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!