New happenings at Trinity Lutheran Church

There has been a year of changes at Trinity Lutheran, what with our new pastor and growing community. Pastor Andy Hinderlie arrived from Africa via South Dakota in December of 2014, assuming his new role on January 4th, 2015. Andy’s wife, Barbara, and their two sons were in attendance as he started his service in leadership of Trinity Lutheran Church. The Hinderlies came to Bonners Ferry from South Dakota where they had landed after 17 years of service in Central and East Africa and the congregation has heard several exciting excerpts from Andy’s African experience, doubtlessly there will be more.

When I met Pastor Hinderlie for the first time, I discovered that he was friendly and energetic with a rapid-fire manner of speaking that keeps the conversation moving. That is not to say that Andy preaches more than he listens, rather that he has a quick grasp of the topic and pays attention to what is said. He has also displayed an earthy approach and style with people, which is reassuring, making those around him feel comfortable and included whatever the discussion.

Pastor Hinderlie has proven to be a kind and compassionate leader at Trinity, one who isn’t above having a beer once in a while and sharing a bawdy joke told in a non-offending manner. I have worked with him on several projects and he’s always supportive with helpful suggestions and enthusiasm, but he’s ready with constructive criticism as well. Andy is able to accept a person’s viewpoint with objectivity and grace, while providing new insights into whatever issues are presented.

People coming to Trinity Lutheran will find Pastor Andy warm and engaging, with a ready smile and quick wit. He is passionate about working with others, especially those with little or no church experience, as well as the veteran Lutherans who know the ropes (and probably wove them). Andy’s goals for Trinity Lutheran are simple; the Congregation is able to provide itself with knowledgeable leadership and create its own visions for the future. Andy has expressed the view that he wants his service at Trinity remembered as a time when the Church made its own goals and visions a reality, not “this was Andy’s project” or “Andy did that while he was here”. Sounds to me like a selfless, dedicated professional committed to his ethics and ideals.

As for new ideas, here are few notable examples:

There is a gathering at the Kootenai River Brewing Company or Mugsy’s in Bonners Ferry on Fridays at 5pm, a kind of TGIF night where any and all topics are bandied about over beer and a meal. Anyone can join in the discussion and while it can get lively, the tone stays respectful and respectable.

Family Game Night every 2nd and 4th Friday, follows TGIF at 630pm where at Trinity Lutheran you’ll find bunco, progressive rummy or whatever family style game is popular that night. There are kids’ activities available and a movie, too.

We are attempting to put together an after-school activity night for local children, the planned day to be some time in the middle of the week. This would be a time for homework, group discussion on youth topics, or just to practice music. As stated, this is still in the planning stage but if you have any suggestions on content or volunteering, contact us at the church.

An alternative service is being made available, beginning on Wednesday evenings following the Easter season. We hope to attract new people to Trinity by presenting religion in an open and welcoming way, with new music, frank and easily understood discussions of current religious topics, as well as insight into traditions and rites performed by the Church. This isn’t going to be your standard Sunday Service! Of course that will still be available for the regulars.

On Mondays (1p-2p) and Fridays (8am-?) we have a Music Jam for those souls who, while not what you’d call virtuosos, still feel the beat and remember what fun music can be. All skill levels and instruments are welcome, bring your gear down and prepare to have a blast! Right now we are working on a music program for the alternative service, but a lot of folk music gets thrown around too. Sorry, no heavy metal or jazz right now, we don’t know how.

Those activities are included with the other more traditional offerings like bible studies, Christian book club (reviews), Youth organization (last summer they went to Detroit!) and the Women’s Circles. There’s always plenty to get involved in at Trinity Lutheran.

So, as you can see, Trinity Lutheran Church is pretty active. We welcome everyone into our church family, from the new people in town to the natives who want to find out more about us, from people who are skeptical about this “God”-stuff and have questions, to those who are looking for a new home church. And, in case you hadn’t heard, all are welcome at God’s table.

Sunday service starts at 10am with choir practice starting at 9am, we have Sunday School after that for the kids and Adult Forum, both down in the Conference/Dining Hall. Feel free to call at 208-267-2984, Andy should be there. If not, leave a message and someone will get back to you.

It’s that easy.