Trinity United Methodist Church “Tuesday Word” Tuesday, 3 December 2013

Trinity United Methodist Church “Tuesday Word” Tuesday, 3 December 2013

Dear Friends,

I am feeling very grateful today as I write this because your generosity is coming through once again - we are at 85% of our goal in pledges for 2014, well ahead of where we were last year at this time.  We're hopeful, with more pledge cards arriving each day we continue to be hopeful.

Our launch of the new Modern Worship service was a great success - with 90 people present!  With great music, outstanding preaching, and enthusiastic worshipers this service will grow. Tell your friends.  And if you missed Elly and Teresa Howell sharing Elly's inspiring story as part of the sermon time with me this past Sunday (spontaneous standing ovation at each service), you will want to catch it online, at our website: sermon archives.

Speaking of telling your friends, this Christmas season is a perfect time to invite your friends back  to church.   So many people out there have a negative image of church, but you and I know that's not who Trinity is, because we are such a welcoming, inviting, accepting place, so invite your friends to one or more of the many opportunities you'll see listed below. 

Blessed Advent,

Dan

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Week-end Worship

 Sunday Service

Worship Center

8:15, 9:40 & 11:00 

 Dr. Dan Johnson  

Youth Building

Modern Worship Service

11:00

Rev. Esther Rodriguez

UPCOMING EVENTS

12/4 - Advent Festival, 5:30

12/6 - Parent's Night Out, 5:30

12/8 - Coffee With The Pastors, 12:15, room 222 

12/8 - Order of St. Luke Healing Service, Chapel, 9:40

12/18 - Live Nativity, 5:30

12/18 - "Appalachian Winter" Christmas Cantata

12/24 - Christmas Eve Services - 3pm, 5pm, 6:30pm, 8:30pm, 11:00pm Worship Center, 11:00pm Chapel (Traditional)

12/29 - "Sit Together Sunday", 9:40 (One service only)

Church Hours

Monday - Thursday

8:30 am - 4:00 pm

Friday

8:30 am - 1:00 pm

Wednesday Evening Worship:  Come join us for the 6:35 Worship Service in the Chapel, tomorrow Wednesday, December 4.  Rev. Aaron Rousseau will be preaching:   "Blessing The Threshold". Scripture is Luke 1:26-38, 46-47 (NRSV).

Missions

Ted Grueser

Mission Box -  This Sunday is the second Sunday of Advent, often known for Peace.  On an individual level, many are experiencing turmoil, stress, and confusion. Even as we prepare for the Christmas season, some of our church members and people in our community are concerned about how to make ends meet for the necessities of life, let alone preparations for the holiday. This Sunday our focus is on Caring for our Community and Joseph's Storehouse. Both of these ministries are an outreach of Trinity that helps meet the needs of non-members and members of our church that need assistance.  Yes, it is hard to find peace. Perhaps that is why we are told to expect it during the Advent season. Because when you think about it, it is in the midst of turmoil, confusion, and stress that peace is really needed. Just as the angels spoke peace to the shepherds and just as Isaiah prophesied the coming of a Prince of Peace, we hope and pray for peace.  Your support to these ministries can provide peace through out the year to someone.

Mark your Calendar - A Meal Packing Event - This next Wednesday, December 11, we will be working with Called To Action on a hosting a meal packing event here at Trinity.  We will serve dinner at 5:30 at the normal Wednesday night time and the cost of dinner is $5 for adults and $3 for children. At 6:00 we will have a short devotion with Pastor Esther Rodriguez and then at 6:15 we will begin the packing part of the evening. 

This is an event for the whole family; no one is too young or too old! We plan to pack 20,000 meals that will be shipped to the Philippians. Donations will be accepted to help cover the cost of the meals to the Philippians. This is an event you don't want to miss!

I want to say a huge thanks to everyone that helped with the Thanksgiving Basket ministry this year.  What a huge success!  This outreach would not have been possible without the tremendous support of our Trinity family, our awesome staff, and the Missions Committee.  I would also like to publicly thank Susan Horne for all the hard work she did and the many hours she put in to make so many people's Thanksgiving possible.  My first Thanksgiving Basket event at Trinity was Amazing!

Membership

Carmen Nelson

 Are you interested in joining Trinity UMC? 

If you are looking for a church home and want to learn more about the vision, mission and ministries of Trinity United Methodist Church, we invite you to attend one of our upcoming Coffee with the Pastors. It is a casual gathering in which you'll learn more about the United Methodist Church, who we are at Trinity and what is expected of members. The class is designed for visitors and gives you the opportunity to meet our ministers and learn about the many ways to become involved in our church family.

The next Coffee with the Pastors is December 8, from 12:15 to 1:45 p.m. in the Room 222. To register for Coffee with the Pastors click on this link or e-mail Carmen Nelson to receive the form via e-mail. We would love to meet you and to welcome you into the membership of our church!

Those who are ready to join have a chance to do so on Sunday, December 22 at all three services.

Adult Ministries

David Leonard

Coffee Talk has a new time!  They are now meeting at NOON in room 224.  New participants are always welcome!

Parents of Youth will take a break during the Advent and Christmas Season and will resume in January.

Pathfinders will be doing a 5-session study called Embracing a Life of Meaning by Kathleen Norris.  If you would like to order a participants' guide, contact Kim.  The cost is $12.

For more information on our Adult Sunday School Classes click Here.

Alpha's The Marriage Course coming again in January 2014.  More information soon on Course Registration and Volunteer Opportunities.  Call  facilitators Sharon & Earl McDow at 371-4092.

Sports Ministry

Ben Haines

 Zumba class !  9-9:45 in room 228/229.  Come join the fun and be ready to move!

Senior (55+) Slo-Pitch softball happens every Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 8:30  on the softball fields. Open to anyone who is interested.

Youth Ministry

Julie Mishoe

Parent's Meeting This Sunday -  Our last Parent's Meeting of the year is next Sunday, December 8, at 4:30.  We will give out spring calendars, talk about spring retreats, and more!

 This Sunday - Deck the Halls and Salt-n-Light -  This Sunday we will have a Salt-n-Light night, in addition to filling the Youth Building with holiday cheer in the form of decorations.  Join the fun 5:30-7:30pm, bring $3 for dinner.

Family Christmas Dinner - RSVP Now!  On Sunday, December 15, we will have our annual Family Christmas Dinner in the Worship Center.  An RSVP is not required, but appreciated so we know how much food to prepare.  If you know you're coming, let us know by sending an email .  The cost is $8 per person with a family cap of $25

Children's Ministries

Elizabeth Jones

 "Experiencing the Wonder" Advent Festival is tomorrow! Come and join us for crafts, caroling, and Chrismons in the Education building!  For those who purchased dinner tickets, dinner begins at 5:30.

Would you like your child baptized?  Baptism is one of the two sacraments in the United Methodist Church.  All parents are asked to participate in a Baptism Orientation prior to the baptism of their child.  The next Baptism Orientation will be held on Sunday, December 8 , at 11am in the Children's Ministries Office (Room E108).

Mark your calendar for our December events.  Visit here for more information.

Wednesday, December 4 -  5:30-7:15   "Experiencing the Wonder" Advent Festival. 

Friday, December 6 -  5:30-8:30  Parents Night Out.  Click here to register - deadline to register is tomorrow, Wednesday, December 4. 

Sunday, December 8 - 11 am Baptism Orientation in room 108

Monday, December 9 -  9:15 Guardian ad Litem gifts delivered.  Contact Christina if you can help drive.

Wednesday, December 18 -  5:30-7:00  Live Nativity 

Saturday, December 21 -  "Mooey Christmas", Children's concert by Anna Moo

Wednesday, December 24 -  5:00 Children's Christmas Eve Service

Sunday, December 29 - 9:40 Service only; Sit Together Sunday

General Announcements

We are looking for individuals and/or families that would like to assist in leading the lighting of the Advent Candles during each of our Advent services. (December 1, 8, 15, and 22-- all 3 services) If you and/or your family are interested, please contact Alice to let her know your availability.

Thank you Trinity family!  We've sponsored all 135 Guardian ad Litem children for the holidays!  We need help transporting the gifts to the Guardian ad Litem office on Monday morning, December 9, at 9:15. Please call Christina, 416-3020, if you can be a driver.  

 The Order of Saint Luke Healing Service is Sunday, December 8, in the Trinity Chapel, 9:40 - 10: 40.  The Service includes Praise & Worship Music, a Homily "It's Christmas - God's Gifts of Healing for You", and the OSL Service with Communion.  Please join us for an encouraging message from OSL Member, Sharon McDow, followed by Personal and Intercessory Healing Prayer for All.  This is for YOU!  Please tell others and bring a friend with you.

"Trinity member, Carter Nute, will conduct the AARP Driver Safety Program course in a one day session convenient for Trinity United Methodist Church members in the Education Building on Thursday, December 5. This classroom refresher for motorists age 50 and older is offered for a modest fee and you do not have to be an AARP member to register for the class. For course registration call Mrs. Lynda LeGrow at (352) 333-3036."

 The Trinity Christmas Party (Sponsored by Alpha) is coming soon.  Come enjoy this Annual Christmas Party with Free Admission!

When:  Sunday, December 15, 4-7pm

Where:  Skate Station Funworks (1311 NW 76th Blvd.)

For Who:  All Trinity Members, Visitors, & Their Friends

Special Request & Surprise:  Please bring your favorite Christmas Cookies to share.  Santa & Mrs. Claus plan a special visit with all Children from 6-7 PM, so bring your cameras to capture these special moments.  A Snack Bar will be available for beverages and additional food items.

 Christmas Poinsettias Dedications are due by Wednesday, December 18. Please make out your dedication on one of the envelopes available in the literature racks around the Church and insert $12 (check payable to Trinity United Methodist Church).  Place the completed envelope and donation in the offering plate during one of the Church services or bring to the Church Office.

Mommy Reads - This outreach group of women visits Lowell Correctional Institution for Women in Ocala four times a year to help young mothers read and record books for their children. You, too, can be a part of this amazing ministry! Our next trip will be on Saturday, December 7.  For more information, contact Beth Haines at 352-373-9469 or email.  Brochures are at the Information station in the worship center.  New books at any age level are always needed, and can be donated by dropping them off at the Trinity

reception desk.

Make your plans now to attend Trinity's Christmas Cantata and Dinner "Appalachian Winter" December 18.  Prices:  $10.00  Adults (ages 10 and over), $5.00 children ages 5-9 ages 0-4 eat free but still need a reservation.  Call or email Susan Kovi for reservations. Tickets must be purchased or reservations made in advance for this event.

The Marriage Course:  Will begin on January 9 and go thru February 27, meeting each Thursday from 6 pm - 8:30 pm in the Trinity Banquet Hall.  This course is for any couple, whether you've been together for 1 or 61 years, or whether you feel you have a strong relationship or are struggling.  A strong, loving and lifelong relationship doesn't happen by chance.  Make a NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION to come learn how to keep the fun and romance alive!  You can learn how to make even the happiest marriage better.

PRE-PAID COURSE FEE:  $110 Per Couple (includes all Dinners & Workbooks)

CHILD CARE:  By RSVP; Child Meals available too ($2.50 each)

REGISTRATION:  Online registration click here or  email or call 371-4092.

Volunteers January - February 2014:  The Marriage Course - "The Marriage Course" will be starting January 9 - February 27.  Card Tables loaned maybe dropped off January 5-7.  We are also seeking Volunteers for Décor & Set-Up, Serving Dinner & Dessert, and Clean-Up on Thursdays.  Come help our Course Guests have an amazing Date Night.  Course Registration is coming soon . . . Contact Sharon McDow or call: 371-4092.

Walk The Talk Video & Discussion:  This Alpha Next Steps Course continues December 4, 6:30 - 8:15 PM in E-203-204.  For Supper, you are invited to the Banquet Hall that evening for the "Experiencing the Wonder" Advent Festival that starts at 5:30 PM.  Dinner Tickets (Adults $5) may be purchased online  by 12/1.  For more information call Sharon McDow at 371-4092.

Christmas is a joyful season for most people.  But for those who have lost a loved one or are facing some other challenge, the holidays  can be quite stressful and painful.  Sometimes it helps to just talk to someone about your feelings.  Stephen Ministers are trained to listen and help you through difficult times.  To learn how you can receive care, call Kay Walker at 336-2006 or Tom Sklens at 384-1807.

Spring ASP - Looking for college-age and adult volunteers to participate in the Spring Appalachia Service Project to Tennessee from March 1-8, 2013.  Construction and repair skills NOT necessary, only a willingness to serve.  Please contact Bill Buhi or call 377-0114 to indicate your interest.

 Sunday Morning Altar Flowers - If you wish to reserve the Worship Center altar flowers in honor or memory of someone or to the Glory of God, please contact Tammy  or click here.  The cost is $30 per arrangement.  

Volunteer Opportunities

We are in need of volunteers for the Front Reception Desk, please contact Susan Kovi for details.  

If you want to volunteer but don't see anything that interests you, contact Susan Kovi.  Susan can help you help Trinity!    

Communion Stewards are still needed for all three Sunday services - especially the 9:40 and 11:00 services.  No experience is needed.  Volunteers may help as they are available.  No short or long term commitment.  Please contact Pam Goad or Chuck Goad.   

Kitchen Volunteers Needed: The food service ministry needs your help. Please contact Franny or call 416-3027 if you are available to give a hand. 

Weekly Bible Studies

-Tuesday Morning Moms, Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30, E203

-Women Growing in Faith, Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30, E232

- Men's Prayer and Bible Study, Wednesdays, 7:00 am, E232

- Wednesday Morning Pastor's Bible Study, Wednesdays at

9:15 am, Chapel

- Exploring Jesus' Teachings Bible Study, Thursdays at 10:30am, E232

- Dan Johnson's Daily Scripture Email is available upon request.  

Trinity Members in the News

We would love for you to share any news involving our Trinity family.  Please contact Tammy or call 416-3005.

Family Matters

Birthday Greetings are extended to Harold Snider (90), 12/2, Francine Bangstad (95), 12/5, Annelle McIntyre (91), 12/8.

If you are celebrating your 80th, 90th, 90th plus birthday and would like it announced in the Tuesday Word and/or the bulletin, contact Tammy Karafa.  

Death Notice Christian Love & Sympathy is extended to Rev. Jan Richardson on the December 2 passing of her husband Garrison Doles.  Garrison was also the son in-law of Joe and Judy Richardson.

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Trinity United Methodist Church

4000 NW 53rd Avenue

Gainesville, FL 32653 United States

(352)376-6615

TrinityGNV.org

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