Karen Taylor «

No Limits for Camp Butterscotch

Posted on Aug 8, 2024 in HTLChronicles | 124

Education is a common career in the Holy Trinity community, and Craig & Melissa Horejsi are no different. The Horejsi’s have combined their training and love for Special Education with a unique opportunity on their farm. Camp Butterscotch offers education about agriculture to people of all ages and abilities. This week, everyone is invited to an open house at Camp Butterscotch on Wednesday, August 14 from 5:30 – 8 pm at the Horejsi Farm (4650 Farwell Ave, Webster).

Craig, Melissa, and their daughter, Ella, have been members of Holy Trinity for about 16 years. In the past, Melissa was very involved with youth programming, serving as a Sunday School teacher, VBS leader, Middle School Youth Group coordinator, and Confirmation Small Group Leader. Melissa currently participants in Bell Choir, Altar Guild, and Worship Assistant, and is a member of the Racial Justice Committee. Craig serves as a Worship Assistant. Melissa adds, “We consider ourselves ‘seasonal’ and aren’t around much in the summer.” As a lifelong animal lover, Melissa also volunteered with her local 4-H Club, the Wheatland Wheaties.

During her summers off from school, Melissa would occasionally let her students’ families come and meet the animals. “We wanted to make our farm a place where more people could do that and be engaged. So we started the non-profit and grew from there.” For over ten years, the Horejsi family has run Camp Butterscotch on their farm. A federally-approved non-profit organization since 2014, Camp Butterscotch got its name from Ella’s “super cute farm cat named Butterscotch.”

Camp Butterscotch combines Craig and Melissa’s commitment to Special Education and their love for animals of all kinds. “We felt called to provide a place where any person of any ability level can learn about agriculture in their own space and time. We have no age limit and no ability limits. Our goal is to allow small groups of individuals to take whatever time they need to get comfortable with what we have to offer. Even if it is just to sit and listen or be able to relax in a different environment, our goal is to provide a spot where people can be comfortable engaging with the natural world,” Melissa reports.

In the fall of 2015, Craig, Melissa, and Ella were featured in the magazine, “Acres: Innovative Country Living” for their unique Camp Butterscotch.

Experiences at Camp Butterscotch are customized to each group. Melissa explains, “There is no typical week for us. It all depends on our availability and what we can focus on. We are completely volunteer-run. As a non-profit, we have a board of directors (who are volunteers) and volunteers who are “animal experts” and general helpers for different events. We are unique because we tailor every event for the people who attend. We offer open house-style events for the public where anyone can stop by between certain hours, or private events of various sizes. Some events are larger like the one we are holding for Holy Trinity, and some are as small as a family who has a need. We have held week-long camps in the summer where kids can sign up for a spot and learn about a different animal/agriculture area each day. We rarely take the animals off the farm for events so bringing them for VBS this year was something we don’t usually do. Our church family is special, so I made an exception.”

Visitors to Camp Butterscotch meet cows, sheep, goats, rabbits, and chickens. “We have sensory gardens, yard and table games, and we try to have an activity that each person can bring home depending on the season. In the spring, we send people home with a potted plant, in the summer, we might paint rocks or send home some of our herbs and veggies from the sensory gardens, and in the fall, we have pumpkins and gourds (our leftovers often end up as decor for the Holy Trinity’s entry doors). All of our animals are people-friendly and are handled by ‘animal experts’ – people who know about them to answer questions and will handle the animal for people. It is definitely not a petting zoo – it’s an individualized and educational experience,” Melissa shares. A bonus is Melissa’s favorite activity, snuggling all of the animals!

Camp Butterscotch also has several great “Instagram-worthy” photo op areas, including Betty, the tractor. See the video Melissa submitted to win Betty 12 years ago.

Melissa concludes, “The bottom line is we love nature, animals, living in the country, and sharing our privilege of living here with others. We want people to feel comfortable learning about animals, knowing where your food comes from, and to experience living on a hobby farm.”

Visit Camp Butterscotch!

All are welcome to an open house at Camp Butterscotch on

Wednesday, August 14
5:30 – 8 pm
Horejsi Farm
4650 Farwell Ave, Webster

Bring a picnic dinner and your favorite camp chair or blanket. There will be a fun scavenger hunt to visit everything on the farm as well as rock painting, yard games, puzzles, and card games. Sarah’s Stable Eats will be providing FREE cotton candy and ice cream. Come to learn more about this new, woman-owned business!

Written by Karen Taylor, Communications Manager

August 8, 2024

May '24

Geri’s Churches

Posted on May 9, 2024 in HTLChronicles | 150

May '24

Geri Sandin didn’t like to sit still. When she wasn’t raising her four children, she was a Tupperware Sales Manager and dedicated volunteer at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. In 1983, she took over a business from some friends and built up to 28 clients. Sandin Secretarial Service was born and Geri’s customers gave her more than just business. They gave her churches.

It started with one ceramic church. Jim, Geri’s husband recalls, “One person started the collection and it just kept growing. Every time her clients traveled somewhere, they’d bring her a church.” It wasn’t just the churches, it was the wooden shelves they rested on. Soon, Geri’s office walls were covered in churches. Jim estimates her collection was around seventy to eighty churches and recalled that her favorite one came from Europe.

In 2013 Geri closed her Bloomington, MN office and moved her business home. She retained one client as she worked from home for five more years. While Jim was happy to help his wife work from home, he wasn’t so excited about moving the churches into their house. “She also collected glass bells from our various travels and people gave us bells as anniversary gifts. So we had forty bells in the house, on top of all the churches,” Jim says with a chuckle.

Jim and Geri moved to New Prague in 1974 and immediately joined Holy Trinity while Pastor Fultz led the church. The Sandins were part of the generation that moved Holy Trinity’s location to its current building in 1979. Geri taught Sunday School for many years while her children were young and Jim volunteered as an usher. Later, Geri was asked by Pastor Anderson to serve on the Church Council. As pastors came and went, the Sandins maintained their steady presence at Holy Trinity. As a businesswoman, Geri didn’t like modern technology as she preferred her electric typewriter over a computer. But when COVID closed the doors of Holy Trinity, Jim and Geri were thankful for the technology of online worship services. “The online church services were the best thing that came from COVID,” Jim states. “Each Sunday we had our routine of watching church on TV.” Pastor Ben Hilding was blessed to visit Jim and Geri in their home as her health declined and they proudly showed him “their sanctuary.” Geri passed away on January 2, 2024.

Geri’s memory lives on through her churches, so after her children and grandchildren chose their favorite church, Jim was left with over fifty churches. He connected with Director of Children, Youth, and Family (CYF) Ministry Kate Kienow for ideas. Kate discussed options with Jim. “I was honored to help Jim find homes for Geri’s churches. We considered giving them away at Easter or Vacation Bible School but decided to share them with the students to celebrate the end of Crew Time, Confirmation, and Agape. Now each family can take a little church with them this summer!” Kate explains. Jim also thought there might be an intergenerational component to the families taking a church home. He adds, “Some people may have had Geri as their Sunday School teacher and now their kids are in the children’s programs.”

Sunday, May 12, and Wednesday, May 15 are the final days of the CYF program year. Don’t miss these youth-filled worship services! Students are invited to take one of Geri’s churches home as a gift from the Sandins. Thank you, Sandin family for sharing God’s love for all people from one generation to the next!

Written by Karen Taylor, Communications Manager

May 9, 2024

Feb '24

Doing Better

Posted on Feb 22, 2024 in HTLChronicles | 211

Feb '24

Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better. – Maya Angelou

Minneapolis – May 2020. Los Angeles – April 1992. USA – April 1968. Tulsa – May/June 1921. The hyperlinks give a clue to what these locations and dates have in common. Despite being separated by generations, these events resulted in racial justice boiling points. Sadly, racial injustices have been happening in the United States for centuries to communities of color. For almost four years, a dedicated group from Holy Trinity Lutheran Church has been focused on doing better.

In the spring of 2020, Pastor Alicia Hilding mentioned the Minneapolis Area Synod’s (MAS) desire to have every congregation prioritize anti-racism work. She gathered a team of people to start a racial justice task force. Members include (bottom row left to right) Jane Wick, Melissa Horejsi, Jen Sayler (top row left to right), Sande Schoenecker, Liz Nelson, Wendy Mathiowetz, and Linnea Hautman. The aftermath of George Floyd’s murder and the Minneapolis riots were the tipping point for many, including Melissa, who felt called to facilitate the group. She explains, “I wanted to do more. I felt called to step up and lead a racial justice group. I knew it was something I could be a part of. I wanted to learn more and to do so alongside a group of people in our church who also wanted to grow in their faith and understand privilege and racism in America.” The newly formed Racial Justice Committee held its first meeting in June 2020 with the assistance of Brenda Blackhawk, the MAS Congregational Organizer for Racial Justice.

As the whitest Christian denomination in the US, battling 400 years of systemic racism is a monumental task. Many Lutherans grew up believing Jesus had blue eyes, blond hair, and light skin…just like the picture hanging on living room walls. Holy Trinity’s Racial Justice Committee’s (RJC) first task was to educate themselves and provide opportunities for others to learn.

Member Sande Schoenecker states, “During the last four years, the committee has dedicated learning about racism and how to be anti-racist. The book study, “How to Fight Racism,” by Jemar Tisby, that we completed this fall was open to the community. It was a very meaningful and purposeful learning experience. We found that many of us share the desire to unlearn racism.”

Jen Sayler agrees, “The book study was a definite highlight for me. In his book, Jemar introduced the ARC model – Awareness, Relationships, and Commitment to fighting racism. RJC provides opportunities for awareness, learning, and growth, as well as forming relationships with others in conversation and partnership to stay committed to equity work.”

Jane Wick joined the RJC shortly after becoming a member at Holy Trinity. “I joined because I want to be part of a Christian group that helps our congregation and community realize all of the racial injustices that have happened and are still happening in our world. I have enjoyed being part of events that teach others how to be more open and loving to all people.” Linnea Hautman adds, “I wanted to learn more and grow through the work on anti-racism with other ELCA Lutherans.”

Over the years, the RJC has encouraged cultural exploration through field trips to Hocokata Ti, the Dakota 38 Memorial and Mahkato Wacipi, as well as theater productions of Imagine a US Without Racism and Black Nativity. Often, field trips end with sharing a meal at restaurants linked to the educational experience, like Taste of Rondo and Soul to Soul Smokehouse.

Wendy Mathiowetz shared her most memorable experience from Holy Trinity’s recent Adult Form presented by Manny Lewis, Minneapolis Area Synod’s Congregational Organizer for Racial Justice on the Cash Bail Bond system. Wendy explains, “Manny’s talk on bail really opened my eyes to the kinds of choices people have to make within our judicial system. Sometimes, there are no good choices, and people choose the least harmful to their families. Hearing Manny’s story showed me how ghetto Grace of God and a few well-meaning people showing up at the right time can have a huge impact on the trajectory of our lives.”

Whether it’s hosting education events at Holy Trinity or experiencing a different culture through field trips, Liz Nelson sums it up best. “The Racial Justice Committee is a valuable resource for the Holy Trinity faith community. They provide numerous opportunities to learn, listen, and build new relationships that are steps in making a difference in restoring racial justice and equity for all of God’s people.”

Darbie Berger’s painting, “Embracing Diversity,” hangs in the Fellowship Hall as a constant reminder that ALL ARE WELCOME. Throughout February, Holy Trinity has been celebrating Black History Month by singing a Black spiritual hymn during worship. RJC members also set up the Little Anti-Racism Library in the Fellowship Hall (under Darbie’s artwork) for easier access.

All are welcome to join the Racial Justice Committee as they host an Adult Form on “Land Acknowledgement.” Come to learn what it is and why it’s important. Sunday, March 17 at 10 am in Paul’s Place. Thank you to the RJC for sharing God’s love for all people from one generation to the next through educational events!

Written by Karen Taylor, Communications Manager

February 22, 2024

Jun '23

Above All – A Father’s Story

Posted on Jun 14, 2023 in HTLChronicles | 315

Jun '23

Scott Mackenthun’s family grew by one teenager last year when he and his wife, Jackie, and their two daughters, Quinn and Cora, hosted German exchange student Marisa Doddo. As Scott gained another “daughter,” another father, an ocean away, let go of his. Marisa’s dad, Daniel, knew the exchange student experience would be a “valuable part of her life.” After ten months apart, Marisa’s joyous reunion with her dad will be on display this Father’s Day weekend at Holy Trinity as they provide the Musical Offering on Sunday during worship.

Marisa’s exchange student process started a full year before arriving in the United States. Marisa explains, “As it turned out, I was so lucky to be placed nine months before I would leave! It allowed me to contact the Mackenthuns very early, and I didn’t have to worry about getting along with my host family. As it turned out, I got really lucky with my placement! I love my host family and am very grateful and glad to have been placed in New Prague, too.”

Scott agrees the early placement was crucial to a successful experience for everyone. “Jackie and I knew what we were signing up for since host parents receive a portfolio of the prospective student, including her academic transcripts. For more than half a year, we used Zoom to connect with Marisa and her family before she arrived. In short, we knew we were getting a bright young lady who liked music, was dedicated to her church, and wanted to learn and experience a new culture. It was an easy decision to host her.” Marisa arrived on August 20, 2022, and Scott made sure she felt a part of the Mackenthun family by giving her a nickname. “Everyone at our house has a nickname (I do the naming), so Marisa became ‘Mar-Bear.’ I quizzed her on American stereotypes – fast food and diet, sports obsession, guns, patriotism, Hollywood, and cultural influence. I quizzed her on translations, using Google Translate along the way, something she’ll never forget or stop laughing about.”

While Scott was making Marisa part of his family, Daniel was coping with her absence in his. He reflects, “I liked the idea of Marisa going to the U.S. for an exchange year from the beginning. However, I let Marisa go with mixed feelings. 15-years-old is relatively young, and the pain of parting hit me more than I expected. I thought I was well prepared for the situation, but saying goodbye came faster and harder than expected. I really struggled the first two days. But I learned to deal with it with God’s help and grace. After a few days, I felt a lot better – thanks to video calls!”

Video calls and Jackie’s blog about the Mackenthun’s hosting experience helped bridge the gap that spanned an ocean. Jackie documented everyday life and special family trips online via beyondgermany.blogspot.com. Stories, thoughts, and photos about the Minnesota State Fair, high school musicals, archery competitions, seeing Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store, singing in church during worship, National Park explorations, Marisa’s Sweet 16 birthday, prom, graduation, and more. Marisa contemplated her journey after receiving her honorary diploma from New Prague High School. “Coming here was very surreal. I can’t grasp the fact that my exchange year is almost over. The biggest difference from Germany was school. I actually enjoy going to school in New Prague, partly because the teachers are so much nicer and classes were easier. In fact, I’m actually sad school is over. I’m really going to miss choir with Mrs. Thietje. We don’t have choir in German schools, just as we don’t have any sports or other activities in school. It’s all about academics, and it’s a lot more stressful. I’m very grateful I had the opportunity to be here, and I will definitely carry these memories and experiences with me forever!”

Ten months of experiences, and a lifetime of memories. Scott, a Fisheries Biologist with the MN Department of Natural Resources, sums up what it was like to have an extra daughter, “As we near the end of our experience, we’re grateful for the chance to have spent time together and for creating lasting relationships with another family abroad. We’re making the most of our final weeks together, and trying to let ‘Mar-Bear’ and her family experience the best part of living in Minnesota – the summers! I’m certainly going to make sure she gets some final fishing in as well – something she had never done before she came here. Marisa likes the fish eating, and now she likes the fish-catching component, too.”

Daniel agrees, saying, “I’m excited to see Marisa again and to meet her host family and friends.” Jackie adds, “We have many fun things planned: Eve of Destruction in Elko (new for all of us!), Valleyfair, MOA, and an archery event with Scheels.” Marisa’s mom (a teacher) and brother arrive on June 22 after their school finishes. “We plan to take them to the candy store in Jordan and probably a dinner at Fogo de Chao as they don’t have any Mexican or South American food in Germany,” Jackie states. The Doddo family will leave New Prague on Sunday, June 25, and travel around the western U.S. for three weeks before returning to Germany in July.

All are welcome to worship this Sunday at 9 am to celebrate fathers of all kinds. Marisa and her dad will sing “Above All/All in All” for the Musical Offering. You won’t want to miss it! (Don’t forget your tissues.)

Feb '23

A Different Kind of Power Play

Posted on Feb 9, 2023 in HTLChronicles | 846

Feb '23

Minnesotans love hockey. Indoor, outdoor, Pee Wees to the Pros, Minnesota is synonymous with hockey. Ella Hansen laced up her first pair of hockey skates at the age of three and began playing competitively at age five. At the end of the regular season, she scored 31 goals with 12 assists giving her 43 total points in 25 games. Her impressive record puts her on top of the Metro West Conference and Section 2AA leaderboards. The high school junior is a top-ranked athlete in the state and many of her lower-ranking competitors have committed to NCAA Division 1 colleges. Despite her hard work on and off the rink, she attributes her success to a different kind of power play.

Dave and Joanna Hansen have been watching their daughter play hockey for years. It’s hard to imagine she almost didn’t make it past her first two weeks of life. On New Year’s Eve in 2005, Joanna was sitting in a hair salon chair, preparing to be the Matron of Honor for her sister’s wedding. Nine-day-old Ella had developed a cough and wasn’t eating, so Dave brought her to Urgent Care to have her evaluated. With one short listen to her lungs, the doctor realized Ella was in danger. The nurse scooped Ella into her arms and walked quickly to the Emergency Department. Dave followed and understood the severity of Ella’s situation as soon as he saw the room full of medical professionals working to help his tiny daughter breathe. Ella’s lips were blue. People were moving so fast. Dave immediately called his wife. Joanna recalls, “I was in complete shock. I honestly couldn’t grasp the situation, and I was stuck at the salon.”

When Dave returned from his brief phone call, the lead doctor informed him that Ella had a life-threatening case of Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and needed to be airlifted to Children’s Hospital in Minneapolis. If that wasn’t a big enough shock, there was no room for additional people in the air ambulance. Once again, Dave stepped outside to call Joanna and give her the news. When he hung up, “I looked to my right as an elderly man appeared. He said to me ‘I understand your daughter is very sick. I’m an old funeral director, and I was wondering if I could say a prayer?’ I agreed, so he put his hand on my right shoulder and said a prayer. Afterward, he said, ‘Good luck to you. She is going to be fine.’” Dave explains. He thanked the kind stranger and re-entered the building to be with his daughter. He paused after a few steps. His brain questioned how the old funeral director knew Ella was sick. And from where did he come? Dave turned around to look for the man and found no one. The man didn’t follow him inside the building, and the parking lot was too far away to walk to his car that quickly. At that moment, Dave felt an overwhelming sense of peace and calmness. “I had a strong sense Ella was going to be okay. I took that moment of prayer as a direct sign from God, and it gave me the strength I needed not only for my daughter but for my wife,” he responds.

Watching Ella skate with speed and power, it’s easy to forget the eleven days she spent in the hospital as a newborn. Prayer has been a powerful part of Ella’s story since her first New Year’s Eve, and that narrative continues to evolve this year. Ella, wearing jersey #7, started to bow her head to pray while lined up for the National Anthem. “I’m having a really good hockey season this year. I believe part of it has come from praying as I believe in the power of prayer. It has had such a good impact on my ability to play,” Ella states. She’s not the only one praying during the National Anthem. Her biggest fans in the stands are also praying. News headlines about severe injuries sustained during hockey games confirm parents’ worst nightmares. “She is very talented and highly ranked. Dave and I feel teams may single her out and could have an increased potential to get hurt. We pray for Ella and her teammates to stay safe before every game,” Joanna explains.

Ella wanted to bring the power of prayer to her high school hockey team since she saw her cousin’s team in a post-game prayer huddle. After a 3-5 loss on January 7, Ella was the last player on the ice for her team, and the opposing team’s coach waved Ella over to join their team in a post-game prayer. She nervously skated over to the circle. “I asked if I could join them. They were so happy to have me. I knew a girl on the team, and she texted me after the game to share how she was proud of me for joining the circle. That was pretty special. Afterward, I felt so good about myself and was proud of myself for doing that. It was an amazing experience and gave me the courage to bring prayers to my team,” Ella recollects. Her teammates embraced the idea of doing a post-game prayer as soon as Ella brought it up. The players take turns leading, and they pray for a variety of things. Two prayers remain constant – thanking God for keeping the players safe during the game and asking God to protect them as they go home. Even the JV team followed Ella’s leadership and began adding a post-game prayer circle to their routine.

For the past month, Ella’s team invited their opponents to join them for a post-game prayer, including the team that first invited Ella into their circle. “It was so awesome to see both teams in a huge circle praying,” she replied. Capturing all of these great moments on camera is Ella’s mom Joanna. She sums it up by saying, “even after a brutal loss to some of the top teams in the state, they still come together after the game at center ice for a prayer huddle. Instead of skating off to the locker rooms to wallow in their defeat, they meet in the middle, facing their opponents, for a brief prayer. It’s awesome to see and shows a true sign of solidarity. Yes, we are very proud of her success this year, but seeing her faith in action is a kind of pride that is indescribable. She continues to amaze us since her faith story began at just nine days old.”

Photo credit: Joanna Hansen

Written by Karen A. Taylor, Communication Manager

February 9, 2023

Feb '23

Now and Forever

Posted on Feb 1, 2023 in HTLChronicles | 4940

Feb '23

Millennials have changed the way people think about weddings. Social media has replaced bridal magazines as the influencing factor on attire, venue, and decorations. Millennials differ significantly from their parents and grandparents about where they married and who performed the ceremony. According to americansurveycenter.org, over the last ten years, only 30% of weddings were performed in a place of worship with a religious official, compared to 50% (parents’ generation) and 72 % (grandparents’ generation). With that rate of decline, will God even get a wedding invitation from the next generation?

Marty McGuire and Katy Rabenberg met at the age of nine in a small rural town in southern Minnesota. By high school, they started dating and after nine years, became engaged. Like many people in their mid-20s, Marty and Katy attended dozens of weddings of their friends and quickly learned what they didn’t want for their own. Marty explains, “We’ve been to weddings where there didn’t seem to be a connection between the priest or pastor and the couple. It was very impersonal.”

What made it more complex was the couple’s religious backgrounds. Marty grew up attending church, however, as an adult does not feel connected to God through his childhood church or its doctrine. He feels more in tune with God when he’s in nature, experiencing God’s creation. Katy’s had a positive relationship with her church in her early years but didn’t want to get married in her hometown church.

Six months into their engagement, they knew God would be a priority in whatever type of wedding they had. However, they preferred a personalized wedding ceremony without the constraints of the four walls of a church. But first, they had to tell their parents. “Marty and I always knew we didn’t want to get married in a church by someone who didn’t know us. So, we met with our parents and gave them our reasons,” Katy explains. The couple chose an outdoor ceremony and asked longtime family friend, Darcey Schoenebeck, to perform it.

Darcey has an extremely close friendship with Marty’s mom, Marina. She’s known Marty since he was a toddler, and she met Katy when she and Marty started dating in high school. Darcey and her husband, Jay, have spent nearly every weekend together with Marty’s parents for the past 25 years. When Marty and Katy approached Darcey about marrying them, she said yes. Then, she got to work.

“I felt called to understand my role as officiant and make sure that the ceremony met the couple’s wishes, but also the dreams and wishes of their parents. It’s a big day for everyone involved!”, Darcey explains. Her first phone call was to Pastor Ben Hilding. He informed her of the specific legal requirements for performing marriages and guided her to encourage the couple to go through pre-marital counseling. Darcey quickly learned the legal certification process to perform marriages was free and took less than 20 minutes online. “I was expecting to find a mini-seminary course or something a little more substantial. Pastor Ben assured me that becoming ordained online through Universal Life Church was all that was necessary, and it was completely legal,” Darcey says with a laugh. Once she agreed to marry Marty and Katy, she explained the importance of premarital counseling. She encouraged them to meet with a 3rd party, or some they trusted. Marty and Katy chose to complete their pre-marital counseling with the person who was like a second mom.

Darcey.

Becoming a pre-marriage counselor was a completely different experience from her online ordination. Darcey spent hundreds of dollars on the training and found twenty hours in her busy schedule to become a trained facilitator in Prepare/Enrich. “Jay and I participated in another couple’s pre-marital counseling, at the request of Pastor Ben, and I saw through that experience the importance of communication. No matter how far into your relationship you are, there is always room to improve and grow together. That certainly influenced my decision to get certified – I wanted to do it right, as best I could,” Darcey explains.

Next, Darcey met with Marty, Katy, and both of their parents for two hours to discuss wedding expectations, how God would be present, and the ceremony. Darcey reflects, “It gave everyone peace of mind that faith would be represented and well represented.” Marty adds, “My mom was very appreciative during the initial meeting and happy that her opinion mattered. We were very mindful that prayers would be woven into the ceremony.”

She met with Marty and Katy four times, and each session included homework. “I learned so much going through pre-marital counseling. I was surprised because we were together [for nine years] before getting married. I kept thinking, ‘how come we’ve never talked about this before?’” Katy explains. Marty continues, “It was easy to be vulnerable with Darcey because of our close relationship with her.”

The big day arrived with perfect fall weather for an outdoor ceremony. Katy remembers, “I was so nervous walking down the aisle. I focused on Darcey, and seeing her standing next to my best friend helped calm me down.” Marty adds, “The entire ceremony was an awesome heart moment. Absolutely beautiful. Darcey had everyone laughing and crying at the same time. People commented afterward how meaningful the ceremony was.”

Darcey agrees with the happily married couple. “Marrying these two people – that I have known for almost their entire lives and whose parents are our dearest friends – was the honor of my life after marrying my husband and becoming a mom. Through this experience, I saw the importance and value of community when raising a child, seeing that child into adulthood, and instilling upon that child that you and God are there for them, now and forever.”

Engagement & Wedding Photo Credit: Meg Vanscoik, Loui Photography

Written by Karen Taylor, HTLC Communication Manager

February 1, 2023

Jan '23

One Last Team

Posted on Jan 12, 2023 in HTLChronicles | 3010

Jan '23

When the New Prague 9th grade boys’ basketball team was without a coach this fall, Superintendent Tim Dittberner was asked by Laura Meyer, parent of 9th grade athlete, Alex, if he would help coach.

“Only if the school referendum passes”, Dittberner replied.

Well, that didn’t happen.

Two weeks after the referendum vote, the head coach for the 9th grade boys’ basketball team (a non-teacher from Burnsville), didn’t make it past the first practice. Once again, the team was without a coach, and again, Superintendent Dittberner was asked to step in. This time he said yes.

Why this time? “Things happen for a reason. Our school board fully supported this decision. I am very grateful that I can do something I love and make a difference,” Dittberner explains.

It’s not the first time Mr. Dittberner stepped onto the coaching spotlight. After graduating from Gustavus with a degree in Health and Physical Education, he’s spent over forty years as an educator, principal, coach, and administrator. According to mnbasketballhub.com, Coach Dittberner had five teams (Le Sueur, South St. Paul, and New Prague) qualify for the boys’ state basketball tournament in eighteen years as a head coach. “We won the state championship in 1986 at Le Sueur. There are current Holy Trinity members who were students of mine at that time,” he adds.

For the last twenty years of his career, Mr. Dittberner has been a part of the New Prague Area School District. First, as Middle School Principal (2003 – 2013), and assistant and head coach of boys’ high school basketball team (2009 – 2011 seasons). In 2009, Coach Dittberner began as an assistant coach with his sons on the team when the head coach, Jeff Gravon, passed away unexpectedly from a long bout with cancer. “The funeral was held at HTLC and was a very trying experience for the team,” Dittberner reflects.

The 2009 team pulled together to make it to the state tournament, and again in 2011 under Coach Dittberner’s leadership. He retired from coaching in 2011 to watch his daughter, Annie, play her final years of high school basketball. In 2013, Mr. Dittberner moved into the superintendent’s chair, and last month, announced his plan to retire at the end of this school year.

With an overall coaching record of 242-200, how did the 9th grade athletes respond to Mr. Dittberner putting on his coach whistle one last time?

“They are really nice kids that come from good families – I can coach them hard – they embrace high expectations and know that I care about them getting better as a person and basketball player. They want to be coached,” he responds.

Having the district superintendent as your basketball coach comes with an added perk. “They do get the inside scoop on the possibility of a snow day,” Coach Dittberner reports.

Recently, 9th grade boys’ basketball assistant coach, Mike Bartusek took a photo of Coach Dittberner with all of the players from Holy Trinity.

Is it hard to coach athletes from your church?

“I don’t favor – but I do know all their parents. I’m probably a little harder on them than some of the other players. HTLC does grow them tall! I remember the church service when they were confirmed and thought, ‘Boy, some of them are pretty lanky and tall – good basketball builds.’ You can’t coach height!”, Coach replies.

Thank you, Tim Dittberner, for making a difference in the lives of the 9th grade boys’ basketball team this season, and for your positive influence on the New Prague Area School District over the last twenty years!

Above photo: left to right – Myles Tietz, Adam Lee, Jack Kahnke, Coach Tim Dittberner, Alex Meyer, Tyler Flicek.
Photo credit: Mike Bartusek.

Written by Karen Taylor, Communication Manager

January 12, 2023

Jan '23

Generosity Overflows

Posted on Jan 5, 2023 in HTLChronicles | 2160

Jan '23

There’s no doubt that middle school students cherish their Winter Break. No school, no strict schedule to follow, and the ability to enjoy Minnesota’s beautiful winter season. Despite having no church commitments during winter break, the 7th grade Group 3 winners of the Confirmation Giving Challenge spent their time serving others at Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) in Chanhassen, MN.

Holy Trinity is a generous congregation and gives away 10% of its annual income. The Mission Outreach team determines how the congregational tithe is gifted. Highlighted in the “CYF Happenings” section of the November 18, 2022 HTLConnections, the 7th grade Group 3 Confirmation students earned $1000 from the Mission Outreach team in the annual “Confirmation Giving Challenge”. The team was impressed with the students’ commitment to hand-delivering the $1000 donation and volunteer at FMSC to pack meal kits.

Smack dab in the middle of winter break, the 7th grade Group 3 students invited their Confirmation friends to join them on Wednesday, Dec. 28. Confirmation mentor Jamie Sticha comments, “We extended an open invitation to our Confirmation friends and had a group of 16. What an awesome way to share God’s love from one generation to the next!”

7th grade Group 3 researched several charities before settling on FMSC, an idea brought forward by Jacob Bisek. The students were impressed with their global reach and the idea of helping kids their own age. Jamie states, “we learned over 6,000 kids die every day around the world from hunger-related causes and that really moved the students.”

Jamie’s commitment to Children, Youth & Family (CYF) Ministry spans over a decade. “Sarah Becher and I led the Sunday School program for a few years after the split, and I was a member of the CYF Committee. I led my middle son’s confirmation small group for three years, and now I’m leading my youngest son’s small group. It’s such an awesome experience to be part of a young person’s faith formation. It’s another way for me to be connected to my kids, too! I usually learn something every week!”

Ron Solheim stepped up this fall to be a confirmation mentor to his grandson’s group. He adds, “This was the team responsible for all of this happening. They took the initiative to compete for the donation money from Mission and Outreach but also felt the need for personal involvement on their part and to invite others from the congregation to join them. It is a very meaningful experience to go to Feed My Starving Children and pack meals that will feed others all over the world.”

Jamie was impressed with Ron’s dedication to the confirmation students. She recalls, “he actually drove to FMSC to let them know we were presenting their organization and to get additional information about their mission. They let him bring back a food pack & hair nets to add to our presentation. The students have great respect for him, and I absolutely LOVE partnering with Ron!”

With the help of dozens of other volunteers, 26,784 meals were packed during the almost two-hour shift. This effort will feed 73 children for a year. Holy Trinity’s contribution of $1000 was matched by FMSC “to produce meals to feed 8,333 children for one day,” Ron states.

Overall, the students enjoyed working together and trying different jobs. According to Jamie, the students shared that the experience ended up being more fun than they expected and they felt God working through them.

Thank you, Jamie Sticha, Ron Solheim, 7th grade Confirmation Group 3 (and friends), and HTLC Mission Outreach team for your generosity and for making a difference in the lives of others!

Photo Credit: Gina Fadden

Written by Karen Taylor, Communication Manager

January 5, 2023

Nov '22

Getting Ready With Scraps of Love

Posted on Nov 22, 2022 in HTLChronicles | 2750

Nov '22

Over two thousand years ago, a young couple was getting ready for their life to be turned upside down. The birth of their God-given son was imminent. On the road to an unfamiliar place with a deranged King hunting them, life was not easy. No family to help, no room for them in local hotels, nothing but what they could carry on their donkey. In their own season of Advent, they had to get ready. On a cold winter’s night, Jesus was born, and his mother wrapped him snuggly with strips of cloth tied together. But let’s face reality, it was not an ideal birthing experience.

God At Work

For over 50 years, a dedicated group of women have been sewing bits of cloth together into warm, cozy quilts. For decades, the quilts have been donated to LeSueur County families. If Jesus had been born in rural New Prague, there’s no doubt his family would have received one of these quilts before he was born. Mostly likely sewn by the Holy Trinity Sewing Group and hand-delivered by Holy Trinity’s Santa Anonymous Angel, LuAnn Leach.

LuAnn is instrumental in bridging the gap between Holy Trinity and Le Sueur County families with her years of service to Santa Anonymous. (Read “More Than Just A Tree” to learn more.) Years ago, God was at work as LuAnn and Carol Fehler crossed paths at the Holy Trinity Christmas Tea. Carol inquired if LuAnn could help get the quilts to families who need them. This year, LuAnn collected 25 quilts from the Holy Trinity Sewing Group, and 50 fleece blankets created by members of Holy Trinity. LuAnn and Carol make quite the team as LuAnn replies, “Carol introduced me to another quilt group, New Prague Prairie Quilters Club, and they donated 25 quilts to Santa Anonymous. My car is packed with quilts!”

Over the years, LuAnn has heard countless stories from parents who without Santa Anonymous, would not have had presents under their tree. One of her favorite stories is from a mom of three teenage sons who wrote a thank you about her sons’ favorite gift.

A quilt. Yes, even teenage boys appreciate quilts made with love.

Due to the pandemic, quilters were not meeting and in 2020, the Santa Anonymous program limited quilts to one per family. This year, the Santa Anonymous program is serving 228 family units. Le Sueur County Santa Anonymous Coordinator Cindy W. reports that the Santa Anonymous program is 100% volunteer run and she is thankful for not only the volunteers like LuAnn, but also all of the area churches that make quilts and blankets for families at Christmas. “This year, every child who wants a blanket or quilt is able to receive one,” Cindy reports.

Traditions Don’t Fade

Ironically, only two members of the Sewing Group are members of Holy Trinity. “We have three Carols, a Lois and a Julie,” laughs Sewing Group coordinator, Carol Fehler. “Only Lois [Newman] and I are actual members.”

Lois recalls, “My husband, Lennie, and I joined Holy Trinity soon after the church moved to its current building [in 1978]. The sewing group existed, and I started sewing with the group soon after becoming a member.”

Old Holy Trinity Church directories show remnants of past members and events, such as the Used-A-Bit Sale and Antique Show with Carol’s familiar face as the common thread. Together with Lois and fellow Sewing Group members Carol Janish, Carol Jones and Julie Latzke, they meet for two hours twice a month to create quilts with donated fabric. Carol F. cuts fabric into 5” squares in her home and returns them to the next meeting. Carol Janish also works on the quilts outside of the Sewing Group meetings. Carol Fehler admires Carol Janish’s ability to piece random squares into beautiful patterns. “She has such an eye for color! I could never do that part,” Carol F. states. Carol Janish brings the completed quilt top to the meeting, and other members take it from there. Each member has their role, and they make as many quilts as possible. Lois states, “We never know how many quilts we’ll make in a year. There’s never a set goal. We just make as many as we can do.”

When asked why she quilts, Carol answers “because people need them. It’s always been a tradition at Holy Trinity.” In fact, Carol not only sews with the Sewing Group at Holy Trinity, she sews with the Prairie Quilters based out of Friedens Lutheran Church once a month, and recently started attending a group that meets at the Prior Lake Library once a week. “It’s fun to get together with people and do your various crafts.” Carol is excited that the annual Prairie Quilters Club Quilt Show will be at Holy Trinity in April. “The entire church will be filled with quilts. Some of them are so beautiful they look like works of art!” she exclaims.

As both Carol and Lois explain, as they get older, they can’t move like they did as younger quilters. Lois chuckles at a small wall hanging in the Holy Trinity quilt closet, “Old quilters never die. They just go to pieces.” Arthritic fingers and spines make quilting difficult, no matter how much they enjoy it. “There’s only five of us left”, Lois explains. “At some point, someone else has to take over.”

Faithfully, the Sewing Group keeps the tradition going and gets ready for another year of sewing donated scraps of fabric into beautiful quilts fit for a King. The Holy Trinity Sewing Group invites anyone interested in learning to quilt to their meetings on the 2nd and 4th Fridays of the month at 9 am. No skill necessary! Fabric donations are always appreciated.

Thank you, Holy Trinity Sewing Group, for working behind the scenes to share God’s love for all people from one generation to the next!

Written by Karen Taylor, HTLC Communications Manager

November 22, 2022

Oct '22

Compline

Posted on Oct 13, 2022 in HTLChronicles | 5250

Oct '22

Music + Worship + Time for Stillness = A fresh start to the week. That’s the magic formula for the newest worship service at Holy Trinity. Geared towards high school youth and older, this monthly, youth-infused service, called Compline, debuts on Sunday, October 16 from 6 – 8 pm in the Sanctuary.

Dating back to the 4th century, Compline (pronounced KOM-plin) is the Night Prayer of the church as it is the final service of the day. Five hundred years ago, Martin Luther ensured the Compline Service remained as he reformed other liturgical formats. However, modern Lutheran churches abandoned the eight services of the Divine Office, and typically hold one type of service per week. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) relies on hymnals to guide worshippers in various service types and liturgies. The Compline service appears on pages 154 – 160 of the Lutheran Book of Worship (green hymnal c.1978) and on pages 320 – 327 in the Evangelical Lutheran Worship (red hymnal c. 2006).

Yep. This “new” Compline service at Holy Trinity isn’t new at all.

Director of Children, Youth & Family Ministry Lauren Petersen explains, “It is very much different from Sunday and Wednesday worship in that it is not really a service, but more of a time to just come and be. No bulletins, no communion, no 15-minute sermon, and no offering. Lights will be dimmed with slides to show lyrics for everyone to sing along if they’d like.” Compline starts at 6 pm, however, the first hour is a time purely for fellowship. Lights will dim at 7 pm as the Compline service begins and attendees are invited to transition to a reflective state of mind. 9th grade confirmation students received a sneak peek at Compline during their retreat last month, which included a short message, beautiful music, and a time for reflection. Lauren continues, “This is majority student-led, and hope it to be inviting for people high school age and older, but of course, all are welcome to come as long as everyone is mindful of the space.” Music will vary month to month as will the student-led message. It will be completely different from sermons heard during Sunday/Wednesday worship.

Compline can be a compelling experience as the music affords people time to focus on their relationship with God. Lauren states, “For some people, it is easier to go to that reflective state, and for some people, it just feels weird to be still and see where their thoughts take them. In recognition that not everyone worships in the same way, this service is an invitation to those people who want more of a reflective time with God.” If you have concerns about finding space that works for you during Compline, please contact Lauren at lauren@holytrinityonline.org.

Who is that?

Rumors around New Prague will tell anyone listening that Holy Trinity is the “one with the good music”. There’s no denying Holy Trinity is blessed with talent, and the pandemic brought some new faces to the forefront, including Jackie Mackenthun. Recently, Jackie stepped in for staff musicians to sing a song she covered in 2021. Standing next to Jackie was a teenager, providing harmonies like a skilled professional. Necks craned to see “who is that?”

In front of the congregation, in a country she had entered less than four weeks prior, was German exchange student Marisa Doddo.

“Singing in general has always been a part of my life. [Ever] since I could sing, I did,” Marisa explains. Staying with the Mackenthun family for a year, Marisa was comfortable attending and singing in worship. Host Mom Jackie explains that German schools do not have music or sports as a part of their programming, so one way for people to immerse themselves in music is through the church. However, according to Marisa, most Germans do not attend church. “It’s not a thing out of responsibility or tradition there,” she says. Marisa and her family attend a Baptist church, Credo Kirche, with multiple campuses, and a big focus on music and youth. Jackie adds, “I think she is really missing [her church] right now. They do week-long lock-ins called ‘wohnwoche’ where the kids ‘just be’ at church – live at church, sleep at church, do school from church, and have a lot of fun activities.”

As compared to Holy Trinity, Marisa reports that Credo Kirche has more modern elements in the service and it is more “active” as a whole. (Click here to watch a 30 sec. video of a typical worship service). In general, she thinks that Americans are friendlier than Germans, except for the people at Credo Kirche. “We have about 100 people in our youth church, and it is the place where I feel most at home. It’s the most non-toxic place with open-hearted people and you feel welcome there.”

Just Be

Just be.

In fellowship with others.

With the lyrics to beautiful music.

In a calm, peaceful environment.

Just be.

Letting God work wonders and not requiring an explanation. (Like how does a talented teenager from Martin Luther’s birthplace show up in rural Minnesota in time to help lead a new, youth-inspired, music-filled worship service?)

Yes, Marisa will be one of the students leading Compline through her singing talents, feeling right at home in a new country. A country, in her eyes, filled with overly sweet food that can sit on a shelf for months, closets stuffed with unworn clothes, and houses with rooms dedicated solely to storing more overly sweet food. This Sunday at 6 pm, join in the youth-led worship experience at the first Compline service.

To read more about Marisa and her journey with the Mackenthun family, check out Jackie’s blog, https://beyondgermany.blogspot.com/

Written by Karen Taylor, Communications Manager

October 13, 2022

Jul '22

Community Gathering For All

Posted on Jul 13, 2022 in HTLChronicles | 3180

Jul '22

At the “Embracing Diversity” book study last week, Dr. Darrell Jodock commented on a great concern for public health: that is, the effects of isolation. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have missed our community’s summer signature event for two years in a row. But this year, RibFest is back.

In the Beginning

It started in 2016 as the brainchild of then HTLC council member, Jeremy Torgerson, as a way to bring people together and show people what Holy Trinity is about.

That first year was a huge learning curve for the organizers, who included Torgerson, Lona Rookaird, Darcey Schoenebeck, and HTLC Ministry Coordinator, Karen Taylor. The inaugural RibFest was located in the south parking lot, and included a dunk tank (where you could dunk your Pastor or favorite Council Member), a bouncy house, a variety of adult beverages, and background music from Tim Price.

Change of Scenery

In a move to gain more public exposure, 2018’s RibFest was re-positioned to the north side of Holy Trinity. It had morphed into a staff-led event with volunteer support, and the move to the front yard proved to be a smart one. With more visibility to the community, there was a good mix of HTLC members and non-members enjoying great music, a variety of beverages, delicious food and fun family activities.

Four years of RibFest experience gave the staff the confidence to dream big with their 2019 event. To capitalize on the temporary fence that surrounded the front yard, a Blessing of the Pets event was introduced the Wednesday evening before RibFest.

Bright yellow yard signs were scattered around the community to inform people that RibFest was coming. And Holy Trinity started participating in Czech Out New Prague the night before RibFest to promote all good things that come from Holy Trinity, including RibFest. Again, it was a HUGE success with more non-HTLC members than members attending!

And then the world stopped. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, community events were stalled and postponed. Summer simply didn’t feel the same.

A Fresh Start

Fresh off a year of Strategic Plan 2.0 visioning, Holy Trinity is set to have the biggest and best RibFest the community has ever seen. This year, Giesenbrau Bier Co. is providing their craft beer and root beer. It’s not only a great partnership, it also eliminates the process and cost of a temporary liquor license. Community music legend, Little Chicago, will be providing music with over fifteen musicians. Their covers of 60’s & 70’s hit music is sure to get people dancing in the grass.

One significant change this year is the elimination of the pulled pork sandwich option. As the name of the event indicates, RibFest will only be serving ribs for the main meal ticket. One thing that hasn’t changed since 2016 is the price of the meal tickets. Rib Meal is still $15 and includes ribs, coleslaw, baked beans, mini ear of sweet corn, dinner roll, dessert and bottled water. Hot Dog Meal remains $5 and includes, hot dog with bun, chips, dessert and bottled water. HTLC Hospitality Coordinator, Donna Galvin and her team of kitchen volunteers will prepare and provide all of the food.

Another thing that hasn’t changed since the beginning of RibFest is the fact that this is a FREE community event. There is no charge to attend. Some people stop by to listen to some music and have a beverage before making the choice to eat a meal. However, this year, food will only be served between 5 – 7 pm, so music lovers will have to make their decision early. Meal tickets are sold at the gated entrance of the front yard (near door 1 of the building). For volunteers, it’s the best gig all year!

There’s New Kid at the Party

Holy Trinity’s Executive Council Team was brainstorming about how to make RibFest “bigger and better”, and how to raise money for all of the new Strategic Plan 2.0 initiatives. Council President, Jackie Mackenthun, shares, “I’ve been to a lot of silent auctions and think they are a lot of fun. We have around 30 items so far and would love some more.” She says the biggest ticket item donated so far is from the Chanhassen Dinner Theater. Jackie hopes to see some donations for a family game night, day at the beach or a “gym rat” basket. “Holy Trinity has so many great teams and projects going on! The primary focus of the Silent Auction is to help raise money for the Strategic 2.0 initiatives, but so many other groups will indirectly benefit as a result of all of these ideas. Peace Garden, Racial Justice Team, Endowment Fund, and Youth Groups. So many great things to be excited for!”

Written by Karen A. Taylor, Web Manager

July 13, 2022

Jun '22

Brown Bags From Heaven

Posted on Jun 23, 2022 in HTLChronicles | 4490

Jun '22

Hungriest summer on record. Those words hit Holy Trinity’s Hospitality Coordinator, Donna Galvin, at her core, and she felt called to do something about it. “My passion is feeding people!” she states confidently. With the help of a grant from Holy Trinity’s Endowment Fund, Donna is on a mission to feed as many kids as possible this summer.

Feeding the Hungry

Donna Galvin has been the Hospitality Coordinator at Holy Trinity since 2016, and feeding people is her specialty. New members are introduced to Donna’s deliciousness during their New Member Orientation, Donna and her Hospitality Team regularly provide home cooked meals before our Wednesday Evening worship services, and Donna even created a special recipe for homemade communion bread during the pandemic for our First Communicants – a tradition that continues today! However, her partnership with New Prague’s food shelf, The Peace Center, started in 2018 during Vacation Bible School. Donna compiled meals in brown lunch bags for kids who were home alone during the summer break. “It was a one time thing, but I always wanted to do it again on a larger scale”, Donna reports.

Fast forward through the busyness of life, throw in a global pandemic, and the voice in Donna’s head to do something grew louder.

Hungriest Summer on Record

This spring, Donna participated in a webinar from Second Harvest Heartland called, “Summer Food Service Program 101 and How to be a Summer Meals Champion”. It was just the kick start Donna needed. “That was the first time I heard the phrase ‘Hungriest Summer on Record’ and I knew I had to do something,” Donna replies. The lingering impact of the pandemic, cost of food rising 16%, and schools eliminating their summer food program contribute to the “hungriest summer on record” claim. She quickly filled out the Holy Trinity Endowment Grant Request Form to request funds to make her dream a reality.

Endowment Committee member Dan Popple stated, “Endowment was impressed with the passion exhibited by Donna to identify and fill a need in the local community in an area where the Holy Trinity Hospitality Team could apply their resources and skills to help. The effort to connect with the New Prague Peace Center to define this specific gap leading into the summer months generated interest from our group to assist. We look forward to their efforts leading to a positive impact.”

Donna was awarded a $1000 grant, and she didn’t waste any time assembling her team to get to work.

Manna Bags

What is manna? Manna is the food that dropped from heaven that prevented Moses and the Israelites from starving in the desert (Exodus 16:14–36). Donna creatively named these brown paper bags filled with easy to prepare, shelf-stable breakfast and lunch items, “Manna Bags”. Donna’s Hospitality Team shopped for items for their Manna Bags at Sam’s Club to stretch their Endowment grant funds. “Our goal is to make deliveries to the Peace Center every 2-3 weeks throughout the summer,” Donna reports. After recovering from a long day of shopping, Donna heard a familiar voice speaking on the TV news. It was Second Harvest Heartland’s CEO, Allison O’Toole, who directed the webinar Donna attended earlier in the spring, and again, Donna heard the words “hungriest summer on record”.

“Inflation, sky-high consumer prices, gas prices, people’s rent payments are going up at a time when their wages aren’t following necessarily — especially for those lower-wage workers — [and] supply chain issues are putting pressure on all ends of the system,” O’Toole added about the reasons behind the expected demand.

Less than a week after watching the news story, Donna and her team gathered their items, and turned the Holy Trinity kitchen into a massive assembly line. Volunteers Trudy Wegman, Patsy Schuster, and Judy Schuster (Patsy’s sister-in-law) assisted Donna to pack the Manna Bags to the top. Each Manna Bag held a packet of instant oatmeal, a fruit granola bar, a juice box, a piece of fresh fruit, Easy Mac or Ramen Noodles, Goldfish crackers, fruit snacks and a small bag of cookies.

80 Manna Bags were delivered to the Peace Center on Wednesday, June 15. As with all donations, the Peace Center weighed them, and the bags contained 106 lbs. of food. The Peace Center volunteers quickly arranged the Manna Bags at the front entrance and estimated they would be gone by the end of the week.

More Manna

If you’d like to contribute to the next batch of Manna Bags, Donna suggests the following items: applesauce cups, 100% juice boxes, breakfast bars, and pop-top canned Spaghetti O’s (with or without meatballs). Donations can be dropped off with Donna on Sunday mornings after worship in the kitchen, or with Jamie in the church office during business hours. Keep your ears open in worship as Donna may schedule her next Manna Bag packing session after Sunday morning worship and seek more volunteers.

Written by Karen Taylor, Web Manager

June 23, 2022

May '22

The Little Free Pantry That Could

Posted on May 25, 2022 in HTLChronicles | 2740

May '22

A woman takes a package of diapers for her crying infant. A young student rides his bike to pick out some food for his family. Small, wooden shelters on the south side of Holy Trinity’s building are making a big impact in our community.

The original Little Free Pantry

A Little Free Pantry is Born

Holy Trinity’s Free Little Food Pantry was built in 2018 by Facilities Manager, Jon Bergquist at the request of the eight person Mission Outreach Team. The idea was brought to the team as a member had seen it in another town. “The Little Free Pantry is an emergency pantry, not a food shelf,” reports Liz Nelson, HTLC’s Pantry Coordinator. The pantry serves many purposes – for those who want to give and for those who need to receive. “The location of the pantry gives the users anonymity and privacy.” Liz also volunteers her time at the New Prague Peace Center and says, “there can be unintentional stigma on users of the Peace Center. People like the anonymity of the Little Free Pantries.”

One More

The Little Free Pantry for household items

Liz Nelson fills the Little Free Food Pantry

In 2019, Holy Trinity unveiled its new Vision, Mission and Values and with that, came a renewed energy to the Mission Outreach Team. The team is responsible for overseeing the generosity of the congregation which includes giving away 10% (a tithe) of all church offerings. The team decides which organizations will receive funds based on requests they accept. After the first Little Free Pantry was built, it was evident that one was not enough, so an additional pantry was built to hold household items, such as personal hygiene items, diapers, and household supplies. While the Mission Outreach team accepts many donations of food and household items, they also use part of the congregational tithe to purchase non-perishable items. “Winter is always a problem as we are limited to items that can handle the freezing temperatures. Because of the weather, it is necessary for us to purchase more items in the winter months to keep the pantry filled,” states Liz. Any donated food/item that is not tolerant of the weather conditions is held in the Mission Outreach storage room and put out at the appropriate time by Liz or the team of volunteers.

Abundant Blessings

Brody D., one of many Confirmation students committed to serving New Prague families, fills the pantry earlier this month.

Liz Nelson is no stranger to spending time at a church. For over twenty years, she was the Director of Early Childhood Ministry at St. Philip the Deacon Lutheran in Plymouth. Fresh off her retirement in 2018, she joined the HTLC Mission Outreach Team and became the Little Free Pantry Coordinator. Rain, snow or shine, she checks on the pantries three times a week and spends up to an hour each visit organizing donations or restocking the pantry. The biggest blessing she has witnessed is “meeting the needs of many families. The needs for many families are huge and the ones I’ve met are so grateful. Some of the families have shared their stories with me, and it’s unbelievable the many challenges they face.” Liz isn’t the only volunteer who tends to the Little Free Pantry. Mary Eagen breaks up large packs of diapers and repackages them into smaller bags of 4-6 diapers. Confirmation students also serve as Little Free Pantry volunteers and stock the pantry with items they purchase. “It’s great to see the kids get involved and learn about serving families in our community,” Liz reflects.

To learn more about the Holy Trinity Mission Outreach Team or donations requested for the Little Free Pantry, visit www.holytrinityonline.org/missions-outreach/

Written by Karen Taylor, Holy Trinity Web Manager

May 25, 2022

Apr '22

Tying It All Together

Posted on Apr 20, 2022 in HTLChronicles | 3350

Apr '22

There are moments in a church when seemingly random events are tied together by the arrival of something new and everything “clicks”. Holy Trinity is having one of those moments.

April, a month that welcomed Holy Week, embraced spring (come on, Minnesota!), and celebrated Holy Trinity’s Strategic 2.0 final recommendations titled New Life, has one more event on the calendar. Breaking ground for a community garden, named The Peace Garden, on Thursday, April 28, 9 am. Coincidentally, the appearance of three traveling mosaic panels in Holy Trinity’s narthex beautifully ties all of these occasions together.

Broken to Beautiful

Mosaics have been around for over 4000 years, using shards of broken tiles, glass and mirrors to create decorative art pieces. According to the artist statement, “These three panels were commissioned for the 2019 Minneapolis Area Synod Assembly. They were created by

the Semilla Center for Healing and the Arts at St. Paul’s Lutheran in south Minneapolis. Semilla (Sah-MEE-yah) means ‘seed’ in Spanish, and the center works to plant seeds of hope by teaching and creating public art that can help make the community healthier, safer and more beautiful.

“The panel ‘Feed the World’ is our call to end world hunger. The images reflect the Three Sisters that native peoples planted together: corn, beans and squash. It is a planting that naturally calls to cooperation. As in nature, we are all one; we are all in this world together.

“The panel “Love the Earth” shows native flowers of Minnesota, which attract pollinators needed for life:

butterflies, bees, hummingbirds. Under the earth, you can see a different kind of pollinator: bugs and animals that help create the soil that nourishes all of us.

“The middle panel was done by attendees of the assembly, under the direction of Pr. Luisa Cabello Hansel, Artistic Director of Semilla and co-pastor at St. Paul’s. It shows the unity of the church with our Creator, the creation and one another.”

Fate or Foresight

According to the Semilla Center, the mosaics have been on display at nearly a dozen area congregations over the last 3 years. This number would’ve been more if not for the pandemic. Pastor Ben requested these panels to reside at Holy Trinity in April to connect all of the events of April (New Life Huddle, Holy Week and Peace Garden groundbreaking). So perhaps it wasn’t fate, but the foresight of our forward-thinking Pastor Ben!

If you haven’t seen these stunning panels in person, don’t wait any longer! They’re moving onto another church at the end of this month. Find them on display in the narthex by the Welcome Center (Jamie’s old office).

The Garden and the Town

Last October, former HTLC Communications Specialist Rose Fife, wrote a blog introducing the Peace Garden titled, The Garden and the Town. Months of planning have led to the partnership between Holy Trinity, New Prague Rotary Club, The Peace Center, The NPHS Green Team, Boy Scout Troop 323, Praha Village and Nick Slavik to build and maintain the Peace Garden. All are welcome to attend the groundbreaking ceremony of the Peace Garden on Thursday, April 28, 9 am at Holy Trinity’s south parking lot.

For more information about volunteering or sponsorship of the Peace Garden, please visit holytrinityonline.org.

Written by Karen A. Taylor, Web Manager

April 20, 2022

Mar '22

Learning to Step Up

Posted on Mar 31, 2022 in HTLChronicles | 2460

Mar '22

In the middle of Lent, with a theme of “Full to the Brim”, six Holy Trinity high school students stepped out of their comfort zone and stepped up to a dynamic leadership experience at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, MN. Most students navigating through any high school have their cups overflowing – homework, teacher and parent expectations, sports, extracurricular activities, peer relationships and sometimes, just trying to get from one class to the next through crowded hallways is a chore. Besides a day off from New Prague High School, the students came away with much more.

Throughout the years, Gustavus Adolphus College Association of Congregations (GACAC) has conducted a leadership seminar specifically geared towards high school students. Pastor Alicia Hilding states, “It was great to travel with a small group of high school students to learn about ourselves, our faith, our values, and principles of leadership while immersed in an ELCA College experience. We shared the day with other high school students from across the state and learned from some incredible leaders and people of faith at Gustavus: Dr. Kathi Tunheim (Vice President for Mission, Strategy, and Innovation), Dr. Doug Thompson (Vice President for Equity and Inclusion), and Rev. Grady St. Dennis (Director of Church Relations and College Chaplain). At the end of the day, each of our students stood in front of the group and shared how they would hope to implement one thing into their leadership when they go back home.”

Based on the comments from the Holy Trinity students, the Step Up Leadership Conference was a success. Avery N. said that she enjoyed it and would recommend it to her friends. “I really liked Dr. Thompson – he was funny and easy to relate to. It was a good experience talking to people I don’t know and getting out of my comfort zone.” Another favorite of Avery’s was playing games in the car on the way home (Thanks, Lauren!)

Taylor H. stated she would attend this leadership session again because, “The sessions were eye opening and informative. Lessons learned from the sessions could be implemented immediately. It was a fun experience to try something new and learn about topics that aren’t taught in the school day.”

Carson S. replied that he enjoyed the “personal” activities. “We were given a list of leadership traits and we had to circle what we thought our five best leadership qualities were . I also like spending the whole day on a college campus and eating lunch in the Gustavus cafeteria – whatever we wanted for free! I would recommend this experience to others because it was fun and different from a normal routine.”

Ella H. summed up her experience by saying, “The Step Up Day looked into leadership and how everyone plays an important part. It also shows the importance of a community because we each have a role to play. No one can do it all! I would definitely recommend it!”

Isaiah P. recalls his day by stating, “I was able to hear the stories of different people and how they have used their experiences to become a leader. They shared the steps to becoming a leader and we did many activities learning about what makes a leader.”

Emmy W. had this to say about her day, “Step Up gave me the opportunity to learn about being a leader, not just in church, but in any setting. I would definitely recommend it. I got to talk with some interesting people, learned a lot about myself and had a lot of fun. I am glad I got the opportunity to spend some time learning about something that will benefit me forever.”

Not only did these students enjoy a day away from high school, they are some of the key members of the Holy Trinity High School Youth Group. Lauren Petersen, new Director of Children, Youth & Family Ministries accompanied Pastor Alicia and the students to the Step Up Leadership Day, and is working hard to kick-start a strong high school program at Holy Trinity. In fact, the group recently chose a new name to represent themselves – “Agape”. Agape (ah-gah-pay) comes from the Greek word that means unconditional and enduring love for all from God. Lauren states, “Being able to listen to what these individuals had to say and share with the rest of the group was extremely rewarding. Every person is a leader in their own way and we all can benefit from listening to each other. This experience was really eye opening for me to better understand what leadership means to those students. That will most definitely help us figure out where to start as we begin a new chapter with Agape and see a glimpse of what it could potentially grow into. We have amazing youth and I’m excited to see where this will take us!”

Agape is open to all high school and college-age students and meets on Wednesday nights. All students are invited to eat supper together at 5 pm, worship together at 6 pm and end their evening with Agape from 6:45 – 8:00 pm.

Written by Karen A. Taylor, Web Manager

March 31, 2022