Friday, July 17: (Office Closed)
Saturday, July 18:
Sunday, July 19: 9:00 am – Sunday Worship Service; 10:15 am – Fellowship
Monday, July 20:
Tuesday, July 21: 9:00 am – 2:00 pm – Office staffed
Wednesday, July 22: 9:00 am-2:00 pm – Office staffed; 4:30-6:30 pm – Picnic Supper and Pie Social
Thursday, July 23:
Friday, July 24:
Saturday, July 25: 9:00 am —1:00 pm – Trinity table at Wellness event, library
Sunday, July 26: 9:00 am – Sunday Worship Service; 10:15 am – Fellowship
WORSHIP HELPERS
There are many opportunities to sign up for assisting at worship this Sunday and the next six weeks. The sign up is available online (Church Family: Worship Helpers 2026-2027) here and a paper copy will be passed around at worship.
Thank you to all who sign up and participate in the Sunday worship! Your participation allows us to share the duties, provide good worship, and live-stream the service. Needed participants include Greeters standing near the entrance; Ushers handing out bulletins and directing offering; Acolytes to light and extinguish candles at the book ends of worship; Lector’s to read scripture with a new Lector’s Pronunciation Guide on the reading desk; Holy Communion has two parts – setting elements up (allow 15 minutes) along with cleaning up (10 minutes after worship) and distributing the sacrament; Slide Show to use a mouse to forward worship slides; and Sound/Video to get the system running to ready to live-stream with updated instructions plus making sure microphones are ready. Singers are also welcome to help lead the singing with practice one hour prior to worship. If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Julie.
EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE AND BASIC NEEDS SUPPORT
Are you or someone you know facing unexpected expenses? Temporary loss of income? Struggling to make ends meet? Operation HELP, a nonprofit, offers resources for St. Croix County residents dealing with temporary financial hardships. They have Emergency Financial Assistance for rent and utilities, a Resources Center, Diaper Bank, Temporary Emergency Shelter, Christmas for Kids, Budgeting Classes, and Connections to Additional Help. They are located in Hudson at 901 Fourth Street, Suite 214 (United Way). For information call: 715-386-1300 or email: operationhelp.source@gmail.com. Check out the website: Operation Help
WELLNESS EVENT
Trinity will be participating in the First Annual Hammond Community Wellness Event at the new library this Saturday, July 25th, from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm. A variety of local organizations will share info on healthy living, with giveaways, interactive activities, and raffle prizes also! This free event is open to everyone, so spread the word.
SEEKING LITERACY VOLUNTEER
A Baldwin man wants a tutor to help with basic reading, spelling, and math skills. He can walk to the Baldwin Library for tutoring sessions if you can meet him there. There is some flexibility around your schedule. Assistance with teaching materials is offered by WestCAP.
For more information, call Stephanie Stark, coordinator of WestCAP’s Adult Literacy Program at: 715-410-4735 or the main office at 715-598-4750. You can make a real difference in someone’s life!
SCHOOL SUPPLIES for ELEMENTARY KIDS and to PROVIDE FEMININE CARE PRODUCTS
Trinity members are invited to purchase school supplies for elementary children this
summer and provide feminine care products. You can find a list of school supplies on the SCC website and print copies of needed supplies at Trinity for each grade 4K- Grade 4.
Separate lists for each grade is available. Please note that some things on the list occasionally include a brand name and that is because that brand will provide a desired quality.
In addition to the lists, all elementary students need 1) lace or velcro closure tennis shoes for Phy Ed; 2) a backpack large enough for a folder, projects, tennis shoes, and large books; and 3) Field Trip money of $25. The supply lists documents all these things. You can see how helping with supplies provides real help. You are also invited to purchase feminine care products for older girls.
There is a box in the fellowship area where you may place your donations. Please bring your donations by Sunday, August 16th.
THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
A resource out of Luther Seminary is www.enterthebible.org. The next installment is a podcast on the books of MICAH. The book of Micah is another short prophecy. Listen as Dr. Cory Driver, Director of L.I.F.E. (Leading the Integration of Faith and Entrepreneurship) at Miami University and part-time instructor at a couple of our Lutheran seminaries, explains that prophecy isn’t so much about predicting the future as communicating how God feels. In the time of Micah, the 8th century BCE, the society was corrupt. Oppressors, rulers, prophets, and family members can be seen as the source of corruption. Micah tells us how God is feeling about this.
NEWS FROM LUTHER POINT BIBLE CAMP
Camping ministry is not just for kids. Please consider Grandparent/Grandchild Camp on July 22-25. These are two great options for introducing bible camp to your family. For more information: www.lutherpoint.org.
SAVE THE DATE – UPCOMING EVENTS
NORTHWEST SYNOD WI OPPORTUNITIES
DAYLILY DIG TO SUPPORT MALAWI –
July 23, 24, 25 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
The Annual Daylily Dig at Kaufmann Farm in Chippewa Falls will be held each of these dates above. The farm is at 5207—70th Street.
WOMEN OF THE ELCA – ST. CROIX VALLEY
Conference Summer Retreat will be held at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Burkhardt (a Hudson suburb) on Saturday, Aug. 15th. Gaye Lindfors will be the speaker and the theme is “Anticipate God’s Goodness.” Mark your calendars and watch for information.
Nwswi.org
“THANK YOU” – FROM SUSIE “AUNE” PEDERSON
Dear Trinity Lutheran Congregation, thank you all so very much for your very generous,
kind and wonderful donations, contributions and gifts to support me and our benefit.
I am truly grateful and blessed! Trinity has had a place in my heart since I was a small
child and the fond memories are many. Thank you, Miss Jensen and Miss Betty, for
attending and for your words of support, too. I am blessed to have the gift of the prayer
shawl to remind me of how I’m supported and being held during this journey. Thank you
for keeping my mom close during this time as well. I know she loves her Trinity family!
Have a beautiful and blessed summer! All my best, Susie
A VIDEO to WATCH
In the letter to the Romans, Paul writes that “creation waits . . . in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its enslavement to decay . . . .” That theme is beautifully brought to life by the animated short film Hope (Green Tree: 2020), which follows the adventures of a baby turtle on its way from egg to the ocean. Along the way the turtle encounters many obstacles, from human trash to predators, and its poignant ending
echoes our grief that the world is captive to sin and death, as well as our hope in the glory to be revealed. You can find it on YouTube. Watch the credits to see the variety of sea turtles.
BINGO CARDS FOR KIDS
Summer bingo cards are available for families to use to go along with some activities
you may already being doing. There is Summer Bingo for around your home, Airplane
Adventures Bingo, Road Trip Bingo, and Family Reunion Bingo. Pick up pages at the
table near the entrance to the sanctuary or at Pastor’s hanging folder outside the office.
There is also a Nature Hunt page.
COFFEE with or without PASTOR JULIE
Watch for August dates to be determined!
Caribou Coffee in Baldwin
EVERYONE IS WELCOME!
FREE FRESH FOOD TRUCK WILL BE STOPPING AT TRINITY ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 8th! The Next Fresh Express Mobile Food Pantry truck will be stopping at Trinity Lutheran Church on Saturday, August 8th from 12:30 – 1:00 pm. Everyone welcome to shop its shelves. It will be stopping at Baldwin Village Hall on August 8th from 1:30-2:00 pm.
Civil Rights Pilgrimage: October 28 – November 2, 2026
Join retired pastor Joanne Sorenson on this walk in the cities of Montgomery, Birmingham, Selma and Atlanta and learn the history which brought about the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Sorenson has been leading these pilgrimages for several years The cost is $2500. For specific details contact Joanne at 651-398-3989 or joanne@inourhandsadventures.com.
NEW GLOBAL MISSION DIRECTORY
Over 110 ELCA missionaries are at work in 365 countries, thanks to your support. They meet needs of their neighbors as pastors, teachers, health care workers, and more. Most importantly they are forming deep relationships that connect us as a global community of faith. The new Global Mission directory gives you a chance to get to know the missionaries you support a bit better. See: GlobalChurch@elca.org
FREE FOOD SHELF INFORMATION
An option for 24-hour access to free food is the pantry in the entryway of the Village of Hammond building at 455 Davis, on the upper level. The Hammond Library also has a small shelf available when the library is open, and they sometimes have some non-food items such as diapers.
The food pantry at the Roberts Congregational UCC church (at 1001 Birch Dr. in Roberts) has normal open hours from 9:00 am-11:30 am on Tuesdays and Thursdays. In an emergency situation there might be some access other days when the church is open (M-F, 8:30 am-12:30 pm). Ring the doorbell for Kim to let you in. The Baldwin Community Pantry is open on Tuesdays from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. and Thursdays from 8:00 a.m. to 12 Noon. It is located 1010 Main St. in Baldwin.
If you are interested in donating food to any food shelf, please make sure it isn’t past its expiration date! We want to ensure the health and safety of all.
SUMMER READING
Here are a couple of recommendations for summer reading.
The Rapture Exposed: The Message of Hope in the Book of Revelation by Dr. Barbara Rossing. An ELCA pastor and theologian, Rossing taught New Testament at Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago and now contributes to Lutherans Restoring Creation. Rossing unpacks how the Bible has been distorted using the psychology of fear. She reclaims for us the beautiful image of God’s healing love for the world. Published in 2004, she was interviewed by national news media including 60 Minutes.
Craving: Why We Can’t Seem to Get Enough by Omar Manejwala, M.D. Whether it’s a minor sugar craving or a serious threat to relapsing with drugs and alcohol, Dr. Manejwala explores the root cause of cravings and ways to combat them.
Teaching Fish to Walk: Church Systems and Adaptive Challenges by Peter Steinke. Steinke was an internationally respected church consultant who lead numerous workshops with congregations leading them through change. This easy to read book gives a vision of what is needed for congregations to make sustainable change. Pastor Julie has several copies available for anyone, free.
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES!
Taylor Browning’s future plans are to double major in Dance and Psychology at Gustavus Adolphus College. She plans to continue dancing on the Dance team as well. Go Gusties!
Trennon Holzer plans to attend Midwest Line College and become an electrical lineman.
Julia Edison is one of the class of 2026 at Glenwood City High School and she is committed to UW-Stout to become a Mental Health Counselor.
Alaina Quarne plans to attend UW- Eau Claire and major in Rehab Science and will be part of the track and field team.
Charli Nusbaum plans on studying elementary education and minoring in art.
Matyas Larson will be attending Minnesota State University, Mankato in the fall to study Business Management with a Marketing and Sports Management focus.
Torri Posey is going to attend University of Wisconsin – La Crosse to pursue a degree in Elementary and Special Education.
Haylee Elizabeth Schone is the daughter of Cory and Amanda Schone. Haylee has been accepted to the program of Cosmetology at Northwood Technical College in Rice Lake, WI and will begin this program of study, Fall of 2026.
SHARING OUR FACILITY
Trinity lets local groups occasionally use our building as a way of supporting our community and making use of this large, beautiful space. Three different Girl Scout Troops have met in our Fellowship Room in the past couple of years and continue to do so. In case you weren’t aware, this can also provide income for Trinity if the group is not a nonprofit. If you know a trusted community organization that could use a place to meet, you could have them fill out a Facility Use Request Form (on the credenza in the Fellowship Room) or email the office at: trinitylutheranhammond@gmail.com
RESOURCES POSTED IN THE NARTHEX:
The St. Croix Valley Grief Coalition provides grief support. Sessions are free, no registration is needed, and you are welcome to participate as you feel you can. Current fall sessions are in progress. You are able to access recorded sessions from 2024 and 2025 online at www.scvgriefcoalition.com.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness has a local branch with various resources for those who struggle with mental health and those who support ones dealing with mental health. Free resources are available www.nami-stcroixvalley.com.
God came down to us in Jesus Christ bringing love, hope, peace, and joy. God blesses us with abundant provision for daily life. Because God gives to us first, we are able the example of generosity. Good places to give in this Christmas season, especially in honor or in memory of someone you love:
Trinity Lutheran Church General Fund – Trinity Gen Fund or Mortgage
Trinity Lutheran Church, Mortgage
Northwest Synod of Wisconsin – multiple options – nwswi giving
Luther Point Bible Camp, Grantsburg – camping ministry
ELCA World Hunger 50 years – fight hunger
ELCA Good Gifts Catalog – shop now
Please note your gifts and offerings to Trinity make it possible for this community to thrive. Thank you for your prayers, offerings and support!
Trinity is one of 191 congregations of the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin that walk together in mission for regional and global ministries, learn together through synod led events, and are supported, especially in times of transition.
Luther Point Bible Camp is a special ministry of the church. Kids who attend camp often Become leaders in congregations. The goal of Luther Point is to provide the good news of Jesus for everyone who attends camp.
The work of ELCA World Hunger is one of the most popular ministries of the church. Almost 1 in 10 people – 733 million – in our world are hungry. As people of congregations, we are called to respond to this need. We are a church that rolls up its sleeves and gets to work!
The best gift catalog is the ELCA Good Gifts Catalog. The items in the catalog are real Ministries supported through the work of the ELCA. Each program is a long-term, partnership- based ministry that focuses on the needs identified by local congregations and global companion churches and their communities. The ELCA focuses on relationship building and contextual ministry. Several paper copies of the catalog are at the entrance.
AMONG FRIENDS—A DEMENTIA SOCIAL RESPITE PROGRAM in RIVER FALLS
If you are caring for anyone facing memory challenges, you are not alone. Many caregivers could use a break occasionally and might not be aware of this program. Among Friends offers a few hours of relief to refresh yourself and give the person with dementia some independence by getting them out to enjoy the company of others. Research shows that even a little social activity a week can delay memory decline in seniors, help sleep, and decrease agitation. The group meets every Tuesday from 9-3 (come when you can) at First Congregational Church in River Falls (110 No. 3rd St.). You can drop off your loved one with trained professionals who ensure a safe and welcoming environment. Food and activities are offered, including music, crafts, chair yoga, conversations, and visits from animal friends or other learning activities. A catered lunch is provided. The cost for all of this is $35, though talk to them if this is a problem. Rides might also be arranged if this is an issue. A brochure is in the narthex; you can also look for more information at their website: amongfriendsrf@gmail.com or call: 715-293-2561.
BULLETIN SPONSORSHIP OPENINGS ARE AVAILABLE
If you are interested in honoring a loved one or remembering a special date with the congregation, there are many opportunities in 2025 to sponsor a bulletin and newsletter.
For $8 you can submit a note to be included for a particular Sunday. Please send these to Lois Koosmann at: lois044@centurytel.net
LIGHT’s OFF, DOOR SHUT PLEASE
People have arrived at church a couple times to lights being left on with no one in the building. If you are here and the last to leave please make sure light are off. Please also double check the front door to make sure it has latched shut. (During the winter, the cold makes it stick open occasionally)
THRIVENT CHOICE DOLLARS:
If you have not directed your Thrivent choice dollars for 2023 you have until March 31, 2026 to do so. Trinity, Hammond WI, can be a choice for you! You can help Thrivent designate it’s charitable grant funds if you have one of the following…
1 ) $750 or more in annual billed premiums of qualifying life and health insurance products.
2) $20,000 or more in contract value of qualifying life insurance and annuity products . You can access this with your online account or contact your Thrivent representative.
***Remember, some Thrivent members are also eligible for Thrivent Action Team Grants. This is an easy way for Trinity to get up to a $250 grant for events, fundraisers, and service projects. If you need help figuring out how to apply for this, let Pastor Kim know and she will get in touch with someone who will walk you through it!***
Collecting Eye glasses and empty pill bottles: Trinity Lutheran is collecting used eye glasses for the Lion’s club. The container is in the hall by the quilting room. We are also collecting used pill bottles for third world countries, both over counter medications and prescription bottles. Please remove the labels from the prescription bottles. The pill bottle container is in the back hall near the quilting room. If you have any questions, please contact Kathy Jensen.
Weekly Newsletter Items are due to the church office on Tuesday by noon.
Warm up your heart, be a co-worker in God’s work by volunteering for a Sunday worship ministry role. Greeters, ushers and readers are needed every Sunday. The gifts of your time and interest are priceless. Contact the church office at (715) 796-2788 or sign up by clicking here.
Trinity wants to stay in touch with you through church communications. Please notify the church office of any changes to your email address, street address, P.O. Box number, telephone or cell phone numbers. It’s important that we stay connected in God’s busy world.
Check out Trinity’s AMAZING library! The Library is located just off the Kitchen and Fellowship Hall. It is stocked with some AWESOME books, videos, CDs and more! It is easy to check out items. Located the checkout card in or on the back of the item), write your name and date on that card and drop it in the checkout basket! IT IS THAT EASY!!