I tell you, this man went down to his home justified…, for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted.” - Luke 18:14


After years focused in ministry, one thing I’ve seen time and again is this: God lifts those who know they need God.

In this parable, found in Luke, Jesus tells us that the humble tax collector - not the self-righteous Pharisee - went home justified. Why? Because instead of coming to God with a list of accomplishments, he came with an honest heart.

The Kingdom of God doesn’t run on pride or performance - it runs on grace. And grace flows best to those who kneel.

Maybe you’ve been trying hard to hold it all together, to prove yourself, or to be “good enough.” Let this be your reminder: God isn’t asking for perfection. He’s inviting your humility.

Ask yourself:  Where am I trying to impress, when I could just be honest with God?

Walking with you, Pastor Erin

 

Check out the Weekly Bulletin to see the full schedule of what’s happening at TLC this week!

Weekly Bulletin
 

We were saddened to learn of Pat Morris’s passing and send our love and prayers to her friends and family.

 

Daylight Saving Time ends this Sunday, November 2 — don’t forget to set your clocks back one hour! Enjoy that extra hour of rest before joining us for worship.

 

Adult Forum – Sunday, November 2
This week’s Adult Forum will feature Dr. Carol Mack, JD, PhD, leading an interactive workshop on Ethical Wills. If you’re not sure what an Ethical Will is — or would like to learn how to create one — join us at 10:15am this Sunday to learn more!

 

The 2nd annual TLC Pinewood Derby was a huge success on October 25!

Thank you to everyone who raced, cheered, and helped make the event such a joyful afternoon. Special thanks to Nancy Bocovich, Bill and Beverly Flothmeier, Joanne Cornelius, Larry and Maxine Nafie, Paul Muller, Karen Nelson, Frank Maggio, Mike Nagel, John Crowley, Jim Aguirre, Jack Peveler, Eric Morris, Matt Bovenzi, Matt Pollard, and Gunner Nagel for making it all possible.

Derby Results
Youth Conforming: 1st – Felicity Quick; 2nd – Rhett Quick; 3rd – Raquel Haar
Adult Conforming: 1st – Christine Brumby; 2nd – Bill Flothmeier; 3rd – John Crowley
Non-Conforming: 1st – Jim Aguirre; 2nd – Pr. Todd; 3rd – Auden Maggio Kjensrud
Most Creative: 1st – Debe Bylo; 2nd – Jackson Pollard; 3rd – Mary Howard

 

Earlier this year, our congregation participated in the Baby Bottle Fundraiser to support Tender Life Maternity Home. We recently received a heartfelt letter of thanks sharing how your generosity made a difference.

Read Their Letter of Thanks
 

Annual Book Give-Away
Sunday, November 9, 2025

Join us for our Book Give-Away! All books are free to take home and enjoy.

As part of this event, we’ll also be collecting:

Cash donations for TLC’s Neighbor Aid Fund
Groceries for The City Center
Diapers (all sizes) for Redimidos of Oxnard, a diaper ministry for families in need

Book donations may be dropped off at the church during the week of November 3. Contact Leo for the drop-off location..

 

Another Opportunity to Help the Community
On December 9, Downtown Ventura Partners — a local nonprofit that provides weekly breakfasts for those in need on Ventura’s West End — will host a special holiday luncheon for their walk-up clients, who usually number around 60 individuals.

Trinity has volunteered to help by providing shirts of all types, gently used shoes, toiletries, scarves, beanies, and socks to be distributed at the luncheon. Beginning Sunday, November 16, labeled bins will be available in the Gathering Space for your donations.

 

Join Pastor Erin on Saturday, November 9 at 12:15pm for an Assisting Minister refresher and training session. Whether you’re currently serving and would like a quick refresher or are interested in becoming an Assisting Minister, you’re invited to attend. Please contact Pastor Erin for more information.

 

Join Pastor Todd on Friday, November 8 for Climb for Heroes at Mt. Baldy — a celebration of resilience, camaraderie, and patriotism, all wrapped into an unforgettable adventure. Learn more at theheroesproject.org/climbforheroes, or contact Pastor Todd for details.

 


Mark your calendars! The next Young at Heart Luncheon will be held on Thursday, November 20, at noon in the Fellowship Hall. Be sure to sign up at the Welcome Desk so we know you’re coming!

 


Huge congratulations to Rebekah Russell and Matt Jeffrey, who tied the knot on October 25! Be sure to wish the happy couple well when you see them.







We also celebrate Connor Walsh, who was confirmed on Sunday! Please join us in congratulating him and keeping him in your prayers as he continues his faith journey. 

 

The City Center is in need of cleaning supplies and canned or packaged grocery items. Please place your donations in the baskets located in the Gathering Space.

Thank you for your ongoing support! As a reminder, residents at The City Center purchase their own food and household items, so your contributions help them redirect those funds toward their children’s needs, such as school supplies and clothing.
 

October 29 - Clara Mendoza
October 30 - Shannon Burke, Scott Manninen, Peyton Van Wagner
November 1 - Mykaela Bryson 
November 2 - Connie Gajefski
November 3 - Debbie Bergevin
November 4 - Douglas Miller
 
Please keep the following people in your prayers:

For Healing and Comfort
  • Chris Wilson
  • Mike Diaz
For the families who are mourning the death of:
  • Pat Morris
 
Week 42 (October 19  - November 4, 2025)
Giving through Week 42: 
Current Week - $6,486.86
2025 YTD -  $379,414.08
2025 Goal YTD - $442,632.25
Challenge Goal YTD - $522,287.33
 2024 YTD - $388,714.87
'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 42, 2025:
Individuals in Person - 135
Estimated Individuals Online - 38

Attendance Week 42, 2024:
Individuals in Person - 103
Estimated Individuals Online - 29