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Sign up now for the Great Day of Service March 27! More than 20 community projects need helpers
Mar. 27, 2010 Chris UnderwoodOn Palm Saturday, March 27 from 7:30 AM - 12 Noon, Trinity members will fan out all over Birmingham to tackle mission projects benefitting the people of many communities. Here are just a few of the projects we will be doing. If you would like more info or to sign up to participate, please contact Lisa Elliott at 879-1737 or .
CLICK HERE to register to participate online.
Projects at Councill Elementary School:
1. Painting second and third floor hallways
2. Classroom cleaning
3. Whiteboard installation
4. Landscaping and mulching
5. Shelving
6. Tutoring/working with kids, volunteering at school (any time during Lent)
Projects at Restoration Mission:
1. Shelving
2. Floor Painting (FULL)
3. Correcting exterior water issues
4. Tutoring and working with kids (any time during Lent)
Habitat House Build: Team Leader, Laura McCain
Our Habitat for Humanity Build will be one of the Great Day Projects. Trinity will participate for the second year in the Lenten Build on Saturday, March 27. We will join several other churches to build a home during the season of Lent. Questions? Contact Laura McCain at 870-4550 or .
Sorting Items at Trinity: Team Leader, Bettie Jackson
COLLECTIONS for various agencies:
We will also be collecting items to help our various partner agencies in Birmingham. You may bring donations to one of the bins located by the office or in the Commons area.
--- Clothes for the Homeless:
Work and practical everyday clothes for men and women (jeans, work shoes, shirts, jackets - no dressy clothes, high heels, etc.). Be sure clothes are clean and in good condition. NEW (in the bag) underwear and socks.
After School Snacks for Restoration Mission: juice boxes, individually-wrapped crackers, HEALTHY packaged snacks (no potato chips, candy).
--- Food and Supplies for Reconciler and Pantries:
Peanut butter and jelly, canned goods, latex gloves, toothbrushes, resealable plastic bags.
--- Canning Jars for Sand Mountain Parish:
These will be collected in the Commons.
--- School Supplies for Councill Elementary:
Copy Paper, Drawing Paper, Composition Notebooks (3 Subject), Graphing Paper, Construction Paper, Loose Leaf Notebook Paper, Red and Black Ink Pens, Dry Erase Markers (Multi colored), Permanent Markers, Modeling Clay, Pencils, Staples, Paper Clips, Pocket Folders, Manilla Folders, 8x11 Clasp Folders, Ink cartridges (HP 22, 27), Rulers, Basic Function Calculators (Dollar Store Variety)
ALSO THIS SPRING, Church of the Reconciler has several open dates to volunteer to serve the Sunday Common Meal during the first half of 2010. Times are hard and needs are great. These open dates are as follows: March 21 / April 18 / May 16 / May 30 / June 20. This Sunday Common Meal is a critical part of the Sunday worship service for the homeless community. Besides feeding the hungry, it is a wonderful opportunity for us to meet, greet, worship and serve these fellow brothers and sisters in God’s community. We gain more than we give. This is a great opportunity for Sunday School classes or small groups to come together to prepare food and serve 300 to 400 persons a wonderful meal. For more information, interested groups can contact David Miller at 320-2680 or .
CLICK HERE to register to participate online.
Posted in: NewsGreat Day of Service
Mar. 9, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:Great Day of Service - A way for Children to share!
Mar. 9, 2010 Jeanne BaswellHere’s a chance to share! We’ll be collecting items for children! You are invited to bring one or more of the items listed below to Sunday school on March 7th, 14th or 21st. What a nice way to celebrate the Lenten season by sharing with others!
Crayons
Scissors
Glue sticks
Magic Markers
Fat pencils
Construction paper
Spiral notebooks
Staples
Paper Clips
Zip pouches
Loose Leaf paper
Pens
Rulers
Summer 2010! Kids join the fun!
Mar. 9, 2010 Jeanne BaswellMISSION CAMP
June 8-10, Mon.-Wed, 9 am-3 pm
Completed 3rd-5th Grade
Kids will experience a different “hands on” mission opportunity every day, including visiting a retirement home and an agency involved in providing for the poor. $25
TRINITY DAY CAMP
June 14-17 Mon.-Thurs., 8:30 am-3:30 pm
Completed 3rd-5th Grade
Join your friends for summer time fun. We’ll take the vans to Camp Coleman each day to enjoy outdoor activities including craft time, Bible study, swimming, hiking and nature activities. $75
FUN DAY FOR 4 AND 5
July 8th 9am-11:30pm Ages 4 and 5 only
The Gathering Place (room 111)
Come join us for a fun day of experiment and exploration. We will be making God’s word memorable through active learning. Supplies fee: $5
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
July 19-22 Mon.-Thurs., 9 am-12 pm
Completed 3K-2nd Grade
Come join the fun at Galactic Blast. as we take a Cosmic Adventure Praising God through Bible stories, crafts, music and recreation! Register on-line: http://www.trinitybirminghm.com
SUMATANGA SLEEPOVER
June 26-27 or July 10-11 Sat. 10 am - Sun. 12 pm
Completed 5K-2nd Grade
An overnight camp experience for children and their moms. Provides kids a chance to experience Camp Sumatanga and anticipate summer camp when they are older. $75
ART CAMP
June 7, 14 July 12, 26 August 2
All camps Mon.-Fri., 9 am-12 pm
Completed 5K-7th Grade
Creativity is encouraged as children experience a variety of media. Instructor: Elizabeth Hubbard $120
FUNTASTIC MUSIC CAMP
June 21-25 Mon.-Fri., 9 am-12 pm
Completed 5K-5th Grade
Sessions include singing, movement, instruments. Proceeds go to the Alabama chapter of American Orff-Schulwerk Association for continuing education for music teachers.
Coordinator/instructor: Theresa McKibben $85
BASKETBALL CAMP
June 28-July 2 or August 2-6, M-F, 9 am-4 pm
Or 1/2 day 9 am - 12 pm or 1 pm-4 pm
Completed 5K-7th Grade
Enjoy improving skills and learning fundamentals in this fast paced, fun environment. Participants are grouped by age and skill level. Instructor: Coach Paul Brown $80 for ½ day OR $145 for full day.
SUMATANGA DAY CAMP
June 28-July 2 Mon.-Fri., 7:30 am-5:15 pm
Completed 5K-2nd Grade
We’ll be going to Camp Sumatanga on the church van each day for swimming, canoeing, ropes course, hiking, crafts and Bible study. This day camp for younger children is directed by Sumatanga staff. $100 (space is VERY limited).
CAMP SUMATANGA ELEMENTARY CAMP
Camps begin on Sundays, June 13, 20, 27, July 11, 18, 25
Sun. 4 PM-Fri. 5 PM
Completed 3rd-5th Grade
Enjoy a week long camp with Bible study, crafts, swimming, hiking and other outdoor activities. Trinity kids receive $50 scholarship with registration confirmation. $275
Register online at http://www.sumatanga.org
Contact Linda Whatley or Jeanne Baswell with any questions.
Posted in: News
March 9, 2010
Mar. 9, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:March 7, 2010
Mar. 7, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:Condemned by the Righteous, 03/07.
Mar. 3, 2010 Contact Worship
March 2, 2010
Mar. 2, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:March Menu
Mar. 1, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in: TCDCWALK TO CHURCH MONTH
Mar. 1, 2010 Amy MezzellTrinity is holding it’s second annual Walk-Bike-Carpool to Church Month during the month of March!
The church encourages all of us to try out an alternative form of transportation to get to and from church during this event to benefit our environment and ourselves. Some of the many benefits would be spending more time with your family as you walk to church, getting more exercise, spending time enjoying God’s Creation, saving gas money, reducing carbon emissions, and being good exmaples to the community by showing how Trinity UMC cares about taking care of our world.
If you have a bike, helmet, skateboard, etc. to store, you may store it in the gym during these weeks.
If you would like to purchase a shirt, you can do so by emailing Amy Mezzell or finding them on Sunday, February 28 in the 2nd Floor Commone Area before and after Sunday School. They are $10, and sizes Youth XS - Adult 2X are available. These are the same shirts as last year, so if you already have one, your old one will work just fine.
Posted in: Social JusticeTrinity Orchestra • February 28, 2010
Feb. 28, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:The Garden of Gethsemane
Feb. 28, 2010 Contact Worship Posted in:February 28, 2010
Feb. 28, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:How Trinity Members can reach out to Haiti
Feb. 28, 2010 Dave BarnhartYou can respond to the humanitarian crisis in Haiti over the next several weeks in two ways.
To make a special offering simply write “Haiti Response” on your check or on the outside of your offering envelope. The collected offering will go to UMCOR. The United Methodist Committee on Relief, is our world-wide relief agency. UMCOR was already present in Haiti before the earthquake hit. Some UMCOR staff remain missing after the earthquakes. UMCOR is an agency with the reputation of “first in, last out.” They are often the first to be on the scene with food, medical supplies, and relief professionals. Their disaster response lasts for years after the media leaves and others forget. 100% of your donation to the special offering will go to UMCOR’s relief efforts. You can look at UMCOR’s exceptional record by visiting the website Charity Navigator.
Also, a much needed item for every individual displaced by the earthquate and living in temporary shelter is a health kit, which consists of soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and other small necessities. This is a great project for you, your family, children or Sunday School class. Trinity’s Seniors have made dozens this past week. (To join the Seniors in this effort, call Amy Lewis). Instructions for making health kits can be found here or here (downloadable pdf. We will receive completed kits or kit materials at collection points in the Narthex and the Commons of the church building. These health kits will go to the Sager Brown distribution center in Louisiana, which sends relief supplies to UMCOR field workers to distribute to disaster survivors.
Please also continue to be in prayer for the people of Haiti, for their friends and families who wait anxiously for word of their loved ones, and for the relief staff who are working and missing in Haiti.
Posted in: International, NewsThe Garden Of Gethsemane, 02/28.
Feb. 26, 2010 Contact Worship
DISCOVERY Weekend Feb. 26-28
Feb. 26, 2010 Haley SmithDISCOVERY weekend is coming! February 26-28
DISCOVERY is a 43-hour spiritual retreat geared toward middle school students. It provides an opportunity for our students to not only learn about, but also to experience, the love of God. We invite you to join us as we all discover what God has in store for us. This year’s theme is Seriously Ridiculous.
There are many different areas of need for the weekend. We need your help with meals, snacks, clean up and set up. Letters from the congregation are also needed to give to the students. We also encourage you to pray for the weekend and the students that are involved!
You are also invited to the Discovery Prayer Service at 7 PM on Saturday evening, Feb. 27. This is held in the Sanctuary. Join us as we pray for our students in this special service.
If you would like to help, contact David Thompson at 879-1737 or email .
Posted in: NewsFebruary 23, 2010
Feb. 23, 2010 Haley SmithThey were showing reruns of Forrest Gump on TV last week. It is one of my all time favorite movies. It shares the story of a young man who is mentally “challenged,” but whose life in every other way challenges us.
In the movie, Jenny is a young girl who rescues Forrest from the bullies on the school bus. They become life long friends. But as they grow up, it is apparent that Jenny is the one who most needs rescuing. Terrorized by an abusive, alcoholic father, Jenny spends much of her life running. She leaves home in search of love.
Through the years, Forrest continues to cross paths with Jenny as she bounces from one relationship to another. She, too, becomes an addict. The only fixed point in her life is Forrest, who continues to believe in her innocence and goodness, and he continues to love. But Jenny continues to run and search.
It takes a terminal illness for Jenny to realize that the love she has been searching for was right there waiting for her all the time. It was the love of Forrest who was simple and not very smart, but who knew what love was. They married, and for a few brief months before her death, Jenny finally discovers the peace that only love can bring.
The season of Lent is a season of return. It calls us back to the basics of life. The good news of the gospel is so simple that we can miss it: the one constant in life is God’s love for us. We can try to find that core love in lots of other ways, and come up empty. Yet no matter where we run, how lost we become, His love is there waiting for us when we are ready to return and receive it.
Posted in:February 23, 2010
Feb. 23, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:The Last Supper
Feb. 21, 2010 Contact Worship Posted in:February 21, 2010
Feb. 21, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:The Last Supper, 02/21.
Feb. 19, 2010 Contact Worship
Jeanne Baswell
Feb. 17, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in: RegularKaren Smith
Feb. 17, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in: RegularAsh Wednesday Services
Feb. 17, 2010 Haley SmithAsh Wednesday Services
FEBRUARY 17, 2010
7:00 - 8:00 AM • Morning Come and Go Service - Sanctuary
6:30 PM • Service of Ashes & Holy Communion - Sanctuary
In the Old Testament ashes were a sign of penitence – a sign of turning from sin to God. Lent begins with the use of this ancient sign in a service of prayer, hymns and Holy Communion.
For information on Lent, click here.
For information on Holy Week and Easter Services, click here.
Posted in: NewsFebruary 16, 2010
Feb. 16, 2010 Haley SmithJust one day is not much in the grand scheme of things. If we live to be 75, we will have lived 27,750 days – one day just like the others for the most part. But there are those single days which stand out, because on that single day something happens which shapes all the days that will follow.
Several summers ago, I stood on the beaches of Normandy in France, where 60 plus years ago the allied armies launched their invasion to liberate Europe from the Nazi tyranny. D-Day was perhaps the single most important day in the 20th Century. Within that 24 hour span of time, the course of history shifted towards freedom. The decisive battle was fought and won.
As Christians, we have our D-Day – the last day of Jesus’ life among us. Jesus is believed to have lived to the age of 33. The gospels devote most of their attention to just three of those years. And of those three years, the primary focus was on just one day – the day Jesus was crucified. In 2 Corinthians Paul writes, “For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.”
At the cross, something happened that forever altered the course of history. On that day, the Gospels declare God acted decisively to bring about redemption; to free us from sin and death. No other event has had more impact on history than what happened on that day.
Our theme for Lent this year is “24 Hours That Changed the World.” During this season, we will walk with Jesus. Sit beside him at the Last Supper. Pray with him in Gethsemane. Follow him to the cross. Deny him and desert him. In that journey, there is the promise that we will be changed.
I invite us all to enter this Lenten season open to what God wants to do in us and through us. Make worship, Bible study, and prayer your top priorities in this season. May these 40 days shape all of the other days of our lives.
Posted in:February 16, 2010
Feb. 16, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:Jesus in the Stained-Glass Window
Feb. 14, 2010 Contact Worship Posted in:Methodism 101
Feb. 14, 2010 Karen SmithMethodism 101
10 AM in the Small Dining Room
SUNDAYS, Feb. 14, 21 & 28
• Who is John Wesley?
• What Do Methodists Believe?
• How IS Methodism Different from Other Denominations?
New members, New Christians or those who want to know more about Methodism…Get the answer to these questions and more.
Come to Methodism 101 to learn about Methodist history, theology and practice. Led by Dr. Andy Wolfe
Posted in: NewsFebruary 14, 2010
Feb. 14, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:Jesus in the Stained-Glass Window, 02/14.
Feb. 12, 2010 Contact Worship
UMW Decorator Registration
Feb. 9, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in: OtherUMW Decorator Information
Feb. 9, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in: OtherHoly Week & Easter Services
Feb. 9, 2010 Haley SmithHOLY WEEK
A GREAT DAY OF SERVICE • Saturday, March 27 • 7:30 am -12 noon
Once again, on Palm Saturday, Trinity members will fan out all over Birmingham to tackle mission projects in our own community. If you can swing a hammer, you can build a wheelchair ramp or work on a Habitat House. If painting’s your thing, we’ll have places for you to paint. For younger kids and less-mobile folks, we’ll have groups sorting supplies.
New this year! A 6-week emphasis on one local school throughout the season of Lent. We will be partnering with Council Elementary in Ensley to collect supplies and work on their “honey-do” list. We’ll provide more details for specific projects that your Sunday school or small group may want to adopt. Watch Tidings for more information or contact
PALM CROSS WORKSHOP • Saturday, March 27 • 9:00 AM
Fellowship Hall. Bring your scissors and help make Palm Crosses that will be used in the Palm Sunday services. All are welcome and a nursery is provided. Questions? Contact Ann Damsgard at 871-8078.
PALM SUNDAY • March 28
• Palm Procession for all children at 8:45 and 11:00 AM worship services
• Annual Spring Egg Hunt at 3:30 PM, Overton Park in Homewood
• “Prayers Around the Cross” Taize Service at 6:00 PM in the Sanctuary
HOLY WEEK NOON SERVICES • March 29-31
These half hour lunchtime services at Noon on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of Holy Week provide a convenient worship opportunity. A guest speaker is featured each day, and a nursery is provided. Lunch is served following each service at 12:30 PM in the Fellowship Hall ($4 per person).
Guest Speakers:
- Monday, March 29, Rev. Mitchell Williams, Central United Methodist Decatur
- Tuesday, March 30, Rev. Mary Bendall, First United Methodist Tuscaloosa
- Wednesday, March 31, Rev. Glenn Connor, First United Methodist Huntsville
MAUNDY THURSDAY • April 1 • 7:00 PM
Service of Holy Communion, Sanctuary
GOOD FRIDAY • April 2
• 2:00 PM - Homewood Community “Way of the Cross” Processional
• 7:00 PM - A Service of Darkness with scripture, prayers and liturgy.
Special music by the Sanctuary Choir and Trinity Orchestra.
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EASTER SERVICES
Sunday, April 4, 2010
SUNRISE SERVICE • 6:30 am in Wesley Hall led by Trinity’s youth. Breakfast will follow the service in the Fellowship Hall.
TRADITIONAL WORSHIP • 8:45 & 11:00 am in the Sanctuary led by Dr. Andrew Wolfe with Trinity Choirs and Orchestra.
CONTACT CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP • 11:15 am in Wesley Hall led by Dr. Dave Barnhart with the CONTACT Band.
Posted in:Lent 2010
Feb. 9, 2010 Haley SmithFor information on Holy Week and Easter services, please click here.
Lent 2010: 24 Hours That Changed The World
Lent is the 40 day season of preparation leading up to Easter. Based upon Jesus’ own wilderness temptation, it calls us to a period of prayerful reflection. Lent is perhaps the most challenging season in the Christian year. It leads us straight to the crucifixion. To enter this season is to confront the reality of our own potential for both good and evil. It was the religious folks who wanted Jesus out of the way!
The intent of Lent is to call us to a deeper awareness of both sin and grace so that we become more deeply committed disciples of Jesus. Spiritual disciplines of prayer, worship, Bible study, and fasting are given special attention so that we become intentional about seeking God’s will and purpose. Often people fast (or give up something) a meal, a particular food or a bad habit. Alternatively they take on something new, such as acts of service, as ways of aligning their lives with God’s purposes. Lent says to us “take time for God, live life at a different pace, change your patterns, reorder your priorities.” You are invited to join us as our Lenten observance will include many opportunities for worship, study, prayer and service.
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ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICES, February 17
7:00 - 8:00 AM • Morning Come and Go Service - Sanctuary
6:30 PM • Service of Ashes & Holy Communion - Sanctuary
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SERMON SERIES...24 Hours That Changed The World
No single event has had more impact on human history than the death and resurrection of Jesus. Jesus is believed to have died at the age of 33. The gospel writers devoted most of their attention on three of those years, but their primary interest was on one particular day – the day he was crucified. All that preceded led to this one day, where God acted decisively to bring about redemption and reconciliation. In I Corinthians 2:2 Paul writes, “I decided to know nothing else among you except Jesus Christ, and him crucified.”
During the Lenten season we will be looking at the events of that one 24 hour period, to gain a fresh understanding as to their meaning and impact on our lives. In addition to a weekly sermon series, a DVD series is available for classroom use and a daily devotional book is also available for personal use. (See details below.)
Dr. Andy Wolfe
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• DEVOTIONAL BOOKS & YARD CROSSES
24 Hours That Changed the World: 40 Days of Reflection, by Adam Hamilton.
Devotional books and wooden yard crosses will be available for purchase on Sunday, February 14, on Ash Wednesday, February 17 and on Sunday, February 21 after each service in the Narthex and in the 2nd floor commons area.
[ Devotional Books: $4.00 each / Yard Crosses: $5.00 suggested donation]
• COMMUNION DURING LENT
Full Communion will be served on Ash Wednesday, February 17, on Sunday, February 21 at all worship services, and at the Maundy Thursday service on April 1. Communion is also offered during Lent following all Sunday worship services in the Sanctuary at 9:45 AM and 12:00 PM.
• LENTEN OFFERING
The Gospel of John says, “God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son...” The Christian faith centers in this radical act of love that led Jesus to bear the cross for us. Through Trinity’s Lenten Offering, we have the opportunity to reflect this love by making a sacrificial offering for others. The Lenten Offering goes to support ministries beyond the walls of Trinity. These outreach ministries touch the lives of children (Baby Love, Babies First), the poor, elderly, and homeless (Birmingham Hospitality Network, Urban Ministry, Firehouse Shelter) and people in other countries or in disaster situations (Volunteers in Mission). This offering can be made at any time during Lent by using the Lenten envelopes.
• WAY OF THE CROSS, Paintings & Devotional
Trinity’s Way of the Cross is a series of twelve paintings created by Trinity artists, which portray Jesus’ journey to the cross. These paintings provide a way to enter into Jesus’ journey in an act of devotion and worship.
CLICK HERE for an online version of this devotional practice, as we join our journeys with Christ’s journey for us.
For information on Holy Week and Easter services, please click here.
February 9, 2010
Feb. 9, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:February 8, 2010
Feb. 8, 2010 Haley SmithA vital part of our mission at Trinity is to GO in order to serve Christ in the world. The recent church survey we completed in January, revealed that we are living out this mission. 64% reported that they had participated in an outreach or mission project in the last year! For 20% of you, this is an ongoing, recurring participation.
25% of you participated in last year’s Great Day of Service, 37% worked with the homeless though Birmingham Hospitality Network, and 35% worked with the Church of the Reconciler.
A few weeks ago I challenged us to respond to the ongoing humanitarian disaster in Haiti. Thus far, you have given over 1,100 health care kits to be shipped to Haiti by United Methodist Committee on Relief. In addition, $23,500 has been collected for the ongoing recovery in that nation through the United Methodist Committee on Relief.
Most of our outreach efforts are local in nature. During Lent we will partner with Council Elementary School in Ensley to work with their students, as well as work on their facilities. Our hope is that this relationship might continue.
This summer, there are two opportunities to be a part of an international mission trip. Last year, we helped to purchase land in Zambia to be used to construct a compound for the Methodist Church in that nation. It will also be used as a training center for SIFAT, an Alabama based ministry which teaches appropriate technology in third world nations. Our team will help to construct a wall around the new Methodist center. Another mission team will travel to Bolivia where they will be digging wells, teaching people how to build stoves, and working with children. International mission trips can be life transforming in helping persons move beyond their comfort zones. If you would like to travel with Jesus and our team to Zambia or Bolivia this summer, contact Dave Barnhart.
In Matthew 24, Jesus invites us to join him in his ministry to the least of these. We as a church, take serious that mandate to be a part of what Jesus is doing to heal and redeem the world.
February 7, 2010
Feb. 7, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:Catching People, 02/07.
Feb. 5, 2010 Contact Worship
Bham Hospitality Network hosts families at Trinity; ministry needs sheets, blankets
Feb. 4, 2010 Chris UnderwoodTrinity will host homeless families three times during the weeks of February 28, July 20 and October 10 this year. This ministry provided a very valuable service to families who find themselves in need of shelter and food. As one of 16 congregations, Trinity houses, feeds and shows the love of Christ to these families for one full week. This program allows the families to stay together; previously men and women had to split up into Men’s and Women’s Shelters, young teenaged daughters couldn’t stay with their fathers nor could teenaged sons stay with their mothers. Volunteers are always needed. Also there is a current need for TWIN bed blankets and sheets in good condition. If you are interested or need more information, contact Laura McCain at or 870-4550. Donations may be left in the church office.
Also for BHN....Clean out your jewelry drawer and help the homeless through BHN. Any and all jewelry items that you no longer want are needed for a Birmingham Hospitality Network (BHN) Project.BHN will take old, new, real, costume, broken, knotted and even jewelry in good condition. Place your items in Ziploc bags and contact Joyce Kent at 874-1231 or 647-4469. Donations can be delivered to the church office. (Charitable donation receipts are available for itemized donations and written appraisals are available for items valued at $500 or more.)
Trinity Men! Don’t Miss Mike Kolen this Thursday night!
Feb. 4, 2010 Haley SmithYou are invited...Thursday, February 4 • 6:30 PM
Trinity Men will hold their kickoff event for the Spring series on Thursday evening, February 4. The night will include a catered dinner by The Fish Market (fish and chicken entree options) and the featured speaker is Mike Kolen “Captain Crunch” of Auburn Tiger and Miami Dolphin fame. Tickets are on sale now and are available in the church office. 879-1737.
Questions? Contact Tim Tatum at 879-1737 or email .
Posted in: All GroupsFebruary 2, 2010
Feb. 2, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:February 2, 2010
Feb. 1, 2010 Haley SmithBack in January, we took a survey. We asked you some questions, actually a lot of questions, about how we are doing, what we do well, and what we need to do better. 511 of you responded. Here are some things we learned:
• 54% of you are under the age of 45
• The greatest number of you (63%) typically attend the 8:45 AM service
• 89% agreed that all of the elements of our worship services (music, prayers, sermons, bulletins, visuals) were good
• On improving worship, we had responses like: sing more hymns we know, and sing more new hymns! Most of you could think of no ways in which we need to improve our worship.
• 70% of you attend Sunday School 3-4 times a month
• 65% of you were involved in some outreach/mission project last year
• 46% of the men have participated in one of our Trinity Men’s events
• The main reasons people love Trinity are: 1) worship 2) relationships 3) general sense of vitality 4) small group or Sunday School
• 76% have heard of our prayer ministry and 53% use the weekly prayer list
• You told us that Trinity excels at children’s ministry, youth ministry, music, missions, preaching, and lay involvement
• 86% told us that we do welcoming and hospitality better than other churches
• The single most memorable service/events you attended were: A Night in Bethlehem, Christmas Eve Services, Holy Week Services, and Alpha
• 63% of you who have children, believe our children’s program needs no improvement!
• The perception of Trinity in the wider community is positive, friendly, active and growing
• Some “holes” and areas given for improvement: single’s ministry, college ministry, and support groups
There are lots of other specific responses and ideas that we are looking at from the survey. Overall, the thing we learned is that most of you feel we are doing well. In this kind of anonymous survey, people have the opportunity to complain, list pet peeves, and get issues off their chest. We received very little of that. You provided us with very useful feedback that we are using to build a stronger Body of Christ.
Thank you for taking the time to tell us how we are doing and what we need to be doing!
Posted in:February 2010
Feb. 1, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:Dangerous Words
Jan. 31, 2010 Contact Worship Posted in:Dr. Tom Long Speaking on January 31
Jan. 31, 2010 Haley SmithThe Harry Elliott Bible Conference Presents
The Rev. Dr. Thomas G. Long
Candler School of Theology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
Sunday, January 31 at Trinity United Methodist Church
The Rev. Dr. Thomas G. Long is the Bandy Professor of Preaching at Candler School of Theology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, and the author or editor of 14 books on preaching and worship. He is ordained in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). He is the chair of the Day1 Advisory Board, comprised of leading preachers, scholars, and other leaders.
Dr. Long received his BA and M.Div. from Erskine Seminary and his Ph.D. from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1980. He began his career as a preacher at McElroy Presbyterian Church near Atlanta, GA and since that time has taught at a number of seminaries, including Princeton. Columbia, and Candler. In 1996, Dr. Long was named one of the twelve most effective preachers in the English speaking world by Baylor University, along with the likes of Fred Craddock, Billy Graham, James Forbes, Barbara Brown Taylor and William Willimon. He was ordained by the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church and currently his ordination is held by the PCUSA.
Dr. Long’s research interests are homiletical theory and biblical hermeneutics and preaching. He also is doing research on the theology and practice of Christian funerals. He will visit Trinity on Sunday, January 31 and deliver lectures throughout the day.
You are invited to attend one or all of the following:
Sermon | 8:45 & 11 AM Worship, Sanctuary | “A Great Chasm” based on Luke 16:19-31
Lecture | 10 AM (Sunday School Hour), Sanctuary | Jesus as God’s Riddle: Parables in the Gospel of Mark
Lecture | 5 PM, Wesley Hall | Wisdom and Foolishness: Parables in the Gospel of Matthew
•• Light Snack Supper Provided ••
Lecture | 6:30 PM, Wesley Hall | Making Room at God’s Table: Parables in the Gospel of Luke
Posted in: NewsDangerous Words, 01/31.
Jan. 27, 2010 Contact Worship
January 26, 2010
Jan. 26, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:UMW General Meeting
Jan. 25, 2010 Haley SmithUnited Methodist Women General Meeting
Monday, January 25 at 10 AM
Fellowship Hall
Guest Speaker: Rev. Matt Lacey / Topic: “My Faith Journey”
The Jubilee Year
Jan. 24, 2010 Contact Worship Posted in:The Jubilee Year, 01/24.
Jan. 22, 2010 Contact Worship
January 19, 2010
Jan. 19, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:January 19, 2010
Jan. 19, 2010 Haley SmithWe have all been moved by the pictures of the recent disaster in Haiti, already the poorest country in our hemisphere. The magnitude 7.0 earthquake which struck that nation last week left tens of thousands dead, and hundreds of thousands homeless. Among the fatalities were United Methodist missionaries Rev. Clinton Robb, who organized missions volunteers for the church, and Rev. Sam Dixon, head of the United Methodist Committee on Relief. They were in Haiti to attend meetings about ongoing mission work to that nation. Both lost their lives when the hotel in which they were meeting collapsed. Jean Arnwine was a member of a 12 person Medical Mission Team from the Highland Park United Methodist Church in Dallas. That church has been sending teams to Haiti since 1976. Arnwine, on her first trip to Haiti, died from injuries sustained during the quake. We mourn the loss of these and the many thousands who died.
We also remember that Jesus told us that even as we have done it unto the least of these…we have done to Him. The United Methodist Church is already sending supplies. We will be present in Haiti for many years to come to help with rebuilding. Right now, we are asking these things:
• Health Kit Assembly - Health Kits are being sent now. You can assemble these kits or bring items needed for them to the church (There are collection bins around the building). See page 4 for details and a full list of items needed.
• Money - We will be working through the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) in the short term and long term. I am asking and praying that Trinity give at least $30,000 to a special offering for this purpose. You can mark your checks Haiti and mail them or drop them in the offering plate.
• Pray - It is hard to even imagine the magnitude of suffering we are witnessing. Let us pray for healing and hope for God’s children in Haiti.
Let us be a part of what God is doing to bring that healing and hope in the midst of disaster.
Posted in:Head Heart Hands
Jan. 17, 2010 Contact Worship Posted in:Ministry Fair • JAN. 17
Jan. 17, 2010 Haley SmithMINISTRY FAIR - JANUARY 17
Where will you serve in 2010?
Come to Trinity’s Annual Ministry Fair on January 17 at 9:45 AM in the Fellowship Hall. You will have the opportunity to discover all of the ministry opportunities that Trinity has to offer. Attend and enjoy fellowship and a delicious, complimentary breakfast during the Sunday School hour. Don’t miss it!
Head • Heart • Hands, 01/17.
Jan. 14, 2010 Contact Worship
January 12, 2010
Jan. 12, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:You Aint Seen Nothin’ Yet
Jan. 10, 2010 Contact Worship Posted in:Choices
Jan. 10, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:You Ain’t Seen Nothin’ Yet, 01/10.
Jan. 8, 2010 Contact Worship
January 5, 2010
Jan. 5, 2010 Haley SmithOne of the movies we went to see over the holidays was the new Sherlock Holmes movie starring Robert Downey. It offered a new twist on an old story of villains and heroes. It was full of action and special effects and it was lots of fun, if you like this kind of film.
As the movie reached its climax and resolution, with Sherlock getting his man, not all the loose ends were tied up. There was a sub plot, involving yet another bad guy, which was not resolved. As the credits were rolling, I thought to myself – “sequel.” The producer intentionally left part of the story unresolved because he was setting us up for a sequel...another film to take up where the action left off. I am willing to bet that sequel and perhaps more like it are already being written.
2009 has come to an end. No doubt for most of us there were successes and failures, good times and bad times. Hopefully at year’s end, we left much resolved. But, I am also willing to bet that most of us entered the new year with some loose ends that still have to be tied up. There are ongoing issues – things still to be settled. In that sense, 2010 will be a sequel – a continuation of the story and a new chapter.
The Gospel is inherently future oriented. The good news of Jesus is that he offers forgiveness and grace as a way to heal the past and open the door to a new and different future. We Methodists talk about “sanctification” – the ongoing work of God in our lives by which we are conformed to Christ. This is a process. It doesn’t happen all at once. The point is that the story of our lives is still being written by God. There is always a sequel, even at the end!
It’s called resurrection.
As we enter this new year, I invite you to ask what chapter God is trying to write in your life this year.
Posted in:January 5, 2010
Jan. 5, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:2010-11 TCDC Registration Form
Jan. 4, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in: TCDCJanuary 3, 2010
Jan. 3, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:The Plan
Jan. 3, 2010 Contact Worship Posted in:The Plan, 01/03.
Jan. 2, 2010 Contact Worship
January 01, 2010
Jan. 1, 2010 Haley Smith Posted in:Christmas Eve Services
Dec. 24, 2009 Haley SmithChildren’s Services
4:00 & 5:00 PM | Wesley Hall
These services are designed especially for families with young children. The children are encouraged to dress as Mary,
Joseph, shepherds, angels or manger animals, and become a part of the Nativity story. Costumes available.
Personal Communion
4:00 - 6:00 PM | Sanctuary
Come and go at any time during these two hours for an intimate time of family or individual worship and communion.
Candlelight Communion
7:00 & 11:00 PM | Sanctuary
Trinity’s traditional services of Christmas with music, word, candlelight and communion. With special music by Trinity Sanctuary Choir, Cross & Flame Youth Choir, Trinity String Orchestra and Organ
Please note: Nursery Not Available on Christmas Eve.
Posted in: NewsDecember 22, 2009
Dec. 22, 2009 Haley Smith Posted in:Jesus Goes to School, 12/27.
Dec. 21, 2009 Contact Worship
INVITATION TO ROMANS
Dec. 21, 2009 Amy Mezzell Posted in:BIBLE STUFF 201
Dec. 21, 2009 Amy Mezzell Posted in:WOMEN’S STUDY: Breaking Free by Beth Moore
Dec. 21, 2009 Amy Mezzell Posted in:A MILE IN MY SHOES: Cultivating Compassion
Dec. 21, 2009 Amy Mezzell Posted in:Home Alone
Dec. 20, 2009 Contact Worship Posted in:Service of Lessons & Carols
Dec. 20, 2009 Haley SmithYou are invited to join us for our annual SERVICE OF LESSONS & CAROLS
Sunday, December 20
8:45 & 11:00 AM Traditional Worship Services
Trinity’s annual service of music and scripture for the season.
This Sunday, 12/20 - Christmas in Hollywood: Home Alone.
Dec. 16, 2009 Contact Worship
December 15, 2009
Dec. 15, 2009 Haley Smith Posted in:December 14, 2009
Dec. 14, 2009 Haley SmithOne of my favorite Christmas poems is found in the book Kneeling in Bethlehem by Ann Weems.
She writes:
In each heart lies a Bethlehem,
an inn where we must ultimately answer
whether there is room or not.
When we are Bethlehem-bound
we experience our own Advent in his.
When we are Bethlehem-bound
we can no longer look the other way
conveniently not seeing stars
not hearing angel voices.
We can no longer excuse ourselves by busily
tending our sheep or our kingdoms.
This Advent, let’s go to Bethlehem
and see this thing that the Lord has made known to us.
In the midst of shopping sprees
let’s ponder in our heart the Gift of Gifts.
Through the tinsel
let’s look for the gold of the Christmas Star.
In the excitement and confusion, in the merry chaos,
let’s listen for the brush of angels’ wings.
This Advent, let’s go to Bethlehem
and find our kneeling places.
December 13, 2009
Dec. 14, 2009 Haley Smith Posted in:Joyeux Noel
Dec. 13, 2009 Contact Worship Posted in:December 8, 2009
Dec. 9, 2009 Haley Smith“It’s not your birthday.” That was Mike Slaughter’s Advent message to his con- gregation of 4,500 at Ginghamsburg United Methodist Church in Ohio. He pointed out that although the tradition of gift-giving started out with Saint Nicholas’ gifts to the poor, our tradition has evolved to be primarily about giving gifts to ourselves. We buy gifts for our own family – the very people who are likely to buy gifts for us. As if it were our birthday, instead of the Son of God’s! So he made a simple challenge to his congregation: calculate the amount of money you are spending on gifts to your friends and family...and give that amount to the poor. People who took the challenge seriously said it made them re-evaluate how and why they give at Christmas. Some cut back their spending. Others found themselves to be more generous than they ever expected. Since that challenge, their church raised over three million dollars for refugees from Darfur.
Your donation to the Christmas Gift of Joy goes to support Trinity’s second-mile efforts. We support a number of partner agencies as well as our own in-house mission efforts.
Because of your generosity in 2009, you have:
• fed people at Church of the Reconciler 5 days out of the week • provided education, shelter, and resources to young mothers through Babies First
• kept premature babies warm with clothes made through Baby Love
• sheltered and fed people through the Firehouse Shelter
• provided health care through the clinic at M-Power
• supported Camp Sumatanga
• supported Camp Wesley in Latvia
All of this is due to your generosity and the second-mile giving you have done at Christmas and Easter. Yet, part of the reason we give is not because of the good we do. It’s because we have an urge to give, an urge given to us by our Creator. So this year as you make your budget and do your shopping, remember: “it’s not your birthday!”
Posted in:This Sunday, 12/13 - Christmas in Hollywood: Joyeux Noel.
Dec. 8, 2009 Contact Worship
December 8, 2009
Dec. 8, 2009 Haley Smith Posted in:How The Grinch Stole Christmas
Dec. 6, 2009 Contact Worship Posted in:Life Worth Living: Study of Philippians
Dec. 6, 2009 Amy Mezzell Posted in:Advent Study: “The Purpose of Christmas”
Dec. 6, 2009 Amy Mezzell Posted in:Children’s Christmas Concert
Dec. 6, 2009 Haley SmithAll Children’s Choirs will participate in the Trinity Children’s Choir Concert on Sunday, Dec. 6th, at 5:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
The 3, 4, and 5 year old choirs will sing, plus the Trinity Children’s Handbells.
The 1st-5th grade choirs will present the musical “The Unfriendly Beasts.”
Please plan to join us for this holiday event. Questions? Contact Theresa McKibben at or call 879-1737.
Posted in: NewsDecember 6, 2009
Dec. 6, 2009 Haley Smith Posted in:This Sunday, 12/6 - Christmas in Hollywood: How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
Dec. 5, 2009 Contact Worship
Outreach Meeting DEC. 7 and Social Justice Meetings planned for 2010
Dec. 3, 2009 Chris UnderwoodPlease join us in the Fireside Room at 7 PM for the monthly missions and outreach meeting on Monday, 12/7. Also, the Social Justice group will resume meeting in January 2010, at which time we will focus on Constitutional Reform in Alabama and Green Living Projects. Contact or 870-1489 for meeting times.
Posted in: NewsStill openings on Bolivia and Zambia International Mission Trips Summer of 2010
Dec. 3, 2009 Chris UnderwoodIf you would like to be part of an international mission trip this year, we have two exciting opportunities available: BOLIVIA & ZAMBIA. Anyone who would like to participate in these mission trips will be required to take part in team training which will be held during the Sunday School hour in the month of February. To learn more about these trips, contact team leaders Ken Stalnaker (kstalnak@bellsouthnet) or Dave Barnhart (). Participants are responsible for the cost of passports and immunizations. Scholarships are available for students, those with financial need, and those who have never been on a mission trip before.
DESTINATION: BOLIVIA (South America)
LIMIT: 8-10 participants
TIMEFRAME: 10 days in July
PROJECT: digging wells, making rocket ovens, building relationships
TEAM LEADER: Ken Stalnaker
APPROXIMATE COST:
$1600-1800
DESTINATION: ZAMBIA (Africa)
LIMIT: 8-12 participants
TIMEFRAME: 14 days in June
PROJECT: Exploratory missions, building relationships, construction of Methodist Center and SIFAT compound
TEAM LEADER: Dave Barnhart
APPROXIMATE COST:
$2800-3200
Christmas Gifts for children at Church of the Reconciler
Dec. 2, 2009 Jeanne BaswellHere’s a chance to share! We’re collecting items to be part of gift bags for children who attend the Church of the Reconciler! You are invited to bring one or more of the items listed below to Sunday school by December 13th. What a nice way to celebrate Jesus’ birth by sharing with others!
1st grade - 5th grade Sunday school classes
Individually packaged snacks
Soft of chewy candy, suckers
Crayons
Markers
Watercolors
Pencils
Drawing paper
Sticker books
Books
Games
Gloves/Mittens
Hats
Hoodies
Socks
3K-5K Sunday school classes
Peanut Butter
and/or
Personal Hygiene Items: toothbrush and paste, brush, combs, soap, shampoo, lotion
TCDC & PDO Registration Begins Dec. 2
Dec. 2, 2009 Haley SmithTrinity Child Development Center
and Parent’s Day Out (PDO) Program
Registration Dates for 2010-2011
Currently enrolled children & siblings - December 2
Trinity members – January 6
Community – January 20
Questions?
TCDC - Email
PDO - Email
Last Wednesday Supper Dec. 2
Dec. 2, 2009 Haley SmithThe last Wednesday Night Supper for the Fall semester will be served on Dec. 2.
MENU:
Adults: Spaghetti with meat sauce, small salad and garlic bread
(Salad Bar Available)
Kids: Pizza, fruit, milk & cookie
Christmas Services 2009
Dec. 1, 2009 Haley SmithA Service of Lessons and Carols
Sunday, December 20 • 8:45 and 11:00 AM
Trinity’s annual service of music and scripture for the season.
Presented by The Trinity Orchestra, Sanctuary Choir, Cross & Flame Youth Choir and the William A. Gardner Handbell Choir.
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CHRISTMAS EVE AT TRINITY
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Children’s Services
4:00 & 5:00 PM | Wesley Hall
These services are designed especially for families with young children. The children are encouraged to dress as Mary,
Joseph, shepherds, angels or manger animals, and become a part of the Nativity story. Costumes available.
Personal Communion
4:00 - 6:00 PM | Sanctuary
Come and go at any time during these two hours for an intimate time of family or individual worship and communion.
Candlelight Communion
7:00 & 11:00 PM | Sanctuary
Trinity’s traditional services of Christmas with music, word, candlelight and communion. With special music by Trinity Sanctuary Choir, Cross & Flame Youth Choir, Trinity String Orchestra and Organ
December 1, 2009
Dec. 1, 2009 Haley SmithFor some folks, the holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year. Decorations, festive parties, food, presents – what’s not to love about it? But instead of “Happy Holidays,” for many, the experience is one of “Harried Holidays.” The holidays are one of the most taxing and tense times of the year. There are many things that cause stress during the holidays. Here are just a few:
1) Finances – especially in the current economic decline, the added expenses of the season can bring added stress.
2) Painful memories – the loss of a spouse, a parent, or a child is felt in a keen way during this season.
3) Too many activities – on top of taking care of everyday activities and chores, we find ourselves taking on all those extra holiday preparations.
4) Overindulgence – need I say more.
5) Being alone
6) Relationships – tensions in families can intensify during the holidays.
Some hints to handle the stress:
1) Be realistic – the holidays don’t have to be perfect. As families grow and change, traditions may need to change also. Be realistic with things like your budget and getting together with families and others.
2) Acknowledge your feelings – if you have suffered a loss, know that it is normal to feel sad. It’s okay to grieve.
3) Stick to a budget – decide how much you can afford to spend and stick with it.
4) Learn to say no – you don’t have to do it all. Saying yes, when you should say no, can leave you feeling resentful.
5) Keep healthy habits – keep to your exercise and sleep routine, and watch what you eat.
6) Take a breather – plan ahead for your activities and plan some time to be by yourself to clear your mind and focus.
7) Reach out – if you are feeling alone, seek out others by volunteering or attending social events.
8) Remember the reason for the season – one church I am familiar with follows the theme “It’s Not Your Birthday.” For Christians, this should be more of a Holy Day than a Holiday. Keep focused on keeping Christ at the center and allow that to guide you through your decisions and preparations.
December 01, 2009
Dec. 1, 2009 Haley Smith Posted in:December 1, 2009
Dec. 1, 2009 Haley Smith Posted in:It’s A Wonderful Life
Nov. 29, 2009 Contact Worship Posted in:Hanging of the Greens Service
Nov. 29, 2009 Haley SmithHANGING OF THE GREENS
NOVEMBER 29 at 6:00 PM | SANCTUARY
Trinity observes the first Sunday in Advent with a special evening worship service known as Hanging of the Greens. This is the premier musical event of the holiday season and it will feature the Sanctuary Choir, Trinity Orchestra, Seeds of Faith and Organ. The evening’s featured instrumental soloists will be pianist Kathryn Fouse and trumpeter Leonard Candelaria.
There is no charge for the event and the public is invited to attend.
Nursery provided. Valet Parking Available.
Posted in: News