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

July Rose Garden Service

Sunday, July 26th | 8:45am | Church Home Rose Garden

Join us for our Summer Garden Service on Sunday, July 26! This special outdoor Praise Service will be held at 8:45 a.m. in the Church Home Rose Garden, with the Traditional Service taking place separately at 11:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Please note this is a change from our usual Garden Service schedule. In the event of rain, the Praise Service will be moved indoors. We invite you, your family, and friends to worship together in God’s beautiful creation. Be sure to mark your calendars for our final Summer Garden Service on August 9!

Stephen Ministry

Being heard makes a difference!

Stephen Ministry trains caring laypeople to provide confidential, one-to-one Christian support to those who are facing life’s challenges. If you’ve ever wondered whether simply being heard could make a difference, consider this: being listened to can reduce stress, improve emotional well-being, strengthen relationships, and help us feel understood and valued. Sometimes having someone who will listen without judgment is exactly what we need.

If this sounds like something that could be helpful to you or someone you know, please reach out through the contact form on our website or call the church office. You may also speak with Michelle Vanderzyden, Dan Forbes, any Stephen Minister, or one of our pastors to learn more.

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!

  • Madeline Cole | 99 | July 2
  • Charlotte Sellers | 86 | July 6
  • Rex Smith | 87 | July 6
  • Kathleen Wendling | 95 | July 9
  • William Buckingham | 95 | July 10
  • Joyce Farris | 89 | July 12
  • Walter Ryan | 93 | July 15
  • Ella Shannon | 93 | July 16
  • Mary Ann Worst | 89 | July 19
  • Nancy Meyers | 88 | July 20
  • Robert Gosnell | 92 | July 21
  • Dana DeLong | 100 | July 25
  • Henry Hiner | 88 | July 29

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.

Stetson Haines | Baptism | June 14
Emily Welch | Baptism | June 14
Chad Seeholzer | Funeral | June 11
Mary Van Scoy & Brian Selhorst | Wedding | May 30
Amelia Bernhard | Baptism | May 24
Teresa Tucker | Funeral | April 22

New

Members

Barb

Bates

barb bates
Barbara Bates is married to her husband, Larry, and together they have three sons. A lifelong resident of the Nova-Sullivan area, Barbara has always lived close to where she resides today. For more than 25 years, she and her family lived just north of Ashland on a dairy farm. A dedicated educator, Barbara is a retired teacher who continues to substitute teach and is currently in her 52nd year of teaching. She enjoys spending time outdoors and caring for animals, especially those on the dairy farms she has called home, and making memories with her family. Barbara has been attending Trinity for nearly 40 years and treasures the many friendships she has built within the congregation. She especially enjoys singing and participating in the activities of the choir. Barbara is grateful for the faith, fellowship, and community she has found at Trinity and looks forward to continuing to serve and worship alongside her church family.

Barbara

Dreher

barbara dreher
Barbara Dreher has called Ashland home for the past 56 years, though she grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Solon, Ohio. She is married to her husband, Ron, and together they have two grown daughters, both of whom are married, as well as three grandchildren. A retired teacher, Barbara enjoys sewing, reading, quilting, cooking, and spending time playing with and babysitting her grandchildren. Barbara has been attending Trinity again for the past five months after previously being a member of the congregation for more than 20 years. She is grateful to reconnect with longtime friends and is enjoying the fellowship, activities, and worship opportunities that Trinity offers. Barbara is excited to once again be part of the Trinity family and continue growing in faith alongside her church community.

Karen

Funk

karen funk
Karen Funk is a lifelong Ashland resident who is now enjoying retirement after a rewarding career. In her free time, she enjoys paper crafting, listening to music, reading, and watching movies. These hobbies keep her creative, engaged, and connected to the things she loves. Karen has been attending Trinity for the past year and has come to appreciate the welcoming church community and the many opportunities to serve others. She especially values Trinity’s commitment to helping both its members and the greater Ashland community. Karen is excited to continue growing in faith, fellowship, and service as a member of the Trinity family.

Rebekah & Jeremiah

Gorsuch

rebekah jeremiah gorsuch
Originally from Delta and Wauseon, Ohio, Rebekah and Jeremiah Gorsuch have lived in Ashland for the past five years and are blessed with four children and several grandchildren. Following his service in the United States Army, Jeremiah worked as a sales clerk at Modern Home Supply, while Rebekah dedicated her time to caring for their family. Rebekah enjoys reading, while Jeremiah enjoys singing, soccer, golf, and traveling. Together, they love making memories with their children and grandchildren. Rebekah and Jeremiah have been attending Trinity for about a year and decided to become members after their grandchildren frequently encouraged them to come. Since joining Trinity, both have experienced significant spiritual growth. Jeremiah has gained a deeper understanding of the Bible and God’s plan from creation to the present, while Rebekah has developed a stronger understanding of how the Old and New Testaments connect. They are grateful for the warm welcome they have received and the sense of faith, fellowship, and belonging they have found at Trinity.

Helga & Hermann

Handel

helga hermann handel
Originally from Romania, Helga and Hermann now reside in Wooster, Ohio. Helga was a homemaker, while Hermann, now retired, worked as a tool and die maker. Together, they enjoy hiking and spending time outdoors. Helga also enjoys reading and traveling, while Hermann enjoys birdwatching and fishing. Helga and Hermann have been attending Trinity since November 2025 and have felt warmly welcomed by the congregation. Trinity reminds them of the churches they attended while growing up in Romania, and they are grateful to have found a church home where they feel connected in faith and fellowship.

James

Hillis

james hillis
Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, James Hillis has lived in Ashland for the past 25 years. He works in customer service, sales, and electronics repair. In his free time, James enjoys working with electronics and computers, as well as music, movies, and reading. James has been attending Trinity for the past four years alongside his wife, Anna, and daughter, Lily. He decided to become a member because Trinity is the first church where he has truly felt comfortable and accepted. He appreciates the welcoming atmosphere of the congregation and is grateful to be part of a church family where he feels at home in faith and fellowship.

Miles

McClain

miles mcclain
Born in Illinois, Miles McClain has lived in California and Texas before settling in Ashland. He and his wife, Harriet, are blessed with three sons—Trinity’s Senior Pastor, Kevin, Miles, and Daniel—as well as seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Miles retired in 2014 after careers in federal background investigations and law enforcement. He enjoys motorcycles, home improvement projects, yard work, and staying active at the gym. Miles has been attending Trinity since November 2024 and became a member to deepen his faith and continue growing spiritually. He especially enjoys the friendships he has formed and participating in the Wednesday men’s Bible study. Miles is grateful for the warm welcome he has received and appreciates the wonderful people who have made Trinity feel like home.

Emily

Miller

emily miller
Originally from Big Prairie in Holmes County, Emily Miller moved to Jeromesville with her family two and a half years ago. She and her husband, Paul, have two children, Griffin and Jainey. After working as a nurse for 10 years, Emily chose to stay home with her children. She enjoys gardening, birding, nature walks, photography, baking with her kids, thrift shopping, and ice cream. Emily has been attending Trinity since September 2025 and had no hesitation about becoming a member. From her first visit, she felt welcomed, accepted, and at home. She is grateful for the warmth of the congregation and the strong sense of faith and fellowship she has found at Trinity.

Paula

Watson

paula watson
Born and raised in Ashland, Paula Watson has been attending Trinity on and off for several years. Her brother and sister-in-law, Noel and Juanita, along with their family, are also members of Trinity. Paula works at the Ashland Municipal Court and has also spent time substituting at Trinity’s preschool. In her free time, she enjoys trivia, walking, and reading. Over the years, Paula has participated in a variety of Trinity events and activities and felt it was time to make Trinity her church home. She is grateful for the friendships she has formed and looks forward to continuing to grow in faith and fellowship as a member of the congregation.

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 Program

summer reading booksJuly 6th-17th | Each Weekday 9am-noon | Jack’s Place

Children who have completed grades K-4

Registration for Trinity’s Summer Reading Program, July 6–17, is now closed for most grade levels. A limited number of openings remain for students entering Kindergarten. If you are interested in one of these remaining spots, please contact Dawn Forbes for more information.

This year’s theme, “Reading is Sweet!”, turns pages into a world of sugary fun while helping children who have completed grades K–4 stay engaged and growing as readers throughout the summer. From 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. each day, kids will enjoy creative hands-on activities that bring stories to life, hear from special guest readers, and experience plenty of sweet surprises along the way.

Led by certified teachers in a Christian environment, the program meets Monday–Friday in Jack’s Place. We are excited to welcome all registered students for another sweet summer of reading, learning, and fun!


Vacation Bible School Recap & Thanks

Trinity’s Week of VBS was a HUGE success!

What an incredible week we had at Rainforest Falls VBS! Many children and more than 100 volunteers came together to learn about God’s amazing love through worship, games, crafts, snacks, Bible stories, and fellowship. We are so thankful for every volunteer who shared their time, talents, energy, and servant hearts to make this week such a success. Thank you to everyone who helped create a memorable experience for our children and families. We praise God for the many lives that were touched throughout the week!

The volunteer list below includes crew leaders, station leaders, kitchen and snack helpers, directors, and many others who served in a variety of ways. If we have inadvertently missed anyone, please accept our sincere apologies. We are deeply grateful for everyone who helped make Rainforest Falls VBS possible. Thank you again for your faithful service and helping hands!

 

Melissa Abbitt
Amy Atterholt
Brian Baker
Cami Baker
Mallonee Basham
Lydia Basinger
Ryane Briggs
Pat Bush
Aidan Chandler
Kayla Emser
Stacey Fickes
Dawn Forbes
Natalie Cline
Thomas Gaus
Lily Gerba
Rebekah Gorsuch
Emma Haag
Melinda Haag
Kiera Heilman
Stacey Hendrix
Eduard Henricksen
Ella Henricksen
Megan Hottel
Avery Howiler
Peyson Howiler
Melissa James
Brad James
Ethan Jurjevic
Heather Jurjevic
Owen Jurjevic
Abigail Karl
Emma Karl
Paul Keske
Mark Koehler
Caitria Karna
Kassie Keating
Kellie Keating
Everett Kime
Anna Little
Lilyana Little
Karen Loy
Emma McClain
Katelyn McClain
Kristen McClain
Noah McClain
Allison McGuire
Marsha McNutt
Emily Miller
Kayla Mollohan
Gabe Murawski
Elizabeth Paddags
Sara Paddags
Willian Paddags
Abigail Pascarella
Pat Peck
Brayden Pence
Collin Pence
Jenny Pence
Shawn Pence
Joyce Picking
Pam Potter
Ashleigh Price
Shawn Prichard
Kelly Purvis
Barb Renneker
Jen Richards
Vanessa Rister
Grace Rivenburgh
Keira Santarossa
Kinley Santarossa
Jordyn Schwan
Karin Schwan
Diana Scott
Mia Scott
Nancy Seidner
Deedra Shilladay
Annette Shaw
Sue Smith
Miracle Stockman
Claire Swaisgood
Danica Taylor
Emily Thams
Jarrin Troyer
Jaymin Troyer
Noah Tucker
Tracie Tucker
Chris Vanderzyden
Michelle Vanderzyden
Ann VanScoy
Cana Walk
Taylor Weber
Alyssa Welch
Sandy Whitcomb
Kim Wolbert
Amanda Wolfe
Ebenezer Wolfe
Faith wolfe
Hope Wolfe
Sam Wolfe
Feifei Xu
Carolyn Yannayon
Hayden Young

A special thank you to Pastor Ben Mollohan, Pastor Kevin McClain, and Vicar Gage Garlinghouse for their leadership and involvement throughout the week. We are grateful for the many ways they helped make VBS a meaningful and faith-filled experience for our children and families.

vbs 2026 closing

Youth

Ministry

VIBE: Trinity’s Summer Ministry for Middle School Students

Wednesdays in July, Beginning July 1st | 7-8:30pm | Youth Room

For Completed Grades 6-7

VIBE is Trinity’s summer faith experience for students who have completed 6th and 7th grades. Throughout July, students will gather for games, fellowship, and engaging discussions centered on the themes and truths of God’s Word. Designed specifically for middle school students, VIBE encourages deeper conversations, thoughtful questions, and real-life application of biblical lessons in a fun and welcoming environment. It’s a great opportunity to stay connected, build friendships, and continue growing in faith during the summer months.

Music

Ministry

Kids Choir Camp 2026

trinity shine choir campJuly 27th – 30th | 9am – Noon | Ages 4 – Completed Grade 6

At Trinity’s Shine Choir Camp, kids will discover God’s love through music, faith, friendship, and fun! Campers will sing exciting songs—including “World on Fire” by For King & Country—play games, create crafts, enjoy snacks, and grow in their faith as they shine God’s light together.

Choir Camp will be held July 27–30 from 9:00 a.m.–Noon and is open to children ages 4 (potty trained) through completed 6th grade. Families are invited to a special closing program and lunch on the final day to celebrate all the campers have learned. Registration is now open, and campers who register by July 10 are guaranteed a free camp t-shirt. Students who have completed 7th grade and adults are invited to volunteer as craft helpers, game leaders, snack assistants, and more. Scan the QR code to register your child or sign up as a volunteer—we’d love to have you join us for this unforgettable week of music, faith, and fun!

Senior

Ministry

Luther Club

Thursday, July 2nd | Noon | Jack’s Place

We invite you to gather in Jack’s Place for our next Luther Club for a delicious lunch and a time of fellowship. We will be hearing from Patty McGuire, who will present on “Walking the Camino”. The menu will include a deli wrap, macaroni salad, chips, fresh fruit and a brownie. The cost is $7, and RSVPs can be made through the church office. We look forward to another enjoyable time together!

Christian

Education

BIBLE STUDY FELLOWSHIP 2026 STUDY: BOOK OF ROMANS
Available Dates & Times Below
Groups Begin Week of September 13

Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) will begin a new study this fall, Romans, one of the most powerful and life-changing books in the Bible. Written for ordinary people facing real struggles, Romans speaks to our deepest doubts, fears, pride, and guilt while pointing us to the transforming grace of God. More than a theological study, Romans reveals how the God who saves also changes lives—moving us from striving to surrender, from fear to faith, and from guilt to grace.

Whether you are new to Bible study or have spent years in God’s Word, this study offers practical encouragement and lasting hope for everyday life. Join us as we explore Paul’s letter to the Romans and discover the freedom, confidence, and assurance found in Christ alone.

DAYTIME OPTIONS Women & Preschool Daytime Class Thursdays (Day) | 9am | Location: Trinity Lutheran Church
EVENING OPTIONS Women’s Evening Class Mondays (Evening) | 6:00pm | Location: Park St. Brethren Church

Men’s Evening Class Mondays (Evening) | 6:30pm | Location: Trinity Lutheran Church

REMOTE OPTION Online Classes You Choose Day & Time | Location: Meet using Zoom

Register today! Register at www.bsfinternational.org or scan the QR code. For questions, please contact Michelle Vanderzyden at the church office.

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

 

 

 

May 2026 Attendance
Date Sunday School Church Services
5/2 – 5/3 90 425
5/9 – 5/10 86 422
5/16 – 5/17 Summer Break 328
5/23 – 5/24 Summer Break 355
5/30 – 5/31 Ron’s Retirement 470
May 2026 Receipts
5/2 – 5/3 $21,572
5/9 – 5/10 $16,714
5/16 – 5/17 $11,985
5/23 – 5/24 $19,544
5/30 – 5/31 $28,834
Operating Fund YTD
Income $444,193
Disbursements $565,369
Deficit -$121,176
Weekly Income Needed for Operating Budget $21,745

 

COUNCIL NOTES

& NEWS

Opening & Administrative Business

Pastor McClain reported that staff is actively planning worship services, classes, and events for the upcoming ministry year with the goal of improving efficiency and maximizing ministry opportunities. Council also discussed a request for travel expenses to allow Pastor McClain to meet with Seminary leadership regarding Trinity’s future Vicar placement and the possibility of adding a second Vicar. Staff training, planning, and employee reviews are scheduled for July.

Key Updates & Reports

Old Business

Council received updates on the Council Restructure process, including proposed changes to committee structures, council term lengths, and nominating procedures. The Sanctuary Design Task Force reported that the project scope has expanded to include restroom renovations, updates to the Bride’s Room and Men’s restroom, and minor library improvements.

Christian Education

  • Elementary Sunday School teaching assignments are complete with 13 volunteers serving in the rotation.
  • Students will focus on learning:
    • The Apostles’ Creed
    • The Ten Commandments
    • The Lord’s Prayer
  • Students will present their memorization work to the congregation on May 9.
  • Additional adult Bible study facilitators are still needed.

Finance Committee

  • Council reviewed and approved financial reports through May 31.
  • Increased giving and steady expenses continue to narrow the budget deficit.
  • The committee is exploring additional cost-saving opportunities and designated fund consolidation.

Hospitality

  • Plans are underway to establish a hospitality team to serve as hosts and greeters for church events.
  • Opportunities will include Rally Day, VBS, Choir Camp, holiday services, and other special events.

Outreach

  • The Outreach Committee continues reviewing grant applications.
  • Committee representatives met with one applicant organization on June 8 to discuss questions regarding its request.
  • Additional applications remain under review.

Christian Education
Elementary Sunday School teaching assignments are complete with 13 volunteers serving in the rotation.
Students will focus on learning:
The Apostles’ Creed
The Ten Commandments
The Lord’s Prayer
Students will present their memorization work to the congregation on May 9.
Additional adult Bible study facilitators are still needed.

Finance Committee
Council reviewed and approved financial reports through May 31.
Increased giving and steady expenses continue to narrow the budget deficit.
The committee is exploring additional cost-saving opportunities and designated fund consolidation.

Hospitality
Plans are underway to establish a hospitality team to serve as hosts and greeters for church events.
Opportunities will include Rally Day, VBS, Choir Camp, holiday services, and other special events.

Outreach
The Outreach Committee continues reviewing grant applications.
Committee representatives met with one applicant organization on June 8 to discuss questions regarding its request.
Additional applications remain under review.

Grounds & Property

  • The Rose Garden is being prepared for upcoming outdoor worship services.
  • Tree trimming projects are being evaluated with quotes expected in the future.
  • Exterior window washing was discussed.
  • Construction of a new wall and door in the Montessori hallway is expected to begin within the next several weeks.
  • TLC Properties reported a beginning balance of $24,989.70 and an ending balance of $24,981.55 following a $2,300 disbursement.

Women & Children

  • Vacation Bible School welcomed more than 220 children and nearly 100 volunteers.
  • More than 50 students in grades 4–6 participated in programming led by Ryane Briggs.
  • Summer Reading Program registration is off to a strong start with approximately 60 children already enrolled.

Worship & Music

  • Preparations continue for Choir Camp, scheduled for July 27–30.
  • Kings Brass will perform during worship services this weekend.
  • Garden Services are scheduled for:
    • June 28
    • July 26
    • August 9
  • On July 26, Praise Worship will be held in the Garden at 8:45 a.m., and Traditional Worship will be held in the Sanctuary at 11:00 a.m.
  • Rally Day is planned for Labor Day weekend.

Youth Ministry

  • VIBE will return on Wednesdays in July for students who have completed grades 6–7.
  • Summer Share Group will meet Thursdays in July for students who have completed grades 8–12.