Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church (Pastor's Corner)

FOREWORD
The standard Sunday morning service is the same for each month, except for the first Sunday of each month which is designated as Communion Sunday. The order of worship may vary slightly due to special Church holidays such as Good Friday, Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc.

ARRIVAL TIME
Ushers should arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the beginning of the service.

USHERING DUTIES
The most important duty of an usher is to greet everyone with a smile and handshake. The impression that a first time visitor receives is determined by the way he is greeted. If you are sure that they are first time visitors -- have them sign the guest register. Make sure that they receive our church brochure and a newsletter. These should be kept in the register stand. If they are not available, ask someone where they are located.

During a communion service, the ushers should observe if anyone in the congregation needs to have the sacraments brought to them where they are seated. If this is the case mention it to the Pastor or give him a note. The congregation should be ushered in groups large enough to fill the railing area but not large enough to over crowd the area.

All lights should be turned on . The light switches are located on the right as you enter the Church. Be sure to turn on the light above the altar. This is done by pressing the round switch. Make sure that the lights are on behind the stained glass window above the altar. This switch is located to the left of the door above the organ.

Heater And Air Conditioner Controls
The heater and air-conditioning are on a timer, which is set to turn on approximately 1 1/2 hours prior to the Sunday 9:00 a.m. service. If you are ushering at night or on a day other than Sunday morning, it is important that you turn the Heater/AC unit on manually. This switch is located on the wall to the left of the unit. Also, adjust the thermostat near the organ to cool or heat depending on the weather.

The Hymnal Board located to the right of the altar should be changed to the appropriate hymns for the service held. The hymnal board is removed by sliding it upward --- moving the bottom outward and then move the board downward until it clears the frame. The numbers are located in the South room to the rear of the altar in a large wooden box.

Make sure that the candle lighters have ample wicks. Should they need replacing, new ones are located in the cabinet on the North wall of the room behind the altar

BAPTISM SUNDAY
A. Move Baptismal Font forward to a position as directed by the Pastor
B. Place water in the Font.
C. Normally the President of the Council or a Council member will go to the front to witness the baptism.

LIGHTING OF THE CANDLES
Different services require different candles to be lit. If you have any questions ask someone for assistance.
A. For a standard service -- only light the two back candelabras (7 candles on each side) and the Christ candle
B. For a Communion service -- light the two back candelabras plus the front two single candles and the Christ candle
C. Special services during Lent and Advent, additional candles and special instructions will be given for
those days.
D. There may also be other candles used during Baptisms and other special services.
The candles should be lighted approximately 10 minutes prior to the beginning of the service.
E. Only the two single candles are lighted for a funeral.

RINGING OF THE BELL
The bell should be rung at the exact time of the beginning of the service. Ringing should last until the choir and minister have moved into their respective places. (approximately 10 rings). The rope is located on a hangar along the stairs going up to the balcony. The rope should be pulled and then released while holding tension. After the bell begins to swing then keep up the motion until the required rings are completed. Do not pull it too hard. The bell has to be pulled gently but firmly until the rocking of the bell starts and from there on it is quite easy to continue the ringing.

When there is a funeral from the church or upon departure of the casket the funeral bell is rung very slowly with a clang about every 5 to 10 seconds apart. After the family reaches the grave site the ringing stops.

COLLECTION OF THE OFFERING
After the liturgist gives the Call to Offering the two ushers should walk down together and pass the offering plate beginning in the front. When the organist begins the Offertory the ushers should bring the offering to the front and remain at the front through the Prayer of Dedication.

EXTINGUISHING THE CANDLES
The candles are extinguished during the Closing Hymn. The ushers should time this so that the candles will be extinguished and that they can return to the rear of the Church. The Christ candle should be the last one that is extinguished. Give yourself at least two stanzas to perform this duty. The Usher extinguishing the candles should return to the back of the church carrying the flame of the last candle extinguished. (Light of God leaves with the congregation) The Ushers should have both doors open by the time the Pastor and Liturgist reach the back of the Church.

After the Benediction the ushers should stand with the Pastor and greet all departing worshipers. Make sure you have gotten the names of visitors and their phone numbers if they are local residents.

CLOSING DUTIES
• Turn off all lights
• Pick up all trash in pews along with used bulletins
• Assist in removal of Communion Service Ware.
• Turn off amplifiers and microphones
• Turn off Heating/AC unit if it was turned on

Serving as an usher is one of the most important jobs of a worship service. The smoothness of the service, the impression that the visitors have of our congregation, and growth of our church has a lot to do with taking care of details. Thank you very much for serving Christ and your fellow Christians.

Revised 5-17-09

INTRODUCTION
The marriage ceremony is a worship service, and each part of it has deep traditional significance. The distinctive contribution of the Church in performing the marriage ceremony is to affirm the divine institution of marriage, to invoke God’s blessing upon those who enter into the marital relationship in accordance with God’s word, to hear the vows of those who desire to be married, and to assure the married partners of their new relationship.

When a couple decides to be married in the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, they are indicating that they want to make thorough preparation, both for the wedding service and their life together. They also affirm their desires to take seriously the procedures and policies of this Church. The wedding must be conducted by an ordained or licensed lay minister. No Justice of Peace weddings are permitted either in the Church or on the grounds.

The wedding is one of the most sacred and joyous rites a Pastor performs under the ordination and authority of the Church. Therefore, the Pastor and members of our Church are eager to assist you in making your wedding a meaningful worship experience. In this spirit, the following policies and guidelines were formulated, reviewed, and approved by our Church Council. We urge you to read this information carefully, and to cooperate fully with the Church in holding the high standards which you and the Church desire.

MAKING THE RESERVATION
Reservations may be made with the Pastor or Church Council. Tentative dates may be set by phone, email or mail; however, the bride and groom must confirm all details as to date and time in a meeting with the pastor. Members of the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church will have priority in scheduling weddings. Members may schedule as far ahead as they wish. Non-members must make reservations no less than 90 days prior to the wedding. The Church Council reserves the right to reject any request without providing a reason for the rejection.

MINISTER(S)
It is expected that the Pastor will officiate at weddings both for members of the congregation and for non-members. Circumstances that call for other arrangements should be worked out in cooperation with the Pastor.
Another Pastor may assist: however, assisting Pastors are expected to abide by the policies and procedures of this Church.
There are no Pastoral fees for church Members , but a free will gift or gratuity is appropriate.
If those to be married are not members, the Pastoral fee will need to be worked out with the Pastor

PRE-WEDDING CONFERENCES
The Pastor will meet for two conferences with the bride and groom prior to the wedding. These conferences serve as opportunities for discussion of the Christian significance of marriage and family life, allow for discussion of arrangements and special requests, and place the Pastor and couple in a close relationship to enhance the entire wedding process.

THE REHEARSAL
The rehearsal will take place the day prior to the wedding, unless circumstances indicate another date is necessary. The rehearsal should begin not later than 7:00 p.m. One hour is usually ample time to cover all details if everyone arrives on time. Rehearsals will begin on time and proceed in a dignified manner.
The Pastor will direct the rehearsal. A family member or friend, a florist, or consultant may assist the Pastor.
All participants in the wedding should be present for rehearsal, including ushers. The marriage license is to be presented to the Pastor at this time. Appropriate apparel must be worn by all present, including observers. Shorts, halters, T-shirts and similar attire are not appropriate.
No rehearsal or wedding will be conducted when any member of the wedding party is under the influence of drugs, or alcohol.

MUSIC
Since a wedding is a worship service, the music should be chosen and performed according to the same criteria used for any worship service in the Church.
All music must be approved by the Pastor, who may request the guidance of the Church music director or organist. Secular love songs and movie or theater pieces may not be suitable for a worship service. Guitars, flutes, pianos and other appropriate musical instruments may be used upon approval of the Pastor.
Fees for any outside organist or any singers or other musicians are to be negotiated and paid solely between the parties concerned. No one in the Church accepts this responsibility.
The current fee for the Church organist is $100.00 No other organist may be used without first consulting with the Church Organist.

DECORATION AND ARRANGEMENTS
Whatever arrangements and decorations that are used should be used in harmony with the unique purpose of the Sanctuary – to draw attention to God. The symbols of our Christian faith help in this purpose and no symbols are to be concealed or obscured.
Flowers, decorations and other appointments must not be unduly elaborate. Traditionally, one discreet arrangement rests on the altar behind the Bible. Greenery may be used in front of the pulpit and lectern, on each chancel rail, and on the candelabras.
A free standing unity candle or the altar variety is appropriate. Other candles may be appropriate and should be discussed with the Pastor. Drip less candles must be used and plastic floor protection must be used under all candles & candelabras.
Bows, with or without greenery, may be attached to the ends of pews by string or covered wire. Small candles, even the variety in hurricane lamps may not be used on the ends or backs of the pews.
No tacks, pins, glue, nails, or tape of any kind are to be used on the walls, on any furniture or on the floor in the sanctuary. The furniture and floor must be protected at all times from moisture and candle wax.
If a funeral, by necessity, needs to take place on the weekend of a wedding, the time of the wedding will not be changed. However, a funeral may necessitate a change in the time when the church could be decorated.

Furniture or wall hangings in the Church or Fellowship Hall cannot be rearranged or removed without permission of the Church Council.
By 7:00 a.m. on Sunday morning following a Saturday wedding, all decorations and arrangements must be removed from the Sanctuary. The Sanctuary must be cleaned and returned to the normal condition so it is ready for our 9:00 a.m. worship. There is no janitorial service available to clean the building – this is the responsibility of the wedding family.

PHOTOGRAPHY
The wedding ceremony is a service of worship. No pictures are to be taken during the ceremony. Pictures may be taken before and after the service and during the processional and recessional.
Videos may be made during the service, however the recording must be done from the balcony.

COURTESIES
No alcoholic beverages or any other drugs are permitted on Church property.
The use of rice, confetti, flower petals, etc., is prohibited inside the Church buildings.
Smoking or any use of tobacco is not permitted in or near the Sanctuary area, and is discouraged on all Church property.
All trash must be sacked and removed by 7:00 a.m. Sunday morning.
Communion is always appropriate for a worship service, but arrangements must be made with the Pastor.
Receptions to be held in the Fellowship Hall are encouraged and are a fitting conclusion to the day’s events. There are charges for this use ($300.00).

OUTSIDE WEDDINGS
Should a couple desire to have an outside wedding under the oak trees, then the use fee shall be $150.00 for non-members, however the deposit of $200.00 along with all other terms of this agreement shall be applicable that includes the returning of a signed copy of these terms and conditions at least 90 days prior to the event.

BUILDING USE FEES
A standard fee for the use of the Church for weddings is $300.00 to non-members This permits the party to use the Fellowship Hall for dressing & preparation and the use of the restrooms. Both the Church and Fellowship Hall must be returned to the same condition as received.

A deposit of $200.00 shall be held in escrow for damages and to verify that the Church and/or Fellowship Hall is returned to the condition as prior to the event. This shall apply to both members and non-members. Following an inspection by a member of the Church Council and they find that the building and grounds have been returned to it’s proper condition, the $200.00 deposit will be returned. All trash must be removed from the premises.

THE AGREEMENT
The document shall be a binding contract between the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church and the parties involved wishing to use either the Church or Grounds or Fellowship Hall or all of the above. This document will be issued in duplicate to the person requesting to use the facilities. After reading all of the portions of this document and fully understanding the guidelines, one copy must be signed and returned to the Church Council at least 90 days before the date of the event. The signing of this document shall be applicable to both members and non-members.

____________________________________ _______________
Person Taking Responsibility of The Arrangements Date

_____________________________________ ________________
Representative of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church Date

Return to:
Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church
1985 FM 155 South
Weimar, Texas 78962

THE CONSTITUTION
of
Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church
New Bielau, Colorado County, Texas

The name of this Church shall be Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, New Bielau, Colorado County, Texas, (a Corporation incorporated in the State of Texas).

The avowed purpose of this church shall be to worship God, to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ, and to celebrate the Sacraments; to realize Christian fellowship and unity within this church and the Church Universal; to render loving service toward mankind; and to strive for righteousness, justice and peace.

1. This Church, on September 1, 2003, became an independent and non-aligned church.
2. The government of this church is vested in its members who exercise the right of control in all its affairs, subject, however, to Laws of the State of Texas relating to Article 9.01,Texas Non-Profit Corporation Act.

1. This church acknowledges as its sole head, Jesus Christ, the Son of God and the Savior of mankind. It acknowledges as brothers in Christ all who share in this confession. It looks to the Word of God in the scriptures, and to the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, to prosper its creative and redemptive work in the world. It claims as its own the faith of the historic Church expressed the ancient creeds and reclaimed in the basic insights of the Protestant Reformers. It affirms the responsibility of the Church in each generation to make this faith its own. In accordance with the teaching of our Lord and the practice prevailing among Evangelical Christians it recognizes two Sacraments: Baptism and the Lord’s Supper or Holy Communion.

I Believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth: And in Jesus Christ, His only begotten Son, our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, Suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead and buried; He descended into hell; the third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and sits on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit; the Holy Christian Church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting. Amen

We covenant one with another to seek and respond to the Word and the Will of God. We propose to walk together in the ways of the Lord, made known and to be made known to us. We hold it to be the mission of the Church to witness to the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the entire world, while worshipping God, and striving for truth, justice and peace. As did our fathers, we depend on the Holy Spirit to lead and empower us. We pray for the coming of the Kingdom of God, and we look with faith toward the triumph of righteousness and eternal life.

1. We believe the Bible to be the inspired, the only infallible, authoritative Word of God.
2. We believe that there is one God, eternally existent in three persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
3. We believe in the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ, in His virgin birth, in His sinless life, in His miracles, in His vicarious and atoning death through His shed blood, in His bodily resurrection, in His ascension to the right hand of the Father, and in His personal return in power and glory.
4. We believe that for the salvation of lost sinful man, regeneration by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential.
5. We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a godly life.
6. We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost; they that are saved unto the resurrection of life and they that are lost unto the resurrection of damnation.
7. We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ.

Membership in this church shall be open to any person who has been baptized into the Christian faith, been confirmed, or has made public confession of faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, (or has a letter of transfer of membership from another Christian congregation.)

1. Families joining with children under the age 12, those children will be received as
to the following: They will be reflected on the church roll. They have no rights as
a member until the age of 12 at which time will be presented to the Church as a
member meeting a confirmed status determined by the Senior Pastor. Once
approved by Council, they are then presented to Church congregation as members, with
all rights extended except voting authority which is given at age 18.

2. Members shall pledge themselves to attend the regular worship of the church and the
celebration of the Lord’s Supper: to live the Christian life; to share in the life and work of
the church; to contribute to its support and benevolences; and to seek diligently the
spiritual welfare of the membership and the community.

A. A person who have been duly received into communion by confirmation,
baptism, letter of transfer, or profession of faith, shall be communicant members
of this congregation and shall be entitled to all its rights and privileges.

B. Any member may, on his/her request, be granted a letter of transfer. If wishing to
join a body not in fellowship with this church, he/she may be dismissed with a
certificate of church membership.

3. A member whose address has long been unknown or who for a period of two years, in spite of spiritual care has not attended the church’s worship or contributed to its support may, by recommendation and vote of the Church Council, be removed from the
membership roll and placed on a conditional list. If, after the expiration of a year, the
relationship remains unchanged, the name may be dropped from the conditional roll by a
further vote of the Council.

4. If a member persistently breaches his covenant vows, the Church Council – after due
notice has been given to him, a hearing before the Council has been offered him, and
faithful efforts have been made to bring him to amendment in accordance with the law of
Christ – may censure him, or suspend or terminate his membership.

The governing body of this church shall be the membership assembled in church meeting. The vote of a majority of members present at the meeting shall be the action of the church. A quorum shall consist of 20% of the members.

1. The Council shall be the executive body of this church, and its members shall be of legal age. It shall be composed of those elected by the membership of the church. One half of its members shall constitute a quorum. It shall be composed of the Senior Pastor and at least four and not more than twelve, elected by majority vote of the members present at a given congregational meeting, for a three year term. In order to provide continuity, not more than ? its members shall vacate office in any one year.

A. After serving (2) terms, members must remain off the Council for at least (1) year before they are eligible to be nominated again.
B. No more than (1) member of an immediate family may serve on the Council at a given time.

3. The Council shall organize itself each year, electing a President, a Vice-President, and a Secretary and shall form such boards or committees as will serve to further the purpose of the church.

4. If the church is part of pastoral charge composed of two or more churches, the members of the Council shall be members of a Joint Council to which shall be committed to the common
interest of these churches.

5. Church Council candidates shall be elected by a majority vote cast at a church meeting. They shall be elected for three years. In order to provide continuity, not more than one of each office should become vacant in any one year.

6. The Council shall elect a Nominating Committee consisting of two (2) Council
Members and one 1) Congregational Member to nominate candidates for Council.

7. When elected, the Council Members shall be publicly installed in their respective offices.
8. Vacancies on the council shall be filled by the Council for the unexpired terms.

9. The Council shall be the policy-making body and shall transact the business of the church, make provision for the determining and raising of the current budget as well as for world mission efforts and benevolences, and provide for the (possibility of) auditing of financial accounts and or the adequate support of the staff. It shall keep a complete and accurate record of its proceedings, all church business and be the custodian of all church records, and report to the church at its regular and special meetings. All acts and deliberations of the Council are subject to the will of and revision by the governing body.

10. The Council shall instruct the proper officers on all fiscal matters including the payment of bills, with monthly review by the Council.

11. The Council may authorize an extraordinary expense if funds are available; but if borrowing
exceeds $0.01, it must receive the approval of the church.

13. The Council shall meet at least once every month, (or as business demands), for the
transaction of such business as may properly come before it. Meetings normally should
include prayer and should emphasize policy deliberations. Special meetings are subject to the
Chair’s call.

14. Council Members are members of the church elected by the church and installed in their
office. They shall assist and support the Pastor in the spiritual affairs of the church. They
shall provide the elements for the Lord’s Supper and, when invited by the Pastor, shall aid in
their distribution. They shall have jurisdiction in matters of discipline, except in the case of
the Pastor. Council Members shall take heed to the high calling of their office, guarding
faithfully all the spiritual interest of the church, maintaining order in the House of God,
visiting the sick, and ministering to the edification and comfort of all.

15. Council members shall have the care and custody of the property of the church as a sacred trust, whether real or personal in accordance with the provision of the Articles of
Incorporation and this Constitution and By-Laws.

ARTICLE VIII. PASTOR

1. It shall be the responsibility of the Pulpit Committee, appointed by the Council, to seek a candidate for a vacancy for the office of pastor.

2. The Pulpit Committee shall present to the Council the name of the candidate it recommends to
fill the vacancy. If accepted by the Council, the Pulpit Committee shall present the candidate
to the congregation for approval. A favorable (majority) vote of the Church constitutes a call.

3. In the call, the terms of the relationship shall be stated.
A. The called minister and the Council shall each receive a copy of the call
B. When a minister accepts a call to this church, the congregation, under the direction of the Council, shall arrange for a service of installation.

4. The Pastor shall be elected for an indefinite period. All Terms and Condition of the call shall be presented in proper form in a written contract. This contract shall list the duties of the Pastor and what the Congregation’s pledge is to the Pastor.

5. When either party decides to terminate the relationship the termination shall be by action of the Church Council, and notice of such termination shall be sent by the President of the Council to the Proper authorities for appropriate action. In order to terminate this relationship, three month’s notice or 3 months severance pay shall be given by either party.

6. Brotherly discipline of the Pastor shall be in conformity with the Constitution and By-Laws of the denomination in which the Pastor holds his/her ministerial standing.

a. Fulfill the duties of the office of the minister
b. Oversee the religious instruction to all members of the congregation.
c. Prepare children for Confirmation
d. Visit the sick
e. Lead a good example
f. Advise delinquent members in a loving way and help wayward members to a righteous way of life
g. Keep statistical records and report annually.
In the Name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen

1. The Pastor shall be welcome at all meetings of all organizations within the church with voice
but no vote. As long as he/she is Pastor, no other minister shall perform any religious ceremony in the church without the consent of both the Pastor and the Council. During absence of the Pastor, the Council will suffice. The Pastor’s salary shall be paid promptly in monthly installments and shall be sufficient to relieve him/her of temporal cares as far as possible and to preserve the dignity of his/her calling, subject, however to the provision of the contract between the Pastor and the governing body.

2. The Pastor shall be able to call to himself a Servant Body. They are selected by the Pastor
and with approval of the Church council.

3. In regards to Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals it is incumbent upon the Pastor in officiating
these services to first and foremost do so biblically. He/She also has the right and discretion
to direct the services to reflect the religious traditional background and preferences of the
individual/individuals having such services performed. If a question arises on the subject,
the Church Council will have final approval.

ARTICLE IX. PROPERTY

1. The Board of Trustees in the church’s name (The Church Council in the church’s Corporate name) may sue or be sued, acquired by purchase, gift, devise, bequest or otherwise and own, hold, invest, reinvest or dispose of property both real and personal for such work as the church may undertake and may purchase, win, receive, hold, manage, care for and transfer, rent, lease, mortgage or otherwise encumber, sell, assign, transfer and convey such property for the general purposes of the church; they may receive and hold, invest the same and make any contracts for promoting the objects and purposes of the church.

2. All property of the congregation shall remain theirs as such and the congregation cannot be dissolved as long as three members in good standing are for the continuation of the congregation.

1. The Annual Meeting of the Church shall be held in the month of January. At this meeting
the Council, the officers of the Church, the Pastor(s) and all church organizations shall
submit their annual reports in writing.

2. Special church meetings may be called by the Council or by a petition to the Council
signed by not less than 20% of the official church membership roll. The Council shall
call such meetings within three weeks from receipt of the petition, and adequate notice
of such meeting shall be sent to the membership by the Secretary.

3. Order of business for Congregational Meetings.
a. Opening Prayer
b. Reading of the Minutes
c. Treasurer’s Report
d. Pastor’s Report
e. Organizational Reports
f. Correspondence
g. Old Business
h. New Business
i. Other Reports or Business
j Closing prayer and adjournment

Robert’s Rules of Order shall be the parliamentary authority for all matters of procedure not specifically covered by this Constitution and/or By-Laws.

Amendments to this constitution and/or By-Laws may be made at any duly called church meeting by two-thirds affirmative vote of the members present, public announcement of the text of the proposed amendment(s) having been made two weeks prior to the meeting.

The Church Cemetery is a part of the property of the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church and shall be under the direction of the Church Council.
The Council shall:
Make annual reports to the congregation
Keep the financial records and funds of the Church Cemetery
Oversee the care of the property
Lay out and sell grave sites

The Church Council shall, from time to time, review the cost of grave sites and set prices accordingly.

1. The President shall preside at all meetings, shall have general supervision of the affairs of the Church, shall sign or countersign all contracts and other instruments of the Church as authorized by the Church Council, shall make reports to the Council and members and perform all such duties as are incident to this office or properly required by him/her by the Church Council.

2. The Vice-President, in the absence or disability of the President, shall exercise all of the President’s functions.

3. The Secretary shall keep the minutes and shall sign with the President such instruments as require such signatures, and shall make such reports and perform such other duties as are incident to his/her office, or that are properly required of him/her by the Council.

4. The Treasurer shall have the custody of all monies and securities of the church and shall keep regular books of accounts and balances and shall balance the same each month. He/she shall sign or countersign such instruments as require his/her signature, shall perform all duties incident to his/her office, or that are properly required of him/her by the Council.

The Treasurer shall be elected by the Congregation to a permanent term to serve as long as he/she desires to serve. The Treasurer shall be a voting member of the Church Council.

The Treasurer may be immediately temporarily suspended and/or permanently removed from office for improper handling of Church funds and securities or by lack of performance by a majority vote of the Church Council. Through a called Congregational meeting by the Church Council and by a 2/3 vote of the Congregation, the Treasurer will be permanently removed from office.

The Council shall appoint a audit committee to consist of three (3) members
from the congregation to review the financial records and will make a formal report at
the annual Congregational Meeting held in January of each year.

CEMETERY RULES AND REGULATIONS
Of
TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH
October 12, 1998

The purpose of these rules is to establish some guidelines to insure that the future monuments and markers that are set in the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church Cemetery will have an approved foundation and to insure that the grass maintenance can be performed with a minimum amount of effort. This should greatly reduce the problems relating to improper foundations for both monuments and markers. Before any monument or marker can be installed, the individual or company must review the Cemetery Rules and Regulations and agree to conform to them in their entirety. The Church Council will have the final approval of the request.

The Cemetery Rules and Regulations allow for the burial of two (2) cremated remains on each burial space. Any exception to allow for more than two (2) cremated remains must have the approval of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church Council by a unanimous vote. (revised 8-10-04)

No monument or marker will be permitted that is made from artificial stone.
No combination of marble and granite will be permitted.

It is strongly recommended, that on (6) space lots, to install a family monument at the front of the lot (West end) and that each grave space be marked with a foot marker. This helps the cemetery provide better lawn maintenance.
Slant-face monuments are permitted.
All granite monuments to be pointed with lead or approved compound.
(Markers)
No bevel markers will be permitted.
Only flush granite, bronze, and bronze on granite markers will be permitted. (No marble markers)
Minimum 4” thick – All granite markers, concrete bases and granite bases for bronze.

Due to turf maintenance all grave slabs and lot coping will not be permitted.
It shall be the responsibility of the lot owner, that after a burial, and a reasonable time of settling, the remainder of the dirt shall be removed giving a level surface across the grave to permit mowing. This is not a responsibility of the cemetery. Failure to conform to this rule will cause the lot to not be maintained by the cemetery. The cemetery is only responsible for mowing and trimming.

Foundations will be of concrete and at least as large as the base of the structure to be erected, and to a depth necessary to support the structure. Monument foundations up to 5’x1’6” are to be a minimum of the surface area of the base and a minimum of 18” deep with a minimum of two 8” piers and an additional 14” deep. Each pier shall have (3) 3/8” rebar and (4) 3/8” rebar horizontal – minimum.

Each foundation shall be framed with forms to the size of the foundation. POURING CONCRETE INTO THE EXCAVATION WITHOUT USING FORMS WILL NOT BE PERMITTED. Three sack mix concrete is to be used as a minimum for all foundations.

All Markers shall be set level with ground or turf. No marker shall be set on wet concrete. All bronze markers shall have a 4” concrete base poured on to the bottom prior to setting. No Bronze Marker Shall Be Set On Wet Concrete. Without this restriction the marker cannot in future years be raised without raising the whole foundation. Three sack mix concrete is to be used on all foundations.

Foundations for all monument work will be installed at the property’s owners expense. All monument dealers shall carry full general liability insurance, workman’s compensation and compensation and employee liability insurance. Monument dealers shall not set monuments when the soil is in a soft or wet condition.

All form material and dirt that is excavated shall be removed by the parties involved. Workmen must not scatter material over adjoining lots or leave material on the grounds any longer than necessary. Ropes or lines must not be attached to trees, shrubs or other objects in the cemetery.
No posts or anchors may be sunk in the ground. When heavy equipment is to be moved across the lawn, the lawns, the monument dealer will take precautions to protect the grass and surrounding plants. When setting a monument, no build-up or underpinning with chips, spawls, cement or other material will be allowed. Plaster of Paris or lime cannot be used in the cement.

FUNERAL GUIDELINES

THE MINISTRY OF THIS CHURCH
Trinity Church is a nondenominational evangelical church, welcoming people of all traditions and backgrounds serving the Weimar area. We have come to see the Christian faith as a way of life, a faith to be confessed, a vision to be embraced and a joy to be lived. Our ministry is one that involves all the members of our church family.
Our congregation acknowledges as its sole Head, Jesus Christ. We seek to study and respond to the Word of God, allowing Scripture to assist us on our Christian journey. We receive through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit: personal strength in trial or crisis, encouragement to grow as Christians, guidance in times of decision, and empowerment to reach out and serve Christ in our local community and the world.

THE MINISTRY OF THE PASTOR
Our mission is to minister in love to all persons and to seek and respond to God’s will in faithfulness. This is especially true at the time of deaths and funerals. The pastor’s ministry is to lead the bereaved into and through the service of the church where the Gospel can be heard with healing power and clarity. In an effort to be positive and to emphasize the victory of the resurrection, the pain and loss of death is not minimized or ignored. Both must be held in balance. The bereaved need to confront and accept the loss of the deceased as well as be given hope. More over, this congregation needs to be encouraged to support the bereaved not only at the time of the funeral but also as the bereaved return to their homes and duties of their lives.

THE SERVICE OF THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD
The Funeral Service may be used with the deceased present, or as a Memorial Service following interment or cremation, or when the body has been destroyed in an accident or natural catastrophe.

FUNERALS FOR NON-MEMBERS
Conducting funerals for people who have no connection with this church is a normal part of the pastoral obligation of Trinity Church.

MUSIC SELECTIONS
Music selected for use at a funeral should embody high standards of quality, and in general reflect the spirit of Christian confidence, trust and hope in the resurrection. The hymns should reflect such themes as the invocation of the Holy Spirit, the communion of saints and hope in the resurrection. Hymn versions of appropriate psalms may be sung also. Alternate contemporary music may be used at the discretion of the Pastor. The use of portable players “boom boxes” is frowned upon. If recorded music is to be used it must be used only with the approval of the Pastor (1) day prior to the service. If special live music is selected, it should be approved by the Pastor.

FLOWERS
As the sanctuary space is limited, flowers are limited to (2) standing sprays and not over 5 pot plants.

PRINTED ORDER OF SERVICE
A printed Order of the Funeral Service may also contain information about the deceased and will be made available by Trinity Church at no cost if requested.

MEMORIALS
Memorials to Trinity Church are encouraged. Specific memorials are available, or separate gifts should be discussed with the Pastor and / or Church Council.

FRATERNAL GROUPS
Such groups, upon the consent of the Pastor, and following approval by the family, may be permitted to provide a tribute to the deceased.

SCHEDULING A FUNERAL
The funeral hours shall be established after consultation with the Pastor.

PASTORAL SERVICES TO MEMBERS OF ANOTHER CONGREGATION
The responsibility and authority for pastoral acts or services rest with the Pastor of the congregation where the deceased held membership. When the Pastor of Trinity Church is asked to provide pastoral services for members of another congregation, he shall contact the Pastor of the church in which the person held membership before providing the service. If the deceased is a member of another congregation and wishes to have a funeral at Trinity Church using his Pastor, then the Pastor of his congregation will need to work out the details with the Pastor from Trinity Church.

HONORARIUMS TO THE PASTOR, ORGANIST AND SOLOISTS.
It is customary to provide honorariums to the Pastor, Organist and Soloists. If you are unsure of the amount you wish to present to these persons, please contact one of the Church Council members for recommendations.

MEMBERS OF TRINITY CHURCH: There are no charges for use by members or the family of a member.
NON MEMBERS: The use of the facilities (Church Sanctuary and/or Fellowship Hall) is available at the following fees:

The Fellowship Hall may be used for a reception after the funeral service. The use of the facilities does not include the use of any serving utensils, dishes, coffee pots, etc. The family may cater the food, furnish it themselves or contact the Ladies Aid Society for possible catering arrangements.

The use of the facilities is based upon the assumption that the Funeral Service will last no longer than one (1-1/2) hour and that the use of the Fellowship Hall may be used for a reception following the funeral service. Utilizing a catering service must be approved by the Pastor and the Ladies Aid Society.

ALCOHOL AND SMOKING
The use of alcoholic beverages is prohibited before, during and after the funeral. This is also applicable to the Church grounds. Trinity Church is a smoke free environment.

PICTURES AND VIDEO RECORDINGS
Flash pictures may be taken before and after the Funeral Service, but not during the Funeral Service. Video recordings are allowed but may not interfere with the Funeral Ceremony.

WHO TO CONTACT

CHURCH COUNCIL

Dale Koehn ---------- President	Shirley Darville -------- Treasurer
Melvin Shumbera ----- Vice Pres.	Jim Dodson ----------- Member
Mariette Bellamy ------ Secretary	Reuben Otto ------------ Member

Shirley Darville ---------------------------- Accounting (computer files)
Doris Albright ----------------------------- Secretary of Memorial Fund

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

Mariette Bellamy - Sunday School Teacher - Children's Sermon - Confirmation Inst.
Anna Dodson - Sunday School Teacher
Connie Barr - Sunday School Teacher
Shirley Darville - Sunday School Teacher

Jim Dodson - Adult Bible Study Teacher
John David - Adult Bible Study Teacher

LADIES AID SOCIETY

Gloria Koehn -----------------President	Anna Dodson ---------------- Treasurer
Linda Otto ---------------Vice Pres.	Arlene Marshall ---------------Sunshine Girl
Becky McKee---------------Secretary

CHURCH MUSIC DEPARTMENT

Mary Corcoran --------- Choir Director
Doris Albright -----------Organist
Pamela Terral ----------- Pianist
Koreen Harstad --------- Pianist

CHOIR MEMBERS

Gloria Koehn	Koreen Harstad
Allen Bellamy	Dale Harstad
Arlene Marshall	Al Marshall
Mary Corcoran	Roger Albright
Pam Terral	Oscar Hernandez
Nell Moser

BIRTHDAY CLUB

Gloria Koehn ---------- Treasurer & Buyer of Supplies

CHURCH BUILDING CUSTODIAN - Wanda Herbrich

CHURCH GROUNDS CUSTODIAN - Quentin Riche

CEMETERY COMMITTEE

Dale Koehn
Al Marshall