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Jeremiah’s promise of the execution of “justice and righteousness in the land” finds ironic fulfillment in the execution of Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews. It appears so utterly contradictory that the king should be crucified with the criminal. This victory appears for all the world as ignominious defeat. Yet through the gate of death our Lord opens the door to paradise. Readings and Psalm Jeremiah 23:1-6 Coming of the shepherd and righteous Branch who will execute justice Psalm 46 I will be exalted among the nations. (Ps. 46:10) Colossians 1:11-20 Hymn to Christ, firstborn of all creation; peace through his blood Luke 23:33-43 Jesus is crucified between two thieves: you will be with me in Paradise Godly Play Godly Play begins Sunday, November 20, at 9:15. All kids, 11 and under are welcome. Coffee will be on for parents. We are looking for folks to provide snacks for youth on Sundays. If you are interested, please speak to Erika or Patti.   I wonder, what is Godly Play?  Children have an innate sense of the presence of God. The Godly Play approach helps them to explore their faith through story, to gain religious language and to enhance their spiritual experience though wonder and play. Based on Montessori principles and developed using a spiral curriculum, the Godly Play method serves children through early, middle and late childhood and beyond. Come join us! Thanksgiving We are again hosting a community Thanksgiving Potluck.  All Are Welcome!  If you know anyone who needs a place to go for Thanksgiving, please share this flier or invite them on the Facebook event page.    St. Nicholas Day On November 13 Santa stopped by, but he still had a clean-shaven look for the warmer weather. He tells us that by St. Nicholas Day (December 6) he will have regrown his beard and will be ready for photos! He has agreed to come back on St. Nicholas Day to visit God's Closet. BYO Camera for free photos, or we will post photos on Facebook and Instagram so that you can download them. Kids of all ages, families, friends, and well behaved pets are welcome to take a photo with Santa.  This is a free event but we do suggest making a $5 donation to God's Closet. As usual there will be a community meal shared during God's Closet. God's Closet is open 5-7, but Santa is only commiting an hour. If we have a line of people we might be able to convince him to stay longer.  Little is known about Nicholas, except that he was a bishop in present-day Turkey. According to legend, he was famous for his giving to the poor, and so has become a symbol of anonymous gift-giving. 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.

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, Books to Prisoners  Tuesday: Lectio Divinia 9 am, God's Closet 5-7, Bible Study 7 pm Wednesday: Yoga 7:30 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 Last Thursday of Each Month - Bridgeport Alliance - 7pm Confirmation Classes 2nd and 4th Sunday of Each Month - See Pastor Tom Check out some of the groups who meet or perform in our space: The Bridge, The Glint, LGBT Neighbors in Bridgeport, Midwest Books to Prisoners, The Group Project, 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 11/20/2016    Christ the King 11/20/2016  Godly Play Begins 11/24/2016    Thanksgiving 11/26/2016    Ben's Movie Night 11/27/2016    Living Lutheran 11/29/2016     Giving Tuesday 12/4/2016     Annual Meeting 12/6/2016    Santa visits God's Closet 12/24/2016    Christmas Eve 12/25/2016    Christmas Day 12/31/2016    New Year's Eve Copyright © 2016 First Lutheran Church of the Trinity, All rights reserved.