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.

December Donations Support the Community Services League

As the Christmas season approaches, Timothy Lutheran Ministries focuses on supporting the Community Services League (CSL) through our December donation drive. All month long, we invite you to join us in giving back to those in need.

Donations can be placed in the grocery cart located in the church lobby, just to the right (east) of the south entry doors. Suggested donation lists are available in the cart to guide your contributions. Simply take a list, fill a grocery bag with items, and return it to the same location at your convenience throughout December.

Your generosity helps provide essential support to the Community Services League as they assist individuals and families in need during the holiday season.

Thank you for being the hands and feet of Christ through this vital ministry. Blessings to you and your family this Christmas!

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 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!

Advent Conspiracy: Give More

When we allow Christmas to revolve around possessions, barriers are raised between our true selves and God’s command to love Him above all things. Our Advent becomes less about preparing for Jesus and more about the busy schedules and expectations we’re carrying. Our hearts feel dissatisfied and are searching for something that can’t be bought in a store. So, we spend less. Instead of mindlessly shopping and spending more than we can afford, we take the time to think about our purchases. We resist to empire of more and declare that Jesus is worthy of our praise. This is more than just an invitation to say no to overspending. This is an invitation to a new way of celebrating.

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

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

December 8, 2024

Cantata Service
 10 am 512

December 8, 2024:
(Budgeted Weekly General Contributions: $24,038)
Actual General Contributions: $39,069.05
2024 First Fruits Budgeted Goal: $100,000.00 (1st $12,000 to NYG expenses)
Total to date: $64,259.32

Staff Highlight Pastor Fran Lieb

Pastor Fran Lieb, who retired from Timothy Lutheran in 2016, continues to bless our community with his dedication and care. Over the past year, Pastor Fran has stepped in to support our care ministry, offering comfort and compassion through phone calls, home visits, and hospital visits. His loving heart and steadfast faith embody the true spirit of service, providing strength and encouragement to those in need. We are deeply grateful for Pastor Fran's continued presence and his unwavering commitment to sharing God's love in tangible ways.

Thank you, Pastor Fran, for your enduring care and devotion!

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)

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

Thursday Night Men's Bible Study "Red Letter Challenge" 7 - 8 pm; Pointe of Hope Church; led by Pastor Rod

Worshiping with My 500+ Best Friends

Thank you all so very much for worshiping our amazing Savior on Sunday at the Cantata.

From the technicians, narrators, pianist, choir, soloist, candle lighter, and choir, it was truly a worship celebration that surpassed my expectations. Your response to the call to worship was overwhelming, and our choir would like to thank you for your support in our effort to capture the awe and wonder of Christmas. We pray this Cantata helps fill your Christmas with the joy of the season and the love of Christ. REJOICE!

Many thanks,

Sandy, Sandy, and Miriam

After the Cantata worshipers were blessed with a cookie and candy buffet organized by Gather Commission.

To quote a congregation member. “This event was such a big success for Gather and Timothy today! The decorations and platters full of goodies were wonderful!”

Gather Commission is thankful to all who brought in cookies and candies for this wonderful event.

Annual Voters' Assembly Meeting

Thank you to the 90 members who signed the attendance sheets for last Sunday's meeting. The Assembly approved the proposed slate of lay leaders, MO District Convention lay delegates, and the 2025 proposed operating budget. Leadership updated the Assembly about preliminary plans for the 2025 Strategic Plan and Next Generation moving forward. 

Journey to the Manger

Timothy’s annual Journey to the Manger will take place before both services this Sunday, December 15.  Please check your tag carefully to see if the gift should be wrapped or unwrapped.

Thank you for returning your gift(s) with the tag(s) attached by this Sunday, December 15! If you have any questions, please contact Sandy Gregory at 816.228.5300.

Join Us for Christmas Caroling

Celebrate the season with joyful singing! Pastor Lieb invites you to an afternoon of Christmas caroling this Sunday, December 15th, from 3:30 to 5:00 PM. We'll meet at the church before spreading holiday cheer through song in the community. Whether you're a seasoned singer or simply love the spirit of the season, everyone is welcome to join in this festive tradition. Bring your family and friends, and let’s share the joy of Christmas together. Don’t miss this opportunity to brighten someone’s day with the sounds of the season!

Timothy’s Pairs & Spares Ministry

Timothy’s Pairs & Spares ministry welcomes adults aged 55 and older for monthly gatherings filled with fellowship and connection. The group meets on the third Monday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Pointe of Hope. This friendly event offers a wonderful opportunity to meet new people, enjoy meaningful conversations, and build friendships within a welcoming community.

The next Pairs & Spares gathering will be the Christmas Gathering on Tuesday, December 16th, at 11:30 a.m. The ministry will provide ham and macaroni and cheese for the celebration.

Come and join us for a festive and uplifting afternoon!

Advent Service December 18th

As part of your preparation for celebrating the birth of the Christ Child, make plans to join your Timothy family at this year’s Advent Service this Wednesday evening with the Timothy Lutheran School. The Timothy Lutheran School 1st - 8th Grade Christmas program occurs during service this Wednesday, December 18th at 6 pm.

Christmas Eve Services

4 pm Contemporary

6 pm Traditional

9 pm Candlelight & Carol Singing

(Holy Communion at 9 pm)

Christmas Day Service

10 am

With Holy Communion

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

Advent Evening of Prayer

Timothy's Women of Hope ministry hosted a meaningful evening of prayer and fellowship last Friday. A worshipful devotion and sing-along, led by Miriam Lindemann, her daughters Audra and Maranda, and granddaughters Savannah and Elyse, reminded us of God's presence and grace in our lives. This year's guest speaker, Hillcrest Transitional Housing graduate Blair Graham, shared her appreciation for Timothy's sponsorship of the Hilcrest apartment so she could focus on attaining a better life for her family.

Prayers lifted up that evening were included in Timothy’s emailed Weekly Prayers this past Monday.  Make plans to attend this event next year to enhance your Advent season!

December Donations Support the Community Services League

As the Christmas season approaches, Timothy Lutheran Ministries focuses on supporting the Community Services League (CSL) through our December donation drive. All month long, we invite you to join us in giving back to those in need.

Donations can be placed in the grocery cart located in the church lobby, just to the right (east) of the south entry doors. Suggested donation lists are available in the cart to guide your contributions. Simply take a list, fill a grocery bag with items, and return it to the same location at your convenience throughout December.

Your generosity helps provide essential support to the Community Services League as they assist individuals and families in need during the holiday season.

Thank you for being the hands and feet of Christ through this vital ministry. Blessings to you and your family this Christmas!

Support TLS While Christmas Shopping

Would you like to support TLS while Christmas shopping? Purchase a card at face value thru scrip, and a portion of the proceeds is given back to the school. Pretty cool!

• If your budget is $450 for Amazon, order an Amazon gift card for $450 from the school to use for placing your order.

• Going to use gift cards as Christmas presents and stocking stuffers? Order from the school.

The list of retailers includes places like Amazon, Home Depot, Walmart, Ulta, Panera, Casey’s, and so many more. Check out the complete list of participating retailers at https://www.raiseright.com/brands .