TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES

Jefferson, IA

 

Trinity Lutheran Church council meeting was called to order by Chair, Scott Graham at 7:30 pm, March 18, 2026.

 

Pastor led all in a short prayer following Lenton service asking God for guidance for this group during this meeting. He also shared that a Deaconess, Grace, will be speaking at Trinity April 19th on the Deaconess program during Lutheran ½ Hour.  All are welcome to attend.

 

Last council minutes were read and moved by Al Robson, seconded by Cassady Kennedy for approval – motion passed. 

 

Vice-chair, Fred Long reminded all attendees of the “Outreach Committee” opening for the 2026/20276 church year; asking for any suggestions be given to him, so he can reach out. 

 

Financial report was given by Al Robson. Full reports can be found under the mailboxes. George Walker moved, Carol Christensen seconded to approve- motion passed. 

 

Reports on the Boards began with the 

 

Elders- They have purchased new acolyte robes.  The process has begun to assess how to best archive the church’s services maintaining and preserving service history, but not making unnecessary work of burning CDs that have not been requested. 

 

Education- 15 kids are attending Meal Madness on March 25th with chaperones Cassady and Amanda. They have set the VBS schedule to be July 27-30 (5:30-7:30 with supper served). A discussion about the decline in Sunday School attendance there will be a parent meeting April 8th at 6:00 pm with the Elders and Pastor.

 

Trustees- Continued replacement on window sashes with the nicer weather will be soon be finished. They are looking at getting the sanctuary speaker repairs completed as well as getting a remodel set for the basement bathrooms. Looking to finalize landscaping (to also help with drainage and erosion) they have one quote back while waiting for one more. There are possible funds from the Vi Hoffman memorial to be used to complete this project. 

 

Outreach- March Madness is happening currently with our TP game. All TP will be delivered to ARC following the game. Subway Sunday will be held March 22. Report was given by Ellie with further details on Valentine’s delivery, Camp Okoboji sponsorship, Confirmation reception, and Easter Breakfast. Further discussion was on how to use a portion of the VI Hoffman memorial funds. With Vi and Harry both advocates for Lutheran Hour Ministry and the making of “Jesus’ witness bracelets”, it was moved by Adam Pedersen to set aside $2,500.00 in funds. $2,000 for the bracelet materials and Trinity will assist in making those, $500.00 to be used at the Iowa State Fair, 2026 for admission and parking for IA District West volunteers.  Cheryl Robson seconded. Motion passed. Cheryl also gave an update on the Magnet outreach project and the goal is to have it completed and mail before the end of the current school year. 

 

Parish Fellowship- A new microwave was ordered for the kitchen; it should arrive next week. Everything is stocked currently.

 

Missions- There are funds available to use given by a donor. They are currently as a board set to meet March 22 to review some new missionaries to sponsor. Erin McKenzie is moving back to states with her soon to be husband as he attends sermonary and the Rickman family is no longer needing our support.  

 

In review of old news, the Trinity schedule to help at ARC is still being determined. Craig Hertel will give an update with the final assessment of need is complete.  A huge thank you was given by Linda Thede (SOC), to all the volunteers that helped from Trinity in our church and around town with Meals on Wheels, etc. 

 

Looking at new news, Al Robson presented an opportunity for Trinity to have a Year in review booklet to have at the annual meeting; an example can be found in the church office. Linda Thede shared that she is also looking into some Trinity apparel. She is going to get quotes from some companies and next steps will be given when she receives them all. Lois Brant also asked about any involvement with Trinity and Habitat for Humanity in Greene County. Adam Pederson is going to reach out and report back – seeing if there is an opportunity for us through any outreach. 

 

The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 7:00 PM.

Pastor closed with prayer at 8:28 PM. 

 

Respectfully Melissa Barrett

Trinity Secretary

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