Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Christmas Services at Historic Trinity

Please join us for Christmas Services
Historic Trinity Lutheran Church.....


CHRISTMAS EVE
Christmas Eve is at its finest at Historic Trinity Lutheran Church, in downtown Detroit. Make your Christmas plans complete by attending, as a whole family, the Traditional Christmas Eve Candlelight Carol Services on Saturday, December 24, 2011, at Historic Trinity Lutheran Church. "Journey home to Historic Trinity" for this highlight of the Christmas Season:

  • 6:00 p.m. Family Christmas Eve Carol Service. Sunday School children participate.
  • 8:00 p.m. Traditional Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
  • 11:00 p.m. Festival Christmas Eve Candlelight Carol Service
The finest in preaching by the Historic Trinity Cathedral Ministry Pastors, traditional liturgy, real Christmas Carols by candlelight, and resounding instrumental and choral music, will warm and inspire your hearts with the proclamation of the Birth of the Son of God and the Son of Man -Jesus Christ. Mr. Karl Osterland, Music Director of Historic Trinity Lutheran Church, will be at the organ. The Historic Trinity Lutheran Church Sunday School will sing at the 6:00 p.m. service. The splendid Historic Trinity Cathedral Choir will sing at 8:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. Your Christmas season is not complete unless you attend a Christmas Eve Service at Historic Trinity! It just doesn't get any better.

CHRISTMAS DAYA Christmas Festival Communion Service will be offered on Sunday, December 25, 2011, at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. We celebrate, this day, the greatest gift of all time presented to the world. "Unto you this day is born a Savior - Christ the Lord". The Son of God became also the Son of Man, being conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. The Rev. Dr. David Eberhard will preach, and he will be assisted by the Assisting Pastors of the Historic Trinity Cathedral Ministry.

Friday, November 18, 2011

Thanksgiving Services at Historic Trinity

THANKSGIVING SERVICES


The Downtown Lutheran Thanksgiving Services will be held at Historic Trinity Lutheran Church on Thanksgiving Eve, Wednesday, November 23, at 7:00 p.m., and on Thanksgiving Day, November 24, at 10:00 a.m. Rev. Ronald Guettler will preach on Thanksgiving Eve, and The Rev.Dr. David Eberhard will preach Thanksgiving Day. They will be assisted by the Pastors of the Cathedral Ministry. At each of the Thanksgiving services, individual "blessed loaves of bread" will be distributed to each family present. Each family will be encouraged to take the blessed bread home to share with their loved ones and friends at their Thanksgiving dinner.

If you are attending the downtown Thanksgiving Day Parade, we welcome you to attend the service, and, please feel comfortable attending in the clothing you wore to the parade.


Tuesday, October 11, 2011

ST. LUKE SERVICES - SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2011 - all services

ST. LUKE SERVICES


The Lutheran Downtown St. Luke’s Services, in honor of the Evangelist St. Luke who was a medical doctor, are planned for Sunday, October 16, 2011, at the 8:15, 9:30, and 11:00 a.m. Worship Services. The Rev. Dr. David Eberhard will preach. Dr. Alan Watson will be awarded the "Lutheran Medical Award” for 2011, during the 8:15 a.m.Worship Service.

Various members of the Historic Trinity Cathedral Medical Professionals will participate in the Worship Services with special readings and prayers. All medical persons in the Metro Region along with their families and their friends are especially encouraged to attend this day of worship in honor and thanksgiving for their healing services.

Now, let's look at some information on St. Luke himself.

ST. LUKE


The name Lucas (Luke) is probably an abbreviation from Lucanus, like Annas from Ananus, Apollos from Apollonius, Artemas from Artemidorus, Demas from Demetrius. The word Lucas seems to have been unknown before the Christian Era; but Lucanus is common in inscriptions, and is found at the beginning and end of the Gospel in some Old Latin manuscripts. It is generally held that St. Luke was a native of Antioch. Eusebius has: Loukas de to men genos on ton ap Antiocheias, ten episteuen iatros, ta pleista suggegonos to Paulo, kai rots laipois de ou parergos ton apostolon homilnkos—”Lucas vero domo Antiochenus, arte medicus, qui et cum Paulo diu conjunctissime vixit, et cum reliquis Apostolis studiose versatus est.” The writer of Acts took a special interest in Antioch and was well acquainted with it.

St. Luke was not a Jew. He is separated by St. Paul from those of the circumcision, and his style proves that he was a Greek. Hence he cannot be identified with Lucius the prophet of Acts, xiii, 1, nor with Lucius of Rom., xvi, 21, who was cognatus of St. Paul. From this and the prologue of the Gospel it follows that Epiphanius errs when he calls him one of the Seventy Disciples; nor was he the companion of Cleophas in the journey to Emmaus after the Resurrection. St. Luke had a great knowledge of the Septuagint and of things Jewish, which he acquired either as a Jewish proselyte or after he became a Christian, through his close intercourse with the Apostles and disciples. Besides Greek, he had many opportunities of acquiring Aramaic in his native Antioch, the capital of Syria. He was a physician by profession, and St. Paul calls him “the most dear physician” This avocation implied a liberal education, and his medical training is evidenced by his choice of medical language. Plummer suggests that he may have studied medicine at the famous school of Tarsus, the rival of Alexandria and Athens, and possibly met St. Paul there. From his intimate knowledge of the eastern Mediterranean, it has been conjectured that he had lengthened experience as a doctor on board ship. He travailed a good deal, and sends greetings to the Colossians, which seems to indicate that he had visited them.

St. Luke first appears in the Acts at Troas, where he meets St. Paul, and, after the vision, crossed over with him to Europe as an Evangelist, landing at Neapolis and going on to Philippi, “being assured that God had called us to preach the Gospel to them”. He was, therefore, already an Evangelist. He was present at the conversion of Lydia and her companions, and lodged in her house. He, together with St. Paul and his companions, was recognized by the pythonical spirit: “This same following Paul and us, cried out, saying: These men are the servants of the most high God, who preach unto you the way of salvation” . He beheld Paul and Silas arrested, dragged before the Roman magistrates, charged with disturbing the city, “being Jews”, beaten with rods and thrown into prison. Luke and Timothy escaped, probably because they did not look like Jews (Timothy’s father was a gentile). When Paul departed from Philippi, Luke was left behind, in all probability to carry on the work of Evangelist. At Thessalonica the Apostle received highly appreciated pecuniary aid from Philippi, doubtless through the good offices of St. Luke. It is not unlikely that the latter remained at Philippi all the time that St. Paul was preaching at Athens and Corinth, and while he was travelling to Jerusalem and back to Ephesus, and during the three years that the Apostle was engaged at Ephesus. When St. Paul revisited Macedonia, he again met St. Luke at Philippi, and there wrote his Second Epistle to the Corinthians.

St. Jerome thinks it is most likely that St. Luke is “the brother, whose praise is in the gospel through all the churches” , and that he was one of the bearers of the letter to Corinth. Shortly afterwards, when St. Paul returned from Greece, St. Luke accompanied him from Philippi to Troas, and with him made the long coasting voyage described in Acts, xx. He went up to Jerusalem, was present at the uproar, saw the attack on the Apostle, and heard him speaking “in the Hebrew tongue” from the steps outside the fortress Antonia to the silenced crowd. Then he witnessed the infuriated Jews, in their impotent rage, rending their garments, yelling, and flinging dust into the air. We may be sure that he was a constant visitor to St. Paul during the two years of the latter’s imprisonment at Cæarea. In that period he might well become acquainted with the circumstances of the death of Herod Agrippa I, who had died there eaten up by worms” (skolekobrotos), and he was likely to be better informed on the subject than Josephus. Ample opportunities were given him, ‘having diligently attained to all things from the beginning”, concerning the Gospel and early Acts, to write in order what had been delivered by those “who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word” . It is held by many writers that the Gospel was written during this time, Ramsay is of opinion that the Epistle to the Hebrews was then composed, and that St. Luke had a considerable share in it. When Paul appealed to Cæsar, Luke and Aristarchus accompanied him from Cæsarea, and were with him during the stormy voyage from Crete to Malta. Thence they went on to Rome, where, during the two years that St. Paul was kept in prison, St. Luke was frequently at his side, though not continuously, as he is not mentioned in the greetings of the Epistle to the Philippians . He was present when the Epistles to the Colossians, Ephesians and Philemon were written, and is mentioned in the salutations given in two of them: “Luke the most dear physician, saluteth you” ; “There salute thee . . . Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke my fellow labourers” . St. Jerome holds that it was during these two years Acts was written.

We have no information about St. Luke during the interval between St. Paul’s two Roman imprisonments, but he must have met several of the Apostles and disciples during his various journeys. He stood beside St. Paul in his last imprisonment; for the Apostle, writing for the last time to Timothy, says: “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course. . . . Make haste to come to me quickly. For Demas hath left me, loving this world. . . . Only Luke is with me” . It is worthy of note that, in the three places where he is mentioned in the Epistles (Col., iv, 14; Philem., 24; II Tim., iv, 11) he is named with St. Mark , the other Evangelist who was not an Apostle , and it is clear from his Gospel that he was well acquainted with the Gospel according to St. Mark; and in the Acts he knows all the details of St. Peter’s delivery—what happened at the house of St. Mark’s mother, and the name of the girl who ran to the outer door when St. Peter knocked. He must have frequently met St. Peter, and may have assisted him to draw up his First Epistle in Greek, which affords many reminiscences of Luke’s style. After St. Paul’s martyrdom practically all that is known about him is contained in the ancient “Prefatio vel Argumentum Lucæ”, dating back to Julius Africanus, who was born about A.D. 165. This states that he was unmarried, that he wrote the Gospel, in Achaia, and that he died at the age of seventy-four in Bithynia (probably a copyist’s error for Boeotia), filled with the Holy Ghost. Epiphanius has it that he preached in Dalmatia , Gallia (Galatia?), Italy, and Macedonia. As an Evangelist, he must have suffered much for the Faith, but it is controverted whether he actually died a martyr’s death. St. Jerome writes of him . “Sepultus est Constantinopoli, ad quam urbem vigesimo Constantii anno, ossa ejus cum reliquiis Andreæ Apostoli translata sunt [de Achaia?].” St. Luke its always represented by the calf or ox, the sacrificial animal, because his Gospel begins with the account of Zachary, the priest, the father of John the Baptist. He is called a painter by Nicephorus Callistus (fourteenth century), and by the Menology of Basil II, A.D. 980. A picture of the Virgin in S. Maria Maggiore, Rome, is ascribed to him, and can be traced to A.D. 847 It is probably a copy of that mentioned by Theodore Lector, in the sixth century. This writer states that the Empress Eudoxia found a picture of the Mother of God at Jerusalem, which she sent to Constantinople. It is certain that St. Luke was an artist, at least to the extent that his graphic descriptions of the Annunciation, Visitation, Nativity, Shepherds. Presentation, the Shepherd and lost sheep, etc., have become the inspiring and favourite themes of Christian painters.

St. Luke is one of the most extensive writers of the New Testament. His Gospel is considerably longer than St. Matthew’s, his two books are about as long as St. Paul’s fourteen Epistles: and Acts exceeds in length the Seven Catholic Epistles and the Apocalypse. The style of the Gospel is superior to any N. T. writing except Hebrews. It is the most literary of the Gospels. St. Luke is a painter in words. “The author of the Third Gospel and of the Acts is the most versatile of all New Testament writers. He can be as Hebraistic as the Septuagint, and as free from Hebraisms as Plutarch. . . He is Hebraistic in describing Hebrew society and Greek when describing Greek society” . His great command of Greek is shown by the richness of his vocabulary and the freedom of his constructions.

ST LUKE THE EVANGELIST


St. Luke was born at Antioch of pagan parents, possibly born a slave, and one of the earliest Christian converts. He was a Physician. Legend has that he was also a painter who may have done portraits of Jesus and Mary, but none have ever been correctly attributed to him. Luke traveled with Saint Paul and evangelized Greece and Rome with him, being there for the shipwreck and other perils of the voyage to Rome. He wrote the Gospel According to Luke, much of which was based on the teachings and writings of Paul, and his own experiences. He also wrote a history of the early Church in the Acts of the Apostles. He died in Greece a possible martyr. He is the Patron Saint of: artists, bachelors, bookbinders, brewers, butchers, doctors, glass makers, glassworkers, gold workers, goldsmiths, lacemakers, lace workers, notaries, painters, physicians, sculptors, stained glass workers, surgeons, unmarried men.

St. Luke mainly insists in his gospel upon what relates to Christ’s priestly office; for which reason the ancients, in accommodating the four symbolical representations, mentioned in Ezekiel, to the four evangelists, assigned the ox or calf as an emblem of sacrifices to St. Luke. His Gospel speaks to the sacrificial and atoning work of our Savior.

Saturday, September 10, 2011

Grandparents’ Day on Sunday, September 11, 2011 at Historic Trinity

In 1978, President Jimmy Carter proclaimed that National Grandparents. Day would be celebrated every year on the first Sunday after Labor Day. Grandparents. Day, at Historic Trinity, will be held on Sunday, September 11th at all three services. 
Invite your grandparents to attend church with you and your family on this, their special day. Also, take time to thank them for sharing their love and experiences with you all the year through.

 

Purpose

This day has a threefold purpose:
To honor grandparents
To give grandparents an opportunity to show love for their children's children.
To help children become aware of the strength, information and guidance older people can offer.

Grandparents Day First Sunday After Labor Day

In 1970, a West Virginia housewife, Marian Lucille Herndon McQuade, initiated a campaign to set aside a special day just for Grandparents. Through concerted efforts on the part of civic, business, church, and political leaders, this campaign expanded statewide. Senator Jennings Randolph (D-WV) was especially instrumental in the project. The first Grandparents Day was proclaimed in 1973 in West Virginia by Governor Arch Moore. Also in 1973, Senator Randolph introduced a Grandparents Day resolution in the United States Senate. The resolution languished in committee.
Mrs. McQuade and her team turned to the media to garner support. They also began contacting governors, senators, congressmen in every state. And they sent letters to churches, businesses, and numerous national organizations interested in senior citizens. In 1978, five years after its West Virginia inception, the United StatesCongress passed legislation proclaiming the first Sunday after Labor Day as National Grandparents Day. The proclamation was signed by President Jimmy Carter. (September was chosen for the holiday, to signify the "autumn years" of life.)
Today this event, begun by only a few, is observed by millions throughout the United States.

Facts About The Founder of Grandparents Day

A native of Fayette County, Marian McQuade and her husband Joe are the parents of 15 children. They have 40 grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren.
Mrs. McQuade began a campaign in 1970 to set aside a day for grandparents; yet her work with senior citizens dates back to 1956, beginning with the Past Eighty Party, (originated by Jim Comstock, editor of the West Virginia Hillbilly). Mrs. McQuade has worked in several states with seniors. Iin 1971, she was elected Vice-Chairman of the West Virginia Committee on Aging and appointed as delegate to the White House Conference on Aging by Governor Arch A. Moore.
In 1972, Mrs. McQuade's efforts helped persuade President Richard Nixon to proclaim a National Shut-in Day.
Having served as President of the Vocational Rehabilitation Foundation, Vice-President of the West Virginia Health Systems Agency, appointed to the Nursing Home Licensing Board and having served as Co-chairman for the Bi-Centennial Centenarian Search for the West Virginia Commission on Aging, Mrs. McQuade has dedicated her life to advocating for senior citizens--pprticularly the most elderly.

Observance/Suggested Activities

Grandparents Day is a family day. Schools, churches, and senior organizations honor grandparents with special events. Some families enjoy small, private gatherings. Others celebrate by holding a family reunion. Board games which are easily played by young and old add enjoyment to family gatherings, enhancing "intergenerational interaction".
For those who entertain large groups, it can be fun to have a story-telling time, allowing grandparents to relate stories of their past, enlightening children about " the old days." Also interesting is to take a census, such as oldest and newest grandchild, family with the most grandchildren, and families with five generation present.
As Grandparents Day approaches, help Children and/or Grandchildren to identify and date all photos in old family albums. Many happy memories can be derived from this.Everyone is a grandchild and can be involved in the observance of this day - a time to discover one's roots and leam patience, understanding and appreciation for the elderly. Grandparents Day is the perfect time to enhance communication between the generations.
Special talents, such as cooking, sculpting or quilting can be passed on to those who display an interest. Old family music, songs and dances, along with their meanings and origins, are important in maintaining a strong sense of family background. Together, re-construct a family tree, giving children the opportunity to learn the ancestral line of their family. Strive to preserve particular ethnic or religious beliefs.
Many times, only grandparents have answers to questions about family histories. When this information is passed down to the grandchildren, everyone can be assured of his heritage being preserved.
Most important, Grandparents Day can signify a loving spirit that lives winin us throughout the year--a spirit of love and respect for our elders.

Shut-Ins and Homebound Elderly

Along with Grandparents Day, we should not forget shut-ins and those in nursing homes who are unable to be with their families or have no families. Every effort must be made to include these people in the mainstream through cards, community projects and visitation at times other than just holidays.
There are many, many elderly who arae not fortunate encough to have family nearby. The need is increarsing every day to fill the void of their loneliness. In every neighborhood, there are elderly who would love an opportunity to be a Foster Grandparent. Parents, churches, schools, and senior organizations, help children to adopt a grandparent!

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Detroit Comeback

DR. EBERHARD SPEAKS OUT - “Detroit Comeback”
The Rev. Dr. David Eberhard  presents an article called “Dr. Eberhard Speaks Out”. He  challenges us with his thoughts and experience as a leading churchman in America. While we may agree, or not agree, he  shares with us what he has learned that works in the local parish. Over his fifty years of experience in the ministry, and 24 years in the political arena, he has always tended to be ahead of the current curve  and is always “pushing the envelope” to get us to expand our thinking.

The City of Detroit is under going a resurgence of energy, hope, and rebuilding. It no longer is popular to “bad mouth” Detroit. More and more people, companies and investors are finding that Detroit is a great investment. Cities recycle themselves. Presently we are siting as the seventh version of Detroit, six other previous Detroit’s have been recycled.  The city began along the Detroit River Front, moved up Woodward Ave, was bounded by West Grand Blvd, Grand Blvd. on the north, and East Grand Blvd. Then came West Outer Drive, Outer Drive to the north, and East Outer Drive. Then “Eight Mile” Road was considered the northern  most boundary. Then came I-696 as the next ring. People kept moving out further to Hall Rd. , to 16 Mile Road, to 23 Mile Road., to 30 Mile Road, etc. People from each inner ring moved out further and further. This left a city of over 1 million people to now be around  700,000 persons.

But today! We find persons moving back into the Grand Blvd. ring. This is the only part of the city that gained residents in the last US Census. Companies, institutions, foundations, non-profits, local developers, small-business owners, universities, hospital, local and state government are making grant to person who move back in the city to buy or rent. Riverfront, Lafayette Park, Corktown, Eastern Market, Midtown, Woodbridge, New Center, etc. People are gravitating into the city. Detroit is getting a reputation as a very lively, hot place to live. One urban leader says, “More and more people feel stuck in the suburban lifestyle - they want something unique and vibrant.” The Kresge Foundation said, “We wouldn’t invest ($50 Million in 2010) in Detroit if we didn’t recognize its potential as a vibrant city.”

Detroit is the city on the move! Historic Trinity Lutheran Church is at the center of the geographical base of this new reinventing of the city. That is why we are searching for ways in which the faith based community can become a part of this new equation. Its nice to have new housing units, new restaurants, new cultural sites, new schools, new rapid transit (Woodward Ave.), additional theaters, thriving sports arenas, and new start business businesses. Into this mix we feel deeply there must be avenues for individuals to reconnect with God, to reconnect  with churches that will uphold and strengthen their values and faith. This is what LCC  - “Lutheran Church in the City” is all about. We welcome you opinions, suggestions, and participation.


Wednesday, July 6, 2011

PARISH NURSE NEWS- by Nancy Jones

PARISH NURSE NEWS- by Nancy Jones



Greetings in the name of our Merciful Savior, Redeemer, and Physician.  I hope you are able to spend some time enjoying your family and friends, and the blessings which come to us in the summer months.  This month, I would like to share with you the importance of taking care of your eyes.  In the summer months we love to be outside, but this is the time that our eyes especially need protection.  Be cool and wear your shades!  Sunglasses are a great fashion accessory, but their most important job is to protect your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.  A number of scientific studies indicate that spending long hours in the sun without eye protection can damage your eyes by contributing to cataracts and growths on the eye, including cancer.  Based on these studies, ophthalmologists (Eye M.D.’s) recommend that you wear 99 percent and higher UV (ultraviolet radiation)- absorbent sunglasses and a brimmed hat whenever you’re in the sun for long periods of time.  Proper sunglasses are key to protecting your eyes from sun-related damage, and they should be worn anytime you are outdoors, particularly,   *during the summer, when the level of ultraviolet radiation (UVA and UVB) is at least three times higher than during the winter; When at the beach or in the water; When participating in winter or summer sports; When using medications that can cause sensitivity to light.  Give your eyes a rest!  If you spend a lot of time at the computer, reading, or focusing on any one thing, you sometimes forget to blink and your eyes can get fatigued.  Try the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look away about 20 feet in front of you for 20 seconds. Also, take time to close your eyes and rest them. This can help reduce eyestrain.  And last, make sure to get regular eye exams.  Many common eye diseases such as glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, and age-related macular degeneration often have no warning signs.  A dilated eye exam is the only way to detect these diseases in their early stages.

Saturday, June 18, 2011

Happy Father’s Day!

Check out the great article entitled “5 Ways Fathers Can Inspire Their Children” by Karen Anderson

http://www.christianfathers.com/father-leadership.htm



Happy Father’s Day!  See you in church!!


5 Ways Fathers Can Inspire Their Children
by Karen Anderson


They’re both called parents, but mothers and fathers bond with their kids differently. For the mom, the relationship begins at conception and grows through the pregnancy and throughout life. For the father, the bond is forged at birth, when he first lays eyes on and holds his child. Most dads have to work harder than moms to sustain and nurture the bond they have with their children, and when they share a special relationship, it’s easy to inspire their kids to go on to do great things in life. If you’re a father, here are a few ways to inspire your children:

• Set an example: Rather than teach your children with words alone, show them what needs to be done by setting an example. If you want them to be healthy, eat healthy food and exercise regularly. This way, it’s easier to get your kids involved in sports and also make them realize that junk food is not good for them. When you’re hardworking and responsible, you teach your kids to be so too. They look up to you and want to emulate you when they grow up.

• Treat their mom well: Kids are very attached to their mothers as they grow up, so if you don’t treat their mom well and accord her due respect, they’re not going to like you or respect you, leave alone be inspired by you. The best thing you can do for your children is to love their mom and be nice to her.

• Spend time with them: Fathers who are absent most of the time from their children’s lives don’t have much of an impact on them. So if you want to inspire your children, be around for them and spend time with them; help them with their homework, play games with them, drive them around for their activities, and get to know what they like and who their friends are. This way, the bond between you becomes stronger.

• Encourage them without finding fault: Kids have a natural enthusiasm that cannot be curbed. They are full of energy for the things they are passionate about, and as a father, it’s up to you to encourage your children to reach for the stars and achieve their goals. Don’t push them to do more than they want to or are capable of; rather, be there for them and offer support when asked or needed. Don’t find fault because they don’t live up to your expectations. There’s nothing like negative criticism to curb enthusiasm.

• Teach them right from wrong: The best way to do this is to be a moral and ethical person yourself; when your kids see that dad doesn’t lie, cheat or treat other people badly, they pick up these traits naturally. You’re an inspiration as to how they want to live their lives and treat their children.




Saturday, May 14, 2011

Parish Nurse News by: Nancy Jones



Greetings! Happy Mental Health Month! This month I want to share some thoughts with you
on Depression. What is Depression? Depression refers to feelings of sadness, isolation, discouragement, or hopelessness that persist. It is a serious illness which affects a person physically, emotionally, spiritually, socially and vocationally. What are the Symptoms of Depression? The following are the common symptoms of depression. If you experience four or more of these symptoms for longer than two weeks, or if your symptoms interfere with your daily life, you may be experiencing depression. If you have any concerns about depression, please visit with your Parish Nurse or
your Doctor.

* Ongoing feeling of sadness, anxiety or emptiness
* Loss of interest in usual activities
* Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness or pessimism
* Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
* Difficulty sleeping or eating
* Decreased energy, persistent fatigue
* Difficulty concentrating, remembering and making decisions
* Thoughts of death or suicide

How can Depression be Treated? Depression can be effectively treated in several different ways. The vast majority of people with depression recover and lead meaningful and productive lives. Both medications and counseling or psychotherapy are used in the treatment of depression. It is also very important for family and friends to recognize the symptoms of depression, and encourage treatment for persons suffering from depression. Remember the Bible encourages us with these words, ....Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4: 6, 7). In spite of the difficult times in which we live, God's peace can help us to be whole emotionally.

Thursday, April 14, 2011

PROCESSION OF THE PALMS - in downtown Detroit - April 17



PROCESSION OF THE PALMS - in downtown Detroit - Sunday, April 17, 2011


Since the early days of the Christian Church, palm leaves were blessed at Worship Services on Palm Sunday and carried home by the faithful as a symbol of Christ’s presence among them. Before Ash Wednesday, the blessed palm is burned and its residue is used in the distribution of ashes as a symbol of penance during Lent. On Palm Sunday, April 17th , there will be the Procession and a Blessing of the Palms, in each of the three Worship Services, at Historic Trinity Lutheran Church in downtown Detroit. The Rev. Dr. David Eberhard will preach and will be assisted by the Cathedral Ministry Pastors. The Sunday School children, each carrying palms, will lead the Procession from Eastern Market (weather permitting) into the church at 9:30 a.m. and they will sing at the beginning of the Worship Service. Each person present at any of the three Worship Services, will receive a blessed palm to take home.


Saturday, April 9, 2011

Lenten Passion Play


A Lenten Passion Drama will be performed on Sunday, April 10, 2011, at 8:15 a.m. 9:30 a.m., and 11:00 a.m. The dramatic presentation in the cathedral includes: Mary Magdalene, Isaiah, the Dying Thief, the Centurion, Mary of Bethany, Miriam the Gatekeeper, Judas, the Angel, and others, all telling their story of the Passion. You can check out last year's performance pictures at http://www.historictrinity.org/2010passionplay.html Hope to see you there!!!


Saturday, April 2, 2011

LCC - Lutheran Church in the City

"LCC - 'LUTHERAN CHURCH IN THE CITY' The presence of the Lutheran Church in Detroit, like the city, has been shrinking for the last 50 years. We cannot continue to do what we have in the past but must change, and do so now. As the State of Michigan and the City of Detroit are engaged in reinventing themselves, so also must the church in the city engage in a process to reinvent itself. Within this context, urban pioneers are beginning to move back into the city. The Shared Ministry of Historic Trinity and Our Shepherd is promoting the Lutheran Church of the City (LCC) via the Historic Trinity Cathedral Ministry as a self supporting flexible organization to work within revitalization zones that are being established by the City of Detroit. It is fostering contacts with developers and community representatives to allow LCC to become involved at the ground floor of these communities. Using existing community, civic, and business resources, LCC will develop programs to engage urban pioneers in discussion intended to maintain and improve their values of life. It will assist the participants to become involved in service and worship opportunity."

Saturday, March 12, 2011

"Pastor’s Comment - “The Green Missionary”


"Pastor’s Comment - “The Green Missionary”



What do we really know of St. Patrick, in who’s honor many wear green? To look around at the way,we today, celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, you’d think it all had to do with shamrocks, leprechauns, rainbows, and the ever-famous “pot of gold” at the end of them. But there is so much more about St. Patrick. Around 385, at about the age of 16, Patrick, a young Scottish man, was captured by Irish raiders and forced into a life of slavery. He was given the job of caring for a large flock of sheep belonging to the king. He endured much hardship and loneliness. It was during this time of enslavement, that he began to pray to the God his Christian grandfather had told him about. After six years, he escaped and returned to his family. But he felt called by God to go back to Ireland to spread Christianity to the Irish people. Therefore, after he studied in a monastery for twelve years, he returned to the land of his captivity. For thirty years he traveled the roads of Ireland to see men, women and children come to know the Christ that he loved so much. It is said that Patrick used the three-leafed shamrock in his sermons to explain the Trinity. He showed the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit could all exist separately, yet be one. That’s when Irish Christians adopted the custom of wearing a shamrock. By the time of his death, March 17, 461, he had baptized tens of thousands and established hundreds of churches, throughout Ireland. Within a century this once pagan land had become predominately Christian, possessing such a vigorous faith that Ireland in turn sent out missionaries to Scotland, England, France Germany and Belgium. Wow! What a great missionary for the Lord!"

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Lent 2011

Lent 2011

Dear Members of Historic Trinity:

This Lenten season our theme is “Father Forgive Them”. Yes we need to be reminded that we all need to be forgiven. When we make a mistake, when we goof off, when don’t do what we should do, we know we have done wrong. We can deny we did wrong. Or we can try to cover up our wrongs.We can try to come up with all kinds of excuses.We can blame everyone and every thing else - “he made me do it”.We can get weighed down with guilt. But none this helps.We all need to know that we are forgiven. Forgiven by God. Forgiven by those we have wronged.We even need to be able to forgive ourselves. Jesus set the example of forgiveness. When He was forsaken by His disciples, when He was betrayed by Judas. When He was denied by Peter. When He was put of the cross. When He was even forsaken by His Father. What did He do ?He said “Father Forgive Them” ! The “Them” includes you and me - we are forgiven indeed. Make time this Lenten Season, Holy Week, and Easter to attend the many Worship Services at Historic Trinity Lutheran Church and experience the forgiveness of our Lord. Repent, believe, and accept His forgiveness. Lent begins with Ash Wednesday Services on Wednesday, March 9th, at 12:00noon and 7:00p.m., followed by the Downtown Lutheran Lenten Services, each Wednesday, at 12:00 noon. The Lenten Passion Drama “Prince of Peace” is on Sunday, April
10th , at 8:15, 9:30, and 11:00 a.m. The Lenten season ends with inspiring Worship Services
during HolyWeek, and then the joyous Festival of the Resurrection on Easter Sunday, April 24th at 7:30, 9:00, and 11:00 a.m.

Blessings,
The Rev. Dr. David Eberhard

Friday, March 4, 2011

Ash Wednesday

Begin Lent - Plan now to attend- ASH WEDNESDAY - Mar 9
The Downtown Lutheran Ash Wednesday Holy Communion Worship Services will be held at Historic Trinity Lutheran Church on Ash Wednesday, March 9th , at 12:00 noon and 7:00 p.m. At 12:00 noon, Rev. David Maier, President of the Michigan District - LCMS, will preach, accompanied by the Cathedral Pastors of Historic Trinity. The guest choir will be Holy Cross Lutheran, Warren. At 7:00 p.m., Rev. Dr. Kieth Gerberding will preach. In keeping with ancient tradition, ashes for the forehead will be dispensed to individuals who desire, at both services.Let's have a good turnout !

Monday, February 14, 2011

"Pastor’s Comment - “Happy Valentine’s Day!”


"Pastor’s Comment - “Happy Valentine’s Day!”


No sooner were Christmas and NewYear’s over, and the stores had stocked their shelves with Valentine’s Day stuff. And, I mean a bunch of stuff– red hearts, pink and red roses, balloons, cards, boxes of candy, even lounging pajamas with hearts. The list goes on and on.... Valentine’s Day is a special day set aside to remind us to tell and show the ones we love, that we really love them. (Did you know that more roses are sold on that day then any other day of the year?) But, as we all know, it is so important to let our loved ones know how special they are to us, all the year through. Just those little acts of kindness or hugs and pecks on the cheek can really brighten one’s day. As the Lenten Season is just around the corner, we are reminded of God’s love for us. He loved us so very much that He sent His Son to be born into this world, as an infant, only to be crucified on the cross for all our sins, that we may have eternal life with Him in heaven. He promises to never leave or forsake us, to answer us when we call day or night. You see, flowers will die, candy gets eaten, balloons will pop, and cards may get tossed away, but God’s love for us will never pass away. “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you. (Isaiah 54:10)."

Saturday, February 5, 2011

LUTHERAN EDUCATOR’S SUNDAY


LUTHERAN EDUCATOR’S SUNDAY

On Sunday, February 6th, Lutheran educators of Southeast Michigan will be recognized during the three worship services at Historic Trinity. Lutheran teachers and administrators of public, parochial, and private schools of all levels are invited. Various educators will present the litany and special prayers. In the 9:30a.m. service, Jonathan and Bonnie Middeldorf will be honored with the Cathedral Ministry Lutheran EducatorsAward for 2011. Each educator present will receive a token of appreciation for their dedication and service."

Saturday, January 29, 2011

PARISH NURSES NEWS JANUARY - by: Nancy Jone

Greetings in the Name of our Newborn Messiah! In January, many of us consider developing
NewYear’s Resolutions. Whether we write them out, or just think about them, most of us can’t
resist the opportunities for new beginnings. This month, I want to share some thoughts with you on the Benefit of Exercise. What are the benefits of exercise? When we exercise, we reward ourselves with the following physical benefits:

*Lowered blood pressure
*Improved heart function and circulation
*Increased HDL-cholesterol (the good type)
*Improved muscle strength and less fatigue
*Less indigestion
*Improved intellectual capacity
*Delayed osteoporosis
*Lowered body weight and body fat percentage.


When we exercise, we also treat ourselves with the following psychological benefits:

*Enhanced sense of well-being
*Reduced stress
*Greater sense of accomplishment
*Reduced unhealthy stress related behaviors (various addictions)
*Improved sleep
*Reduced appetite

It can be difficult to make exercise a daily habit. In order to stay motivated you may want to: 1)exercise with a friend 2)buy new clothes or shoes for working out 3)exercise outside when possible 4)vary your exercise routine, or 5)pray for strength to live a healthy lifestyle. If I can be of any help to you with exercise or health concerns, please contact me, or one of the Parish Nurses. We would be happy to work with you.


Saturday, January 22, 2011

"Pastor’s Comment - “A Blessed New Year to All !”


"Pastor’s Comment - “A Blessed New Year to All !”
Are you wondering about this New Year that we’re about to enter? Maybe you have hopes and dreams for a better year, or perhaps you have fears and worries on the horizon. Whatever is ahead, know this.. that God is mighty and powerful, and that His understanding of our lives and
circumstances are limitless. Most of us begin the New Year with resolutions, or promises to ourselves, for the new year. Why not ask God what He would wish for our lives this year? If we let Christ guide us through this new journey of 2011, just think of all the new opportunities and possibilities He might have for you. As you stand on the threshold of another new year, pray that God will come and meet you and lead you onward in this amazing journey, called life.
“Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit”. Psalm 147:5


A Blessed New Year to all!"