash and clean, as well as a fresh coat of paint.

We are excited for the ways this refreshed space will support our ministries and gatherings in the years to come. As we continue making improvements to our church facilities, the next project will be replacing the church carpet throughout March. Thank you again to everyone who has helped care for and invest in this important part of Trinity’s ministry life.

jp kitchen updates

Highlighted

Announcements

Update on Ron’s Song of Celebration

May 30-31 | All Services | Trinity Lutheran Church

Ron’s Retirement Recognition Services

We’re excited to share that the commissioned piece honoring Ron, “Keep Watch Between Us,” has been completed earlier than expected! This beautiful and meaningful work will be presented during Ron’s Retirement Recognition Services on May 30–31 as we celebrate his many years of faithful music ministry at Trinity.
All singers are warmly invited to be part of this special presentation as we come together to honor Ron through music. If you would like to participate, please contact Kim Wolbert—we would love to have you join us.

We are also continuing to collect donations to help support this heartfelt tribute. If you would like to contribute, you can scan the QR code or reach out for more information. Thank you for helping make this celebration so special as we give thanks for Ron’s lasting impact on our worship and community.

Commissioning of Home Communion Deacons

Home Communion Deacons will be commissioned on the weekend of April 25 and 26 at all services. Please pray for our deacons as the commit to serve our homebound members in the holy sacrament of communion:

Diane Frank, Jeff and Linda Gray, Karen Laugherty,
Ruth Ann Linder, Anna Little, John McNutt, Kim Oberholtzer,
Shawn Prichard, JoEllen Smalley, Michelle Vanderzyden, Gail Warnes, Judy White, Dave Wolbert, Amanda Wolfe

Support Associated Charities Food Pantry

Associated Charities Food Pantry is currently in special need of kid-friendly foods and household essentials. We invite you to support this important ministry by donating any of the items on the wish list below. Donations can be brought to the church office or placed on the food cart located near the elevator, across from the staircase by the library and sanctuary. Items will be delivered by a church member. Thank you for your generosity and for helping care for those in need in our community!

Please consider donating any of the following items:

  • Ravioli and SpaghettiOs
  • Ramen noodles
  • Tomato or chicken noodle soup
  • Canned chicken or tuna
  • Peanut butter and jelly
  • Breakfast bars
  • Cereal
  • Paper towels
  • Toilet paper
  • Laundry soap
  • Shampoo and conditioner

Trintity Kids 456 Served at Matthew 25

Trinity Kids 456 had a wonderful opportunity to serve on February 28 at the Matthew 25 Outreach Center during their Ashland produce distribution. They helped set up, distribute food, and clean up, all while lending a helping hand to those in need in our community. We were blessed with a beautiful sunny day and a meaningful experience partnering with and learning from the Matthew 25 ministry. Trinity should be proud of the dedication and servant hearts shown by our kiddos—many of them even asked to serve again soon!

trinity kids 456 matthew 25

Celebrations

Celebrating Birthdays

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

  • Hazel Acuna | 86 years | April 1st
  • Bonnie Weygandt | 92 | April 7th
  • Marcelle Bragg | 88 years | April 12th
  • Carol Burns | 96 | April 13th
  • Beverly Stetson | 88 | April 14th

WEDDINGS, BAPTISMS, FUNERALS

Celebrating Milestones

Celebrating and remembering the meaningful milestones in the life of our church family, including baptisms, weddings, and funerals from the past month.

Griffin & Jainey Miller | Baptism | Feb 22nd
Eloise & Theodore Prichard | Baptism | Feb 22nd
Hannah James | Baptism | Mar 8th
Elizabeth Arnold & Gabriel Murawski | Wedding | Mar 8th

Kids

Ministry

tricycle

Toddler Time Extended!

  • Thurs, April 16th, 23rd & 30th 10:30-11:30am | Jack’s Place

We are continuing Toddler Time later into the spring this year! Join us for Creative Movement with Mr. Mark, fellowship

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Youth

Ministry

April Youth Share Groups

Sundays, Apr 12th 19th, & 26th | 7-8pm | Youth Room | Grades 7-12

Let’s come together for a thoughtful hour of prayer, scripture, and fellowship! We will gather in the Youth Room at Trinity Lutheran Church. Invite a friend and join the fun! Contact Ryane Briggs with any questions.

Praying for the Youth We Serve

In this month’s series of Ways to Pray for the Youth We Serve, we will feature Elizabeth Paddags, Clayton Kemery,

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green mini golf

Youth Fun Night: Indoor Mini Golf

  • Tuesday, Apr 14th | 7-8pm | Youth Room

On April 14th, grab your putter and join us in the Youth Room for a night of indoor mini golf

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youth dinner picnic table

Youth Night: Girls only Dinner

  • Monday, Apr 30th | 6-7pm | Youth Room

All girls in grades 7–12 are invited to join us for a special Girls’ Dinner on April 30 from 6:00–7:00

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Music

Ministry

Women’s Chorus

April 25th – 26th | All Weekend Services

womens choirWomen of all ages are invited to sing with our Women’s Chorus! Whether you’re a longtime singer or just love to lift your voice in worship, you are welcome. Join us for fellowship, joy, and meaningful music-making together. For details or to get involved, contact Kim Wolbert. All rehearsals will be 7-8:30pm in the Sanctuary. See the rehearsal dates below.

 

 

  • Tuesday, March 31st
  • Thursday, April 9th
  • Monday, April 13th
  • Tuesday, April 21st
  • Thursday, April 23rd

Easter Praise Choir

Easter Sunday, April 5th | 11am Service | Jack’s Place

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to jump back into singing—this is it! Join us for our Easter Praise Choir on April 5 for the 11:00 a.m. service in Jack’s Place. With just two easy rehearsals (March 28 and April 4 from 9:00–11:00 a.m.) and practice recordings provided, it’s simple to jump in. You don’t have to be a trained singer—if you love to worship, there is a place for you. We would love to have you join us!

High Praise Spring Concert

Sunday, April 19th | 2pm | Jack’s Place

high praise spring concertJoin us for the High Praise Youth Choir Concert on Sunday, April 19, for an afternoon of joyful worship and inspiring music. Our High Praise singers will present a powerful program filled with praise, energy, and heartfelt messages of faith as they share the Gospel through music. This special concert celebrates the gifts and dedication of our youth, with featured guest performances by the Ashland High School Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat cast. Come support these talented students and experience an uplifting afternoon that will encourage and inspire. A reception with light refreshments will follow the concert.

Children’s Choirs

Children’s choirs include: Music Makers (PreK-K), Cherubs (Grades 1-3), and Notes of Joy (Grades 4-6). All children’s choirs sing on occasion for holidays. Rehearsals take place at 6pm. Directors: Kim Wolbert and Mark Koehler.

Sonrise Singers

Sings at the 8:45am service, once or twice a month, September-June. Only one or two practices are schedule each month – typically the first Monday at 7pm in the Music Room and another as-needed. See event calendar for the specific schedule. Director: Ron Marenchin.

Senior Choir

Sings two or three Sundays a month at the 8:45am service from September through June and at special services. Practices are Wednesdays from 7 – 8:30pm in the Choir Loft. Director: Ron Marenchin.

Luther Bell Choir

For Youth Ringers (Grades 2 – 6). Meets Wednesdays from 4:30 – 5:15pm in Mitchell Hall. Director: Ron Marenchin.

Trinity Bell Choir

For experienced ringers. Meets Wednesdays from 6-7pm in Mitchell Hall. The choir usually rings on the fourth Sunday each month from September through May and at other special services. Director: Ron Marenchin.

Trinity Brass

For 7th Grade – Adult brass players. Play at various services and events throughout the year. Rehearsals begin in September. Meets in the Music Room.

Senior

Ministry

Luther Club

Thursday, Apr 9th | Noon | Jack’s Place

We invite you to gather for our next Luther Club for a delicious catered lunch and a time of fellowship. The menu will include chicken cordon bleu, mashed potatoes and gravy, asiago blend vegetables, a roll, and assorted pie. We will also hear from Sandy Lawrence of Downsize Me Simply as she shares helpful strategies for “clearing the clutter” when preparing to move or simply simplify your space. The cost is $7, and RSVPs can be made through the church office. We look forward to another enjoyable time together!

movie theater

Trinity Travelers Trip

  • Thusday, May 21st | Ohio Star Theater: Elijah: Prophet of Fire

Join fellow Trinity members for a fun day trip to see Elijah: Prophet of Fire at the Ohio Star Theater

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stationary envelope

Expressions of Faith

Attention, greeting card enthusiasts! If you enjoy creating unique, handcrafted cards, we invite you to join us for an afternoon
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playing cards2

Euchre Night

  • Thursday, Apr 23rd | 6:30pm | Jack’s Place

If you enjoy playing Euchre, join us for a fun evening of cards! You don’t need a partner to register—just

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MnM’s Making New Memories

  • Tuesday, Apr 21st | Noon | Jack’s Place
Ladies, if you're navigating life on your own, we invite you to our next “Making New Memories” (MnM's) luncheon!
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lemonade

Luther Club

  • Not Meeting in February

No meeting this month.

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Women's

Ministry

Girls’ Night Out: Let’s Get Growing!

Monday, Apr 13th | 5:30pm | Willo’Dell Nursery

plantsReady to shake off the winter blues? Join the women of Trinity and friends for our final Girls’ Night Out of the season! We’re heading to the beautiful Willo’Dell Nursery to enjoy
the sights and scents of spring among the plants.

When: Monday, April 13 at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Willo’Dell Nursery (1398 US 42, Ashland)
Cost: $7 per person (includes a light supper)

Come for the flowers, stay for the fellowship, and leave with a little spring in your step! We’ll also have the opportunity to ask Dale all of our spring flower questions, and you’re welcome to
plant your own flower to take home (at your own cost).

Our service project for April will support ACCESS. We will be collecting items such as disinfecting wipes, toilet bowl cleaner, Swiffer solution, dish detergent, and new cleaning rags.

Please sign up by April 8 so we can plan for food. We can’t wait to see you there!

 

Christian

Education

Sunday School Updates & Opportunities

Exciting changes are coming to Trinity Sunday School as we prepare for summer and fall 2026!

Summer 2026 Children’s Sunday School classes will take a break for the summer months, while adult classes may choose to continue meeting.
Fall 2026 A new eight-week session format (with a week off in between) will be introduced for all ages, from preschool through adult. This structure allows for a wider variety of classes and more flexible, shorter-term opportunities to serve.
Shepherds Needed Do you have a heart for guiding God’s people? We are looking for shepherds to help lead and support our Sunday School programs (children and adults) . If you feel called to serve, please contact Ryane Briggs in the church office—she would love to connect with you!

No sign-ups are needed for Sunday School classes.

Reach out to Ryane Briggs at Ryane@trinityashland.org with any questions.

bible study fellowship

Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) Fall 2025

  • Available Dates & Times Below Groups Begin Week of September 7th

Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) will begin a new study this fall, Exile & Return, featuring eight Old Testament books of

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First Communion Classes Take Place This Month

  • Sundays, March 1st - 22nd | 10-10:50am | Mitchell Hall

If your child is in 3rd grade or has not yet taken a first communion class, join us in March

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Preschool

Montessori

PRESCHOOL ENROLLMENT IS OPEN!

Preschool enrollment is now open! If you or someone you know is interested in enrolling their child, registration packets are available just outside the preschool office as well as in the church’s main office. We would love to welcome new families into our program! Please call 567-261 0670 or email montessori@trinityashland.org with any questions or if you’d like to schedule a tour—we’d be happy to connect with you. View our flier for full details!

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

Fostering Family: Join Us to Serve Our Community

Fostering Family Ministries was founded in 2016 in response to the desperate need for foster homes in Ashland County, Ohio.
Read more

Ashland County Cancer Association

  • Located at 1011 E Main Street, Suite A, Ashland
If you’re looking for a low-commitment way to give back, the ACCA is seeking individuals willing to drive clients to
Read more

Attendance

& Giving

February 2026 Attendance
Date Sunday School Church Services
1/31 – 2/1 Cancelled 90* Sat
2/7 – 2/8 115 347
2/14 – 2/15 108 372
2/18 Ash Wed 11am

2/18 Ash Wed 7pm

 n/a 123

159
2/21 – 2/22 92 328
2/28 – 3/1 92 277
February 2026 Receipts
2/8 $16,790
2/15 $16,401
2/22 $14,576
2/28-3/1 $33,198
Operating Fund YTD
Income $146,039
Disbursements $237,659
Deficit -$91,620
Weekly Income Needed for Operating Budget $29,707

COUNCIL NOTES

& NEWS

Opening & Pastor’s Report

As we near the celebration of Easter, we rejoice in the new life God is bringing among us. Trinity is on track to baptize 11 individuals during Lent, with more to follow in the Easter season. We will also be welcoming 10 new members and anticipate the need for an additional new member class soon. As new life blossoms all around us, we are reminded that God is the giver of all life—both spiritual and physical.

Key Updates & Reports

Approval of Minutes

  • Dan moved to approve the minutes and treasurer’s report. Jeff seconded. Motion carried.

Old Business

  • Dan moved to approve proposed constitutional amendments and timeline. Rob seconded. Motion carried.

Christian Education

  • The Sunday School year is nearing completion, with a summer break planned for children’s classes.
  • A new fall format will introduce eight-week rotating sessions with new topics and teachers. Recruitment for “Inviting Shepherds” (teachers) will begin soon.
  • Attendance awards will be presented May 10
  • No Sunday School on Easter.

Finance Committee

  • Meeting time changing to Third Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. (beginning April)
  • Fund Consolidation Project: Working on consolidating existing church fuds into a more streamlined structure.
  • Phase One approved (investigation and planning) – Motion by Dan, seconded by Brian

Montessori

  • “Granola with Grandparents” event was a success
    • about 40 grandparents attended
  • Rummage Sale scheduled:
    • May 8 (9 a.m.–4 p.m.)
    • May 9 (9 a.m.–12 p.m. bag sale)

Outreach

  • New committee members approved:
    • Devra Ritz (3-year term)
    • Kloey Kaeser (3-year term)
  • Council representatives:
    • Fred Gottfried (primary)
    • Tim Merkel (alternate)
  • Motion by Rob, seconded by Fred

Property

  • Carpet project nearly complete
  • Roof project to begin in early April (weather permitting)
  • TLC Properties:
    • 100% occupancy
    • No disbursements this month due to real estate taxes

Women & Children

  • Mother-Daughter Tea:
    • Nearly 60 attendees
    • Included lunch, crafts, music, and devotion
  • Planning underway for a mother/son event
  • VBS:
    • Planning and volunteer recruitment has begun
    • Promotional video coming for Palm Sunday & Easter
  • Girls Night Out:
    • 30+ attendees
    • Included fellowship and service project
  • Trinity Kids 456:
    • Served at Matthew 25
    • Assisted with setup, distribution, and cleanup

Worship & Music

  • Holy Week preparations underway
  • Easter Praise Choir:
    • Two rehearsals with recordings provided
  • Women’s Chorus:
    • Rehearsals begin March 31
    • Perform April 25–26
  • High Praise Choir Concert: April 19
  • New risers purchased for Jack’s Place (music fund)
  • Ron’s retirement celebration is May 31 at both services with a Congregational breakfast to follow
  • Rally Day planning has begun

Youth

  • Recent events:
    • Glow Party with strong attendance
    • Youth concert outing (Seph Schlueter)
  • Upcoming events:
    • The Passion of the Christ showing (March 20)
    • Youth Committee meeting (March 23)
    • Easter craft service project (March 26)
    • Lenten trinket activity for Palm Sunday

Adjournment

The meeting concluded with prayer and the Lord’s Prayer.

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