Hi Y’all from Tennessee

October 21, 2021

Dear Friends at Trinity UMC:

Hi Y’all from Tennessee where the tea is sweet, the BBQ’s amazing and the churches are huge. Pastor Joey thought you would like an update on what has been happening in Jenny’s and my life since we moved. To put it succinctly, “We love it here!”

As you might expect, there were a few challenges moving here with a puppy and getting settled in the midst of the COVID pandemic, but we did it! After spending much of the first year watching church online our first in-person worship was a communion service in the parking lot. Sound familiar? We met the three delightful pastors, (that’s right, three!), of the church we attend. To give you an idea of church size, ours is not the largest UMC in the area, and there are a dozen or so smaller UMC churches, all in a community of 50,000. This spring worship in the sanctuary was opened, with safety protocols, and we started attending in person, feeling blessed to have found a church home where we are nourished spiritually. Now we are working at helping them to understand what it means to be “Radically Hospitable” like you!

In speaking with the senior pastor about how we both might volunteer, he mentioned his desire to get a Grief Ministry started. Jenny and I are co-leading this program, teaching an eight-week class that will be held twice a year, and overseeing a program where trained people from the church will support an individual during the first year after their loss. We are beginning to be known as “The Grief Couple” or the “Green Team!” There is also a Wednesday night Celebrate Recovery Service for those in recovery from addictions, and we help as needed from being in the kitchen to my preaching when asked.

While walking the puppy Bridget, we started visiting with people. From those casual conversations has blossomed a network of neighborhood friends that get together to eat, celebrate birthdays, and take some day trips, like to Dollywood. Jenny and a friend hosted a Paint Pour day for the women, teaching and learning about Fluid Art on canvas. These fun friendships bring us a lot of joy.

Being near son Sam is a blessing, seeing them often, sharing meals usually with something wonderful coming from Sam’s smoker/barbeque. Gwen, now 7, is with us at least once a week and we celebrate that she is doing well in Montessori school. We also do some day trips with them.

Maryville is a beautiful area in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. We added a screen room so we could enjoy the weather. Now into October, we are still eating outside some of the time. We love living twenty minutes from the Great Smokies National Park where we are beginning to see the leaves turning color.

Jenny and I often tell each other how fortunate we are to be living here, but we have not forgotten you! Each week we read about the events taking place, grieving with you for those beloved who have died since we left. They were all dear friends whom we enjoyed working beside. And we rejoice about all the ways God is continuing to bless you. Right now your biggest blessing is having Joey as your interim pastor! We so appreciate her asking us to share. It made the miles between us seem a little less.

As they say in Tennessee: “Have a Blessed Day!”

With Love,

Pastor Bill and Jenny

Some Concerns that we have:

Pastor Brad and Dorothy for Brad’s health issues.
For those who continue to go through physical struggles, those who are dealing with cancer, or other health situations. For those who are emotionally feeling lost and alone.
For those who haven’t been vaccinated yet; for all those who are ill from the Covid-19 virus; for those families who have lost loved ones to the virus; and for essential workers.
For peace in our country.
For Katherine Parker, missionary to Nepal.

Faith, reality, and hope, not conspiracy

March 4, 2021

Dear Saints of Trinity,

Dorothy and I mark this day in a variety of ways for at least two reasons. The first is that this is the day 78 years ago her parents got married. It was in Hollywood, and Hollywood Methodist Church. From there, Jim, her father, took off for World War II, not to fight but to entertain the troops. He was a part of the traveling cast of “This is the Army,” with Irving Berlin and starring Ronald Reagan. Both Jim and Jean, her dad and mom, were gifted musicians who both made names for themselves in New York City. Both in very different ways, but we remember them today, and celebrate all they gave to their five children, and for the lives they chose to live. Dorothy was the youngest of those five.

On this day in 1975, as I was doing a demonstration of the new Hexel skis, I was on the way to doing a double crossover jump with my ski partner. It was our final display of these marvelous skis. We were to do backscratchers, one right after the other. A “backscratcher” is a stunt where, in the air, the skier lifts the tails of their skis and tucks them against their back so the front of the skis points toward the ground. I went first, and he immediately followed, close enough that it would appear we were doing them at the same time, but going in different directions. He went just a bit too early, hit the tails of my skis as I was lifting them, throwing my momentum off enough that I came down on the back of my head. I broke my neck. It took months to recover. It is a reminder that life is short, and that you not only make the most of it, but that you make the most of it every single day of your life.

Now, in 2021, March 4th marks the day that, according to QAnon sources, the government is to be overturned, the military is to rise up, and Donald Trump is to become the 19th President of the United States. It goes back to Ulysses Grant, who was inaugurated on this day, and holds that only Republican Presidents were true Presidents, therefore making Donald Trump the 19th in that line of succession. First, I do not believe that this day will go down in infamy as the day another government takeover occurs. President Joe Biden will remain in office and there will be no military involvement in a government takeover. As I’ve shared before, I do not hold to any of the QAnon beliefs. I believe it is simply a conspiracy theory that gained attention during our previous president’s term in office. There is no truth to it. And yet it continues to influence a diminishing number of followers, including some in our beautiful small town.

March 4th is also now the day that I can share with you that we, Trinity United Methodist Church, were declared the Sequim Chamber of Commerce, Business of the Month. We were selected for our work with the COVID food distribution and as the vaccination staging area. Please go on the Chamber website and read the words that were shared. They are wonderful testaments to you; your heart for health and service in this community. I want to thank all of those who have so faithfully volunteered their time and efforts. We really have helped this community move toward greater health. And, as you’ll hear in the message for this week’s worship service, we’re not done.

There is an incredible power at work through us. It is a power, unlike QAnon, that has been proven over and over again throughout history. My message will tell the story of that power at work in the small town of Sunnyside, WA. The power of love, grace, patience, forgiveness, and confidence came together and saved the lives of hundreds of children and youth. That power transformed a community in ways that go beyond imagination. As overstated as that may sound, the miracles that occurred can only be explained as the love and power of God moving through the people of a church. That power transformed lives, and ultimately a whole community. You’ll hear more next week, as I look at another group in that same town whose lives were also transformed. But at this point, I say again; you, Saints of Trinity, are transforming lives here and now, and I’m so proud and so humbled to be one of your pastors. Your work has been noticed, again. May God continue to work through each of us for God’s greater good.

Pastor Brad

Some Concerns that we have:

For those who continue to go through physical struggles, those who are dealing with cancer, or other health situations. Prayers for those who are emotionally feeling lost and alone.
For all those who are ill from the covid-19 virus; for those families who have lost loved ones to the virus; for all the first responders/essential workers; and for those who are nervous about getting shots.
For peace in our country.
For smooth delivery of the vaccine. And please pray for all of the volunteers.
For Katherine Parker, missionary to Nepal.

Parking Lot service is taking a break for winter

You can view our service online. Just go to our webpage, sequimtumc.org for a link to the service, or to YouTube, where you then type in Sequim Trinity United Methodist Church in the search bar.

We thank you for your continued support of our ministries here at Trinity and ask that you mail your contributions in to the church. Make sure to use our Post Office Box 3697 instead of our street address.

Reminder – Communion is this Sunday: To participate, have your elements (bread and juice or wine) available.

Service Aprons for Trinity Volunteers

The Missions team is in need of a few good seamstresses. We have the material cut out and ready to sew, and will provide the thread. We need some volunteers willing to sew service aprons that will readily identify Trinity volunteers when we work in our community. If you are willing and able to help, please contact Rae Walz at raeandrich@wavecable.com or call (360) 797-1017.

Sequim Food Distribution

As food needs continue to increase, the food distributions continue at least through March. The dates for this month are: March 10 and 24. Hours for the volunteers are 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. If you would like to help with the food distributions, contact Jan Kreidler (360-681-5027 or janet2.kreidler@gmail.com).

Save the date for a Bible study.

“Renewed: Finding Hope When You Don’t Like Your Story” by Heather M. Dixon. This class will meet in-person on Mondays at 3 p.m. and Zoom on Tuesdays from 1:00-2:00 p.m. for 4 weeks starting April 6 and ending April 27, 2021.

In this four-week Bible study, we’ll explore the life of Naomi as told in the Book of Ruth. We will learn to flourish as we live out our hard stories and trust that God can transform them. We’ll trade our heartache for delight as we discover a God who rescues and redeems. For more information and to sign up for this class, contact Kathleen Charters by emailing kcharters@mac.com or calling 240.463.7598.

Check out the education page on our website

It has been recently updated. Sermon discussion questions can be found on this page.

Pacific Northwest Conference United Methodist Women Spiritual Retreat

What We Need Is Here: Practicing the Heart of Christian Spirituality: Via Zoom on March 19-20, 2021. Are you looking for an ever-deepening relationship with God? Are you finding challenges to growing spiritually? Plan to attend and let God be your Teacher in discovering the “givens” which will demonstrate how Jesus is enough. It offers just what you need to flourish in your life with God! Your days will include laughter, sharing, presentations, reflection, and worship. Take this time to retreat and find exactly what you need to draw nearer to God. For more information click on the following link https://pnwumc.org/umw/2021/01/22/spiritual-growth-retreat/

Peninsula Singers Virtual Cabaret

— is still up for viewing. Because of COVID-19, the choir cannot meet to sing or perform, and we need some basic donations in order to keep alive until the restrictions are lifted, and people are allowed to sing and perform again, as well as award some scholarships. The show is hosted by Jerry Wright and runs for just under 45 minutes. It is very good, and can be accessed from the Peninsula Singers website: peninsulasingers.org or on Facebook: Peninsula Singers | Facebook. Donations by mail can be sent to: Peninsula Singers, 325 E. Washington Street # 135, Sequim, WA 98382. God bless you for helping us weather the Covid storm!

COVID-19 Vaccinations

for Sequim area residents ages 65+ and their spouse/partner or household member who lives with them (regardless of age). This is a drive-through process. People stay in their cars. Check-in is here at TUMC in the parking lot. After completing the paperwork, people are directed to Carrie Blake Park where they will receive their vaccination. You may register online http://vaccine.clallam.net/register or call 360-681-3447. More information at jamestownhealth.org.

Access to the Church during the COVID-19 Vaccinations

Blake Ave is now open, but as you approach the church, you will be stopped by a Volunteer Police person. Simply let them know you are trying to get to the church for a meeting, they will wave you on by. Turn into the north entrance, drive by the skate park, and then go around the back of the church building. There will be parking available. This is on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays before 9 am and until 2 pm.

Hospitality volunteers needed for front door sign-ins

If you would like additional information or if you can help, please contact Janet Kreidler at 360-681-5027 or janet2.kreidler@gmail.com if you can help.

United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR)

— “is in prayer for the many U.S. states that are experiencing the dangerous and deadly effects of a string of winter storms. For those enduring widespread blackouts in sub-freezing temperatures, the touching down of multiple tornadoes, and decreased water supply, we offer prayers for safety and protection. Emergency personnel are leading ongoing rescue and relief efforts. UMC churches are actively being used as warming shelters and community members are being relocated as needed. UMCOR is actively connecting with Conference Disaster Response Coordinators in the affected areas and is ready to respond once the situation evolves.” If you would like to support the work of the Disaster Relief Fund in the U.S., you are invited to write a check to Trinity UMC, indicating Advance # 901670 in the memo section.

Office Hours

Trinity United Methodist Church office hours are 9 am-2 pm Monday through Friday. However, due to limited access to the building during this phase of opening, we are keeping the doors locked. There is a doorbell to the right of the main door (by the office) that you need to ring to alert the office and you will be let in. It is best to call ahead so we are aware that you are coming. Thanks so much for your patience and remember when in the building to be sure and wear your mask!

Apologies and challenges

February 4, 2021

Dear Saints of Trinity,

Let me apologize for not having a letter for you last week. I normally try and write the first draft of the letter on Mondays. However, a week ago Monday I attended a required clergy class on Racism, Cultural Competency, and Leadership. You’ll hear a bit more about it in the message for this Sunday.

First, let me deal with a bit of it in this letter. Normally, February at Trinity is filled with spirituals, songs coming out of the time of slavery, often written by Black, most often African American authors who sought to respond with music, to a time of enormous abuse and violence. Given the events of this past year, I’ve asked that we not focus on Spirituals this year. The reason is that, for those whose ancestors suffered through those terrible times, many have stated clearly that those of us who are white simply cannot understand, cannot fathom, and cannot, with any integrity sing those songs in a way that honors the writers. The depth of emotion; the enormity of the pain, the sheer amount of abuse suffered by those who lived it, set alongside those who have come through multiple generations following those days, cannot and should not sing about what they do not understand.

The passions around all of this are deeply felt. The pain, particularly in the midst of what we are seeing in the country today, has become like an open wound. I want to honor their wishes. In as much as I love singing the Spirituals, I cannot in good conscience have us doing what we’ve done in the past.

Each of us is surrounded by challenges. If we allow ourselves, we each continue to find potential areas of growth. Each of us, if we are open to it, have opportunities to shift our attitudes. Each of us have opportunities to stretch ourselves in ways that can offer healing. What I’ve mentioned above around the singing of Spirituals is but one example. Here is another. For the past two weeks, I’ve talked about the Beatitudes. I shared the original meaning of the word “Blessed.” The visual image I talked about was the act of kneeling. I utilized the kneeling rail last Wednesday for the recording. I talked about the need for each of us to kneel as we enter into this time. Never once did I talk about those who can’t physically kneel.

So, I want to apologize to those who may have been hurt by that, especially coming from your pastor, and particularly a pastor who should know better. Not all of us can physically kneel. So let me offer an alternative. The posture of humility does not need to be physical. It can be, and maybe should be an attitude based on something more emotional. It is the attitude we have before our Creator. We bow our heads when we pray. We can humble ourselves when sitting in our favorite chair, in a wheelchair, or on our walker. Friends, you don’t need to kneel in order to be humble, any more than we have to kneel to pray. For some of us, maybe many of us, kneeling is simply physically impossible. It is one more example of gaining a new understanding of sensitivity.

It is my hope that we all recognize that we have areas in need of growth; areas that can help us understand more fully both the pain and the wonderment we can bring to relationships.

We are a church, and as such we are people who are willing to grow in love, in service, in faith, and in relationships. We’re a gathering of diverse beliefs, and yet accepting of one another unlike any other gathering I know of. Why? Because we are focused on a Savior and guide who has shown us how to live, how to love, and how to be…together.

Pastor Brad

Some Concerns that we have:

For those who continue to go through physical struggles, those who are dealing with cancer, or other health situations. Prayers for those who are emotionally feeling lost and alone.
For all those who are ill from the covid-19 virus; for those families who have lost loved ones to the virus; and for all the first responders/essential workers.
For peace in our country.
For smooth delivery of the vaccine.
For Katherine Parker, missionary to Nepal.

Even though you can’t be with those having birthdays this week, emails or phone calls are appreciated.

Parking Lot service is taking a break for winter

You can view our service online. Just go to our webpage, sequimtumc.org for a link to the service, or to YouTube, where you then type in Sequim Trinity United Methodist Church in the search bar.

Reminder – Communion this Sunday

To participate, have your elements (bread and juice or wine) available.

Help needed to power-wash the parking lot

Pastor Brad will be leading volunteers this Sunday and Monday, February 7 and 8, beginning at 10:30 AM. Please bring a hose and power-washer if you have one. Help turning on hose bibs is also needed. Any questions, contact Pastor Brad at 425-628-1250.

Peninsula Singers Virtual Cabaret

COVID-19 Vaccinations

For Sequim area residents ages 65+ and their spouse/partner or household member who lives with them (regardless of age). This is a drive-through process. People stay in their cars. Check-in is here at TUMC in the parking lot. After completing the paperwork, people are directed to Carrie Blake Park where they will receive their vaccination. You may register online Thursday, Feb.4, Wednesdays, March 3, 17, and 31 at http://vaccine.clallam.net/register or call 360-681-3447.

Hospitality volunteers needed for front door sign-ins

Another 6 to 10 people are needed. We are planning two shifts for each day (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays). The first shift will be from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and the 2nd shift from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Please contact Jan Kreidler if you would like additional information at 360-681-5027 or janet2.kreidler@gmail.com if you can help.

Access to the Church during the COVID-19 Vaccinations

Save the Date for a Lenten Study

“You Are Never Alone,” by Max Lucado. This class will meet on Tuesdays from 1:00-2:00 p.m. for 6 weeks starting February 23 and ending March 30, 2021.

God’s presence and power are nearer than we think. Through studying the miracles of Jesus as told in the Gospel of John we find Jesus right here with us. We are stronger than we think because God is nearer than we know. We can learn to trust in the miracle of God’s presence and power. For more information and to sign up for this class, contact Kathleen Charters by emailing kcharters@mac.com or calling 240.463.7598.

Noisy Can Offering update

Thank you for your “Noisy Can” donations of $972.50 which go to support Katherine Parker, a missionary with the General Board of Global Ministries of the UMC who serves as a Health and Community Transformation Advisor with the United Mission to Nepal (UMN). For the past several years, TUMC has supported (and continues to support) Katherine via a Covenant Relationship, sending $1,000 annually towards her salary.

Sequim Food Distribution

As food needs continue to increase, the food distributions continue at least through March. The dates for the next two months are: Feb. 10 & 24, and March 10 & 24. Hours for the volunteers are 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. If you would like to help with the food distributions, contact Jan Kreidler (360-681-5027 or janet2.kreidler@gmail.com).

Another opportunity to serve: CERT

CERT is in need of volunteers to train and help staff one of their two portable kitchens in the event of a natural disaster. This kitchen would be set up in the eastern part of Clallam County. If you are interested, contact Jan Kreidler at 360-681-5027 or janet2.kreidler@gmail.com.

Office Hours

Building and rebuilding

December 3, 2020

Dear Saints of Trinity,

We are surrounded by frosty mornings, beautiful clear skies, Christmas lights shimmering around town, snow in the mountains, and even Christmas carols being played on our local radio stations. Thanksgiving was totally different for so many of us. It looks like Christmas will be as well. So, why then, pastor, would you talk now about the potential building addition that has created so much talk, even concern, and a bit of anger. The answer is simple. We need to talk about it.

As of about a month ago, I stopped all forward momentum around the building of an addition. I did it because we missed all kinds of steps that were necessary pieces of the process. I need to get you updated so that we can make some choices after the first of the year, and “after the first of the year” is now less than a month away. So here’s what didn’t happen. We didn’t involve the District nor did we involved the District Superintendent. We didn’t involve the Board of Trustees, at least the full Board of Trustees. We didn’t ask to have needs assessments done by those groups that would potentially be utilizing the new space. Maybe most importantly, you weren’t involved. Never was the congregation given an opportunity to voice your opinions about any of it. As of today, that changes.

From here on we will be following proper protocols. Basically, we’re starting the process over. I’ve already asked the Board of Trustees to examine a proposal. I’ve asked them to ask questions and make comments. I’m asking the Ad Council to do the same thing. In this letter, I’ll be offering you some opportunities to see how the whole concept of an addition has shifted, and I’ll begin to seek your input. I assure you, more opportunities for you to share will be coming; lots of them. But before moving into more specifics, here’s what I’m proposing. I’m proposing that if we build an addition, that we focus not just on Tim’s Place or have it simply be a multipurpose room. We instead, have it be a center for senior ministries here at Trinity. I’m proposing that the singular focus on the use of any such addition would be specific to the church, and particularly to the various Senior Ministries we offer. It would house things like Lois’s Legacy, Tim’s Place, Powerful Tools for Care Givers, even community forums around issues related to retirement and aging.

To do that would allow the fellowship hall to be utilized for community dinners, a holiday bazaar, a rummage sale, and other large church and community events. It would allow classrooms to be utilized for classes, or even other groups like cub packs and scout troops. Or for church groups like Joy Fellowship, the Women’s Bible study, quilting, and more. It would allow our senior ministry programs to grow and expand in ways that otherwise would not be available. So, what I’m proposing is that, if we begin to talk about an addition, that it relate specifically to church-related programs that focus on ministry to and with seniors. That would include opportunities for caregivers, patients, as a clearinghouse for programs and connections, speakers, events, relationship-building opportunities; things that would allow the community to more readily see what we’re about as a church. So that’s the thumbnail sketch of what I’m proposing. But at this point, that’s all it is, a kind of dream.

What I’m looking for are questions and comments, concerns, and conversations. I need you to be fully involved. At this point, it’s a dream birthed by Pastor Bill. At this point, we will not proceed without giving you an opportunity to share. The best way to do that is to write me a note or drop something by the church office. My email is already overwhelmed with other stuff so, please write something up and drop it by. Every voice is important. Every concern needs to be heard. Every question is deserving of an answer. And if you’re excited about something like this, share that as well.

Yup, it’s Advent and we’re quickly moving toward Christmas, but the work of the church does not stop nor can it slow down. We are needed as a partner working with others in the area. Most importantly, we need to be moving together toward whatever it is that God is placing before us.

Pastor Brad

Some Concerns that we have:

For those who continue to go through physical struggles, those who are dealing with cancer, or other health situations. Prayers for those who are emotionally feeling lost and alone.
For all those who are ill from the COVID-19 virus; for those families who have lost loved ones to the virus; and for all the first responders/essential workers.
For peace in our country.
For Katherine Parker, missionary to Nepal

Even though you can’t be with those having birthdays this week, emails or phone calls are appreciated.

Parking Lot service is taking a break for winter

You can view our service online. Just go to our webpage sequimtumc.org for a link to the service.

We thank you for your continued support of our ministries here at Trinity and ask that you mail your contributions in to the church. Make sure to use our Post Office Box 3697 instead of our street address.

Reminder: Communion this week: As you prepare to watch this Sunday’s service, please have your elements (bread and juice or wine) ready.

The Christian Mindfulness Group is not postponed; it is meeting on Zoom

The second small group book study: Right Here Right Now, The Practice of Christian Mindfulness, by Amy G. Oden begins on December 3rd. It will meet for six Thursdays at noon for one hour on Zoom.

The author of this book is a professor of Christianity and Theology and affiliated with The Church of the Resurrection in Kansas City.

This is a wonderful way to connect with others while deepening your sense of God’s presence in your life. While enhancing your spiritual life this calming practice also reduces stress and aids in providing resilience in this particularly challenging time. Your book can be ordered on www.Amazon.com. Or the church will have a few copies to deliver to your door.

You may contact Melody Romeo if you have any questions or to sign up. Melody is leading our group and can be reached at email: melodycoach@olypen.com or by cellphone: (360) 461-5595.

Additional volunteers still needed to help with the Sequim food box distribution

— for December 9th and 23rd from about 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Andra Smith (Sequim Food Bank Director) indicated that, even though CERT will not be involved those two months, volunteers still can be trained. If you are interested, contact Jan Kreidler at 681-5027, janet2.kreidler@gmail.com.

Another opportunity to serve: CERT

— has contacted Trinity UMC to ask if any of us would be interested in volunteering to “staff” one of CERT’s two field / portable kitchens in the event of a natural disaster. This kitchen would be deployed in eastern Clallam County, where food would be provided and served. Training would be required. If you are interested, contact Jan Kreidler at 360-681-5027 or janet2.kreidler@gmail.com.

You are invited to join Joy Fellowship

Joy Fellowship will start the Advent study by Adam Hamilton, Incarnation: Rediscovering the Significance of Christmas on Thursday, December 3 at 2 p.m. on Zoom. Contact Kathleen Charters at kcharters@mac.com or call 240.463.7598 if you would like to purchase the book. Contact Linda Gordon at gordonlinda100@gmail.com for the Zoom invitation.

Office hours

Trinity United Methodist Church office hours are 9 am – 2 pm Monday through Friday. However, due to limited access to the building during this phase of opening, we are keeping the doors locked. There is a doorbell to the right of the main door (by the office) that you need to ring to alert Marian and she will let you in. It is best to call ahead so we are aware that you are coming. Thanks so much for your patience!

Begin our rebuilding

November 5, 2020

Dear Saints of Trinity,

Okay, what a strange week. We moved from Halloween, through remembering those we’ve lost in our All Saints celebration, to the election; an election where we’re still awaiting the results. Maybe by the time you receive this, we’ll know who our next President might be. But then will come the legal wrangling, the finger-pointing, and the potential violent responses no matter who wins or loses. In the midst of it all is the church; us. So what are we to do?

Over these next three weeks, it is my intention to have us focusing on rebuilding; rebuilding peace, wholeness, appreciation, grace and so much more. In our recoding today, I wanted to lay the foundation for this time of rebuilding. I challenge you to take whatever time you need to tune in to the worship service; to take a breath, a pause, a timeout, whatever it is that might be necessary to give yourselves some time away from everything swirling around you. The message is both one of hope and a challenge to us all. I deal with the ideas of navigating these times, and of rebuilding what has been torn down. You’ll find navigational terms that align with what we seek to do as people of faith. You’ll find a list of twelve things Nehemiah did in order to appropriately rebuild a place he loved. In the midst of it, my hope is that you’ll find some answers for yourself and for all of us.

The following week we’ll be recording the service on Veterans Day. I take Veterans Day very seriously. I will be forever grateful to those who serve and have served. I know, and hope you also know, that we can have free elections, even the ability to worship as we wish because of the service of those who have fought for freedom. So, I’ve invited three of our own to speak. Ken Lillagore, Andy Pitts, and Jim Stoffer will be bringing the message. I’ve asked each to respond to one simple question. It is, “How did your service to your country influence your faith?” The alternative is, “How did your faith influence your service to your country?” I look forward to hearing each of them. I know that each will bring a different perspective to that question simply because each brings with them significantly different experiences from their times of service.

Then, two weeks from today I’ll be focusing on another group of aged sages. They are a strange group, and it’s strange to be focusing on them. They are the group who were ready to stone the woman caught in adultery. Jesus happened on to them and convinced them to drop their stones. This story is all about judgment. And in this time in our history, it is severe judgments that seem to be guiding our actions. Jesus taught us a different approach. That’s what I’ll be exploring in that worship experience.

So three worship services that explore navigating this time in our lives; rebuilding a country in need of rebuilding, saying thank you to those who have allowed us to live in freedom, and to help us remember that judging, especially those on the other side of where we stand, is not something we are to do. It’s hard but it’s an essential piece of moving us back into loving one another. So friends, know that I’m praying for all of us as we move through this time. And remember, like in an election, our voices matter. This community, this country, this world cannot afford for our voices to be silent. We are the church. We are God’s representatives in the world. We are the hands and feet of Jesus Christ. We’re needed now more than ever. Let’s keep things moving as we move through this time.

Peace be with you!

Pastor Brad

Some Concerns that we have:

Bill (and Jenny) Green for recovery from Bill’s surgery for a broken wrist.
For those who continue to go through physical struggles, those who are dealing with cancer, or other health situations. Prayers for those who are emotionally feeling lost and alone.
For all those who are ill from the covid-19 virus; for those families who have lost loved ones to the virus; and for all the first responders/essential workers.
For peace in our country throughout the political process particularly last Tuesday’s election.
For Katherine Parker, missionary to Nepal.

Even though you can’t be with those having birthdays this week, emails or phone calls are appreciated.

Parking Lot service is taking a break for winter

You can view our service online. Just go to our website, sequimtumc.org, for a link to the service.

Note: Communion this week: As you prepare to watch this Sunday’s service, please have your elements (bread and juice or wine) ready.

Additional volunteers still needed to help with the Sequim food box distribution

– for November 11th and 25th and December 9th and 23rd from about 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Andra Smith (Sequim Food Bank Director) indicated that, even though CERT will not be involved those two months, volunteers still can be trained. If you are interested, contact Jan Kreidler at 681-5027 / janet2.kreidler@gmail.com.

Support Group

Becky Morgan and Kathleen Charters invite you to an in-person support meeting. Since we are limited to 10 people,
please contact Deacon Kathleen (240-463-7598 Mobile, 360-504-3150 Home, or Deacon Charters) if you are interested in
participating.

Topic: Challenges and Comfort

Dates/Time: Every week on Tuesdays, through December 15, 2-3:30 pm.

Location: Trinity UMC

Women’s Bible Study

We invite you to join our vibrant Women’s Bible Study. We meet Mondays from 9:30 am to 10:30 am in the
Fellowship Hall. The current study is based on the book, We Make the Road by Walking, by Brian D. McLaren. You do not need to have the book in order to attend. If you would like more information, please contact Barb Parse at bparse@wavecable.com or Mary Taylor at Taylor@olypen.com.

The second offering of the 6-week book study, “Right Here Right Now: The Practice of Christian Mindfulness,” starts soon.

This is a wonderful way to deepen and expand your awareness of God’s presence in a peaceful, calming practice while connecting with others in a small group. We are looking for the most suitable time and day to hold the group. Please give us your input as to which of the following times you cannot come:

Wednesdays 11:00am; Thursdays 11am; Thursdays 2pm.

Please email or call Melody Romeo with the times you cannot come by this Tuesday, November 10th. Then she will select the best time and announce it next Thursday. We will likely begin the group the week after Thanksgiving. Email: melodycoach@olypen.com; cell phone: (360) 461-5595

Office hours note

TUMC Office hours are 9 am – 2 pm Monday through Friday. However, due to limited access to the building during this phase of opening, we are keeping the doors locked. There is a doorbell to the right of the main door (by the office) that you need to ring to alert Marian and she will let you in. It is best to call ahead so we are aware that you are coming. Thanks so much for your patience!

July 5, 2020 – Communion Service

Trinity United Methodist Church will celebrate communion on July 5, 2020, coming together in — the parking lot. Rain or shine. There is also a separate, recorded service if you prefer.

This will be Pastor Brad Beeman and Dorothy Beeman’s first Sunday at Trinity.

Please bring your own elements (bread and juice).

What you need to do:

Tune your AM radio to 1630 to hear the service.
Stay in your car.
If you need to roll down a window for air, only the driver side window can be used, as we need to make sure open windows are at least 6 feet apart.
Please turn your car (except radio) off during the service.
The church building, including bathrooms, will not be available.
We are not collecting an offering. Please mail your offering to TUMC, P.O. Box 3697, Sequim, WA 98382.

Parking lot worship will continue for some time.

Outdoor communion

June 4, 2020

Dear Friends:

I hope you have been having a good week. Our first parking lot service happened on Sunday and it was a success. We had about 40 cars and even though it was blustery, all enjoyed the opportunity to worship together. We will continue this service at 10:00 am. It will happen even if it is raining!

To look at the rules for attending the outdoor service and what you will need to participate in our communion service please click on this link. https://www.sequimtumc.org/worship/june-7-2020-communion-service/

We will not have a way to collect your offering at this worship service. We still ask that you mail it into the church and make sure to use our post office box 3697 instead of our street address.

Since this coming Sunday is the first Sunday of the month we will be celebrating Holy Communion. So before you tune into the video or come to the service in the church parking lot make sure you have a piece of bread and some juice or wine with you. In this way, we can be united through this service even if we need to be distanced.

With the coming of a new pastor, we need to have a special Charge Conference to approve a salary package for Pastor Brad. While the total amount will not change, Pastor Brad has the right to have items within the package adjusted to align with his expenses. The Charge Conference is scheduled for June 23rd at 11 am. Because of the limitations on meeting sizes, only a few members of the Ad Council will be invited to attend in person. My letter to you, just before the meeting, will have the details of the salary package. That way, if you have questions or concerns, you can let Margaret Cox, our Ad Council chair, know about them and she will share them with those “in the room” for the Charge Conference. We will also have a brief Ad Council at this time. Again, all action items for this meeting will be sent out in advance.

Our bishop has asked that our churches remain closed, except for essential work, until at least mid-June. After that, we will have to come up with an approved plan for opening. Until that time Marian or I will be in the office each weekday morning to take your calls.

Some Concerns that we have:

Those who are needing to be at work and dealing with the public: first responders, health care workers, grocery store employees, and more.
For all those who are ill from the virus and for those families who have lost loved ones to the virus.
For our new pastor Brad Beeman and his wife Dorothy at this time of transition.

Even though you can’t be with those having birthdays this week, sending emails or making phone calls are appreciated.

Always feel free to contact me by email or at home. I care about you and am glad to hear from you.

Pastor Bill

June 7, 2020 – Communion Service

Trinity United Methodist Church will celebrate communion on June 7, 2020, coming together in — the parking lot. Rain or shine. We will also have a separate, recorded service if you prefer.

This will be Pastor Bill Green and Jenny Green’s last communion Sunday at Trinity.

Please bring your own elements (bread and juice).

What you need to do:

Tune your AM radio to 1630 to hear the service.
Stay in your car.
If you need to roll down a window for air, only the driver side window can be used, as we need to make sure open windows are at least 6 feet apart.
Please turn your car (except radio) off during the service.
The church building, including bathrooms, will not be available.
We are not collecting an offering. Please mail your offering to TUMC, P.O. Box 3697, Sequim, WA 98382.

Parking lot worship will continue through at least mid-June.