Light on Our Congregational Community: A Mother of Our Church

Anna Brugman is one of the longest standing members of our congregation. Here is a personal history from one of the “Mothers of our church”:

Hello, my name is Anna Brugman, I came to Trinity Lutheran Church when my eldest daughter (Merle aka Pennie) was three years old. My niece Debra Castro brought her to attend Sunday school. A lot of neighbors and people in the community were also attending the church at the time. As I saw my child liked going to church I soon started to attend church. The church welcomed me with open arms and I felt very comfortable. The church members were very friendly and a lot of kids were attending Sunday school.

It was a place where neighbors could meet together and hear the words of the Lord. I became a full member (later) in the ‘70s. Trinity is where all my children were baptized and had their first communion. It is also where all of my grandchildren were baptized and had their first communion. The church has always been a safe haven for my children while growing up. Not only did they attend Sunday school they also attended after school programs, Luther (Youth and Young Adult) League, and choir rehearsal. My children participated in the youth camp and sleep away camp through the church. They still talk about the many trips they took.

The church gave them a safe place to go after school, as opposed to being in the streets and getting into trouble. Whenever one of my children was sick, the church was sure to keep them in their prayers. It was a place where I could go to get peace of mind and to get away from my troubles. It has been my home away from home.