The Trumpet

On April 5, 2026, the Christian Church worldwide will celebrate the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. Christ’s resurrection generates multiple interconnected blessings for believers that reshape our spiritual identity, present standing, and eternal destiny.

The first blessing of Christ’s resurrection is spiritual rebirth and a living hope. Through Christ’s resurrection, believers are born again to a living hope and receive an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven and guarded through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time (1 Peter 1:3-5). This new birth establishes believers in a fundamentally transformed relationship with God—not as condemned sinners, but as those whose future is secured in Christ’s own victory.

The second blessing of Christ’s resurrection is freedom from sin’s dominion. The old self was crucified with Christ so that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, freeing believers from enslavement to sin, since one who has died has been set free from sin (Romans 6:4-11). Those who have died with Christ will also live with him (Romans 6:4-11). This liberation extends beyond mere forgiveness—it grants believers participatory power to resist sin’s control.

The third blessing of Christ’s resurrection is justification and reconciliation. Christ was raised for believers’ justification (Romans 4:25). Now that believers are reconciled to God, they shall be saved by his life (Romans 5:10). Believers are justified because of Christ’s obedience, death, and resurrection, as God’s declarative act of pronouncing them righteous depends on Christ’s resurrection.

The fourth blessing of Christ’s resurrection is exaltation and heavenly seating. God made believers alive together with Christ and raised them up with him, seating them in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:4-7). Believers have died, and their life is hidden with Christ in God; when Christ appears, they also will appear with him in glory (Colossians 3:1-4).

The fifth blessing of Christ’s resurrection is victory over death.

God gives believers victory through Christ (1 Corinthians 15:54-57). Christ abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel (2 Timothy 1:10). The resurrection assures believers’ immortality, as Christ’s life after death reveals the destiny of believers and guarantees the life of every believer.

And the sixth blessing of Christ’s resurrection is future bodily resurrection. As in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive, each in his own order—Christ the firstfruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ (1 Corinthians 15:20-23). If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus dwells in believers, he will also give life to their mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in them (Romans 8:11).

As we enter this time in which we particularly remember and reflect on the resurrection of Jesus, let us be thankful for the precious blessing of Christ’s resurrection.

- Freddy Fritz

The TBPC Women's Ministry hosted a dance on February 28, 2026.

(Photo/Bill Clarke)

The TBPC Worship Choir blessed the congregation on March 29, 2026.

(Photo/Holly Mickler)

Ladies joined with host, Rebekah Cholak, for a baby shower for

Stephanie Smoot and baby girl on March 21, 2026.

(Photo/Rebekah Cholak and Holly Mickler)

🌍 Step forward into Your Calling – Join Our Short-Term Mission Trip!

This is more than a trip—it’s a chance to change lives, including your own. Step out of your comfort zone, embrace a new culture, and be the hands and feet of love in action. Express your love for your neighbor and to God. Speak to others that participated in the past if you're on the fence.

📅 Dates: July 18-25, 2026

📍 Location: Belize

💡 Mission Focus: Community outreach, children’s programs, and construction

Why You Should Go:

• Bring hope and encouragement where it’s needed

• Discover the joy of serving alongside a passionate, faith-driven team

• Experience personal growth and a deeper connection with your purpose

Use your willing heart and the courage to say “yes” to joining the team traveling to Belize.

Your moment is now.

📩 Apply by: Soonest or by April 30, 2026

📞 Contact: Martine Extermann at martine.extermann@gmail.com

"The world is waiting for your light—shine brightly to bring God glory ✨

- Michael Bridges

TBPC members and a few guests met with Leonard Liu for a

seminar on missions on March 21, 2026.

(Photo/Eileen Fritz)

Are you ready for a challenge? Studying the Old Testament book of Hosea should satisfy. “With plot twists expected in a romantic movie, God called the prophet Hosea to marry and love the unfaithful prostitute, Gomer, to live out the reality of God’s relationship with Israel – and us.” Join with your sisters in Christ as we puzzle over Hosea together.

We’ll use the study guide and video lessons from No Empty Word: Relentless Pursuit, a Study on Hosea by Paula Miles. The guide includes five daily lessons and a chapter summary for each week. The study will last 8 weeks from Monday and Tuesday, March 30 and 31 to May 18 and 19. Choose Monday evenings from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Zoom or Tuesday mornings from 10 a.m-12 p.m in person at the church with free childcare.

Study guides ($15) are available after service by the sign-up desk. For more information, contact Eileen Fritz at 813-731-0457.

- Eileen Fritz

On March 6, 2026, the Men’s Ministry hosted an outing to watch a baseball game between USF and Southern University. Scott Simmons, Valerie Simmons, Derk Shultz, Brandi Shultz, Brian Carrier, Alisa Carrier, Carol Mitsch (Brian's Mom), and John Mitsh (Brian’s Stepfather) made up part of the small crowd in attendance on a nice evening, despite a thunderstorm later in the game that ended the matchup. USF took a good lead early and won the game 6-1 after 5 innings. The Bulls now have a record of 21-4 and are on the move for a very good season as the current leaders in the American Conference.

On March 16, we held the 11th Annual TBPC Golf Tournament at Heritage Palms Golf Course in New Tampa. Team 1 consisted of Todd Bayley, William Otero, Jody Kenyon, and Matt Cleary. Team 2 included David Cross, Rick Krouse, and Bill Watson. And Team 3 was rounded out by Andrew Otero, Roger Otero, and Brian Carrier.

It was a very comfortable day, opting for an earlier tee time to keep the temperature down. Teams 1 and 2 managed a very respectable tie at 8 under par 64, while Team 3 came in at 3 under 69. Team 3 shot the best nine holes of the day, with a very impressive 31, thanks to Roger Otero’s fabulous putting! Rick Krouse won the longest drive on hole 11, and Greg Watson won closest to the pin on hole 16.

Both events provided great fellowship! Thank you again for the support of the Men’s Ministry and Men’s Bible Study.

- Brian Carrier

Dear TBPC Family,

The school year is going wonderfully at NTCA, and we are so thankful for the continued support and encouragement from our church family. It has been a joy to watch our students learn, grow, and build relationships in a loving Christian environment.

Over the past month, the children enjoyed celebrating Dr. Seuss's birthday week by reading stories and dressing up for themed days. They also participated in a special “Eat the Rainbow” presentation, where they learned about healthy foods and the importance about eating colorful fruits and vegetables.

We would also like to thank the families and church members who came out to support NTCA Spirit Night at Texas Roadhouse. Your support means so much to our preschool community, and we are grateful to share that the event raised $140.00 for the school.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support of such a precious preschool ministry.

With gratitude & blessings,

Susanne Gonzalez, NTCA Director

If you've ever wondered if Satan is at work to distract us from Sunday worship, talk to parents who are trying to get their children to church – preferably dressed – and keep them engaged without loud questions about how much longer the pastor is going to speak. And as kids reach their teens, sports and clubs also tempt families away from worship on Sundays.

Author Katie Polski introduces 3 reminders for raising church-loving children, setting her purpose with, "Love for the church is often absorbed more than it is instructed. Children learn to cherish the people of God not only through teaching but through presence. Yet, presence, the very thing children need most, is exactly what many families struggle to maintain. We may desire to love the church, but our rhythms often reflect the cultural pull toward autonomy, convenience, and personalization."

Click the button below to read Polski's 3 loving reminders in byFaith.

- Holly Mickler (with article suggestion from Nancy Morrison)

The Children's Choir sang of the Lord being our shepherd on Sunday, March 1, 2026.

(Photo/Melissa Bayley)

Our youth students continue to build bonds through team-building games and competitions, along with regular meetings at the church and in members' homes. Whether you have youth-aged children or not, we'd love to foster multigenerational connections, so let me know if you would like to host us in your home on a Sunday evening.

Also we would like to express our appreciation for the $800+ raised for the RYM summer camp registration fees and travel costs. All attendees are excited for a week of waves and worship.

- John Revell

(Photo/Hannah Revell)

Emerald Crossing VBS registration will open on Easter Sunday!

VBS volunteer recruitment is also ongoing. Dates for VBS preparation activities including child protection training, craft/demo kit prep, decoration, and the VBS All-Hands meeting will be announced soon. Talk to Mike or Toni if you're interested in helping.

Thank you to our generous supply donors! We are still welcoming donations. See the QR code or link and due date below.

- Toni Cacioppo

Laila has attended TBPC for about 3 years but has been involved in teaching with the English as a Second Language ministry for about 10 years. She also attends Women's Bible Study.

Tell us a little bit about your family and how you like to spend your time.

My husband (Michael) and I have 1 son, 2 daughters, 1 daughter-in law, 2 sons-in-law, and 9 grandchildren. I have lived in Tampa 20 years, after moving from Trinidad and Tobago. I belong to a fairly large, extended family, but we live in many different parts of the world. My son and his family are the only ones who live here in Tampa. All my family love to dance, so dance parties are at the top! We also love beach holidays, board games, outdoor games, and talk times.

What do you enjoy about TBPC?

I find the members of the church very caring, sincere, and supportive. They genuinely try to live by the word of God. TBPC is committed to their outreach programs, and they welcome everyone. Pastor Freddy Fritz is an excellent pastor. Most of all, I love the vibrancy, loving personalities, and generosity of spirit that is shared by all. There are many, many things that I love and appreciate about TBPC, but these are just a few.

What careers have you been involved in?

I was a teacher for 17 years in Trinidad, Canada, and England. I trained in the art of floristry, owned my flower shop, and taught floristry for 4 years. Then I returned to university and became a psychologist with my own private practice for several years.

Later I became a diplomat/ambassador for Trinidad and Tobago and was posted to Barbados and the Caribbean Islands and then to Canada for 4 years, where I was named as one of the top 10 ambassadors serving in that country.

Then I became a consultant and trainer for the University of the West Indies, the major oil companies, and financial institutions in the Caribbean, designing and delivering programs to develop the emotional intelligence competencies of all people. I continued in that career until I was 78 years old.

If you could instantly master any skill or talent, what would you pick?

Singing because I love it!

Which person in the Bible (other than Jesus) do you think would make the best dinner guest?

I'd like to meet Mary to find out more about her pregnancy and childbirth experience.

What lesson has God been teaching you?

God has always been working in my life. Right now, he is helping me to ease the grief after the loss of my granddaughter and sister. God has also given me the gift of a new granddaughter. All experiences, whether sad or happy, are learning experiences I can benefit from. God has strengthened my trust in his mercy and love for me.

What is your favorite hymn?

Blessed Assurance

What is your favorite Scripture?

I enjoy learning about the life of Jesus in the Gospels.

And one more question. Do you name your plants?

Yes! I name them with my grandchildren's names.

Waldo Kemp - April 10

Charlie Cacioppo - April 11

Ashley Powe - April 11

Janice Thompson - April 11

Michael Bridges - April 15

Lea Lowe - April 15

Sophia Mas-Beazel - April 16

Robert Almonte - April 17

Jack McNulty - April 17

David Otero - April 17

Jake Silverman - April 19

Grace Lee - April 22

Rohan Linton - April 23

Fidelia Mas-Beazel - April 24

Isaac Dishman - April 25

Marsha Otto - April 27

Tiffany Stringer - April 27

Tom Yu - April 27

Ethan Revell - April 29

Caleb Massie - April 30

Edwin & Diane Rothfuss - April 15, 1967

Jason & Coleen Knecht - April 18, 1998

James & Cathy Turpen - April 22, 2004

Last month in youth Sunday school, we were discussing the attribute of God’s love. Towards the end of our time together, I realized that talk of God’s love is not all that encouraging if one is lacking in assurance…

It is not uncommon to hear Christians in our tradition struggling with assurance of God’s love. There are various reasons for this, but at least one of those factors must be our emphasis on predestination and election. Perhaps that’s just negative outside perception; perhaps we do offer a balanced doctrine of salvation that adequately supports assurance. Either way, there’s no question that a preoccupation with predestination at the expense of God’s revealed will or character in Christ will trend towards doubt and insecurity. Perhaps we’ve unintentionally put the cart before the horse at times, especially with children and youth.

…Back to Sunday school. I realized that even the statement, “God is Love,” can ring cold in people’s ears depending on how they view God’s will and character. God has told us about the doctrine of predestination, but it remains a doctrine intentionally shrouded in mystery. My encouragement to the youth group is my encouragement to you: remember what God has revealed in Christ! The gospel is not, “come if you’re elect.” The gospel is not, “maybe I did not choose you, so maybe you can’t actually come anyways.” The gospel is, “come all you who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest!” The gospel is, “whoever comes to me, I will never cast out” (Matt. 11:28; John 6:37). The invitation is for everyone, and the promise is held out to all. The gospel is what God has revealed, not the identity of the elect.

The character of Christ is the prism through which we see the Father – for if we see Christ, then we do truly see the Father. The Father delights to welcome those who come. The Son has compassion on all who are sin-sick and wandering. Christ came and died for sinners. We worship a God who sincerely offers salvation to everyone. And the God who makes this offer IS Love. Christ offered salvation even to his enemies (John 5:39-40; Luke 13:34). Christ asked forgiveness for those who crucified him (Luke 23:34). This is our God, and his offer is not dependent on the impossible. It is truly impossible to get back into the decree of God and figure out whether you are elect. Rather, the offer is simply, “will you come by faith?” If you will, then you are already being sweetly drawn and persuaded, and you are indeed a child of God.

- John Revell

“If Christ is not all to you, he is nothing to you.

He will never go into partnership as a part Saviour of men.

If he be something he must be everything, and if he be not

everything, he is nothing to you.”

- Charles Haddon Spurgeon (England, 1834 -1892)

Here is a book for parents raising children that guides the cultivation of gospel liturgy in everyday family life. Whether we realize it or not, we all default to a set of habits as we go about our lives, and habits are powerful because they tend to lead our hearts, even when our heads know better. Then, as parents, we are teaching our kids about priorities and how to navigate life with our words and, more importantly, with our actions – they are watching and mimicking what we do.

In this book, Justin Whitmel Earley focuses on stewarding the hearts of his family through stewardship of family habits. Ordinary household habits are reconceived as gospel liturgies, worship routines that must be carefully selected with the goals of turning our own hearts and the hearts of our children to God our Father, and following him one step at a time. As a father of 4 boys himself, he shares his own experiences with marriage and parenting and describes lists of resources he's found beneficial for his own family. It's a conversational and worthwhile read for today's Christian parent.

- Toni Cacioppo

The past several months the Diaconate has been in the process of designing and implementing a safety team. We are certainly trying to get this done as quickly as possible. However, we understand that the design and structure of the safety team is as important as the operation of it.

We are also working hard to get everyone that is working or volunteering with children up-to-date with child protection training. If you have a question about when you will need your next training, please see a member of the Diaconate.

Lastly, we are organizing for the set up and take down of the sanctuary for upcoming events. Included in this is having the church ready for Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter, and the ESL End of Year Lunch. If you are able to help, please contact a member of the Diaconate or use the button below to email us.

- Mike Rush

As the deacons continue to serve in the areas of benevolence, mercy, and the upkeep of the church’s facilities, we always welcome any assistance. If you have an area of expertise and are willing to offer your services (plumbing, electrical, landscape, etc.), we would appreciate any and all help. You can contact any of the Deacons (David Cross, Michael Rush, and Derk Shultz - Deacon in Training), or either of the Deacon Assistants (David Lehmann and Ken Smoot) or email us by using the button below.

Click on the title above to be taken to the TBPC Calendar.

Wednesday, April 1 at 7 p.m.

Thursday, April 2 at 7 p.m.

Friday, April 3 at 7 p.m.

Sunday, April 5 at 9 a.m.

Sunday, April 5 and 19 at 6 p.m.

April 9-11

More Info

Saturday, April 11 at 8:30 a.m.

Sunday, April 12 at 12:30 p.m.

Sunday, April 12 and 26 from 5 - 7 p.m.

Sunday, April 12 and 26 at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, April 14 at 7 p.m.

Thursday, April 16

• Diaconate 5:30 p.m.
• Session 6 p.m

Friday, April 17 at 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 18 at 10 a.m.

Sunday, April 19 from 12:15 - 1:45 p.m.

(For parents of 5th graders and older)

Sunday, April 19 at 12:30 p.m.

Friday, April 24 - Sunday, April 26

Saturday, April 25 at 11 a.m.

We are excited to share that our church is now on Instagram. Follow us at @TampaBayPresbyterianChurch for updates on services, events, and church life. Please consider sharing our page with others to help extend our ministry. Scan the QR code or click the link to check it out!

It is the goal of The Trumpet staff to provide articles for learning and growing, news for connecting with our church family, and information on opportunities for service and participation. The views and opinions expressed in The Trumpet have not been reviewed or endorsed by the Session.