Historic Trinity Lutheran Church - Reading, PA
Sharing God's love with all people
Rachel Gambone, Parish Secretary
Rachel Gambone helps run the church office and leads Trinity’s communications and publications. She prepares more than 200 digital and print publications each year, including worship bulletins, newsletters, music recital programs and ecards.
Have you ever considered visiting Germany? An invitation has been received from our Saxony companion synod inviting a delegation of 15 to visit Germany this coming spring. It is an opportunity to explore our historical roots, reflect upon ministry here and abroad and strengthen our relationship with our German brothers and sisters in Christ. We are looking to travel between May 3 and 15, 2020 (depending on flights) and participants are responsible for their expenses. If you would like more information speak to Deaconess Deborah. Applications can be sent directly to you when you contact Prs. Wayne and Michele Kaufman (kaufman19@verizon.net).
Reclaiming Jesus: A Confession of Faith in a Time of Crisis: Join us on Sunday, Nov. 10 at 9:45 AM for our Soujourner's Forum about social justice. Jesus is Lord! We continue our monthly series led by Pastor Alan.
On November 9, 1989, the Berlin Wall began to come down after decades of separation between East and West Germany. Thirty years later, we gather to celebrate the Peaceful Revolution that led to the reunification of Germany — and the Lutheran roots of that revolution.
This service of remembrance will draw inspiration from those who peacefully helped to end divisions between East and West. On Sunday, November 10, we will join in prayer and reflection as we work to bring down the barriers that exist in our hearts, in our communities and throughout the world. Come this Sunday to support our youth of Trinity!
Life and death: "The Christian community speaks honestly about human frailty and mortality. At the same time, we confess our faith in the risen Lord, in the communion of saints, the resurrection of the body, and life everlastin. While both life and death may bring us fear and uncertainty, the liturgy calls us to hear the Lord's promise that he is with us in life and in death." (Sundays and Seasons Year C 2018: Augsburg Fortress, p. 300)
COJOT: A Second Chance Comes Only Once
November 10, 3:00 PM at Fox Berkshire Theater
Trinity is honored to bring to Reading, in partnership with the Jewish Film Festival and Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom, a rough cut screening of a new documentary by award-winning film-maker and Penn State professor, Boaz Dvir, the son-in-law of Pastors Alan and Phyllis Wolkenhauer. A discussion with the film-maker will follow.
“COJOT: A Second Chance Comes Only Once” tells the virtually unknown story of a Parisian banker who risks everything to hunt down Gestapo commander Klaus Barbie and later plays a pivotal role in one of history’s most daring hostage-rescue operations. COJOT embodies the modern era’s vital dilemmas: how to lead a purposeful life and reconcile Western ideals of liberty, equality and justice with the bitter memories of WWII and the rise of global terrorism.
Tickets may be purchased at the Fox Berkshire box office. Thanks to the generosity of the Reading Jewish Film Festival, proceeds will be split between Trinity and Congregation Oheb Sholom.
Kristallnacht Remembrance - Thursday, November 7, 6:30 PM at Christ Episcopal Church
With our covenant partner, Christ Episcopal Church and the Reading Jewish community, Trinity will participate in the annual remembrance of the Holocaust and “The Night of Broken Glass,” on November 7. This interfaith service brings us together to offer prayers of remembrance for Holocaust victims and to strengthen our resolve to stand against antisemitism and all hatred and intolerance. The service begins at 6:30 PM with a “Circle of Light” at the front of the church followed by interfaith worship at 7:00 PM.
ChAOS youth and parents hearing about growing up in East Germany and the consequences of standing up for your faith. Thank you Peter Graf!
All Saints Sunday is November 3. We remember before God all the saints who have gone before us and especially remember those who are dear to us who now rest in Christ’s eternal love. The names of members who have died in the past year will be read with the lighting of candles.
Living Behind the Iron Curtain: Peter Graf, an active member of Trinity, grew up in the German Democratic Republic, known as East Germany. In November 1989 the Berlin Wall fell and the life he and his family knew changed irrevocably. Peter will share his personal stories and experiences as a Christian during “The Change.”
Who Represents Me? As Christian citizens it is our right and responsibility to share our faith-shaped vision with those who have been elected or appointed to serve the common good. At every level of government, we can stay informed and respectfully engage our representatives. Follow this link to see who represents you at county, state and national levels. Stay in touch with them and remember to hold them in prayer. www.indivisibleberks.org/who-represents-me.html. If you’re interested in conversations about faith and government, join our second Sunday Sojourners forums.
