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This Week On this day we celebrate the heart of our faith: the gospel of Christ—the good news—that makes us free! We pray that the Holy Spirit would continue to unite the church today in its proclamation and witness to the world. In the waters of baptism we are made one body; we pray for the day that all Christians will also be one at the Lord’s table. Readings and Psalm Jeremiah 31:31-34 I will write my law in their hearts, says the Lord Psalm 46 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold. (Ps. 46:7) Romans 3:19-28 Justified by God’s grace as a gift John 8:31-36 Jesus says, Continue in my word and you will know the truth One Sunday - Two Great Celebrations! First - 10:30 am - Worship (outdoors, weather permitting) celebrating the 499th anniversary of the day that Martin Luther defiantly nailed a copy of his 95 Theses to the door of the Wittenberg Castle church. Second - 12:30 - 3:00 - Fundraiser - After worship we celebrate our annual Oktoberfest! As usual we will feature Beer, Brats, Fellowship and Fun! Have your photo taken in our Wittenberg Castle Photobooth, with Martin Luther! Nail the Theses to the door in our Reformation Nagelspielen game! Win some raffle prizes! Proceeds benefit First Trinity Ministries including God's Closet, FTKids, Community Meals and More! Beer sponsored by Lagunitas! All Are Welcome!  All are welcome reguardless of ability to pay, but please know that the funds raised help First Trinity to serve the underserved in our community. All are also welcome to participate in as much or as little of the day as they can. In other words, if you can't make it to worship we'd still love to see you for the party! We can still use a couple volunteers - contact Rene@Firsttrintiychicago.com if you would like to help.  Of course, the most important thing you can do is join us for the fun, and invite your friends and neighbors! Thanks to all who planned, organized, helped and enjoyed our Halloweenie Roast!  Especially Renee G!   Saint Martin’s Day Before Christmas Festival and Sale at First Trinity Those interested in vending: tables will be $20 and we ask that you do not sell clothing unless it is handmade. Contact rene@firsttrinitychicago.com. Our annual voter’s meeting is scheduled for Sunday, December 4, after worship. All are welcome to attend, and members are welcome to vote on the budget and other items. If you are not sure of your membership status, please see Rene or Pr Tom. Seeking Volunteers to Build Community! Our community meals have become one of the highlights of each week at First Trinity.  They are free meals, shared by community members, and enjoyed by everyone who is able to come.  Community meals are a safe place for our homeless neighbors to rest and have something to eat, a gathering place for our seniors, and a great way to meet neighbors, volunteers, and others in our community. We need some help!  We need volunteers to help prepare,  serve, and clean up after meals, twice a week.  Volunteers can donate food for the meal or use items from our pantry to create a meal. If you think this is something you are interested in doing, please contact Rene at welcome@firsttrinitychicago.com.  We hope to find volunteers to sign up once a month, or as able.  We also welcome youth groups, church groups, groups of friends, community organizations, and others to participate as able. October Calendar If you would like me to include your birthday (or your children's birthdays) please let me know!  welcome@firsttrinitychicago.com November Calendar will be ready soon!

Mark your Calendars! Date to be determined - Our annual Beer and Carols event is held at a local tavern.  Join us for FaLaLa and Folderol as we sing carols.  There is no cover charge, though donations are accepted to support Midwest Books to Prisoners.  Follow us on Facebook for details. Date to be determined - Our annual sing along Christmas Pageant featuring children from the community.  Kids who are interested will begin rehearsing mid-fall.  See Pastor Tom to sign up! December 24, 7 pm - Christmas Eve - Candlelight Service with Lessons and Hymns. December 25, 10:30 am - Christmas Day - Worship and Potluck Brunch! Sunday: Worship 10:30 am Monday: Office Closed Tuesday: Lectio Divinia 9 am, God's Closet 5-7, Books to Prisoners 5-9, Bible Study 7 pm Friday - God's Closet 10-noon, Office Hours 10-Noon, AA 8:00 Last Saturday of Each Month - 7pm Ben's Movie Night Last Sunday of Each Month - 9:15am Living Lutheran Magazine Discussion Group Check out some of the groups who meet or perform in our space: The Bridge, Bridgeport Alliance, The Glint, LGBT Neighbors in Bridgeport, Midwest Books to Prisoners, The Group Project, Windy City Opera, and more! Did you know, First Trinity is a member of Concordia Cemetery? If you have news for the benefit of the community, please send it to welcome@firsttrinitychicago.com 10/29/2016    Ben's Movie Night 10/30/2016    Reformation Sunday and Oktoberfest! 10/31/2016    Reformation Day 11/6/2016    All Saints Sunday and Did de los Muertos 11/6/2016    Daylight Saving Time ends 11/8/2016    Election Day 11/13/2016    St. Martin's Day Sale  11/20/2016    Christ the King 11/24/2016    Thanksgiving 11/26/2016    Ben's Movie Night 11/27/2016    Living Lutheran 12/4/2016     Annual Meeting 12/24/2016    Christmas Eve 12/25/2016    Christmas Day 12/31/2016    New Year's Eve