November 2015's Large Group Gathering

By Tarah Shrader

 This past Monday night's Large Group Gathering was a treat, from an ice breaker which involved using some artistic ability to describe aspects of one's life, to a panel of four godly women who opened their hearts and shared words of wisdom, to the wives of Trinity.

 The night opened up with prayer and announcements. Everyone was welcome to enjoy the delicious food, from crackers and cheese, to desserts of all sorts, to left over trick-or-treat candy.

  Refreshments and announcements were followed by the ice breaker. Every table had pieces of paper with a different leaf drawn on each paper. Each person at a table picked a leaf and then answered five out of ten questions about themselves by drawing or writing in an artistic manner on the leaf they chose. Finally, each lady shared what they had put on their leaf. Lots of fun and creativity was involved to help break the ice and get to know the ladies at your table.

 After the ice breaker there was a short break for more refreshments and then the panel began. The ladies on the panel were Joy Carson, Suzanne Kilner, Ruth Scharf, and Carol Plueddemann. They were given different questions which centered around these thoughts: being a wife to a pastor or professor, raising children while in ministry, and your relationship with the Lord. The advice and encouragement which these wonderful ladies shared was a delight. Here are several thoughts and quotes from the evening.

Marital Relationship

 "Always be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. James 1:19" Suzanne Kilner

 "Worship and read God's Word together. Pray together." Ruth Scharf

 When there are conflicts..."Deal with feelings first, then talk about the facts...begin with I, not you...show humility." Ruth Scharf

 Carol Plueddemann shared that she viewed marriage between a husband and wife as cross cultural: Two different people from two different backgrounds, drawn together through love, and growing together for a lifetime.

Mentors

 Joy Carson shared that as far as finding a mentor, she never sought someone out. Rather, she would observe others and if they were doing something that seemed like it was working, then she would implement that same method into her life, whether it be in parenting, being a better wife, or having a deeper relationship with the Lord.

Ministry

 "Don't doubt in the darkness what God is showing in the light." Ruth Scharf

 Carol Plueddemann shared how families in ministry can help one another, especially on the mission field through hospitality, prayer partners, and learning the language/culture.

Devotional Life

 "Our devotional life may change depending on the season. Still seek the Lord." Ruth Scharf

Parenting through Ministry

 "Have expectations for behavior when raising children. Polite behavior at all times, not church behavior." Joy Carson

 "We should boast in our weaknesses through Christ's power, 2 Chorinthians 12:9" Suzanne Kilner

 In closing, I really appreciated when each lady shared the struggles that they had each faced in their lives, and how they came through them by God's strength. May God be glorified throughout our lives and may we strive to grow closer to Him every day.

                          

  

10 Must Read Books for Seminary Wives

by Lexi Zuo

 I absolutely love reading! For as long as I can remember it's been "my thing". Right now especially in this stage of life as a seminary wife and mother of three young children, I love finding quality gospel centered books that spur me on in the work which Lord has set before me in this season! I hope this narrowed down list of "must reads" will be a great encouragement to you as you learn and grow alongside your husband over these next years!

   
Concise Theology by J.I. Packer
 I am currently still working through this book, but it is absolutely amazing. Our husbands are busy studying the original languages, church history, and theology, but picking up one of his textbooks can often be a mind-boggling task. This book is a collection of 94 aspects of theology. Packer is incredibly easy to read and understand while at the same time providing such depth and beauty in his writing. After every chapter, I walk away more in awe of the Lord and meditating more on different aspects of who He is according to scripture.




The Pastor's Wife by Gloria Furman
  I adore pretty much anything written by Gloria Furman. She writes with both deep conviction and winsome humor. With every chapter, I want to make her my new best friend and mentor. This book is specifically focused on spurring on current and future Pastor's wives in the work of serving a church and serving the Shepherd of the church...their husbands. Her stories will make you both laugh and cry, but I guarantee you will finish this book more excited about your husband's call to ministry and your call to serve alongside him in the years to come!



Say Goodbye to Survival Mode by Crystal Paine
 This is an excellent resource for getting life organized. Crystal discusses things like cleaning, meal planning, budget, financial goal planning. personal goal planning ect. all in a godly and motivating way. This is a great resource for homemakers!





 
The Gospel at Work by Sebastian Traeger and Greg Gilbert
 This book provides such a beautiful and motivational explanation of how we should view our work as Christians. It's helpful to see how even our work ethic should always reflect the Gospel to a watching world. One particular aspect I appreciated in this book was the discussion on the difference between faithfulness and fruitfulness in work.





Word-Filled Women's Ministry by Gloria Furman and Kathleen Nielson
 This is a lovely new book focusing on how central the Gospel must be in all aspects of ministry to women. I particularly enjoyed the last few chapters' look at what it means to be living a fruitful life as a Christian woman. This book motivated me to examine my own level of service to both my local church body and also those around me in my everyday life. This book truly drips with the Gospel on every page...a true joy to read!




In the Land of Blue Burqas by Kate McCord
 I'm incredibly interested in evangelism to Muslims...especially those in closed countries. This book provides a fascinating view into the lives of rural Afghan women from an American missionary/NGO worker there. I particularly enjoyed the take on telling stories from the Bible in everyday conversation and debates when you are in a country where Bibles are banned, This book also gives another perspective on the extreme poverty that many women face around the world. It's easy to feel depressed about your finances while in seminary, but this book will remind you of just how blessed you are right now!


The Duties of Parents by J.C. Ryle
 Written in 1888, this short book provides timeless solidly scripture advice on godly parenting. In our modern day of "mommy-wars" this book will help you get back to the "basics of parenting": teaching them the Word of God, providing firm and consistent discipline, and lavishing them with love! It's by far my favorite parenting book! 





Women of the Word by Jen Wilkin
 Jen Wilkin is an amazing women's Bible teacher. She is PASSIONATE about the Word and teaching women how to study the Word of God! This book is an easy read instructional manual of sorts on how to dig deeper in your personal Bible study time. Although her prescribed methods may be difficult to put into practice in certain seasons of life (like when you have many young children...like I do!), this book is a valuable resource to inspire and challenge you to dig deeper during your Bible study times.



Stepping Heavenward by Elizabeth Prentiss
 This is one of my favorite novels of all time! It's a little awkward at the beginning, but it's basically a fictional journal from a woman as she matures from her teen years to middle age. She goes through a variety of life changes concerning singleness, marriage, children, sickness, dealing with in-laws, moves, her husband's busy ministry work, serving others around her, and growing in hospitality. My favorite aspect though is her account of growing in sanctification. Even though it's fictional and this novel was written almost 150 years ago, the trails she faces in growing in Christ-like maturity are the very same ones I face today. It's so beautiful to watch her mature as a Christian woman over the years and see her blossom in her roles as wife and mother. It gives me hope and joy to look forward to how I pray the Lord will grow and change me in the years to come!

Lexi Zuo is a sinner saved by grace who loves tough workouts, good books, and dinners with new neighbors. Her husband, Jeremiah, is in the MA Old Testament program. They have been blessed with three children ages 6, 2, and 5 months.

 








 
 

Starting Over:making friends in a new place

By Abby Reid

I think I have a case of meet-new-people fatigue. Now I'm an extreme extrovert, so I never believed this day would come.

But it came.

In fact, I was actually talked out by the time my husband came home last night. Talk about a first.

I have met new neighbors, new moms, new colleagues, new teachers, new church members, new everyone.

I feel like everyone and their brother knows three things about me: I grew up in California, we lived in Kazakhstan for seven years, and my husband is starting a PhD program.

And I know three similar things about the persons in the crowds that surround me.

But how do you go from the meet-and-greet stage to real friendship?

Since I'm not on the other side of the present story I can't claim to be a true expert, but I'm going to throw out a few do's and don'ts I've found to be true.
Here goes:

1.Don't give up on relationships before they start. The "I'm only going to be here for a little while so why try to make friends?" attitude is the enemy of authentic relationships. It's tough being in a new place. It can bring out our insecurities, which makes us want to withdraw or blame others. But neither will bring us the result we are looking for.

2.Be a giver. Instead of thinking about how miserable we are, we can look around us. I guarantee there are other people feeling just like us, maybe even more so. And with some risk we can reach out. Nothing makes us feel better than giving-whether it be spiritually, emotionally or financially. Like Jesus said, "it's more blessed to give than receive."

3. Don't be a martyr. Yes, we should give. Yes, we should lay our lives down for those God has given us. But no, we should not lie to ourselves or those around us about our lack of needs, shoving anger or frustration into a deep pit that will a) make us sick and/or b) boil over at a later time. There is a song by Rich Mullins that I love: "We are not as strong as we think we are..."

4.Pray specifically. If we want friends, we should ask God. Sounds simple enough but I think a lot of us might have two barriers. First, we don't want to admit that we want friends. It sounds so needy or pathetic. But the Scripture is clear: if you don't ask, you don't receive. Second, we don't want to be specific in our prayer. It is easier to pray for strength to endure or God's will to be done, whatever that is. Praying specifically is risky. What if Good doesn't answer? What if He says no? (Well, He might. See point No. 4.) But we won't know if God has answered unless we are specific.

5.Remember that God has a plan. If we have accepted God's offer of forgiveness for sins through Jesus, and agreed to follow His ways, then we know that God is working in our lives. And sometimes He is working through the hard things. Personally, I have found that in the times of the greatest pressure God is working the biggest changes in me. But He is God, and I've given Him permission (even asked!) for Him to transform me. Yes, friendships would be great! But really, our relationship with Jesus Christ is what matters the most.


Abby Reid moved to Trinity in June with her husband, Jake, and her three small boys--Nathan, Isaiah, and Elijah. Before that, they worked in Kazakhstan for seven years. You can read more about their adventures at their blog: afewfish.com

The God Who Satisfies

By Tarah Shrader

  Have you ever gazed into the night sky and were filled with awe by the multitude of stars in the heavens, or stilled by the colors produced from the setting of the sun, or in complete awe of the vast expanse from a mountain peak? And in some way do these moments point you to God and remind you of his amazing power as Creator of everything? It really puts everything into perspective, and may remind you that God cares for you. He is in control of your life, and is providing and satisfying your every need, whether you realize it or not.

 This past Monday, TWF small groups went over their first lesson, Psalm 104 "The God Who Satisfies". In Psalm 104 David writes about God's splendor and majesty in heaven, and His complete control over all of His creation. The Psalm opens with a beautiful picture of God in heaven ruling as Creator. It then goes into His control of creation; He gives water as refreshment to all living; He provides a dwelling place for each creature; He brings forth plants for animals to feed on and man to cultivate for food; He controls the celestial bodies that provide light both day and night; He sustains the sea and all living creatures in it; He gives life and He brings death; and because of God's care over all of creation He deserves glory and praise.

  So if you are facing a trail or are overwhelmed by life's responsibilities, just look out your window and remember that the God who created all things still cares for you and is satisfying your every need.

  Psalm 104:28b.

   "When you open your hand, they are satisfied with good things."

                  

Meet Your 2015-2016 TWF Ministry Team

      We, the 2015-2016 TWF Ministry Team, are so excited to be serving the Trinity wives! Our hope is that the Lord is glorified in all we do this year, and that this special community can be both an encouragement and support to the wives of Trinity.

 TWF President

  Michelle Pallansch is serving as this year's TWF President. Michelle and her husband Jeff have been married for five years and at Trinity for three years. Jeff is pursuing a Masters of Divinity at TEDS. Michelle works as an ESL teacher in the Chicago area. As this year's President Michelle looks forward to how the ministry team will work together and encourage and support each other as well as other women and families of Trinity. Her encouragement to fellow Trinity wives is to, "JUMP IN! It is a wonderful, supportive community of women who will be able to understand your current season of life better than most and will be able to encourage you and offer support when you need it."

 

TWF Vice President

Alyssa VandenHeuvel is serving as this year's TWF Vice Prasident. Alyssa and her husband John have been married for two years and at Trinity for almost the same amount of time. John is in the Maters of Divinity program with an emphasis in Military Chaplaincy. Alyssa works as a Contracts Analyst at a pharmaceutical company. As Vice President Alyssa looks forward to growing in her relationships with God and others, and also being able to see more of the wonderful things God is doing in so many peoples' lives. Alyssa's encouragement to fellow Trinity wives is, "What one wife once shared with me was that this time isn't just about your husband. God may have placed you and your family at Trinity because of the purpose or path He has for you, too! So treat this time as a time for both of you to grow in your faith."

TWF Faculty Wife Adviser

Suzanne Kilner will continue another year serving as a TWF Faculty Wife Adviser, which she has been serving on since Spring of 2000. Suzanne and her husband John have been married for 39 years. Within those 39 years they have lived in Boston; Kenya; Lexington, KY; and Wilmette, IL. Suzanne and John have two children, Beth (married to Marvin) and Paul, as well as a grandson Nathaniel. John has been teaching Bioethics at Trinity since 1994. After her undergraduate and gradate studies, Suzanne has worked as an environmental planning consultant for women owned business. She has overseen elderly care for her in-laws and her special needs son who has a unique program with six different volunteer jobs each week. As a Faculty Wife Adviser Suzanne looks forward to watching God work through this year's team. Her encouragement to fellow Trinity wives is, "Bloom where you are planted. Choose to be content and focus on the things you are thankful for. Be open to what God wants to grow/change in you in preparation for ministry."

TWF Faculty Wife Adviser

Ruth Scharf will continue another year serving as a TWF Faculty Wife Adviser, which she has been serving on since 2000. Ruth and her husband Greg have been married for 39 years. They have three children, who are all married, as well as five grandchildren. Life before TEDS took Ruth to many places, Fargo, ND; Toronto, Canada; London, England, and Nairobi, Kenya. Ruth and Greg have been at Trinity for sixteen years. Greg works in the Pastoral Theology Department at Trinity. Ruth retired this summer from her teaching assistant job in the Special Education District of Lake County school for the deaf and hard of hearing. The Scharfs enjoy traveling to see children and grandchildren, as well as ministry related travels. One of Ruth's favorite verses from the time she went to boarding school in Kenya is I Peter 5:7 "...casting all your care on Him for He cares for you." As a Faculty Wife Adviser Ruth looks forward to studying the Psalms this year and growing in her knowledge of God and prays that this will grow her love for God. Currently she is enjoying reading the Psalms of Ascents as this reminds her of the greatness of God and his covenant love and faithfulness. Ruth's encouragement to fellow Trinity wives is, "Don't think we are perfect or have it all together. We are all learning and growing. 'One beggar to another, pointing each other to Christ.' Come and find a place where you can continue to grow in your faith, have opportunities to serve and try new things, meet new people from all over the world, and taste the joy of supporting others and being supported in prayer and friendship."

TWF Welcoming Coordinator

  Amanda Kirkman is serving as this year's Welcoming Coordinator. Amanda and her husband Darin have been married a little over a year. Darin is pursuing a Master of Divinity with an emphasis in the Military Chaplaincy at TEDS, and is currently in the Army Reserve. Amanda is an Art Educator at a middle school in Racine, Wisconsin. As Welcoming Coordinator Amanda is really looking forward to connecting with new wives this year, especially welcoming new families to Trinity. The welcoming committee was a huge blessing to her when Darin and Amanda moved to Trinity, and she is so excited to return the favor. Amanda's encouragement to fellow Trinity wives is, "Trust in the Lord's plans. It was a tough transition for me at first when we came to Trinity, and I learned so much about God's sovereignty and plans for me as I trust Him and watch all of our needs be met, and all our worries and fears be erased. The fellowship and accountability from the life-long friends formed at Trinity are priceless, and have helped me so much!"

TWF Small Group Coordinator

 Ruth Voetmann is serving as this year's Small Group Coordinator. Ruth and her husband Cody have been married for two years. Cody has been at TEDS since 2011, he started out in the Master of Divinity program, but this past year he switched to a Graphic Design major with minors in Biblical Studies and Christian Ministry. Ruth joined Cody at Trinity after they were married in the summer of 2013. Ruth is an Administrative Assistant at Knuth Machine Tools in Licolnshire. In the past she was a secretary at KRH Nutritional Practice and Administrative Assistant at Faith Evangelical Free Church, both in Fall Cree, WI. As Small Group Coordinator Ruth looks forward to seeing the Holy Spirit move in the hearts and lives of our small group leaders and our small groups! Ruth's encouragement to fellow Trinity wives is, " Live each day gratefully and enjoy it in and of itself. This is a time when it is so easy to get caught up in the mentality that 'we just have to get through these 4+ years at TEDS and then we can get on with the real ministry God has for us', but remember that this time too is part of the ministry; so look around, take time to 'smell the roses', and enjoy the journey."

TWF Large Group Coordinator 
 Krista Berg is serving as this year's Large Group Coordinator. Krista and her husband Timothy have been married for two years. Timothy has been at TEDS for three years pursuing a Masters of Divinity. Krista works as a Philanthropy Coordinator at Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital. As Large Group Coordinator Krista looks forward to cherishing the opportunity to encourage and grow with the women around her in their spiritual walks, personal lives, within our families, and in our circles of influence. Krista's encouragement to fellow Trinity wives is, "Don't be afraid to invest. Sometimes it is difficult to invest yourself into relationships or activities when you know that you will only be somewhere for a short season. We are blessed with a wonderful opportunity to learn, grow, and invest in others while being here at Trinity. You never know how your own life or another's will be impacted. Let's live this year with intention."

TWF Mom's Ministry Coordinator

Elizabeth Kotulski is this year's Mom's Ministry Coordinator. Elizabeth and her husband Joseph have been married for eleven years, and have two girls, Alathia who is 6 and Evangeline who is 3. This fall Joseph will be starting his fourth year pursuing a Masters of Divinity at TEDS. Elizabeth has a background in elementary education. Currently she stays at home with her girls as well as doing some babysitting throughout the week. As being this year's Mom's ministry Coordinator Elizabeth is really looking forward to helping moms connect with each other and find support during the crazy seminary life. When husbands are busy with classes and you may be far from family and friends, there is an amazing group of women here going through the same thing. We can encourage one another more than we might even realize. Her encouragement to fellow Trinity wives is, "Don't just view the time that your husband is in seminary as a time to get through. Three or four (or five!) years is a long time to spend just waiting for what comes next. God is preparing you as much as He is preparing your husband. Ask God what He wants to teach you during this time and then act."

TWF Treasurer 

  Catherine Denney is serving as this year's Treasurer. Catherine and her husband Justin are newly married as of this past June. Justin is pursuing a Masters of Divinity at TEDS, and Catherine has been attending TWF since September of 2014. Catherine works on the Medical Staff at Vista Medical Center in Waukegan, As Treasurer Catherine looks forward to learning to fully serve Christ in every task and helping every women in TWF do the same. Her encouragement to fellow Trinity wives is, "Open your heart to whatever friendship or lessons God might be giving you through TWF. They might be unexpected, but truly will serve as an encouragement and anchor through this season."

TWF Crowns Editor and Photographer

     Tarah Shrader is serving as this year's Crowns Editor and Photographer. Tarah and her husband Matthew have been married for ten years and have two boys, Gabriel who is four and Isaiah who is one and a half. Matthew is starting his second year pursuing a PhD in Church History at TEDS. Tarah is at home with their boys most of the week, but a couple days out of the week she helps with house cleaning and other projects for a fellow Christian family in the area, as well as being a licensed cosmetologist and doing haircuts for others. One of Tarah's favorite hobbies is quilting, which for now she is only able to do during spare time. Tarah and Matthew are originally from Colorado, and are big Denver Broncos fans. As Crowns Editor and Photographer Tarah looks forward to not only serving with other Trinity wives, but also learning from them and lifting each other up to the Lord during this season. Tarah's encouragement to fellow Trinity wives is, "Trinity Wives is an incredible ministry. It gives wives the chance to build lasting relationships with fellow sisters in Christ who are from all around the world, as well as growing in God and His Word. Please join Trinity wives, it is absolutely worth it!"

TWF Highwood Small Group Leader

 Lauren Mays is serving as this year's Highwood Small Group Leader. Lauren and her husband Dan have been married for almost two years, and at TEDS for two years as well. Dan is pursuing a Masters of Divinity and Lauren is a third grade teacher in the Chicago area. As this year's Small Group Leader of Highwood Lauren is looking forward to meeting new Trinity wives and growing together with them. Lauren's encouragement to fellow Trinity wives is, "Make time to be in a community like Trinity wives. It seems like a big commitment amidst a busy season, but it is so worth it!"

TWF Vernon Hills Small Group Leader

Heather Moser is serving as this year's Vernon Hills Small Group Leader. Heather and her husband David have been married for one year. David is in his fourth year at TEDS pursuing a Masters of Divinity and Heather is currently a nurse at Condell Medical Center in Libertyville. Heather grew up in the great state of Alabama, where football is a HUGE deal, so she is a big Alabama (Crimson Tide) fan. Whether it is hiking or running, Heather loves being outdoors. As this year's Vernon Hills Small Group Leader Heather is looking forward to building Christ-like friendships with other women involved in TWF. Heather's encouragement to fellow Trinity wives is, "This is such a neat time in our lives to learn and grow together as our husbands pursue their calling in ministry."

 

 

TWF Small Group Leader

  Emily Cole is serving as a Small Group Leader on campus. Emily and her husband Dan have been married for thirteen years and have three kids, they have been at Trinity for 2 years while Dan pursues a PhD in New Testament at TEDS. Emily stays at home with her kids, but in the past was a Physical Therapist. Emily is enjoying living in Chicago and truly values the opportunities here, but if she could move back to Sydney, Australia (which is where she is from), she would grab her and her family's passports and go. It is hard being away from their families. But, however wonderful her family is, Emily reminds herself that her real family includes all her brothers and sisters in Christ, which in God's kindness and mercy includes her biological family, and that heaven won't compare to Sydney. As an On-Campus Small Group Leader Emily is looking forward to growing together with other Trinity wives as they study God's Word, pray and share their lives together in small groups. Emily's encouragement to fellow Trinity wives is, "Take time to get to know other Trinity wives. I have been blessed by these women in the two years we have been here."

 TWF Small Group Leader

   Eun Jung Kim (Enna) is serving as a Small Group Leader on campus, she will be co-leading with Laura Allen, Enna and her husband Jo Hwa Lee have been married for four years. They both arrived at Trinity the summer of 2014. Jo is in the ICS PhD program at TEDS. In the past Enna was a teacher and a children's pastor at her former church, now she is a children's pastor at Hebron Church (Korean Church). Enna loves inviting people over to eat, as well as going for walks with her husband. As a Small Group Leader Enna looks forward to being filled with Jesus' love in her heart through TWF friendships. Enna's encouragement to fellow Trinity wives is,"Welcome to this great community! Here is your new family which God has brought to you to love, care and grow together with."

TWF Small Group Leader

  Laura Allen is serving as a Small Group Leader on campus and will be co-leading with Enna. Laura and her husband Daniel have been married for three years. Daniel just finished his first semester this past spring in the Master of Divinity program at TEDS. Laura is currently working as the enrollment counselor for Trinity undergrad, in the past she worked at a high school as a math teacher. As a Small Group Leader Laura looks forward to building relationships with other wives on campus. Laura's encouragement to fellow Trinity wives is,"Trinity is a great place to be! I can see that God is at work in and through this community."

TWF Small Group Leader

Alice Pilkington is serving as a Small Group Leader on campus, she will be co-leading with Sarah Price. Alice and her husband Matthew have been married for four years, their little boy John is one year old. Alice and her family have been at Trinity for one year as Matthew pursues a Master of Divinity at TEDS. Alice is a stay at home mom and wife. As a small group leader Alice looks forward to getting to know new women, hearing of their journeys, learning from them, and being encouraged and equipped in our walk with God together. Alice's encouragement to fellow Trinity wives is,"When we see each other around we should pray for one another, even if briefly, as often as those prayers and words of encouragement are very timely."

TWF Small Group Leader

  Sarah Price is serving as a Small Group Leader on campus, she will be co-leading with Alice Pilkington. Sarah and her husband Eric have been married for one year. Eric began the AP Master of Divinity at TEDS in the Fall of 2013, Sarah joined him at Trinity soon after they were married. Sarah is working as an Enrollment Coordinator for CVS Caremark Specialty Pharmacy in Mount Prospect. As a past time, Sarah enjoys crocheting. She learned from her grandma when she was in fourth or fifth grade and has made a few blankets and scarves, as well as a variety of kids toys from a tractor to an elephant, and most recently some Veggie Tales characters. As a Small Group Leader Sarah looks forward to getting to know her small group ladies better and forming friendships that will help throughout this time at Trinity and as we move on to future ministries. Sarah's encouragement to fellow Trinity wives is,"Seek out people who are different from you, and make friends with the. God will use your differences to encourage and challenge one another."

 

2015 Summer Bash

Summer Bash is fun for the whole family with food, kids activities, music, and fellowship. Please join us!

Your 2014 Leadership Team - Pt. 4

Tricia Dunton

Husband's name: Justin
How long have you been married: 6.5 years
Do you have any children?: Graeme (3) and Will (1) with another boy on the way.
Where is home: Texas, mainly :)

How long have you been at TEDS & what brought you here (degree, calling, etc.):  This is our 3rd year at TEDS for Justin to do the MDiv

Information about you - your current/past job(s), education, topics important to you, interests and hobbies, fun facts, etc.!
In my previous life, I was a Career Counselor and worked for St. Mary's College in Notre Dame, Indiana, and The University of Texas in Austin, Texas. I'm horrible at crafting but I love to do it!

What is your roll on the leadership team?: current on-campus small group leader

What do you look forward to this year while filling this roll?: excited to learn from my small group members and walk through this time with them.

What do you like about TWF?: I love the instant fellowship it provides. I love that when you choose to be a part of it, you find community that will understand you and your life situation for the rest of your life, probably better than anyone else you would find.

Advice or encouragement to new wives: be involved. Don't be shy about reaching out to other wives and creating connections, even with those of us who have been here for a while. Just breathe while you're here, take a moment, remember this season, though it may be hard, is only a season. It doesn't last forever and there is so much to gain. Support your husband and don't lose yourself :)

Rebekah Hill

Husband's name: Daniel

How long have you been married: 14 years

Do you have any children?: Silas, 8 Mamie, 6 Emmett, 2

Where is home (before Trinity - as far back as you want to go): the mountains of North Carolina

How long have you been at TEDS & what brought you here (degree, calling, etc.): 3 years.

Information about you - your current/past job(s), education, topics important to you, interests and hobbies, fun facts, etc!
In my "former life," I was a public school teacher. I love to sing, quilt & sew, cook, and find treasures at thrift stores. I dream of living on a self-sustaining farm of sorts when I grow up.

What is your roll on the leadership team?: president

What do you look forward to this year while filling this roll?: learning how others view and "do" service - whether it's serving God, themselves, or others - I love gaining perspective; it matures me and motivates me.  

What do you like about TWF?: We all have chaos. With other people I feel like I should let them know that "school" is contributing to my chaos. With Trinity Wives, it's understood - and I can move on to more relational things. 

Advice or encouragement to new wives: Seminary is a hard season - use it to draw close to the Lord and your family, and find friendship anywhere you can. Your God and your husband (and your kids if you have them) are your constants. Cherish those constant things and love them deeply, but give some time to building new friendships - they are worth the effort, even if they're not perfect. There are times when it feels like a friend might as well be a needle in a haystack, and you can't stay intimate with old friends and make new friends at the same time. It's exhausting! But search out friendship & fellowship - God has each relationship planned for a reason, even if some of them are only for this seminary season.

Renee Gowler
 
Husband's name: Alex

How long have you been married: 5 years

Do you have any children?: Zeke -2, Gretta - 1

Where is home (before Trinity - as far back as you want to go): Chebanse, Illinois

How long have you been at TEDS & what brought you here (degree, calling, etc.): we are 2.5 years into the MDiv program, with a year left. After my husband and I both lost our "first real ministry jobs", we realized that we hadn't been serving with the unique gifts God gave us. We came to TEDS to pursue the specific calling God has for us, rather than continue to make do in a role or job that doesn't perfectly fit us.

Information about you - your current/past job(s), education, topics important to you, interests and hobbies, fun facts, etc! - Currently, I am a full-time mama of 2. Professionally, I have served as a teacher, marketing director, and waitress. I am really into baking with my son, summer dresses, the Lord of the Rings, and natural childbirth. I can't whistle, I hate mustard, and I'm afraid of sharks.

What is your roll on the leadership team?: Vice President and Publicity

What do you look forward to this year while filling this roll?: I am excited about the new look of Trinity Wives Fellowship (our logo and graphics), and I'm also looking forward to connecting more with the husbands of the wives who aren't yet part of TWF. I want men to know that we exist to bless their wives, and we want join them in pointing their wives to Jesus
during this season at seminary. From a publicity stand-point, that means we're doing some creative marketing (business cards, sidewalk chalk, etc.) to reach those men. I can't wait to see how it goes!

What do you like about TWF?: I love, love, love my small group and the amazing, godly, hilarious women I've gotten to grow with because of it!

Advice or encouragement to new wives: Participate in TWF in some way. If you don't have room in your life to join a small group, then attend the Large Group Gatherings to be encouraged and connected to other women. Attend a play group or social event! You will not regret stepping out of your comfort zone to meet new sisters in Christ.

Your 2014 Leadership Team - Pt. 3

Suzanne Kilner

Husband's name: John Kilner

How long have you been married: 39 years

Do you have any children?: Beth (married to Marvin) and Paul

Where is home (before Trinity - as far back as you want to go): Boston, Kenya, Lexington, KY, Wilmette IL

How long have you been at TEDS & what brought you here (degree, calling, etc.): John has been teaching Bioethics since 1994

Information about you - your current/past job(s), education, topics important to you, interests and hobbies, fun facts, etc.!: After undergraduate and graduate studies,I have worked as an environmental planning consultant, generally for women owned businesses and part time. I have overseen elder care in their homes for my parents, my in-laws and my special needs son. He now has a unique program with six different volunteer jobs each week. My hobbies include gardening, reading, sailing and hiking.

What is your role on the leadership team?: Faculty Wife Adviser

What do you look forward to this year while filling this role?: Watching God work through this year's team

What do you like about TWF?: Getting to know women who love Jesus and make themselves available to God for ministry.

Advice or encouragement to new wives: Bloom where you are planted. Choose to be content and focus on the things you are thankful for. Be open to what God wants to grow/change in you through your difficulties.


Alyssa VandenHeuvel

Husband's Name: John

We have been married a little over a year

Home is Seymour, WI - We both grew up there and went to high school there.
This is our 2nd year at TEDS. John has been in the military since 2009 and completed ROTC at college at UW-Stevens Point. During ROTC, he felt that God really wanted him to continue in the military but as a chaplain. God put everything in motion to bring us to Trinity, and here we are! John is getting his MDiv with an emphasis on military chaplaincy.

I grew up on a family dairy farm in Seymour, Wisconsin close to Green Bay (so I am, of course, a Packers fan). My husband and I met in high school and we got married a little over a year ago in July 2013. I graduated from UW - Stevens Point with a degree in Biology in May 2013, and now work as a Contracts Analyst at a local pharmaceutical manufacturing company named Akorn. Recently I've been trying to learn how to sew, and I love flower gardening. John and I both love to play card games and board games.

My role on the leadership team is as a Small Group Leader. I look forward to meeting new friends and encouraging them as we go through life and learn about God and his Word.

What I like most about TWF is the sense of community and meeting so many people who come from all walks of life. Everyone is so supportive, no matter what's going on in your life, and it seems that at least one person has been through what you're going through and can relate and give advice.

My advice/encouragement to new wives is to really try to enjoy this period and make the most out of your time here. This stage of life isn't just for our about only your husband - this is part of God's plan for you, too.


Ruth Voetmann

Husband's name: Cody

How long have you been married: over a year

Where is home (before Trinity - as far back as you want to go): Fall Creek, WI - small little town in the country near Eau Claire., before that St. Louis, MO, and before that Trinity! I was born here on campus while my dad was attending TEDS.

How long have you been at TEDS & what brought you here (degree, calling, etc.): My husband is starting his 4th year here (I just joined him last year). He is pursuing a Christian Ministries (pastoral emphasis) degree and Mdiv. He also added a Graphic Design major into the mix last year. He is enrolled in the 6 yr AP Mdiv program (7yrs now with the design major) and has 3 more years to go (after this one).

Information about you - your current/past job(s), education, topics important to you, interests and hobbies, fun facts, etc!
Facts about me...well, I am currently working at KNUTH Machine Tools as a secretary and marketing assistant. My degrees and my passion, however, are in music (specifically voice, although I do play the piano and violin as well) and theatre. My dream job would be preforming Musical Theatre. Other interests: I LOVE to read, and like cooking, gardening, and anything that is outdoors where I can soak in God's beautiful and uniquely intricate creation. Fun facts! 1) I am the 3rd of five siblings. 2) All five us were of home schooled all the way through high school. 3) Favorite book: Lord of the Rings, Favorite TV series: Castle

What is your roll on the leadership team?: Co-leader of an on-campus small group

What do you look forward to this year while filling this roll?: Growing as individuals and a group as we discover more of who God is and all that He has for us as His children. Continuing to encourage and to be encouraged and strengthened for the "everyday" things and struggles and joys that we each encounter as we share this unique season of life together.

What do you like about TWF?: Trinity Wives for me has truly been God reaching out and meeting my need for community and a place to grow in Him! I came to Trinity as a brand new wife having left my family, home church, and network of godly friends and mentors for the first time in my life. In the midst of all that change God brought me to TWF. I think what I appreciate most is the way we really delve into the scriptures together in our small group bible studies. There is a true hunger for God's truth and to know Him more fully. I also instantly felt accepted and loved and like I belonged, simply because we are all facing the same challenges in learning how to live out lives of Christlike love in our marriages, workplaces, and families as our husbands (and maybe even we ourselves) study here at Trinity. It is so encouraging knowing that I am not alone in walking this road. God has blessed me with rich relationships through TWF, challenged me to grow in my weaknesses, and revealed more of Himself to me through this past year. TWF has been the instrument God used to play His melodies of love, admonition, and encouragement upon my heart, I am so thankful to be a part of this group of women!

Advice or encouragement to new wives: Seek God first in all things, and talk to Him about EVERYTHING. All the little stresses, all the fears, all your hopes, all the little irritations - share them with our Father, acknowledge His constant love and control. It's amazing how simply sharing all of it with Him, puts things into perspective for me.

Chelsey Hernandez

Husband's name: Alan

How long have you been married: 2 years

Do you have any children? Names and ages: We're expecting our first (a girl) in February!

Where is home (before Trinity - as far back as you want to go): I was raised in Colorado, moved to Texas when I was fourteen, and then moved to Waukegan, IL after Alan and I got married.

How long have you been at TEDS & what brought you here (degree, calling, etc.): We've been at TEDS for one year. We originally came to Waukegan to work with a multi-cultural church plant, with grad school in mind, as Alan felt called to continue his education. As a couple who is working as a bridge between cultures, we feel called to channel the resources we receive to underprivileged communities.

Information about you - your current/past job(s), education, topics important to you, interests and hobbies, fun facts, etc!
I am an English teacher! I've really found my niche this year in teaching high school ESL. God provided a job for me at Grayslake Central High, and I LOVE what I do. I also began a grad program this August at Trinity in education, and most importantly, my husband and I are expecting our FIRST BABY in February:) Fun facts: I enjoy working with teenagers, like frogs and lizards, and am fluent in Spanish!

What is your roll on the leadership team?: Welcoming Committee

What do you look forward to this year while filling this roll?: Meeting a lot of new people!

What do you like about TWF?: The opportunity to be encouraged spiritually and connect with other women who are in the same life season as I am:)

Advice or encouragement to new wives: EnJoY this season! The things my husband is learning influence me as well-----growth and education is so God-honoring and so GOOD:)