“The apostles said to the Lord, ‘Increase our faith!’” - Luke 17:5
The disciples’ request sounds reasonable: “Increase our faith!” They had just heard Jesus teach about forgiving others repeatedly, and it felt impossible. Like them, we often assume that more faith will make life easier.
But Jesus redirects them. He says, “If you had faith the size of a mustard seed…” In other words: It’s not the amount of faith that matters, it’s who your faith is IN. Even a small, honest trust in God is enough.
A good friend once told me her stepfather would say to her and her brothers growing up, half-joking: “You are so sufficient.” - It was maybe a reminder that they were doing well, and enough to get by, but not to rely too much on self.
We often try to be self-sufficient in our faith, too. But Jesus gently turns us back - not inward to our effort, but upward to God’s grace.
A Word of Hope: If your faith feels small, it’s still enough - because Christ is more than sufficient for you.
Reflection: Where is Jesus redirecting me from self-reliance to trust?
Peace, Pastor Erin
Check out the Weekly Bulletin to see the full schedule of what’s happening at TLC this week!
Each fall, we take time to reflect on what we can do—together—to support Trinity’s ministry in the year ahead. Your generosity keeps our church strong and helps us live out God’s call to worship, serve, and grow in faith.
As we look to 2026, your commitment will help Council plan responsibly and guide our shared hopes for supporting youth and families in the coming year.
If you haven’t received your 2026 Stewardship Packet, you can view the materials digitally below. Inside, you’ll find a letter from Pastor Todd, a brochure, and a commitment card. Please prayerfully consider your financial commitment and bring your sealed card to church on Celebration Sunday, October 19.
Join us in celebrating our pastors on Pastor Appreciation Sunday, October 12. A heartfelt card is a thoughtful way to thank them for their dedication and service.
Young at Heart is Back! Join us for good food and great company on Thursday, October 16, at noon in the Fellowship Hall! Sign up at the Welcome Desk to let us know you’re coming.
Gridiron Grub & Game Time Join us for our 3rd annual Gridiron Grub & Game Time on Friday, October 18,sponsored by the Property Management Committee! We’ll tailgate in the TLC parking lot starting at 4pm, then head over to the Ventura College football game at 6pm. Bring your own food and drinks, and sign up for tickets at the Welcome Desk.
If you’re able, come a little early to lend a hand setting up for the Ministry Fair happening the next day, October 19. Let’s make it a great weekend of fellowship and fun!
Pinewood Derby & Ice Cream Social Saturday, October 25 • 2–4pm at TLC
Ready, set, race! Bring your best Pinewood Derby car—or build one! (Kits available at Amazon, Scouts.org, or Ventura Hobbies.) Join us for an afternoon of fun, food, and friendly competition featuring four racing categories, double-elimination rounds, and prizes for the winners.
Refreshments will be provided by the Social Ministry. Sign up at the Welcome Desk to secure your spot in the race—and don’t forget to sign up separately for the Ice Cream Social so we can plan enough treats for everyone!
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..
The Ministry Fair is fast approaching—Saturday, October 19! Ministries, committees, and teams, it’s time to start planning your tables. Mark your calendars and join us in making this event a wonderful celebration of all we do together.
Questions? Contact Pr. Erin for more information.
If you're looking for comfort and support, we invite you to join our Grief Support Group, which meets on Thursdays at 1:30pm. Led by Pastor Erin Martinson and Doug Miller, this group will meet for 10 weeks. While attending every session is helpful, we understand if you need to miss a week or two. We are here to walk alongside you on your journey.
City Center is in need of size 5 & 6 diapers, toilet paper, and canned and packaged grocery items.
Please place items in the baskets located in the Gathering Space. Thank you for your ongoing support!
October 8 - John Crowley October 9 - Kaja Boas, Benjamin Laber October 10 - Marilee Stockman October 11 - Reed Childress, Kerry McCarthy October 12 - Eva Connelly October 13 - Saundra Hynek, Nancy White
'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 39, 2025: Individuals in Person - 133 Estimated Individuals Online - 49
Attendance Week 39, 2024: Individuals in Person - 145 Estimated Individuals Online - 58
Have an Announcement to share? Send your request to the church office at least 7 days in advance by emailing office@tlcventura.org.
Do you have a celebration or joy you would like to share with the congregation? Email the office staff at office@tlcventura.org and it will be posted in the bulletin for all to read and celebrate with you.
Get the Latest Youth happenings at TLC! Receive the latest youth updates by downloading the Remind App or Text Group. Add the class below or Text 81010 with the group you want to follow: High School Youth - @snrhgh High School Parents - @hsparnt Middle School Youth and Parents - @mddle Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tlcyouth_ventura/
Opt-in to paperless quarterly giving statements: If you'd like to receive your quarterly giving statements via email, please send your email address to office@tlcventura.org.
