“For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it?” —Luke 14:28 (NRSV)
In this verse, Jesus offers a clear challenge: Don’t begin what you’re not prepared to finish. A wise builder starts with the end in mind. Discipleship, like building a tower, requires careful thought and real commitment. Jesus is absolutely NOT discouraging us. He is asking us to take following Him seriously. Do not follow with impulsive emotion, but with a heart that’s ready for a lifelong journey.
This calls us to remember our baptism. Through baptism we were claimed by Christ and in our affirmation of Baptism, we publicly declare that we belong to Christ - that we’ve died with Christ and been raised to new life. It was our “yes” to a path that may cost us comfort, reputation, or ease. Remembering our baptism is not just a spiritual memory; it’s a grounding reminder that we have already chosen the foundation we are building on. We have counted the cost before and we can do it again when the road gets hard.
In all honesty - we won’t build perfectly, we are human, mere mortals. We will face setbacks, doubts, and fatigue. But Christ is both the cornerstone and the strength behind our effort. We are thankfully not building alone. With the help of the Holy Spirit and the encouragement of the Church (i.e. one another), we press on. This is not just to begin well, but to live and finish faithfully.
So this week, pause to ask:
What are you building?
Are you still anchored in the “yes” of your baptism?
What might it look like to recommit, to count the cost again, and continue building with Christ?
How are you walking alongside others in that commitment?
Remember your baptism and be thankful.
Pastor Erin
Check out the Weekly Bulletin to see the full schedule of what’s happening at TLC this week!
Please join us as we celebrate the lives of our friends:
Sandy Peveler Saturday, September 13 at 11:00am Reception following the service in the Fellowship Hall. All are invited to the house after the reception for a BBQ to celebrate Sandy at 8439 Eureka Street, Ventura.
Vicki Laux Saturday, September 20 at 11:00am Luncheon to follow (RSVP to Elisa Takaya at elisa.takaya@gmail.com)
God’s Work Our Hands - THANK YOU! Thank you to everyone who helped assemble 100 bags for our community during "God's Work, Our Hands" Sunday. Your generosity and hard work are a beautiful reflection of God's love and made a difference for our neighbors in need.
Dine Out for TLC Youth – Monday, September 16 Support TLC Youth by enjoying a meal at Presto Pasta (5722 Telephone Road). Dine in or take out for lunch, dinner, or both — and 20% of your purchase will be donated to TLC Youth.
The updated church directory is finally here! You can pick up a copy in the Gathering Space after the service on Sunday. Please take only one copy per household so all families may receive one.
For your convenience, a digital copy is also available to download using the link below. A link to the updated digital directory will always be available at the bottom of each weekly e-news, and we’ll share any updates in the e-news so you can keep your directory current.
As part of our annual 360 review process, the Staffing Committee invites everyone in the congregation to share feedback for our staff: Pastor Todd, Pastor Erin, Leo, Tilford, and Melanie Each staff member has a short Google form, and you’ll find all by clicking the link below.
Love to Sing? The TLC Choir has begun a new season! Rehearsals are Wednesdays at 5:30pm. Whether you’re new or returning, we’d love for you to add your voice.
Adult Forum for the Week of September 14 Join us at 10:20am in the Garden Room. This week’s topic is “The Adonai Art Café” presented by Diane Wallis.
We invite you to find comfort and support in our Grief Support Group, led by Pastor Erin and Doug Miller. Starting Monday, September 15 at 11:00 a.m., this group will meet for 10 weeks. While attending every session is helpful, we understand if you need to miss one or two.We're here to walk alongside you on your journey.
Are you ready for Trinity’s Pinewood Derby races? Join us Saturday, October 25, 2025! Get those cars carved, painted, and race-day ready. Last year’s competition was fierce — and we’re already hearing about even more creative builds for this year. Watch for details on rules and heats.
Our Young at Heart luncheons will resume in October. Watch for the sign-up sheet at the Welcome Desk and join us for food, fellowship, and fun!
City Center is in need of paper towels and cleaning supplies.
Project Understanding has closed down, but any grocery donations we receive will be taken to The City Center. Please place items in the baskets located in the Gathering Space. Thank you for your ongoing support!
September 10 - Kristine Gleisberg September 11 - Judith Eldeb, Christoph Haar, Courtney Hoatson, Ann Moses September 12 - Cora Childress, Lorraine Engelsgaard, Bryan Jones September 14 - Gabriela Ortiz September 15 - Tina Lomagno, Addison Williams September 16 - Jeffrey Tanner, Wendy Wells
Please keep the following people in your prayers:
For Healing and Comfort
Ann and Tom, sister and brother-in-law of Debe Bylo
Dylan Gray, grandson of Jerry and Sharon Mittelholtz
Karen Jensen
Mike Diaz
Let Us Pray for the Families who are Mourning the Death of:
'25 Goal based on 2.5%+ over '24 actuals - $548,020.88/52 weeks. '25 YTD Challenge Goal based on 50% over 5 Years (8.5%) - $646,641.45/52 weeks. We are in Year 5
Attendance Week 35, 2025: Individuals in Person - 135 Estimated Individuals Online - 49
Attendance Week 35, 2024: Individuals in Person - 130 Estimated Individuals Online - 37
