2015 Annual Report

12310 Lorraine Street

Anchorage, Alaska 99516

907-345-4823

www.trinityalaska.org

www.facebook.com/trinityalaska

Give thanks to the Lord for he is good; his love endures forever. –Psalm 118:1

You are invited to join the congregation of Trinity

Sunday, January 31, 2016, 11:45A.M.

The annual meeting will follow the morning worship service.

The purpose of the Annual Meeting is to:

1. Receive annual reports filed by Church committees including accounts of Church finances as of December 31, 2015 and the 2016 Church Budget.

2. Receive minutes of the 2015 congregational meetings.3. Receive and vote on Deacons.4. Receive and vote on Elders.5. Receive and vote on Nominating Team.6. Receive and vote on By-Law Changes.7. Hear other informational items which the Interim Pastor and the

Session wish to share with the congregation.

In preparation for this time of celebration, please read this Annual Report, direct any questions and suggestions to session members and pray for our congregation as we enter 2016.

GUIDE FOR CONGREGATIONAL MEETINGS

CALL OF A MEETING: The Annual Meeting of the Congregation (Active Members) shall be held on the second Sunday in February or such other Sunday in February as may be determined and called for by the Session, with due notice. The business of the meeting may include annual reports from governing bodies; financial reports from the preceding year; the current year budget; changes in the terms of call for the pastor(s); and such other business as may be specified in the meeting notice. (G-1.0501)

Public notice of a meeting shall be given on two successive Sundays. The meeting may be held on the second Sunday following the first notice. (G-1.0502)

Special meetings of the Congregation may be called and conducted as provided in the Book of Order. The Session may call a special meeting of the Congregation by giving due notice of the meeting time and place and the business to be conducted. All congregational meetings may deal with both corporate and ecclesiastical matters. (G-1.0501)

QUOROM: A quorum for a meeting of the congregation shall consist of at least ten percent of the active members. (Trinity has 109 active members). (G-1.0501)

VOTING ELIGIBILITY: Only Active Members on the roll shall be eligible to vote on Church matters. There shall be no voting by proxy on any corporate or congregational matter unless otherwise required by law. (G-1.0501)

RULES OF ORDER: The business of Congregational meetings shall be conducted as provided in the Book of Order. (G-1.0503)

MODERATOR: The Pastor shall serve as Moderator of meetings of the Congregation. The Pastor is not a member of the congregation and may not vote at meetings of the Congregation. (G-1.0504)

MINUTES: The Clerk of the Session shall serve as secretary of Congregational meetings. Minutes shall be kept by the Clerk and may be approved by either the Session or the Congregation. (G-1.0505)

REPORTS: All organizations of the church report to the Session, and Session submits the reports to the congregation at the annual meeting. The annual report is presented in written form for all members at least two weeks prior to the annual meeting.

BUDGET: The constitution gives the authority over the budget to the Session, not the congregation. The Session may, and should, report the budget to the congregation for information. Action by the congregation for changes in the budget on any item except the salary of the Pastor(s) should properly be referred to the Session for its consideration.

POWERS OF A CONGREGATION: The governing principle of the Presbyterian Church is representative democracy. The powers of a congregation essentially are:

1. To elect a nominating committee to nominate a pastor, to elect a pastor, and to approve terms for the call annually.

2. To elect representatives to the nominating committee for nominating church officers (Bylaws Article VI, Section 1), and to elect church officers.

3. To establish its own rules (bylaws) in harmony with the Book of Order.4. To act upon any matter which the Session properly brings before it.5. To inform Presbytery of any matter properly needing action of that body.

MINUTES OF THE CONGREGATIONAL ANNUAL MEETINGFEBRUARY 22, 2015

TRINITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

The meeting was opened with prayer by Rev. Mark Klohe at 12:00pm.

The Clerk determined that a quorum was present.

Rev. Mark Klohe gave an opening statement, summarizing where we’ve been and looking ahead to the future. Forgiveness is a very important part of the process.

The Annual Report was received as presented. The minutes of the 2014 Annual Meeting on February 23, 2014, the April 27, 2014 Congregational Meeting, and the November 16, 2014 Congregational Meeting were received as presented.

The nominating committee was acknowledged, consisting of: Frank Sears (elder), Irene Miller, Marjorie Haun, Rich Wilson, Ben Gordon, John Russell, and Rev. Mark Klohe (ex-officio).

Elder Frank Sears presented the Deacon slate, consisting of: Barbara Henningsen, Donna Gerwin, Shelly Farnam, and Myron Wright. Connie and Luce Ames were nominated from the floor. MSP to close nominations and elect the slate unanimously by common consent.

Deacons are: Irene Miller, Class of 2015Marjorie Haun, Class of 2015Barbara Henningsen, Class of 2015Janine Welch, Class of 2016Donna Gerwin, Class of 2016Shelly Farnam, Class of 2017Myron Wright, Class of 2017Connie and Ames Luce, Class of 2017 (co-share one position)

Elder Frank Sears presented the Elder slate, consisting of: Richard Henningsen, Richard Wilson, Susan Lundgren, James Storter, and Keith Brownsberger (re-elect). Each elder-elect introduced themselves and stated why they wanted to be an elder. The floor was open for nominations; none received. MSP elect the slate of elders as presented unanimously by common consent.

Elders are: Frank Sears, Class of 2015Spencer Biegel, Class of 2015Richard Henningsen, Class of 2015Beverly English, Class of 2016Richard Wilson, Class of 2016Keith Brownsberger, Class of 2017Susan Lundgren, Class of 2017

James Storter, Class of 2017

Edgar Cowling was acknowledged for his years of faithful service as Deacon.

Elder Frank Sears presented the 2015 budget, and compared it to the 2014 budget and actual. 2014 Revenue was $459,960; 2014 expenditures were $577,357. We had to dig into our savings. 2015 budgeted expenditures are $428,552. Discussion followed.

Other discussion: Dick Henningsen inquired about the membership rolls, which will be reviewed in the coming year. Sherrill Holthouser inquired about membership rights, and was assured any changes will be prayerfully and considerately performed.

The meeting was closed with prayer by Rev. Mark Klohe at 1:05pm.

Respectfully Submitted,

Beverly English Rev. Mark KloheClerk of Session Moderator

MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETINGMAY 31, 2015

TRINITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

The meeting was opened with prayer by Rev. Mark Klohe (moderator) at 11:55am.

The Clerk determined that a quorum was present.

Elder Rich Wilson presented the Elder nomination, consisting of Joan White. MSP to close nominations and elect Joan White unanimously by common consent.

Elders are: Spencer Biegel, Class of 2015Richard Henningsen, Class of 2015Joan White, Class of 2015Beverly English, Class of 2016Richard Wilson, Class of 2016Keith Brownsberger, Class of 2017Susan Lundgren, Class of 2017James Storter, Class of 2017

Elder Rich Wilson presented the Nominating Team nomination, consisting of JoAnn Bantz. MSP to close nominations and elect JoAnn Bantz unanimously by common consent.

The meeting was closed with prayer by Rev. Mark Klohe at 12:00pm.

Respectfully Submitted,

Beverly English Rev. Mark KloheClerk of Session Moderator

My Dear Friends in Christ,

It is a privilege and a deep pleasure to serve you as your Interim Pastor. Thank you for the warm welcome extended upon my arrival in November which shows no sign of growing cold! I feel very much at home with you, rejoice in your worship and fellowship, and remain in awe of the beauty that surrounds us all!

Let me add my sincere appreciation to Mark for his time with you. There is no doubt that he was the right person to shepherd you through the first part of this interim period. He worked most graciously—and affectively—to bring you to a place where the next steps toward calling your next, seated, pastor, can be taken. With you, I wish him every blessing as he now awaits his next call to serve Christ’s church. Well done, Mark—and go Bulldogs!

Looking ahead—and as mentioned above--I fully expect that 2016 will see us to take the next steps in calling your next pastor. These steps will include coming together to undertake study of your current ministry and mission, as well as time to prayerfully consider what your work and witness will look like in the future. As part of this same study, you will also begin to paint a picture of the kind of pastor who will join you in accomplishing the future goals and objectives you have discerned for yourselves. Each of you has a vital role to play in this process, and I will be reminding you of—and encouraging you in—this same responsibility, as we move ahead!

In closing, let me also thank Barb Clubb, your Session, and your Board of Deacons for their great faith and on-going commitment to the ministries of Trinity. You are being most capably served by them all!

Faithfully,

Todd

Trinity Presbyterian ChurchAnchorage, Alaska

Interim Pastor’s Annual ReportJanuary – November 2015

Transition; transition is one word that describes the life of Trinity Presbyterian Church in 2015. A simple definition of transition is transformation as in changing from this into that. All the while, in the midst of change, some things, like faith and glory, remained steadfast and unchanged.

The great hymn Love Divine, All Loves Excelling contains these words in verse 4: Let us see Thy great salvation Perfectly restored in Thee; Changed from glory into glory, Till in heaven we take our place, Till we cast our crowns before Thee, Lost in wonder, love, and praise.

The year began with a session mighty in faith and far less than the number required by our by-laws. No real problem. In fact it became a point of appropriate pride that so much was being accomplished by so few. Such is the mystery of faith.

We began thinking and believing that eventually we would be able to do the impossible with nothing. Some believe we have. Reports from other ministry areas will prove this out.

The fact that cash on hand reserves were extremely low brought the immediacy of today into sharp contrast with recent boom years. Simply put, Trinity was once again like a newly-wed couple living pay check to pay check and all but chasing a few to the bank.

Somewhere in the midst of it all, people began saying things like, “No problem. We’ve been here before. God has been faithful in the past; there is no reason to think that now is or will be any different…” So far that has proven to be true.

Another change was in worship. The exact date is lost to this author. But my recollection is that in late summer and or early fall, Trinity found its praise voice again. It is not so much that it was lost, but rather that lament and sorrow over loss were the more dominate themes.

Interim is another word for change. Interim pastors are much like tug boat captains who bring ships in and out of harbors. Captains and pastors come and go but the mission and journey remain the same. We are here to serve Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior, with God’s leading and by the power of the Holy Spirit. The church as God’s holy vessel is called to be faithful in the midst of change from glory into glory.

As November came to a close, the ships wheel was passed to another. It was and remains my privilege and joy to have shared this portion of the journey with you. Your efforts, faith, friendship, partnership and guidance are greatly appreciated. Each of you played a part in Trinity’s recovery. Thank you.

Remember, more peace, more joy, with love and affection, Rev. Mark Klohe.

Administration – FinanceJamie Storter, Administration Elder - Finance

Committee members: Jamie Storter (Elder), Lori Johnston, Bob White, and Beverly English.

Finance officers: Lori Johnston (Treasurer) and Bob White (Finance Clerk).

In addition to their service on the Finance Team, we want to thank Lori and Bob for the time they contribute as Treasurer and Finance Clerk.

The finance team provides oversight and guidance on Trinity’s budget. The finance team has developed and monitors a set of spending guidelines that provide direction on spending to everyone who has spending authority.

The team continues to monitor monthly spending and income and the Treasurer provides this information to Session on a regular basis. This information compares spending and income to the current budget and to past years. These efforts have defined significant trends in both giving and spending. Tracking serves as an early warning system for any potential budget problems. This year the finance information has been delivered to Session in a timely fashion.

Trinity’s total income for 2015 was $293,441, down from $459,960 in 2014. Trinity ended 2015 with a cash balance of $34,401, down from $74,199 in 2014.

The following chart compares Trinity’s spending for 2015 against the budget.

Trinity Fiscal Comparison 2015Budget versus Actual ExpendituresTotal Actual

Expenditure 2015Total Budged Expenditure

2015

Personnel $186,197.54 $217,539.68

Office Expenses and Member Services

$45,125.75 $46,126.00

Buildings and Grounds $62,034.06 $79,300.00

Special Ministries $1,052.04 $13,500.00

Worship $20,388.92 $21,270.00

Connections, Discipleship, And Ministry

$639.17 $7,650.00

Mission/Outreach $17,404.45 $39,550.00

Special Offering & Pass through

$4,696.73 $3,616.00

Total Spending $337,538.66 $428,551.68

Administration – PersonnelRich Henningsen, Administration Elder - Personnel

My name is Richard Henningsen. I have been a member of Trinity for over 10 years and this past February I was ordained as an Elder on Trinity’s Session Board, for a one-year term. Following is a summary of my activities:

1. My first act was to review Trinity’s membership list. It had not been “scrubbed” for several years and had many “phantom” members who no longer worshipped here. I drafted and – with Session’s help - refined several letters which were sent to each listed member (over 220) asking their intent regarding membership. This review produced approximately one hundred names which will be deleted from future roles. A benefit of this reduction is to save Trinity in annual “per-capita” charges to COM/PCUSA and more accurately reflects Trinity’s status within Anchorage.

2. As Personnel Elder, I was one of the primary leads in coordinating our search for a new Interim Pastor (IP). Our existing (Interim) Pastor was Mark Klohe, who was on a one-year and extendable contract. My first action was to introduce myself to COM/ Presbytery leadership and develop a positive working relationship there. I gathered information on the process by which we would secure the services of a highly qualified IP and briefed Session. Next, I and another Elder – Rich Wilson - developed drafts of a new Ministry Information Form together with a new Mission Statement for Trinity; both were approved by Session and COM before being placed on the PCUSA website.

I and Session reviewed resumes of over 50 qualified Pastors who expressed interest in us. Many were semi-retired. We selected twelve of the best qualified – all of whom had both IP experience and two phases of training as an Interim Pastor. Five were selected by Session to receive a telephone interview. From this list our current Interim Pastor – Todd Allen – was selected and accepted our offer. He is on a one-year and extendible contract, starting in December, 2015.

3. An ongoing project is to update job-descriptions for several staff positions within Trinity. Also, to initiate annual performance reviews to provide feedback to our employees. This will carry forward into 2016.

I have participated in all session activities this past year, including planning and policy decisions, budget, facility utilization, Sunday services, memorial services and workshops. I have noted a HUGE increase in volunteerism among the congregation and a steadily climbing positive attitude about our future. Major thanks are due to Pastor Klohe and current/ past Session members who exhibited a “can-do” approach to our problems of

declining membership and conditions of departure surrounding our previous Pastor. I feel very positive about Trinity’s prospects in 2016 and beyond.

Administration – Buildings and GroundsSpencer Biegel, Administration Elder Buildings and Grounds

Committee members: Spencer Biegel, John Russell, Tom Morse, Milt Tenora, and Ken Welch.

The members of the committee worked on the general upkeep of the building. We replaced bulbs and fixtures as needed, fixed plumbing issues, swept the parking lot, changed the air filters, filled the Glycol for the in-floor heating system, mowed the lawn, shoveled the walks plowed the parking lot, and opened and closed the building weekly.

The boilers were inspected and passed with flying colors.

Special projects were installing a new sink, two new faucets and a new dishwasher in the kitchen.

This summer’s projects are to scrape and paint the front of the church, new footings and paint for the Trinity sign in the parking lot, patch some areas of the roof. A cleanup day is in process of being scheduled. Look for the notification coming soon in an email and bulletin announcement.

A special blessing and thanks to all who worked on the church this past year and we look forward to a building that we can all be proud of. Please see me or one of the other committee members if you would like to be added to the schedule of opening and closing, mowing and shoveling we could all use the help. A new used riding mower will be available this spring.

ConnectionsRichard Wilson, Connections Elder

Reaching out and connecting with existing and new people in the larger Church family and beyond Trinity in the community, people of all ages, interests and levels of spiritual maturity. That is the core mission of this area of responsibility on Session. Core priorities and demands during Trinity’s recent efforts to rebound from past challenges reduced the time and energy available to focus on a concerted ministry to reach out and connect with both churched and unchurched in our community.

It is pleasing to see the progress Trinity members and leaders have made to build and discover which priorities can be realistically pursued with God’s guidance. We all acknowledge this takes time and patience. God continues to be in our midst and has empowered Trinity to achieve the foundation for expanded outreach in the future, even as Trinity continues in a warm and caring way to provide for the needs of our Church family. Here are a few memorable ways the Congregation is spreading the joy and the Word.

The future always begins with the young. Connections team members have renewed strong relationships with families with kids attending Huffman Elementary and the dedicated staff. This is a process, and the first half of 2015 concentrated on joint planning of activities with the teachers, staff and PTA leadership that made sense for Trinity to help with. They warmly reached out to Trinity. We know that every fall a new class enters the school, along with their spiritual and recreational needs. In the summer and fall of 2015 stuff started happening at and with the Huffman community, including some pretty exciting moments:

Fall Potato Harvest: So cool. A kickoff to the School Year of involvement of Trinity volunteers, digging with and coaching the kids as each class went after potatoes they had planted in the Spring in front of the School. Huffman originated what has been picked up by other schools in the City. The energy was electric, catching us volunteers along with the kids and parents during a full day of fun. Thanks go to Trinity Diggers Pastor Mark, Tom Morse, Mary Beth Wright and Bob White (former teacher). Through all the fun we were involved again, preparing for other activities to come this school year.

Fun Run: Another opportunity to help school officials keep the race safe.

Carnival: School wide blast with Trinity providing traffic control for the hundred or so cars. Thanks to Tanner Welch, Pastor Mark and Mary Beth.

School Choir “Thank you” Concert in Trinity’s Sanctuary: As relationships grew we were approached about hosting the 50 kid Huffman Choir as the Christmas Season approached.

This was a surprisingly successful affair with about 100-150 parents, grandparents, kids, and Trinity hosts enjoying amazing singing led by Huffman’s Choir teacher, Elizabeth Hunt. Not sure how many families had intended to stay for dinner, but the great majority did indeed participate, so what an opportunity for Trinity to show its welcoming character and get to know new friends. Who knows how many will choose to come to Church, that is in God’s hands, but this event was a start. If donations are any indicator, the crowd was pleased. Thanks to many who lent help. More to come in the Spring, we hope.

Continuing with a long standing tradition, the Anchorage Jazz Ensemble generously plays at least thrice annually in gratitude for Trinity allowing them to practice in our Sanctuary. Great symbiotic relationship. In 2015 they played jazz and popular music in July and Christmas music in December in the Narthex, accompanied by food provided by our talented Deacons and Chef Milt Tanora.

Membership growth : Finally, it is important for every Member of Trinity to assist in telling folks you know about the wonderful atmosphere Trinity is to pray, seek help, hear the Word of God, make Christian friends, and ultimately reach out to others by modeling values we hold dear. At Trinity please introduce yourself and get to know new visitors or past members who are checking us out again. Make them feel welcome, and even help follow up after a visit or two. We grow as we help others grow.

Thank you to all at Trinity who make these activities possible. But we need to up the ante. In 2016 with Pastor Todd’s expertise and ideas, Connections will start having Connections Team meetings to provide an opportunity for the entire Congregation to suggest activities and outreach opportunities. Begin thinking about fresh approaches as Trinity is transformed from rebounding to resounding.

2016 OutlookHuffman Elementary Principal and staff and PTA meetings after New Year’s offered ready interest in continued joint activities with Trinity’s Connections Team:Feb 12, 2016 IditaRead fundraiser by the PTA (Jenny Partch 441-2058 c).

Feb 13, 2016 Outdoor Sports Day by the PTA

March 31 Math and Science Night (teacher Beth Calabro Calabro_elizabeth@ASDK12.org + PTA)

Mid-January-Feb, 2016 Weekly Ice Skating Kindergarten and 1st Grade—help with ice skate lacing and managing kids—4 volunteers helping one hour each per week (Tasha: Bergt_Natasha@asdk12-org)

Aug 17-22, 2016 (weekdays) Use of Trinity Facility for Teacher Professional Development training (25-50 participants)

Blessings to all that the Holy Spirit touches through Trinity.

WorshipSusan Lundgren, Worship Elder

Sunday ServicesAs Worship Elder, I am constantly amazed and grateful for the number of people participating in our Sunday Services. It is our hope and prayer for everyone to encounter our Living Savior and give Honor and Glory to His Name. In the refreshment of His Presence, to then go out into the world with His Love, Compassion, Mercy, and Grace.

We have a large and growing team helping with the logistics of the service. Our Worship Tech, Robert Magrath, prepares the sanctuary, prepares the audio and visual software, prepares the music, and generally troubleshoots any issues prior to and during the service.We thank Ben Gordon, Robert Magrath, Tanner Welch, Rachel Rohwer, Nan Magrath, David Magrath, Shelly Farnam, and Beverly English for all their help with sound and media.

Nan Magrath stepped into the Worship Director position and helped Trinity through the transition to a fully staffed session in the spring. While she needed to step back from the Worship Director position earlier this year, Nan continues to be a critical advisor to myself and the team.

Many of our youth are reading Scripture during the service. While they are very involved in the back with sound and media, it is inspiring to see them up front and hear the Lord’s Word read aloud.

The elders started leading the prayers during service in 2015. This has been a growing and positive experience for all of us. We hope to include more of the congregation in 2016.

Joan White is coordinating the Children’s time each week. We are heartened to see the number of children slowly rising over the course of 2015 and into 2016.

Keith Brownsberger has anchored the Offering Blessing nearly every week. His readings from the Old Testament and thoughtful reflections help remind us all of joyful giving and responsible stewardship.

Rich Wilson handles Community Life nearly every week with aplomb, humor, and grace as we celebrate koinonia both within our congregation and with various ministries and partnerships outside of the congregation.

Our vocalists and musicians continue to bless us every week. From Trinity, Donna Gerwin, Margaret Pfeiffer, Nan Magrath, Spencer Biegel, Doug Warner, and Rich Wilson are currently carrying most of the vocals. We were grateful to have help earlier in the year from a few more people in this area. Robert Magrath and Barb Russell can be seen on guitar and piano, and Ben

Gordon occasionally mans the drums. We are making plans to invite and involve more of Trinity’s talent in 2016.Our guest musicians bring additional expertise and flexibility to the team of vocalists and musicians. Tom Bargelski and Sarah Cleary on piano; Ryan Bargelski, Peter “Moss” Cohen, and Tyler Campbell on drums; Mark Manners on guitar; Dave Arrowsmith and John Weeks on bass; and Katie Strock as lead singer. They all have day jobs and other professional gigs but make time to participate with us every Sunday as we invite people into the Lord’s Presence through music.

Trinity extends a huge thank-you to all the ushers, greeters, and pray-ers.

UshersDoria Soria is coordinating the recruitment, training, and scheduling of ushers.

GreetersThe deacons coordinate the greeters every Sunday.

PrayerGene Ervine is coordinating the prayer teams available at the end of service. Trinity is looking to expand outreach in the area of prayer in 2016.

Music Partnerships

Thank-you to our very own Bell Choir, the Jazz Ensemble, and the Marimba Group who are all blessings to us as they make a joyful noise within and without the walls of Trinity.

“O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.” Psalm 95:1

MISSIONS and OUTREACHJohann Bruns and Jo Ann Bantz Co-Moderators Trinity Mission Team

MISSIONS

Trinity Presbyterian Church has been and continues to be committed to missions here in Anchorage—Alaska—and around the World. And as a body we have the opportunity to support our partners in ministry-- prayerfully, relationally, and financially. Following is a highlight of the purpose and work of a few of our partners. Please look through this information and decide which mission you wish to become more intimately involved with or bring a mission to the attention of the Trinity Mission Team. We meet the first Tues. of each month at 7pm in the Trinity Library. Anyone is invited to join us.

Anaktuvuk Pass, AK: Chapel in the Mountains, our sister church is always in our prayers. The difficulties and complexities of living in bush Alaska are many, but the connection between Trinity and Chapel in the Mountains remains as one of the primary, long-standing missions of Trinity. We are grateful for our brothers and sisters in Anaktuvuk Pass! If you feel called to join in this relationship in a more personal way, please contact Terry Keith who headed up the June 2015 trip at 346-1502 or tkeith@doodlepig.com . We are joyful to continue annual trips to the village, but these trips rely on volunteers to ship, pack, prepare, pray, and of course participate! This is one of the many areas of Trinity life where we deeply miss our dear sister LeeAnn Crumbley. The hope is that Trinity will sponsor a work team to do jobs around the church and manse at Chapel in the Mountains in 2016. It is assumed there will be another VBS team going to the village in 2016. Thank you to Trinity for the prayer cover for the village after the plane crash on Jan.2.

In addition to the above ministries, in 2015 Trinity continued to partner with the following:Alongside Ministries: Doni and Gail Lilo,in Albania; James and Cheryl Cloyd, in France, and Arjan Larashi, in Albania (Gail Lilo grew up in Trinity and the Cloyds are also rooted in Alaska) The Lilos and Cheryl Cloyd visited Trinity in 2015. We partnered with PC(USA) Presbyterian World Mission with Rev. Ryan and Alethia White and family serving as co-workers in Berlin working with Christian immigrants from the Middle East. Ryan grew up in Trinity. The Whites visited Trinity in November 2015. It was a special time for the White family as Ryan was able to baptize his sister’s son Benjamin Wobick. Wycliffe Bible Translators Bill and Alice Neumann in Southeast Asia. They visited Trinity in December 2015.Anchorage Rescue Mission (Trinity is responsible for the worship service each 5th Sunday) Thank you Gene Ervine, Johann Bruns ,Gwen Colliander, Susan Lundgren, Rich WilsonBean’s Café (Trinity serves once a month) See DeaconsHabitat for Humanity (various Trinity groups have been responsible for food served to the work teams)Parachutes Ministries ( focus on teens --individuals have volunteered at their Christmas gift wrap fund raiser)Presbyterian Hunger Program PCUSAYoung Life (Trinity provides office space, prayer coverage)

Downtown Soup Kitchen and Anchorage Shower House (donated 2 filled backpacks)Thank you Johann Bruns, Lori and Walt Johnston, Don and Donna GerwinSalvation Army Angel Tree This is and has been a special mission of many people at Trinity. Thank you Janine and Ken WelchOperation Shoe Box—not as many boxes packed in 2015 as compared to 2014 but kids and adults had fun! Thank you Donna Gerwin and Joan White Presbyterian Church (USA) Special Offerings: Peacemaking; Christmas Joy; Pentecost; One Great Hour of SharingLove Inc., Trinity is in charge of the linen, bedding sections of this local ecumenical outreach. Thank you Shelly Farnam

Our Mission team in 2015 -- JoAnn Bantz, Johann Bruns, Gene Ervine, Janine Welch, Elder Frank Sears, Elder Beverly Holaday-English, Terry Keith. If you would like to join the Mission Team, or would simply like to share a call to mission that you feel in your life, please feel welcome! We meet the first Tues. of each month at 7pm in the Trinity Library

OUTREACHWe have been blessed, and continue to be blessed, by many opportunities to reach out to our neighbors (individuals and organizations) with joy and love. Honestly, there are too many to count! This list is long and ranges from music concerts, reaching individuals and breaking through preconceived notions about what it means to be a Christian, opening our doors to the many different groups that occupy Trinity on a weekly and monthly basis, continuing to show love to our community by providing space and time to openly and honestly respond to those in our community. Sometimes it’s easy to miss the impact of outreach, because it isn’t always attached to anything physically tangible. But, how powerful and awesome it is for our character to open our arms and meet everyone with the love of Christ!

Youth Ministry 2015Joan White, Special Ministries Elder

Dustin Madden volunteered to lead Youth Ministry for a number of months but a change in his work schedule did not allow him time to continue to do so. His leadership was greatly missed and for a few months Trinity did not have any organized youth program.

Beginning in June 2015, I met with Dora Soria, Rob Ervine and Rob Russell to begin plans to restart Youth Ministry programs. Since that time Dora, Rob and Rob have coordinated activities for our Middle and High School students, including a Lock-in hosted at Trinity. Currently they are meeting in conjunction with the youth from First Presbyterian Church/Immanuel/Anchor and alternating meeting locations.

The highlights for 2015 included hosting a lock-in, singing hymns at the Pioneer Home and singing Christmas carols at the Providence Transitional Care Center. There are plans as well for participating in one activity with youth from St. John’s Methodist Church in January 2016.

Thank you for those volunteers who have spent time with our youth in 2015: Rob Ervine, Rob Russell, Spencer Biegel, Pastor Todd Allen, Dora Soria and Dana Larson from First Presbyterian Church.

As I was elected Elder for Special Ministries in June and was not involved in all areas of Youth Ministry before that time, please forgive me if I have missed some events or volunteers.

Children’s Ministry 2015Joan White, Special Ministries Elder

January through April 2015, Deb Bruening enthusiastically and effectively led Children’s Ministry including Kid’s Church for 3rd through 5th grades and an Easter Sunday Celebration. Karl Bruening assisted as well as Ken Welch. Unfortunately, Deb resigned as Children’s Ministry Director after Easter. We miss her smile and leadership.

At that time Tennie Mackie and I combined all ages for Kids’ Church using the Godly Play format with children from 3 years old to 5th grade attending and 6th grade through High School students and parents as volunteers. During the summer months we added new lessons based on Jesus’ statements “I am…” We are currently averaging 6-10 children each Sunday.

Yvonne LaChar has continued offering Nursery care each week although many Sundays without any children. We now have the potential for 3 children in the nursery. With staff, volunteer and parent input we have deep cleaned the nursery, reviewed previous Nursery Guidelines and are again scheduling one volunteer each Sunday to assist Yvonne.

We prepared activitiy bags for children attending the Christmas Eve service and hosted a Birthday Party for Jesus on December 27th.

Thank you to the volunteers who gave of their time and talents to serve Trinity’s children in 2015: Connor Anderson, Sally Brownsberger, Laura Dolchok, Sarah McCormick, Margaret Mackie, Tennie Mackie, Rachel Rohwer, Doug Warner, Kylie Welch, Ken Welch and Jessica Wobick. Thank you to Donna Gerwin, Tom Morse, Janine Welch and Bob White for offering Children’s Messages during worship throughout the year.

Thank you to Donna Gerwin for organizing the Operation Christmas Child and to the people of Trinity who donated supplies and wrapped and packed 117 shoeboxes for children overseas.

As I was elected Elder for Special Ministries in June and was not involved in all areas of Children’s Ministry before that time, please forgive me if I have missed some events or volunteers. Because of the prayers and support of this church family, we are blessed to be able to say as Jesus did, “Let the little children, come to me; for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven.

Serving with you as Elder for Special Ministries,Joan White

Deacons ReportShelly Farnam, Deacon

The Deacons continue to serve as a pastoral arm of the church. We are always available to provide loving support, encouragement, service and comfort.

Over the past year the deacons have helped organize and plan memorial services for two Trinity members and one non-member who have gone to be with the Lord. Thank you Donna Gerwin and Barbara Henningsen for helping with the services, and to the many others who provided food for the receptions following the services.

The deacons and elders organized, set-up and served communion at our church services and also to those who were shut-in or in the hospital. Thank you to Beverly English for organizing and setting up communion for our church services each month.

We continue to work with Love INC with the help of Tom Morse. Trinity members have been assisting with Love INC and others by providing linens, conducting service projects, and making furniture deliveries.

The deacons organize Trinity’s lunch service at Bean’s Café the third Tuesday of each month.

Thanks to our presently serving deacons Marjorie Haun, Irene Miller, Janine Welch, Donna Gerwin, Barbara Henningsen, Myron Wright, and Shelly Farnam.

Trinity Presbyterian Women 2015 Annual Report

Purpose of Presbyterian Women:

Forgiven and freed by God in Jesus Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we commit ourselves:

To nurture our faith through prayer and Bible study, To support the mission of the church worldwide, To work for justice and peace and To build an inclusive, caring community of women that

strengthens the Presbyterian Church (USA) and witnesses to the promise of God’s kingdom

All women of Trinity and their friends are Trinity Presbyterian Women. Just as Trinity is a connected church, Trinity Presbyterian Women are connected to Presbyterian Women of Yukon Presbytery, PW of Synod Alaska-Northwest as well as PW—Churchwide, at the national level.

Here at Trinity, women have opportunities to support the purpose of Presbyterian Women in the congregation, Yukon Presbytery, Synod AK-Northwest, worldwide Presbyterian missions and each other by:

Anna Kirk Circle —Horizons Bible 2015-6 “Come to the Waters” by Judy Record Fletcher study meets 4th Thurs. Sept.-May @ 7-9pm in library, various leaders with Rev. Alice Green, Teacher Emeritus; designed with women in mind who only have time for one Bible Study a month.

Wed. Morning Women’s Bible Study —Barclay’s study of Acts meets Wed. Sept.-May @10-11:30am in library, various facilitators, Rev. Alice Green, Teacher Emeritus; designed for women who have time to meet for Bible Study once a week.

Women’s Retreat Oct. 3 held at the church on a Saturday. Led by Susan Lundgren; Retreat Committee: Terri Storter, Shelly Farnam, and Sarah McCormick.

Fall Harvest Tea Sept. 19 : PW Thank Offering; Silent Auction for Faithful Women honors Trinity women who have gone to be with their Lord, money is used for Trinity mission;

Mission Projects Cancelled Stamp Project (save and trim to ¼ inch your cancelled stamps, place in Cancelled Stamp Box near staff mailboxes in hall by office); Faithful Women’s Memorial Fund at Fall Tea; Thank Offering—Churchwide at Fall Tea; Birthday Offering—Churchwide—; Least Coin Offering--Churchwide collected within the various groups; Welcome New Babies Secretary: Laurie Dolchok; Rose of Announcement for new babies: Jo Ann Bantz

Presbyterian Worldwide Missions; PW Yukon Missions: 2016 Annual Fund Drive Share Letter will be emailed to each Trinity family in February. Hard copies will be available in the lobby as well.

People of Trinity are supporting the Presbyterian Coffee Project by buying fair trade coffee, tea, chocolate, nuts and dried fruits at the TPW Coffee Project table which is located in the lobby and open various Sundays. Thank you, Trinity, for supporting the planet that God gave to us and small farmers around the world! Coffee Project Coordinator: Sherrell Holtshouser

Thank you TPW Coordinating Team: Jackie Jones, Millie Livesay, Vi Markson, Pam Warner, Donna Gerwin, Jo Ann Bantz

Clerk of SessionBeverly English

The following Elders served on Session in 2015:

Frank Sears - Admin -Finance/PersonnelJamie Storter – Admin, FinanceRichard Henningsen – Admin, PersonnelSpencer Biegel - Buildings and GroundsKeith Brownsberger - DiscipleshipSusan Lundgren – WorshipRichard Wilson – ConnectionsJoan White – Special MinistriesBeverly English – Clerk of Session, Ministry Mobilization, and Missions

Session held business meeting each month of the year. Most months, Session also held a second meeting for spiritual growth and fellowship.

Baptism was administered to Benjamin Wobick on November 15, 2015.

There were three memorial services held at Trinity this year: Heather McCamy held February 6, 2015; Marilyn Zeek held November 7, 2015; and Paul Rohwer held December 12, 2015.

We celebrated the marriage of Bryan and Olena Clemenz at Trinity on December 19, 2015.

Membership gains and losses:Trinity began 2015 with 220 active members. No new members were added to the church rolls in 2015.

In 2015, a total of 111 members were removed from the membership roll; 40 requests for removal, 69 dismissals, and 2 deaths.

Trinity ended 2015 with 109 active members.

Now to Him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, to

Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever.

Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21