Support TEF: Weaving Together with Purpose

Advent Greetings!

On my morning walk, I was struck by how few leaves remained in the trees. Most of the beautifully vibrant leaves had fallen, meeting their demise at the end of a rake or leaf blower. Yet, several leaves clung to the branches, sparkling in the light breeze. By next week, those leaves will drop and transform back into the soil—providing nutrients to the tree and its neighbors. As we begin the Advent season, I am struck by how much of Christ's story is intertwined with us and all of creation. God became human, lived with us, and for us—a transformative God creating an opportunity for our transformation.

Since 2007, TEF has supported and guided college students in their educational and vocational journey through one-on-one mentoring and financial support: transformative work. Rooted in the legacy of the Lutheran Bible Institute of Seattle and Trinity Lutheran College, which began 80 years ago, we engage scholars through deep connection and learning to experience the power of God’s love.

Over the past eight years, TEF has awarded over $2.3 million in scholarships and grants to over 150 scholars and provided over 1,000 hours of personalized mentoring. Our work has created pathways for college students, candidates discerning a call to pastoral ministry, seminarians, and laypeople desiring to learn more about God and how to use their gifts to serve their community and the local church.

We are committed to helping individuals thrive and succeed in their educational journey by co-creating a holistic environment that fosters a deep understanding of personal agency and inspires discernment of their vocation and unique place in the world. Motivated to serve the world in courageous and meaningful ways, we cultivate a community where we experience Christ's transformative love and are empowered to steward God's beautiful creation.

We are a community unpacking the question, “What is that unique thread woven throughout your life regardless of what you do for a living?” Or, in the words of Frederick Buechner, uncovering “The place…where your deep gladness and the world's deep hunger meet.”

Over the next few days, I imagine you will receive several emails from your favorite non-profits inviting you to consider financially supporting the work ahead. As you reflect on who you will partner with, I invite you to consider making a significant difference in the lives of our current and future scholars–beloved leaders the world needs more than ever to bring their goodness to bear in the spaces and places yearning for their presence.

You are welcome to give online or by mailing a check to us:

Trinity Education Foundation

215 W Mukilteo Blvd, Ste 205

Everett, WA 98203

May the wisdom of the Spirit, the love of God, and the transforming power of Christ be near you this Advent.

Ryan Ingersoll

Executive Director