January 24, 2025

In this Timothy Connects you will find:

Current Sermon Series

First Fruits Giving                     

2024 Contribution Statements

Special Voters’ Assembly Meeting                

Staff Highlight - Chasity Reynolds         

Bible Studies

Journeymen Braving the Weather

National Lutheran Schools Week

First Fruits 2025

Annual Scholarship Auction

Order Worship Flowers

Save the Date - Timothy Serve Day

Fear Not, for I Am with You - Disaster Relief

January Donations

Do You Have A Story To Share?

Where You Go, I Will Go!

As Naomi heads home, her pockets are empty, her body has aged, and her hope is bleak. Yet to her surprise, Ruth won’t leave her. Not only that, but she commits to doing this life together. In this, she makes a great sacrifice for seemingly no good reason, which very much points us to the work of the cross. As we contemplate Ruth, may we, too, consider how to love as you love.

Current Sermon Series

January 26th - Where You Go, I Will Go!

February 2nd - Giving in Abundance

(First Fruits Sunday)

February 9th - Generosity Costs!

February 16th - Generosity Through the Generations

Sunday Contemporary 9:00 am
Sunday  Traditional:   10:30 am
301 East Wyatt Road

January 19, 2025

9 am 200
10:30 am 136

January 19, 2025:
(Budgeted Weekly General Contributions: $26,264.83)
Actual General Contributions:

$23,398.25
2025 First Fruits Budgeted Goal: $100,000.00 (1st $12,000 to NYG expenses)
Total to date: $4,125.00

Did you know that offering your First Fruits is a powerful act of worship?

In the Bible, First Fruits offerings held immense significance. They were a tangible expression of gratitude to God for His abundant blessings. By presenting the very first and best of their harvest, the Israelites acknowledged God as the true source of His generosity.

This act symbolized their deep trust and commitment to honoring Him in all areas of their lives.

Join us in this meaningful tradition as we offer our First Fruits to God on Sunday, February 2, during worship.

By dedicating the first portion of your blessings back to God, you demonstrate your faith in His provision for the year ahead.

We invite you to prayerfully consider how you can participate in this special offering. Let us come together as a community of faith, expressing our gratitude and trusting in God's abundant grace.

May God bless you as you seek to honor Him with your First Fruits.

Staff Highlight - Chasity Reynolds

This week, we are excited to spotlight Chasity Reynolds as we continue to lift up our incredible teachers. Chasity teaches preschool and taught in Denver before joining the team at Timothy.

Chasity is a constant source of support and positivity, even on the most challenging days. She pours her heart into her students, giving110% each day and continually striving to grow and enhance her teaching practices.

Her dedication brings to mind the words of Colossians 3:23-24:

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving."

Chasity, thank you for sharing your joyful heart and tireless dedication with the Timothy Lutheran Preschool community. We are so grateful for all that you do!

Bible Studies

Sunday Morning Adult Bible Study; “Witnessing for Jesus”, 9:00-10:00 am; Library; led by Fritz Barlag and Dale Russell

Sunday Morning Adult Bible Study "Doing Good",10:30-11:30 am; led by Wayne Diveley, Lori Diveley, and Gary Storck. 8-week study.

Monday Morning Adult Bible Study 10-11 am, "Epistle to the Ephesians"; Pointe of Hope Coffee House; led by George Zimmerschied

Tuesday Morning Men’s Bible Study "2 Corinthians", 6:30-7:30 am, Conference Room; 
led by various men

Tuesday Morning Women’s Bible Study "Becoming like Jesus" by Cynthia Heald; 9-10:30 am, Pointe of Hope Library; led by various ladies

Wednesday Night Sr High Revolution 6:30-8 pm;  Mobile Classroom 4 (Youth Room)

Wednesday Night Confirmation 

6:30 - 8 pm; auditorium and various classrooms

Journeymen Braving the Weather

Braving the frosty -7-degree weather, the Tuesday Morning Journeymen's Bible Study group wrapped up their study of 2 Corinthians and kicked off a new series on Christian Virtues. They celebrated with a hearty breakfast at the Royal Biscuit restaurant, bright and early at 6:30 am. Bob, Mark, Josh, Jim, Jake, Fritz, Brad, Eric, and Charlie enjoyed delicious food, hot coffee, and meaningful fellowship.

All men are warmly invited to join this group every Tuesday at 6:30 am in the Conference Room!

National Lutheran Schools Week

January 26 – February 1st- Timothy Lutheran School Book Fair and Activities

Sunday January 26th - TLS will sing at both services, 9 am and 10:30 am

Monday Dress: Blackout (Wear All Black)   Activity: Cards for home-bound members

Tuesday Dress: Your Favorite Holiday  Activity: Stretching, Moving, and Dancing Activity
Wednesday Dress: Chapel Family Choice     Activity: Zoo Mobile
Thursday Dress: Favorite Sport (Show Your Endurance)      Activity:Bible Bee
Friday Dress: Dress Your Best     Activity: Grandparent’s/Special Guest’s Day, and Talent Show

*3rd Quarter Mission Project (all week) Collecting non-perishable items for LUMA (Emmanuel Lutheran) and partnering with Thrivent for Matching Funds

Verse for the week:
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him, he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Hebrews 12:1-3

GriefShare and DivorceCare Resuming in February

Timothy Lutheran is here to support you through life’s challenges. GriefShare and DivorceCare will resume in February, offering a safe space for healing and encouragement. GriefShare helps those navigating the pain of losing a loved one, while DivorceCare provides guidance and hope for individuals going through separation or divorce. Both groups meet weekly, fostering community and spiritual growth. Don’t face these struggles alone—let Timothy be part of your healing journey.

For more details or to register, click the links below, visit https://www.timothylutheran.com/care-ministry-events-services/, or call the church office (816)228-5300.

Annual Scholarship Auction

Join Us for a Night of Fun and Fundraising!

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening filled with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and top-notch entertainment—all in support of Timothy Lutheran School Ministries' scholarship fund.

When: Saturday, February 22nd, 6 PM - 10 PM
Where: The Farmhouse KC

17221 E 32nd St S

Independence, MO 64055

Click the link below to register or go to the school website www.timothylutheran.com

Order Worship Flowers

Celebrate a special occasion or honor a loved one by sponsoring worship flowers for Timothy Lutheran’s Sunday services. Flowers add beauty to our worship stage and serve as a meaningful way to commemorate anniversaries, birthdays, or memories of loved ones. Your dedication will be noted in the service bulletin.

To place your order, visit the church office or click the button to sign up below.

Availability fills up quickly, so reserve your spot today! Thank you for enhancing our worship experience with your thoughtful contributions.

Save the Date - Timothy Serve Day

Join us for Timothy Lutheran Serve Day, part of the Shine Missouri District Servant Event, as we spread Christ’s love in Blue Springs and nearby communities. Let’s come together to serve with joy and compassion, making a meaningful impact!

📅 When: Saturday, April 5th
📍 Where: Blue Springs, MO and surrounding areas

Sign-ups will be available at church services and online under the Serve tab on our website. Gather your friends and family, and let’s be the hands and feet of Jesus together. We can’t wait to serve alongside you!

Fear Not, for I Am with You - Disaster Relief

The prophet Isaiah reminds us of God's enduring presence: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine… When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you” (Isaiah 43:1–2).

This promise is especially comforting as wildfires in Los Angeles County, California, continue to cause devastation. The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) is working closely with the Pacific Southwest District (PSD) to provide aid. LCMS Disaster Response Director Rev. Dr. Ross Johnson is on-site, supporting congregations and individuals, including elderly members who have lost homes.

Our Synod’s response includes prayers, spiritual resources, recovery grants, and volunteer coordination to aid those in need.

If you are moved to help, consider donating:

• LCMS Disaster Response—Strategic Use Fund: Supports wildfire and other disaster relief. Donate at lcms.org/give/disaster or send checks with "Disaster Response—Strategic Use (TR9206)" in the memo to LCMS, P.O. Box 66861, St. Louis, MO 63166-6861.

• LCMS Wildfire Relief Fund: Directly supports wildfire recovery. Donate at lcms.org/disaster under "Wildfires," or send checks with "Wildfire Relief Only" in the memo to the address above.

For questions, contact LCMS Mission Advancement at 800-930-4438 or mission.advancement@lcms.org.

Thank you for your prayers and support as we reflect Christ’s love to those in need.

January Donations

Thank you for supporting our food donation ministry, which blesses those in need in our community. This month, donations will go to Hillcrest Transitional Housing, helping individuals and families achieve independence.

🛒 Where to Donate
Place donations in the grocery cart in the church lobby, just right (east) of the south entry doors.

📋 What to Donate
Check the lobby basket for Hillcrest’s most-needed items. Your generosity provides nourishment and hope, sharing God’s love in a tangible way.

Thank you for making a difference!

Hillcrest is in need of kid-friendly snacks to restock their closet. Please keep this in mind as you do your shopping this week!

Do You Have A Story To Share?
If you have an article or celebration you would like to share with the members of Timothy, please submit it to
Mary Taggart: maryt@timothylutheran.com
Please keep your submission 200 words or less.

January 10, 2025

In this Timothy Connects you will find:

In Search of Jesus

Upcoming Sermon Series                      2024 Contribution Statements               Installation of Timothy’s Lay Leaders   Staff Highlight - Jill Otte                         Thank You from Georgia Redman         Bible Studies                                           NYG Fundraiser      

LUMAA Gathering

Heit’s Point Lutheran News

January Middle School Event

Annual Scholarship Auction

Order Worship Flowers

January Donations

Do You Have A Story To Share?

In Search of Jesus

Luke 3:41-52 presents a poignant snapshot of Jesus’ childhood, revealing a profound spiritual awareness far beyond His years in the midst of Jesus’ parents thinking He’s lost. At the tender age of twelve, Jesus exhibits a remarkable understanding of His divine purpose and a commitment to His Father’s will. This passage offers a unique glimpse into the formative years of the Messiah, challenging us to consider the depth of His early devotion and the implications for our spiritual development. As we delve into this passage, we are confronted with a compelling challenge: How can we cultivate a similar level of spiritual maturity and devotion to God in our own lives? How can we, like young Jesus, prioritize our spiritual growth and seek to fulfill God’s purposes as we leave some things behind?

Upcoming Sermon Series

January 19th - Outside The Boundaries

January 26th - Where You Go, I Will Go!

February 2nd - Giving in Abundance

(First Fruits Sunday)

February 9th - Generosity Costs!

February 16th - Generosity through the Generations

Sunday Contemporary 9:00 am
Sunday  Traditional:   10:30 am
301 East Wyatt Road

Holy Communion 1st, 3rd, & 5th Sundays

January 5, 2025

Services canceled due to weather

9 am
 10:30 am

January 5, 2025:
(Budgeted Weekly General Contributions: $24,038)
Actual General Contributions:$14,540.33
2025 First Fruits Budgeted Goal: $100,000.00 (1st $12,000 to NYG expenses)
Total to date: $270.00

Join us this Sunday, January 12th, as we gather to install Timothy's lay leaders for the 2025 calendar year. This special service will celebrate and commission our new executive board members, elected elders, school board, and commission leaders, affirming their dedication to serving the Lord and His church.

Installation of Timothy’s Lay Leaders

As Paul reminds us in 1 Peter 4:10: "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms."

Let us come together as a church family to pray for and support those who have answered the call to lead.

Staff Highlight - Jill Otte

Thoughtful listener, genuine, smart, witty, joyful laugh;these are words that are consistently used to describe this week’s Timothy Lutheran staff spotlight, Jill Otte.  She is the language arts teacher and one of the two 5th grade homeroom teachers for 5th grade. 

Mrs. Otte has high expectations, but supports her students along the way, allowing them to achieve at a high academic level.

Her colleagues have this to say about her: “Jill provides thoughtful, interesting, and creative ways for students to learn and practice important skills.  I appreciate her joyful laugh and dedication to her students.” “She genuinely cares for all of her students and wants them to not only be successful but ready for the next steps of their education.”  “She has a contagious laugh, and it automatically sends a calm into the room. 

Her love of Jesus is evident in everything she does. One can tell she loves the students by just watching her interact with them.”  “…students excel under her watch.  She is an incredible listener, so when staff reach out to her, she takes the time to truly understand and offers valuable insight.  We sure love having her here!

Here are thoughts from TLS students:  "She makes spelling fun!" "I love her class.  She makes learning fun." "Mrs. Otte always listens." "She's SO smart!""I love her laugh..."

Mrs. Otte personifies this passage in scripture:  My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.  James 1:19. Jill Otte is a great model of this character and a true Timothy Hero.  We are, again, blessed.

Bible Studies

Sunday Morning Adult Bible Study; 9:00-10:00 am; Library; led by Fritz Barlag and Dale Russell

Sunday Morning Adult Bible Study "Doing Good",10:30-11:30 am; led by Wayne Diveley, Lori Diveley, and Gary Storck. 8-week study.

Monday Morning Adult Bible Study 10-11 am, "Epistle to the Ephesians"; Pointe of Hope Coffee House; led by George Zimmerschied

Tuesday Morning Men’s Bible Study "2 Corinthians", 6:30-7:30 am, Conference Room; 
led by various men

Tuesday Morning Women’s Bible Study "Becoming like Jesus" by Cynthia Heald; 9-10:30 am, Pointe of Hope Library; led by various ladies

Wednesday Night Sr High Revolution 6:30-8 pm;  Mobile Classroom 4 (Youth Room)

Wednesday Night Confirmation 

6:30 - 8 pm; auditorium and various classrooms

Can’t make it to Culver’s Night but want to donate to NYG. Click the link below to donate directly. Click One-Time donation and drop down to Endure Gathering - Donation.

NYG Fundraiser

Join Us for a Night Out at Culver’s!

Date: Tuesday, January 14th
Time: 5 PM - 8 PM
Location: Blue Springs Culver’s

Support Timothy Youth as they prepare for the National Youth Gathering 2025! During this special evening, 10% of all orders and any tips collected will be donated to help fund the trip.

Enjoy a delicious meal, fellowship with others, and make a meaningful impact on our youth as they grow in faith and community.

We can’t wait to see you there!

LUMAA Gathering in January

The Lutheran Urban Mission Agency Auxiliary will gather on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at Pointe of Hope Lutheran Church at 1215 NW Hwy. 7, Blue Springs, MO. Registration will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by the opening service at 9:30 a.m. T.J. Geise from Drumm Farm for Children will be the featured speaker. The in-gathering collection will be monetary donations to support VBS and youth activities. Please bring your sack lunch; breakfast snacks, beverages, and dessert will be provided. Kindly RSVP by January 12th to Kim Duffy at ksd0852@gmail.com.

All ladies of the congregation are welcome to attend, and your donations for the in-gathering collection are greatly appreciated. Thank you!

Please stop by the LWML table this Sunday January 12th to make a donation to support VBS and youth activities at Timothy.

Heit’s Point Lutheran News!

Please join us on Saturday. January 18, 2025, from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm if you’d like to be trained to become a Point Champion!! What does that mean? We’re looking for 20 people across the MO/KS districts to HELP US get the word out about Heit’s Point and our newest upcoming events! You’d be trained in giving our presentation to LCMS churches and/or schools! You’d be the first to get the word and then you’d share it to your pastor/circuit/area and personal contacts!! If you have any questions, please call Pastor Rocco and Janine Mallardi, Heit’s Point directors at 620-795-2008. THANK YOU so much!!

January Middle School Youth Event

Join us for a night of cereal bars and serial hunts as we dive into a big bowl of your favorite morning treat and then try our hand at detective work finding the clues that will lead us to Christ through out the church.  

Join Us for a Night of Fun and Fundraising!

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening filled with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and top-notch entertainment—all in support of Timothy Lutheran School Ministries' scholarship fund.

When: Saturday, February 22nd, 6 PM - 10 PM
Where: The Farmhouse KC

17221 E 32nd St S

Independence, MO 64055

Click the link below to register or go to the school website www.timothylutheran.com

Annual Scholarship Auction

Thanks to the incredible generosity of donors like you, we were able to provide over $124,000 in scholarships to support families in need. Your kindness made it possible for many children to receive a quality education in a Christ-centered learning environment at Timothy Lutheran School.

But we’re just getting started! With your continued support, we aim to help even more families in 2025, ensuring that a Timothy education remains accessible to all who seek it.

Donate an Item:
Every donation brings us closer to our goal! If you or your business would like to contribute a silent or live auction item, please click the link above to complete the donation submission form. Your generosity makes a lasting impact on the lives of our students and their families.

Thank you for being a part of this mission to bless our school community. Together, we can make a difference!

Order Worship Flowers

Celebrate a special occasion or honor a loved one by sponsoring worship flowers for Timothy Lutheran’s Sunday services. Flowers add beauty to our worship stage and serve as a meaningful way to commemorate anniversaries, birthdays, or memories of loved ones. Your dedication will be noted in the service bulletin.

To place your order, visit the church office or click the button to sign up below.

Availability fills up quickly, so reserve your spot today! Thank you for enhancing our worship experience with your thoughtful contributions.

January Donations

Thank you for your faithful support of our food donation ministry, which continues to bless those in need within our community. This month, all donations will be delivered to Hillcrest Transitional Housing, an organization dedicated to helping individuals and families move toward independence.

🛒 Where to Donate
Please place your donations in the grocery cart located in the church lobby, just to the right (east) of the south entry doors.

📋 What to Donate
Be sure to check the basket in the lobby for a list of Hillcrest most-needed items. Every contribution helps provide nourishment and hope to someone in need.

Your generosity is a tangible expression of God’s love, and it makes a real difference in the lives of others. Together, let’s continue to be the hands and feet of Christ through this vital ministry.

Thank you for sharing His love through your food donations!

Do You Have A Story To Share?
If you have an article or celebration you would like to share with the members of Timothy, please submit it to
Mary Taggart: maryt@timothylutheran.com
Please keep your submission 200 words or less.

Family Worship - Have You Seen the Light

Christmas welcomes in the light of the world. He is here, there is no doubt about it. As the Christ candle shines brightly through the question is, do we see it? Or have we lost site of it already? Today we hear the story of a man named Simeon and a woman named Ann. These two saw what so many around them didn’t see. They saw the light of the world while others walked right on by. How can this be? And even more so how can we be sure we won’t miss it?

Sunday Contemporary 9:00 am
Sunday  Traditional:   10:30 am
301 East Wyatt Road

Holy Communion 1st, 3rd, & 5th Sundays

December 22, 2024

9 am 174
 10:30 am 153

December 24, 2024

4 pm 476

6 pm 241

9pm 152

December 25, 2024

10 am 92

December 22, 2024:
(Budgeted Weekly General Contributions: $24,038)
Actual General Contributions: $22,481.61
2024 First Fruits Budgeted Goal: $100,000.00 (1st $12,000 to NYG expenses)
Total to date: $77,785.57

Bible Studies

Sunday Morning Adult Bible Study "Advent Conspiracy"; 9:00-10:00 am; Library; led by Fritz Barlag and Dale Russell

Sunday Morning Adult Bible Study "Doing Good",10:30-11:30 am; led by Wayne Diveley, Lori Diveley, and Gary Storck. 8-week study starting January 5th

Monday Morning Adult Bible Study 10-11 am, "Epistle to the Ephesians"; Pointe of Hope Coffee House; led by George Zimmerschied

Tuesday Morning Men’s Bible Study "2 Corinthians", 6:30-7:30 am, Conference Room; 
led by various men

Tuesday Morning Women’s Bible Study "Becoming like Jesus" by Cynthia Heald; 9-10:30 am, Pointe of Hope Library; led by various ladies

Wednesday Night Sr High Revolution 6:30-8 pm;  Mobile Classroom 4 (Youth Room)

(No class until January 8th)

Wednesday Night Confirmation 6:30 - 8 pm; auditorium and various classrooms

(No class until January 8th - Oasis Night)

Thank You for Making Journey to the Manger a Success

Dear Timothy Lutheran Church Family,

We are overjoyed to share that this year’s Journey to the Manger was an incredible success! Thanks to your generous hearts and steadfast support, every single item on the Giving Tree was purchased—a remarkable milestone we have not reached in many years. What a beautiful testament to the love and compassion flowing through our congregation. Truly, you have been a blessing to so many in need.

This year, the Giving Tree gifts will benefit families identified by Hillcrest Transitional Housing and LUMA in Kansas City. In addition, we are excited to continue offering gift card tags to support the Community Services League (CSL). Your participation not only fills tangible needs but also brings hope and joy to individuals and families during this season of giving.

As we celebrate this achievement, let us reflect on the words of Jesus:

“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” — Matthew 25:40

Your acts of kindness and generosity exemplify what it means to be the hands and feet of Christ in our community. Thank you for being a shining light and for helping us make this year’s Journey to the Manger a true blessing for all involved.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Timothy Lutheran Ministries

Family Sunday: December 29th will be FAMILY SUNDAY. On our 5th Sundays throughout the year, we have been encouraging the entire congregation to worship together with one voice. So there will be NO Faith Roots on that Sunday.  There will, however, be Epiphany activities to pick up in the sanctuary for our young some sermon notes for our slightly older little ones along with some coloring sheets.  There will be some music in the service that our kids can participate in.  This is a great opportunity to teach and lead our kids in what worship is all about. And just to ramp it up, there will be chocolate milk available! Come worship with us!

Doing Good - New Bible Study

Starting January 5th at 10:30 AM, we invite you to join us for a new 8-week Bible study in the Timothy Library. Kick off the new year with us as we dive into God’s Word together!

Join Us for Oasis Family Night - January 8th!

Life can get hectic, and we all need moments to pause, reconnect, and recharge. That’s why we’re excited to invite you to the next Oasis Family Night on Wednesday, January 8th, from 6:00-7:30 PM!

This special evening is a chance for families to come together for:

• A free meal and time to enjoy fellowship.

• Opportunities for kids to grow in faith and build friendships.

• A meaningful time for confirmands to continue their journey.

• A relaxed space for parents/guardians to dive into God’s Word.

Oasis is all about creating a laid-back atmosphere where you can find renewal for your soul and reconnect with those around you.

RSVP today! Click the button below or visit our website to register so we can plan for food. We can’t wait to see you there!

Fall Generosity Emphasis

Please remember to provide your name on the outside of the envelope so it can be returned to you at this time next year.   

Generosity commitment card envelopes are on tables in the lobby

Year-End Giving Made Simple and Smart

As 2024 draws to a close, are you looking for ways to give generously while saving on taxes? If you own an IRA and must meet your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD), consider making a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD).

A QCD allows you to donate directly from your IRA to Timothy Lutheran Ministries or another qualified charity without counting it as taxable income. When your trustee sends the contribution directly to Timothy, you can experience tax savings while supporting the church’s mission.

The Bible reminds us: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7, NIV).

It’s simple: contact your IRA trustee, request a direct contribution, and know your generosity is advancing God’s work here at Timothy.

Thank you for including Timothy in your prayers and plans. Your thoughtful giving helps grow His ministries and ensures we continue sharing His love.