Praising Christ doesn’t need a church building

Trinity Lutheran’s congregation headed for the great outdoors for its annual worship service and picnic on August 31 in perfect weather, not too hot nor too sunny. The family event took place as every year at Frankfurt’s Lohrberg Park overlooking the skyline of the city and just above Frankfurt’s only remaining vineyard.
The sermon, conducted by visiting- and former-pastor Wayne Braun, gave hope to those gathered together through prayer and devotion. Council vice president Greg Petersen brought wonderful news for worshipers assembled under the trees that Pastor Jeff Teeple from the United States had accepted the call to Trinity to be our next pastor. Details about the move to Europe, Gina Teeple’s new position in Europe for the synod, a new parsonage, and schooling for their son are all items that need to be worked out in the coming months. The congregation is hoping that Pastor Teeple will be able to start preaching to us in the early 2026.

This worship service included a first as newly appointed choir mistress Jutta Hikel lead the Sanctuary choir singing outdoors. That included congregation participation with the choir in singing an African hymn “Sing Praises”. The choir also provided a Central American hymn translated into English, “The Peace of the Earth by with You” as well as singing a beautiful “Kyrie Eleison” for the service.
Following worship attendees gathered around for a group photo in front of the Frankfurt skyline. They then thanked the Lord for the blessings we all receive in Grace lead by Pastor Braun and shared food brought for the picnic. To work off the meal, some of the more active worshipers tossed an American football around or ran after Frisbees.