Newsletter

Freedom’s Beginning

From Pastor Kevin

This month our nation celebrates its 250th anniversary. America began as a nation on July 4th 1776 with the signing of the Declaration of Independence. But wasn’t exactly the beginning. Paul Revere’s midnight ride and the battles of Lexington and Concord occurred well over a year before; furthermore, the Revolutionary War wouldn’t be decided until the British surrendered at Yorktown over 5 years later. The treaty which concluded hostilities was signed in Paris 2 years after the British Surrender. It begs the question: Why should we call the 4th of July our Independence Day? The answer is simple but important, the truth began at the moment an irrevocable choice was made.

The founding fathers knew that this was the defining moment. Because their choice to live independently from the rule of those who had authority over them would change everything from that moment on. What began with a decision became the life that they would have. They would now need to sacrifice, to fight, to stand up for what they believed to be true and right, no matter what the cost.

Everything would be different.

Perhaps it was the Christian faith held by so many of them that informed this. As Christians they, and we with them, know that the moment that changed our lives was when God called us His own. When this truth was uttered and made its way from our ears to our hearts, everything else would be different. We would now sacrifice, fight, and stand up for what we now know to be the absolute truth. Everything is different. This is why we call the cross the moment of our salvation. What matters most is choice of God, the rest would come and be worked out in our lives.

As we celebrate this Independence Day remember that the freedom you now live and enjoy is the product of the choice of another to ensure you would live as free men and women. The one who chose was Christ. How blessed are we to live in the greatest country in the world and to be citizens of the Kingdom of God, and all because of a choice for us!

God Bless America,

Pastor Kevin McClain
Lead Pastor

Graduation Celebration Breakfast

Sunday, June 7th | 10am | Mitchell Hall

graduation capPlease join us on June 7 for a Congregational Breakfast as we celebrate our seven graduating high school seniors! A brief introduction of our graduates will begin at 10:00 a.m. in Mitchell Hall, with breakfast to follow. Help us send these young adults into their next chapter with the love, encouragement, and support of their Trinity family. Please sign up using the QR code to help us prepare enough food for everyone.

See more about our seven seniors and their future plans in the youth section beginning on page 8.

Highlighted

Announcements

Operation Christmas Child

Operation Christmas Child recently shared an encouraging reminder about the many ways we can help spread the love of Christ through a simple shoebox gift. Each shoebox, filled with quality toys, school supplies, and personal care items, opens the door for local church partners in more than 100 countries and territories to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Through these gifts, lives are changed, children are discipled, and communities are transformed.

Whether you choose to pack a shoebox as an individual, with your family, as part of a church group, or online, every gift makes a difference. You can also support this ministry through financial donations if you’re unable to pack a box yourself. However you choose to participate, don’t forget the most important item to include—your prayers. Together, we can help share God’s love and the hope of the Gospel with children around the world.

Save the Date: Women’s Morning with Sarah Steele

Saturday, October 3rd | 10am-Noon | Jack’s Place

Ladies, mark your calendars for a special morning of faith, fellowship, and encouragement on Saturday, October 3, from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. in Jack’s Place. We’re excited to welcome guest author and speaker Sarah Steele, who will share an inspiring message about finding freedom in Christ in a world that often pressures us to please others. Through her own experiences, Sarah will encourage women to let go of unhealthy expectations and embrace a more authentic, Christ-centered walk. Invite your friends and save the date for this uplifting event—we look forward to gathering together! More details and registration information will be available in the September newsletter.

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!

  • Karen Kime | 85 | August 1
  • Donald Wagner | 87 | August 3
  • Kay Krueger | 89 | August 6
  • Elaine Witmer | 87 | August 10
  • Gary Greene | 91 | August 11
  • Robert Ingmand | 88 | August 12
  • Judy Staley | 85 | August 12
  • Jim Gribben | 88 | August 16
  • Gail Pringle | 86 | August 17
  • Alex Karther | 89 | August 23
  • Marianne Mowry | 90 | August 24
  • Bill Etling | 87 | August 24

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.

Alice Fetzer | Funeral | July 10
Molly Bitounis | Baptism | July 12
Bill Poeppelman | Funeral | July 21
Marlene Rose | Funeral | July 24

2026 rally day

Family

Ministry

rummage sale 2026

Rummage Sale Recap

Trinity’s annual rummage sale was a HUGE success!

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated in Trinity’s Annual Rummage Sale on May 8–9. This year’s sale benefited Good Shepherd Preschool, supporting its vital ministry to children and families in our congregation and community.

The success of this event is a testament to the generosity of our church family.


To Our Donors:

Thank you for cleaning out closets, cupboards, and storage spaces to provide the wide variety of merchandise that filled the sale.


To Our Volunteers:

We are deeply grateful to everyone who gave their time in the weeks leading up to the event. Your hard work sorting, organizing, and displaying items created a welcoming shopping experience for all who attended.


To Our Bakers:

Thank you for sharing your delicious homemade treats that helped make the bake sale such a success.


While the final financial total is still being finalized, our initial count has already exceeded $11,000! Your donations, volunteer hours, baked goods, and prayers have made a tremendous difference for Good Shepherd Preschool. We are truly blessed to be part of such a caring, generous, and supportive congregation.

Kids

Ministry

Summer Reading Wrap Up

This year’s Summer Reading Program was filled with joy! Each morning, children came down the hallway of the church to meet their teachers, eager to learn, grow, and spend time together. Throughout the two-week program, students strengthened their reading skills while memorizing Scripture, learning Bible stories, praying together, and discovering that reading can be both fun and meaningful. The final Friday concluded with a special celebration where students shared what they had learned, followed by a family picnic.

Volunteer readers this summer included Rebecca Humrichouser, Barb Renneker, Barb Bates, Pam Potter, Cindy Messner, Zac Chapman, Karsyn Kaeser, Mylan LaRue, and Keith Butcher. Thank you to our special presenters, Mark Koehler, who shared his love of movement to music, and Laura Kime, who led a cupcake decorating activity. Students also enjoyed creating UV bracelets during a STEM activity while learning about ultraviolet light, as well as a field trip to Ashley’s Candy & Nut Shoppe, where they learned about candy making and enjoyed building their own ice cream sundaes.

A special thank you also goes to our teachers: Libby Hohler, Haley Bradfield, Molly LaRue, Lisa Bicker, and Carinna Baldner. We are also grateful for our many helpers throughout the two weeks: Kellie Keating, Kassie Keating, Norah Woodlee, Keith Butcher, Carly Butcher, Cana Walk, Zac Chapman, Caroline Rowsey, Joslyn Bicker, Everett Kime, and Kayden Pickering. Thank you to everyone who shared their time, talents, and generosity to make this year’s program a wonderful success!

2026 summer reading program


TRINITY KIDS 456 Summer Kickoff!

Sunday, August 16th | 6-7:30pm | Jack’s Place

Children Entering 4th,, 5th & 6th Grades

ice cream sundaeCalling all 4th, 5th, and 6th graders! Trinity Kids 456 is excited to kick off another year of faith, friendship, and fun with our Sundae Fun Day on Sunday, August 16. Students are invited to join us for an evening of building their own ice cream sundaes, playing kickball and Capture the Flag, and helping plan the exciting activities, trips, and service projects we’ll enjoy throughout the upcoming school year. Scan the QR code to register for our Sundae Fun Day!

Trinity Kids 456 is a wonderful opportunity for tweens to build friendships, grow in their faith, and have fun together in a welcoming Christian environment. We encourage everyone to invite a friend and come be part of this exciting kickoff event. Parents interested in helping with future events are invited to contact Dawn Forbes or Trinity Kids 456 leaders Melissa and Brad James, Jesse Gruver, or Luke Morris for more information.

Youth

Ministry

Youth Open Mic Night

Monday, August 17th | 7-8:30pm | Youth Room | Grades 7-12

mic nightBring your talents and join us for an evening of music, creativity, and fun! Students in grades 7–12 are invited to Open Mic Night on Monday, August 17, from 7:00–8:30 p.m. in the Youth Room. Whether you want to perform, cheer on your friends, or simply enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, come experience a fun night of fellowship in our cozy, moody Youth Room.

Music

Ministry

Join Our Upcoming Choir Opportunities

See the schedules below

Music is a wonderful way to worship, grow in faith, and build meaningful friendships. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just enjoy making a joyful noise, Trinity’s music ministry has a place for you! This fall, we invite singers and handbell ringers of all ages to join one of our choirs as we prepare music that leads our congregation in worship and praise. New members are always welcome—we’d love for you to be part of this vibrant ministry.


Rally Day Choir

Help us celebrate Rally Day by joining this special choir! Everyone is welcome to sing.

Rehearsals

  • Wednesday, September 2 | 7:00–8:30 p.m. | Sanctuary
  • Saturday, September 5 | 9:00–10:30 a.m. | Sanctuary

Rally Day Worship

  • Sunday, September 6 | 9:00 a.m. Warm-Up | Sanctuary

Contact Kim Wolbert for practice recordings and sheet music.

Children’s & Adult Choirs

Our regular choir season begins Wednesday, September 9, and we invite everyone to join us!

Schedule:

Luther Bells (Grades 2–6)

  • 4:30–5:15 p.m.

Children’s Vocal Choir (Ages 4–Grade 6)

  • 6:00–7:00 p.m.

Trinity Bells (Adults)

  • 6:00–7:00 p.m.

Senior Choir

  • 7:15–8:15 p.m.

Whether you’re returning or participating for the first time, we’d love to welcome you to this joyful music ministry.

Men’s Chorus

Our Men’s Chorus begins Tuesday, September 22, and we invite all men who enjoy singing to join us!

Schedule:

Weekly Rehearsals: (Tuesdays)

  • Beginning September 22
  • 7:00–8:30 p.m.

Performance Weekend:

  • October 24–25

Whether you’re an experienced singer or simply enjoy making music, we’d love to have you join us for an evening of fellowship, music, and worship.

Senior

Ministry

Luther Club

Thursday, August 6th | Noon | Jack’s Place

Join us for Luther Club as we enjoy a delicious meal, fellowship, and an engaging presentation by Sara Fisher, Executive Director of the Ashland County Historical Society. Sara will share “The Great War & Ashland County,” offering a look at the local impact and history of World War I. The cost is $7 per person, and the menu includes beef and noodles, mashed potatoes, corn, and a cookie. Please RSVP through the church office.

Christian

Education

Grow in Faith This Fall

Join one of our Sunday School classes!

There’s a place for everyone this fall! Whether you’re new to Trinity or have attended Sunday School for years, we invite you to join us each Sunday at 10:00 a.m. Beginning on Rally Day, September 6, we’ll offer Bible studies and discussion groups for every stage of life—from preschool through adults. Come discover God’s Word, build friendships, and grow in your faith together.

Adults

7 rotating studies

Four sessions throughout the year

New classes every 7–8 weeks

Children

Preschool–Grade 6

Age-appropriate Bible lessons

Scripture memory

Youth

Grades 7–12

Middle School Catechism & High School Bible Study

Faith & real-life discussions

Featured Adult Studies

See what is coming this September

Putting Faith Into Practice: Bob Beer

  • Learn practical ways to apply God’s Word to everyday challenges like forgiveness, decision-making, and trusting God through difficult seasons.

Christian Faith for Families: Pastor Ben

  • Practical encouragement for parents and families seeking to pray, learn, and grow in faith together.

10 Lies Satan Loves to Tell: Amanda Wolfe

  • Discover how God’s truth overcomes fear, shame, doubt, and the subtle lies that pull us away from Christ.

Because Jesus Taught It: Gail Warnes

  • Explore Lutheran beliefs, the sacraments, and the rich history that shapes our faith today.

Also Offered Every Session

  • Christian Women (Wendy Shreffler)
  • Christian Living (Tom Gaus)
  • Adult Bible Study (Doug Clark)

Sunday School at Every Age

Preschool (Ages 3–Kindergarten)

  • Children are lovingly introduced to God’s Word while learning The Lord’s Prayer in a caring, age-appropriate environment.

Grades 1–3

  • Students journey from Daniel into the New Testament while learning the Apostles’ Creed.

Grades 4–6

  • Children continue their Bible journey while learning the Ten Commandments, following God’s story from Daniel into the New Testament.

Middle School (Grades 7–8)

  • Students prepare for Confirmation through the study of Luther’s Small Catechism.

High School (Grades 9–12)

  • Bible studies help students connect Scripture to everyday life while building friendships and growing in faith.

Coming Later This Year

November–December

  • Stronger Everyday
  • Holy & Happy Marriage
  • The “I Am” Statements of Jesus

January–February

  • Being Faithful When God Feels Far Away
  • Ragged: Spiritual Disciplines for the Spiritually Exhausted

March–May

  • Returning favorites plus two new pastor-led studies (details coming soon).

No sign-ups are needed for Sunday School classes.

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

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

June 2026 Attendance
Date Sunday School Church Services
6/6 – 6/7 Summer Break 350
6/13 – 6/14 Summer Break 258
6/20 – 6/21 Summer Break 342
6/27 – 6/28 Summer Break 238
June 2026 Receipts
6/6 – 6/7 $13,059
6/13 – 6/14 $22,188
6/20 – 6/21 $11,039
6/27 – 6/28 $35,045
Operating Fund YTD
Income $507,437
Disbursements $647,386
Deficit -$139,949
Weekly Income Needed for Operating Budget $21,580

 

COUNCIL NOTES

& NEWS

Opening & Administrative Business

Pastor Kevin reflected on the midpoint of the year, noting that ministry planning for the coming year is already well underway. Staff have developed detailed plans for worship services, special events, and regular ministries, while Trinity continues to celebrate baptisms and prepare to welcome new members through a fall New Member Class. He also shared that Council’s ongoing work to update the congregation’s constitution and bylaws is laying a strong foundation for years of future ministry.

Key Updates & Reports

Christian Education

  • The 2026–2027 Sunday School schedule has been completed with 13 facilitators serving Preschool through 6th grade classes.
  • Nine facilitators are scheduled to teach adult Sunday School classes throughout the year.
  • Additional adult facilitators are still needed. Anyone interested is encouraged to contact Ryane Briggs.

Finance Committee

  • Council approved the June 2026 financial report.
  • Banking updates were approved for church and Montessori accounts.
  • Approved an accounting review by Irwin’s & Associates.
  • Approved the budgeted transfer of $20,000 from the New Pastors Fund to the Operating Fund.

Grounds

  • The Rose Garden was prepared for the July 26 outdoor worship service.

Nurture

  • The M&Ms monthly luncheon continues to meet on the third Tuesday of each month with steady attendance.
  • Luther Club and Euchre continue to see growing participation.
  • A New Member Class is scheduled for September 13, 20, and 27, with new members expected to be welcomed on Reformation Sunday.

Outreach

  • Council approved funding to provide lodging for missionaries Michael and Lupe Geiss during their visit to Trinity as they shared about their ministry in Nepal.

Property

  • The church roof replacement has been completed and is awaiting final inspection.
  • A new 30-year roof warranty has been issued.
  • Council is obtaining quotes to power wash the church’s front steps and walkway.
  • A window washing contract was also discussed.

Women & Children

  • Summer Reading Program concluded with a family picnic attended by nearly 200 people.
  • Trinity Kids 456 will kick off the new ministry year with Sundae Fun Day on August 16 under the leadership of Melissa and Brad James, Jesse Gruver, and Luke Morris.
  • Planning is underway for a joint women’s retreat in early October featuring guest speaker and author Sarah Steele.

Youth Ministry

  • Summer Share Group continues each Thursday in July with students studying the Book of Ruth under the leadership of Vicar Gage Garlinghouse.
  • The Youth Council is planning for the QUAKE Youth Conference in Cincinnati this January and is exploring ways to help cover costs for participating students.