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What's Happening

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EXPERIENCING GOD
By Henry Blackaby

Click HERE to Read

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Trinity Educational Development Corporation 501(c)3

Mission Statement

Trinity Educational Development Corporation is dedicated to serving the educational needs of families in Windsor and the Greater Hartford area and to foster and promote the physical, spiritual, emotional and mental well-being of children ages 2-18.

You Can Help:

* If you give to the United Way at work, please remember us by designating code M1080.

* Check with your employer. Do they match gifts? Do they give donations to organizations such as ours?

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VISITATION MINISTRY

The visitation ministry has begun a new endeavor called the adoption program where a family "adopts" an elderly, homebound or special needs person. The entire family is to share the love of Jesus with this person. Hopefully that person will feel more apart of our church. Pray for this to be a successful project.

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SERVING COMMUNION

"Are you interested in serving the members of Trinity? What about literally "serving"?! We're in need of folks to serve Communion during the 8:15 and 11:00 services on the first Sunday of each month. Since we now do it by intinction, we need only 2 people for each service--one to offer the "body of Christ" (bread or pita) and one to offer the "blood of Christ" (silver chalice of grape juice). It is much easier now that we don't use the heavy silver trays or have to walk around the communion rail. If you would like to learn more about it or sign up for the coming months please contact Margie D'Agata at BPMargieD@aol.com or (860) 688-3560. You WILL be blessed!"

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Ushering

Did you ever wonder what you could do to serve the local body of Christ? Well, wonder no more!! Ushering is an easy way to serve and assist with the Sunday morning worship. Basically, you are another greeter of people, you give them the Sunday bulletin; if it gets crowded, you assist people in finding seats and you take up the offering. Once a month, you help keep the Communion time running smoothly and allow the congregation to concentrate on receiving the perfect sacrifice that Jesus offers them.
Generally, when we are in the Sanctuary, you would serve for a month, in the summer the commitment is only two weeks. We need people to serve at both services. Also, if you're flexible as to which service that you attend, that would be helpful.
If you are interested or have any questions, please speak to Steve McGoldrick or drop and e-mail (steve.mcgoldrick@sbcglobal.net) or call him 860 683-1269. If you've never ushered before, we'll arrange a time to go over roles and responsibilities.

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Kimberly Hall South

Kimberly Hall South is reaching out to our community now more than ever. As you may be aware the nursing home industry is hurting and being affected very deeply with this economy.
The holidays are around the corner, and they desperately need our help to ensure the residents continue to have a wonderful Christmas. Below are some of the items needed. Please keep in mind 80% of residents do not have family that visit.
Items needed: Hard candy (regular & sugar-free), lotions, small trinkets (no candles), shampoos/conditioners, hair spray, body wash (for men & women), small purses for ladies, perfumes/cologne and most importantly, radios, preferably CD players.
Any help will be warmly appreciated.
"In all this I have given you an example that by such work we must support the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus, for he himself said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'" Acts 20:35

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New Communicator Cards

Have you noticed the new Communicator Cards in the pews? If you are a Visitor, have new or changed Contact Information or a Prayer Request, please fill out a Communicator Card and place it in the offering plate or return it to the church office. The new system will cut down on printing costs and still provide us with important information for follow-up.

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MEN'S MINISTRIES AT TRINITY

THE HERD is designed for men who want to learn what it means to be a Godly Man in an Ungodly World. Starting October 8th we will be be meeting every other Monday in Fellowship Hall. A light meal is served for $5.00, then we have our study and discussion. This Fall we are beginning the study, Personal Holiness in times of Temptation. All men are invited to be a part of this unique group.

The Band of Brothers meet every Wednesday at 6:15 AM, in the great room kitchen. After a light breakfast we have a verse by verse Bible study and discussion. We will be doing the r12 study this Fall. All men are invited to stop in on your way to work and leave when you must.

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Living Into Faith

Tony Campolo tells of two young men who wanted to participate in Urban Promise, his inner-city ministry. Yet they had a concern: "We don't believe in God. Can we still serve?"
After pausing, Campolo answered: "Yes, you can serve with us, but you'll have to pretend you believe. You'll have to pray and worship with the group, go to Bible study, teach the kids about Jesus, go through the motions all summer long. If you'll do that, you may help."
By summer's end, these young men were no longer pretending; they'd come to truly believe in Jesus. Furthermore, both went on to become priests in the Church of England.
We often speak of "living out" our faith, but what about "living into" it? Sometimes belief leads to profound experiences; other times, what we experience leads to profound belief.

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The Water's Fine?

While a tourist vacationed on the Florida coast, his boat capsized. Although he could swim, his fear of alligators kept him clinging to the overturned craft and praying aloud. Spotting an old beachcomber on shore, the tourist shout-ed, "Are there any gators around here?"

"No," the man hollered. "They haven't been around for years!"

Relieved, the tourist began swimming leisurely toward the shore. About halfway there, he asked, How'd you get rid of the gators?"

"We didn't do anything," the beachcomber re-plied. "The sharks got 'em."

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Fellowship Hall/Sanctuary Technology Update

We have completed phase 2 of the Technology Update to Fellowship Hall and the Sanctuary. We reused the audio equipment from the earlier Sanctuary audio equipment update to add full audio capabilities to Fellowship Hall. We added a projector, Blue Ray DVD player and video switcher to provide full video support for DVD, Laptop presentations and a feed from the Sanctuary. In the Sanctuary we replaced the Media Computer and added a video switcher to complete the upgrade. The new Media Computer enables us to go forward to Phase 3 with live video. The video switch allowed for better signal quality both in the Sanctuary and the feed to Fellowship Hall. The switcher also reduced complexity in operation of the AV equipment in the Sanctuary. We are now awaiting funds to go on to Phase 3 of our 5 phase update. We have about $2,000 in the fund and need an additional $4,000 to start phase 3.
Thanks to all of you who supported this important effort.

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Pastor's Discretionary Fund

Ever Wondered what the Pastor's Discretionary Fund is all about? You are not alone. To assist the congregation in understanding the use of the fund and as a guideline for its use, The Finance Committee recommended and Church Council approved the following Pastor's Discretionary Fund Policy.

Trinity United Methodist Church
Pastor's Discretionary Fund Policy

Definition:

The Pastor's Discretionary Fund is intended to give the Senior Pastor discretion and authority, within the limits and guidelines below, to provide confidential financial support to persons in need, to programs, scholarships or other expenses that are not totally covered by the regular annual budget, and may also be used to provide support to other faith based charitable organizations whose mission and purpose are consistent with the mission of Trinity United Methodist Church.

Limits:

 Funds for this account may come from designated giving as well as budgeted funds and will be deposited to, and withdrawn from, the designated account within the General Fund.

 No checks will be made out to cash. Every effort should be made to write checks directly to a merchant or agency for goods or services.

 The Senior Pastor has sole authority to determine the appropriate distribution of the discretionary funds. No funds shall be used for the benefit of the Senior Pastor or any of the Senior Pastor's immediate family members.

 A reimbursement check may be written to the Senior Pastor for expenses that fit the guidelines, but only when a receipt or signed affidavit is presented.

 This fund is not to be used as a reimbursement account for a Senior Pastor's business expense nor to augment, reward, nor as a gift to any regular staff member of this or any other organization.

 Donations to the fund may not be designated to a specific individual.

 The Financial Secretary and or Church Treasurer shall maintain the requisitions submitted by the Senior Pastor on file, and they shall be available during the annual Church audit when the Pastor's Discretionary Fund account is audited along with the other Church accounts.

Adopted by Trinity United Methodist Church, Church Council on December 7, 2011

If you are interested in making a donation to the Discretionary Fund, write your check to Trinity United Methodist Church with a note in the memo section "Discretionary Fund" and use an envelope in the church pew or drop it off in the church office. As with all of your donations, contributions to the Pastor's Discretionary Fund are tax deductible within the guidelines and limits allowed by the IRS.

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What not to take into the new year

Self-help books — Trust in God first; don't turn to him as a last resort. (See Proverbs 3:5-6.) Tape measure — Consider only God's standards; don't compare yourself to other people. (See Luke 18:9-14.)

Rearview mirror — Don't live in the past. You'll miss out on what God is doing in your life now. (See Philippians 3:12-14.)

Gavel — Stop wasting time judging others. Instead, pray for them, help them and team with them. (See Luke 6:37-38.)

Life vest — Don't be overly cautious spiritually. Peter experienced Jesus in a real way because he dared to step out of the boat. (See Matthew 14:22-33.)

Garage-door opener — We think we're networked but often isolate ourselves. God intended for us to live in community with one another. (See Hebrews 10:23-25.)

Handcuffs — Don't offer excuses about why you can't help out. God can do amazing things through — and despite — us. Just follow him, with no excuses. (See Mark 6:35-44.)

—Gregg McCaslin

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I'm Not a Christian but I'm Coming to
Your Church This Sunday

Okay, I'm not a Christian, but I've finally made the decision to come to your church this Sunday. Don't expect much from me though. If something comes up, I might not, but right now, I'm planning on it. I feel like I need to go, but I'm not sure why. I want to tell you a few things about myself before you meet me.

I'm not going to understand religious language or phrases so be aware of that when we talk. I don't understand slain in the spirit, God is moving in me, covered in the blood, I need to die to self, you just need to be in the Word, what you need is a new life, etc. If we have conversation filled with religious talk, I'm probably not going to understand half of the words...and maybe think you're a little crazy.

When you ask me how I'm doing, know that I don't trust you. I'm probably going to lie and tell you I'm fine. It's not that I don't want to tell you; it's just that I come from some pain and am not sure if I trust you yet. How about you tell me your story first? If I like you and get the vibe that you're not trying to capture my soul or anything, I'll tell you mine.

I've got pretty rough language, and I can be bitter and angry about some things. If I sense in you a mindset of superiority, I'm out. If you are just waiting for your turn to talk instead of truly listening to me, I'm not going to be interested. Don't expect me to be exactly like you.

Don't make a big deal of introducing me to everyone you know. I understand a couple of people, but please; don't set up a welcoming line. I'm just there to check it out; I need a bit of space.

I'm going to be looking for genuine interest in me. I don't want to feel like your personal salvation project or be a notch on your "I saved one" belt. If this Jesus is who you say he is, then I'm looking forward to seeing him in you. That's how it works, right?

I'm going to have questions. I need truth, not your preferences or your religion, so can you just tell me what the Bible says?

I need to feel welcome. Is there a time limit or something on my visit before I'm supposed to feel unwelcome? I mean, I've been to other churches, and there seemed to be a push for me to make up my mind or something. How long until I'm unwelcome?

Thanks for hearing me out. I'm pretty sure I'm going to come this Sunday. But I might not.

Written by Thomas Weaver, Lead Pastor of Logos
Community Church, an Acts 29 Church in McAllen, Texas.

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Renewal Ministries in the United Methodist Church

CHECK IT OUT

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Methodist Church Under Attach

There has been a movement in the United Methodist Church to subvert the Bible and the Teachings of Jesus and allow Homosexual behavior to be supported by the Church. The council of Bishops recently submitted a letter stating that they support and will uphold the Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church that strictly forbids the performing of Same Sex Marriage and the allowing of Pastors who are in an openly Gay Sexual Relationship from serving in the United Methodist Church. If you would like to add your name to a petition that encourages the Council of Bishops to strictly enforce the Book Of Discipline please go to the following website and sign the petition as a Lay member of the United Methodist Church. CLICK HERE

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YOU AND YOUR FAMILY ARE ENCOURAGED TO JOIN THE MUSIC MINISTRY AT TRINITY:

Please email Bob and Eileen Gilbert at r.f.gilbert@sbcglobal.net
if you have questions.

VOCAL CHOIRS

Cherub Choir (ages 4-gr 2) Rehearse Sunday Mornings in the Wesley Room from 9:25-9:40 AM and sing at the Sunday morning services about once per month, usually on the second Sunday. Directed by Gloria Nicholson and Janet Keyes. First rehearsal – Sunday, September 16th.
Joyful Noise Choir (grades 3-6) Rehearse Sunday Mornings from 9:25-9:40 AM in the sanctuary and sing at the Sunday morning services every 4-6 weeks. First rehearsal – Sunday, September 16th.
Youth Ringers/Singers (grades 7-12) Rehearse on selected Sundays from 5-6 PM and sing 3-4 times per year. First rehearsal – Sunday, September 23rd.
Trinity Choir (High School and Adults) Rehearse on Thursday evenings from 7:30-8:45 PM in the sanctuary and lead worship each Sunday at the 11 AM service, as well as at special services and concerts. First rehearsal —Thursday September 6th.

BELL CHOIRS

Joyful Bells (grades 3-6) Rehearse in the Sanctuary on Thursday evenings from 5:15-5:40 PM during Pioneer Club season (October-April). First rehearsal — Thursday, October 4th.
Youth Ringers (grades 7-12) Rehearse on selected Sunday evenings from 5-6 PM and play 3-4 times per year. First Rehearsal – Sunday, September 23rd.
Trinity Ringers (Adults) Rehearse on Thursday Evenings from 6:30-7:30 PM and play each month. First Rehearsal —Thursday, September 13th.

CONTEMPORARY MUSIC ENSEMBLE

Praise and Worship Team (High School and Adults) Singers and instruments- rehearse on 1st & 3rd Tuesdays from 6:00-7:00 PM and lead worship each Sunday at the 8:15 AM Service.

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Interesting Stuff Go HERE

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ANGELS EXPLAINED BY CHILDREN

Click HERE to read

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COMMUNION MINISTERS

Trinity has an active monthly ministry of bring Holy Communion to our At Home Members.  started almost 15 years ago.   Most of these folks are either in their own home or one the area Nursing Homes but are all unable to be with us at worship on Sunday. Lately our list of people has been growing and we need to expand the number of active Communion Ministers.  You can bring joy and the Spirit of Jesus to these people.  We are looking for persons who would be willing to bring the sacrament once a month to one of these precious ones.   Right now we bring Communion to eight persons most of them familiar to us as active members when they were in better health.  If you would like to consider this ministry please speak to Jeanine Gilman or Pastor John.  You can also speak to our Communion Ministers themselves. They will tell you what joy and comfort you can bring and receive in this ministry:  Ron and Chris Boyer, Marlene Wilhelm, Marilyn Siwy, Patsy Senter, Lucille and Paul Felgate, Charlie and Jeanine Gilman, Sandy Alexander and Perry Marsh.

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NEW SERVICE FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED

ITNNorthCentralConnecticut™ is now offering rides 24/7 to seniors and adults with visual impairments in Bloomfield, East Granby, East Windsor, Enfield, Granby, Somers, South Windsor, Suffield, Windsor and Windsor Locks. This alternative transportation program uses a combination of volunteer and paid drivers who provide rides in private vehicles. There is no restriction on the purpose of a ride, and help is offered to carry packages, fold walkers, and open doors.

Annual memberships are $40 for an individual and $60 for a household. Ride charges during the day are $4 for pickup plus $1 per mile. Unlike with a taxi or bus, no money changes hands during the ride because members set up a Personal Transportation Account™ from which their fares are debited. Riding with ITN is like riding with a friend who will help you carry packages, open doors and fold walkers.

Members enjoy peace of mind knowing that a clean private car and safe, experienced driver are available to them around the clock, 365 days a year. They do not have to ask for favors, plan around the schedules of others, travel in groups, or make their way to a pick-up point to reach their destination.

Volunteer schedules are very flexible. You can give a ride on your way to work and do a good deed before the day has even begun! Volunteers receive mileage reimbursement for part of the ride and transportation credits for the rest. Volunteers can save these credits for their own future use, transfer them to a loved one, or donate them to the Road Scholarship Program™ for low-income riders.

ITNNorthCentralConnecticut™ is a community-supported nonprofit that does not use public dollars for operating expenses. The organization needs additional volunteers to keep the cost of the service affordable. ITN also accepts car donations, or members may trade their unused cars for an equal value of ride credits. Applications for memberships and to become a volunteer driver are on the website at www.itnnorthcentralct.org. For more information, call Margaret Smith Hale at 860-758-7833 or email info@itnnorthcentralct.org.

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THE WILSON BRANCH LIBRARY

is in great need of volunteer tutors.  (Adults and High School Students).  It’s a wonderful way to help children receive the additional instruction they need to succeed. 

High school students are encouraged to volunteer and will receive community service hours.  Sessions are only 1 hour per week and are available on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday during the school year.  Please consider helping Windsor students achieve their goals.  To volunteer as a tutor, please call the Library @ 247-8960.

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Council on Ministries

This group meets monthly to coordinate, share and be a think tank for the various ministries of Trinity.  It was in the Council that our new Sunday School program emerged.  All ministry leaders are members of the Council and are expected to be present at these meetings.  The Council meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m., in the church library and is chaired by Pastor Skip.