Trinity UMC

Supper with Santa - Dec. 9

2009-12-16T09:19:00.000-08:00

Last Wednesday night the Family Life Center at Trinity UMC was FULL of wonder and cheer! Tons of kids piled out the doors of the auditorium as the firetruck pulled up in the parking lot around 6:30 on December 9th, 2009. Long Creek's finest escorted Santa Clause to our church where he sat and listened to what every last child wanted to say. Some kids stood in line for what seemed like hours, just to sit on Santa's lap for a few brief moments.

The 3rd-5th Grade Youth Group took photos of Santa and the kids and sold them for $5 as a fundraiser! They were a huge success and those kids stayed busy the whole night! Thanks to Margie O'Shields, Malcolm Miller, Cheryl Putukian, and the kids for giving us something to remember the evening by.

We look forward to seeing Santa again, this coming Sunday, December 20th at our Children's Christmas Play "A Journey to Bethlehem." Please plan on joining us for a Live Nativity, Caroling from the Choir, a medley from the Handbell Choir, and the Children's Play. Everyone has worked so hard to ensure this evening with feel as if you are truly taking a "Journey to Bethlehem"! The festivities begin this Sunday, December 20th at 5:00pm!

Here are some photos from the Supper with Santa:

Homecoming 2009

2009-10-12T10:11:00.000-07:00

On September 20th, Trinity UMC celebrated 194 years in ministry! We enjoyed a joint service that began at 10:30am with the sounds of Cheryl & the Trinity Church Choir singing loud & proud for 15 minutes! Music was a large part of our Homecoming Service of 2009. The Praise Team from the Contemporary Service shared several songs with us throughout the service, the Handbell Choir played a resounding rendition of "Amazing Grace," and Kat McClure sang special music beautifully!

We remembered those we had lost and honored those who joined our congregation over the past year. Gary Stillwell was the only member of our congregation who received a home going service this past year. Gary past away in September of 2008 and we were honored to have his family join us for Homecoming 2009.

We were BLESSED beyond belief with 11 children born into our church family over the past year. Those who were honored include: MacKenzie Ann Helms, Hunter Caleb Taormina, Holden Garrett Taormina, Joshua Luke Wagenhauser, Reese Hayden Kidd, Rainey Cross Kidd, Henry Neal Davis, Caleb Davis McConnell, Nathan Hill Perry, Kaitlyn Rae Henson, and Melinda Kay Barth. Congratulations to the families of all these precious children of God!

After all the songs had been sung and all the babies had been blessed, we welcomed our speaker, Jimmy Howard back to the pulpit. Jimmy reminded us that those who call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. He also asked everyone "Who's your daddy?" Just check the bottom of your foot and see who's name you see. Who do you belong to? THE LORD.

CROP Hunger Walk - Oct. 4th

2009-09-30T07:32:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, a group from Trinity UMC will embark on a short but meaningful mission trip. We will be departing from the church parking lot at approximently 1:30pm on Sunday afternoon to be a part of the Charlotte CROP (Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty) Hunger Walk.

CROP Hunger Walks help children and families worldwide -- and right here in the U.S. -- to have food for today, while building for a better tomorrow. Each year some two million CROP Walkers, volunteers, and sponsors put their hearts and soles in motion, raising over $16 million per year to help end hunger and poverty around the world -- and in their own communities. And you can be a part of it! If you are unable or unavailable to walk on October 4th, don't worry! You can still help by sponsoring someone who is walking.

Be a part of the Community Responding to Overcome Poverty and make a donation today!

Summerville Miracle League

2009-09-28T07:31:00.000-07:00

I wanted to let you all know - We finally got the date finalized for our trip to Charleston to help with the Summerville Miracle League.

We will leave Friday, Nov. 6th at 4pm and get back home Saturday, Nov. 7th at 10pm. If you are able and willing to join us, please contact Shelly Black THIS WEEK! We will be reserving the hotel rooms this week if possible and need to have our final count ASAP.

If you are unable to go with us, but still want to help, please consider making a financial contribution. No amount is too small. I have included a link to the video from the spring season of the Summerville Miracle League for those of you who haven't seen it. Please take a few minutes to watch, it will tug at your heart strings.

THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

http://vimeo.com/5963248

Luke 9:23

2009-09-23T09:22:00.000-07:00

Then he said to them all: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me."

Offering ourselves to God isn't easy because it means we must first die to our own selfish will. Like Jesus did in the Garden of Gethsemane, we face our own cross and must cry out, "Not my will, dear Father, but your will be done!"

First Day of Playschool

2009-09-18T12:13:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, September 8th was the first day of Playschool at Trinity UMC. What a WONDERFUL sight to see all those parents and children arriving at the church!!! In case you missed it, we included a few photos for you to enjoy!

2009-09-18T12:12:00.001-07:00

"For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." -Matthew 18:20

When are friends more than friends? When they gather in the name of Jesus and he meets with them there.

2009-09-17T08:23:00.000-07:00

"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, Iwill fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." -Psalm 23:4

Death is the ultimate profanity in today's world. We don't like to think about it, much less talk about it. However, death is that one reality that will not leave us alone. We lose friends and family members to death. At one point in our lives, we too, will face this inevitable unless Jesus comes before our passing. So what is our assurance as we face the inescapable? Our Shepherd! He will walk us through, guiding and protecting and comforting us in our journey. And as Christians, this promise is only intensified because we know Jesus as our Good Shepherd, and he has taken the walk ahead of us to insure that our walk through death's valley doesn't end in death, but in glory.

Proverbs 16:16

2009-09-16T07:50:00.000-07:00

"How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver!" -Proverbs 16:16

What are the greatest riches in life? Well surely they are not silver and gold. Of infinitely greater value is wisdom, which helps us understand what is valuable, what is true, what is worthy of our heart, and what is not.

Grandparents Day & Youth Kick-Off

2009-09-15T08:09:00.001-07:00

Wow, we had a busy day this past Sunday! During the 10:30 service we honored our grandparents, baptized Hunter and Holden Taormina, heard some wonderful special music from Danny and Sherri Barth, and enjoyed a fabulous message from Preacher Rick! Then later that afternoon we Kicked-Off the 2009-2010 year of youth!!

Frances Whisenant was honored as having the oldest grandchild who is 43 years old... just barely beating Helen Kidd with a grandchild of 42 years! Linda Swaringen was also honored as having the youngest grandchild who is currently 3 weeks, just beating the Taormina's with twin grandchildren that are 6 months old! To all the grandparents of our congregation, we again Thank You for everything you do and for continually being a part of the lives of all the children of Trinity UMC.

Speaking of the children of Trinity, Youth Kick-Off was this past Sunday as well! We had an amazing crowd at the church on Sunday afternoon! Everyone enjoyed the 50ft slip 'n slide, ran a few water relays, ate some delicious pizza from Little Ceasars, were treated to some even more delicious ice cream thanks to Cheryl Howard, and enjoyed the fellowship of some REALLY AWESOME kids! Thanks to everyone that came out and helped! The kids had a blast!

Youth Kick-Off 09! We had a GREAT crowd!

We also had a 50ft slip 'n slide!

It was really soapy!!

Even Preacher Rick took a ride!

The High School is flocking Long Creek!

The kids had a blast!

Then we ate pizza and ice cream!

THANKS to everyone that came and to those who helped setup, serve pizza and ice cream, and clean up! You guys are the best! To find out more about the Flock Long Creek program, see Shelly Black!

Romans 6:15

2009-09-15T08:07:00.000-07:00

"What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? By no means!" -Romans 6:15

This matching verse to Romans 6:1-2, is the great reminder that sin is no longer our master and no longer our choice. We choose to live for God with every fiber of our being and loathe the life of sin that once held us in bondage to death and defeat.

Hebrews 4:12

2009-09-08T06:44:00.000-07:00

"For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than anydouble-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit,joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of theheart." -Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)

What is the greatest tool to repair the human heart? ... by-passsurgery? ... angioplasty? ... artificial heart? ... transplant? Howabout the Word of God? You see, while these other techniques can beof great aid to the physical heart of people, God's tool for heartsurgery is his Word. This sharp scalpel can reach the soul andspirit as well as being a physical blessing. So how much of yourheart are you offering to God and his powerful heart-healing toolto touch? As you open God's Scripture, as you hear the message ofGod preached, why not ask for the Holy Spirit's help to help youunderstand, apply, and put into practice what is being taught?Let's offer our hearts to the Great Physician to do his work in us!

Psalm 119:105

2009-09-05T09:19:00.000-07:00

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." -Psalm 119:105 (NIV)

So often, those of us who have received the blessings of faith and the guidelines of the Word of God don't fully appreciate them. Can you imagine what it is like to try to define ones worth, clarify ones values, and establish ones sense of purpose without a standard of truth? Imagine what it would be like to be lost without a map and without a compass? Remember what it was like to wake up in an unfamiliar place as a child in the pitch black darkness totally disoriented? We don't have to worry about that now, do we? God's Word -- both Scripture and his Son -- light our dark paths and show us the way home!

2009-09-04T06:50:00.000-07:00

"For you make me glad by your deeds, O LORD; I sing for joy at the works of your hands." -Psalm 92:4

Gaze into the heavens on a dark night and see the wonders of the starry hosts. Think of the incredible diversity of earth's wonders. Look at your own life and see the fingerprints of God's work in your own experience (Rom. 8:28). As Jesus said, our Father is working still (John 5:17). Yes, it does make us glad to know that we are not alone in working our own life (Psalm 139; Phil. 2:13).There is a deep-seated joy at knowing that the LORD, Creator of the universe is at work in us and for us. No wonder singing praise is such a natural response for us!

Psalm 9:2

2009-09-02T06:14:00.000-07:00

"I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High." -Psalm 9:2 (NIV)

When was the last time you made up a song? The last time you made up a song of praise to God? Worried that you can't do it? Don't think it will be good? Don't worry! your only audience is your Abba Father who longs to hear your heart sing regardless of your voice's perfection or your melody's tune. He wants to rejoice and be glad with you. So open your heart and raise your voice to praise your God.

TOWN HALL MEETING - Aug 30

2009-08-29T06:03:00.000-07:00

Trinity United Methodist Church
WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?
REMODEL, REPAIR???

The Administrative Council’s Building Study Committee will make a presentation on options for the future of the Educational Wing of Trinity UMC on Sunday, August 30th. This meeting will be held immediately following the Stewardship Lunch after the Worship Service. The Stewardship Luncheon will be hosted by the United Methodist Men.

This will be your chance to hear the options suggested by the committee, but more importantly, it will be followed by a time to voice your opinions, ask questions, give us your ideas and let the Administrative Council know what your wishes are for Trinity as we continue to move into the future.

Proverbs 14: 29

2009-08-29T06:02:00.000-07:00

"A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly." - Proverbs 14:29

Responding quickly to aggravation, threat, insult, or difficulty suggests strength to many folks today. However, responding hastily out of anger is foolish. This response seldom produces the desired long term effect and nearly always compounds the problems that need to be addressed. Patiently dealing with frustrating and painful situations shows understanding and is nearly always more fruitful in the long run.

Romans 8:28

2009-08-28T06:59:00.000-07:00

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." -Romans 8:28 (NIV)

Bad stuff happens in life. Satan has a part to play in the bad stuff. Our own sins and their consequences also play a part. The rebellion against God and the spiritual weakness in those we love bring hurtful things into our life. Sometimes, God even disciplines us to awaken us out of lethargy or to correct some sinful problemin our lives. Yet in all these things, we have an incredible promise: If we love God and are seeking to honor his call in our lives, our Father in heaven will work out all of the things going on in our life for our good.

1 John 2:27

2009-08-27T09:29:00.000-07:00

"As for you, the anointing you received from him [the Spirit] remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit — just as it has taught you, remain in him." -1 John 2:27 (NIV)

When we became Christians, we were not only cleansed by the Holy Spirit; we were also filled with the Holy Spirit. John speaks of this as our anointing. The Spirit helps us hear the truth about Jesus and keeps us from surrendering that truth to false teaching that would diminish either side of Jesus' identity -- Jesus, "God with us" or "God like us." We abide in Jesus when we hold on to both of these incredible truths.

Romans 8:26

2009-08-26T09:20:00.000-07:00

"In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express." -Romans 8:26 (NIV)

Isn't it incredible! Even in those times when my words are blocked and my heart is heavy, God hears my prayers. It is not because I am articulate, wise, or faithful enough to pray as I should. No, it is because God has graciously placed his Spirit in our hearts to make known what my words cannot capture and my mind cannot verbalize. God hears my groanings, my yearnings, my heartbreaks, and my heart-cries. He knows what I cannot think, but only feel. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, he answers those unuttered prayers with his presence, grace, and power.

Proverbs 3: 3-4

2009-08-25T12:59:00.000-07:00

"Let love and faithfullness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man." Proverbs 3: 3-4

John 8: 31-32

2009-08-24T13:23:00.000-07:00

"If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8: 31-32

Summer Choir Concert & Ice Cream Social

2009-08-24T09:13:00.001-07:00

This past Sunday was quite a busy day! In addition to Back to School Sunday, we also were able to enjoy the Summer Choir Concert & Ice Cream Social. Here are a few pictures from that night.

Don & Von played before the concert began.

The full choir sang several wonderful gospel songs!

The Wilson's sang with Rick.

(There were also several other solo artists too!)

The 2009 Trinity Church Choir

The Ice Cream Social after the concert.

Carolyn and several others helped out! THANKS!

Laura helped out too! Great job!

Sunday, Aug. 23rd

2009-08-24T08:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Back to School Sunday at Trinity Church. The Third Graders received their Bibles, Rick delivered an excellent message on "Training in Righteousness," and we blessed the backpacks of all the Trinity Students for the 2009-2010 school year!

Before the service, the children gathered out front.

Some of them played with their new school supplies!

Third Graders receiving their Bibles.

The children processed in while "Miss" Doris
sang "This Little Light of Mine"

They put their backpacks on the altar where
they were prayed over later in the service.
After the Blessing of the Backpacks,
the children (and the adults) received bookmarks and braclets
to help them start the school year off right!

Back to School Sunday - Aug. 23

2009-08-21T08:22:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, August 23rd is Back to School Sunday at Trinity United Methodist Church. We will be honoring our rising third graders with their Third Grade Bibles and blessing the backpacks of all our students and teachers for this upcoming school year. Then Sunday night, we will join together again for our End of Summer Choir Concert and Ice Cream Social! It's going to be a busy Sunday at Trinity! We hope to see you there!

THIRD GRADE BIBLE SUNDAY
This coming Sunday, Aug 23 all rising 3rd graders will be presented with a Bible from Trinity. If you have a rising 3rd grader or an older child who has not received a Bible from the church please call the church office to be included on the list.

BLESSING OF THE BACKPACK

The Age Level Committee will have the “Blessing of the Backpack” - This is exactly what it sounds like..we invite ALL students (regardless of age) to wear their backpacks to church on August 23rd. These will be placed on the altar and at the end of the Worship Service a special blessing will be prayed over them and their student for the upcoming school year. We care about you and your education.

SUMMER CONCERT AND ICE CREAM SOCIAL
Sunday, August 23rd at 6:30pm the choir would like to close out the summer with some good ole’ singing and ice cream. So come out and enjoy many of the “old gospel” songs with us and stay afterwards for ice cream. If you would like to bring some ice cream that would be welcome as well!!!

Trinity Sandwich Shoppe

2009-08-17T06:45:00.000-07:00

This morning a group of Trinity Church Members gathered in the kitchen of the Fellowship Hall to make 500 sandwiches that will be delivered to Urban Ministries later today. Whether it was taking the twist-ties off the loaves, laying the bread out, slapping the mayo on, adding the ham, or bagging the sandwiches back up - there was a job for everyone!

Thank you to those who helped out this morning!

Cheryl Howard, Lisa King, Erica King,

Curtis Buchanan, Daniel Black, and Madison King

Madison helping take the twist-ties off!

Willie McManus and John Moore

(way in the back) were there too!

Love Thy Neighbor - Aug. 16th

2009-08-16T15:33:00.000-07:00

For those of you who were unable to attend our services this morning, we would like to offer you a brief summary of what you missed! There was an amazing amount of love in the sanctuary this morning. It was wonderful to see the parking lot full of cars and the pews full of people there to worship the Lord in His house. The rest of the Montana Mission Team has made it home safely, and many of them were in attendance this morning (filling up 1 1/2 pews themselves!). Lynne filled in for Misti on special music and sang "Revelation Song" beautifully.

Trinity Welcomes the Campbell Family

We welcomed four new members into our congregration: Tom Campbell, Marlene Campbell, Brittney Campbell, and Kristen Campbell Stroupe. Kristen is married to David and Donna's son Justin Stroupe. They came to Trinity UMC through transfer from Davidson United Methodist Church. Welcome to the Campbell family!

Love Thy Neighbor

The message was brought to the congregation this morning by Preacher Rick, who just returned from the mission trip this past Tuesday. It was obvious that the experience he had in Montana has certainly influenced his sermon!

The Most Important Commandment

Luke 10: 25-29
"One day an expert in religious law stood up to Jesus by asking Him this question: 'Teacher, what must I do to receive eternal life?' Jesus replied, 'What does the law of Moses say? How do you read it?' The man answered, 'You must love the Lord God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.' And, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' 'Right!' Jesus told him. 'Do this and you will live!' The man wanted to justify his actions, so he asked Jesus, 'And WHO is my neighbor?'"

The Good Samaritan

Luke 10: 30-37
"Jesus replied with an illustration: 'A Jewish man was traveling on a trip from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he was attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes and money, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the road. By chance a Jewish priest came along; but when he saw the man lying there, he crossed to the other side of the road and passed him by. A Temple assistant walked over and looked at him lying there, but he also passed by on the other side. Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt deep pity. Kneeling beside him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with medicine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him. The next day he handed the innkeeper two pieces of silver and told him to take care of the man. 'If his bill runs higher than that,' he said, 'I'll pay the difference the next time I am here.' 'Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits?' Jesus asked. The man replied, 'The one who showed him mercy.' Then Jesus said, 'Yes, now go and do the same.'"

This is the question that Rick presented to the church. WHO is YOUR neighbor? Many people today think so quickly of themselves before they think of others; however, that is not what Jesus has taught us. He has taught us to love our neighbors AS we would love ourselves. So who do you consider your neighbor to be? The person that you have time to help? Those who ask for help? Someone that you have decided deserves your help?

Think about the perspectives in the story. The Jewish priest could have been on his way to a very important "board meeting." Have you ever been in such a hurry to do the "work" of the church, that you passed by a neighbor in need? The Temple assistant, who was knowledgeable and intelligent, may have thought about the danger that he would face in helping the man. Have you ever let your head get in the way of helping someone, because of the dangers in offering someone a hand or because you thought about what others might think or say about you? Then consider the Good Samaritan. He was most likely on this path for a specific reason, and he had other things that he needed to take care of. He probably wasn't considered rich by any means; however, he felt pity for this man and was willing to give of his time, risk his life, offer his donkey, and pay for his stay at the inn. He choose to make the sacrifice for his fellow man, a man that would have considered the Samaritan to be "unclean."

This relates well to our mission in Montana. The people of Heart Butte are our neighbors and we are called by God to love them as we love ourselves. It is hard to see people living in such poverty, children who do not feel loved by their parents and eat as though they haven't eaten all week, and adults that will not take pride in their homes or their land. We as a church have visited with this community now for 13 years. In that time, we have made a difference. You will see the community come out of their homes to help our team pick up the trash and weed the yards. The children may not always feel love from their parents, but it is guaranteed that when our team leaves they feel the love of Jesus Christ and that kind of love will last a lifetime. This is what we are called to do as Christians. We are to love our neighbors, and in doing so, we are to show them the face of Jesus.

So who is your neighbor?

One Moment of Thanks... Spread the Word

2009-08-13T08:17:00.000-07:00

By: Mike Redding (Stop and Smell the People)

Mark this down: Noon, Friday August 14. Here’s why…

In Arlington National Cemetery, a family marks the one-year anniversary of United States Marine Captain Garrett Lawton's death. After reading my story from Arlington National Cemetery, “One Soldier’s Death,” many of us have been asking the same question: How do we say thank you to those who serve?

No matter our politics, we all want or soldiers to return home safely… to be reunited with their families. In the meantime wouldn’t it be nice if our servicemen and women knew how proud we are of them, how often we think of them, and how much we appreciate their sacrifice?

Anna and I have been looking for a simple way for masses of people to say thanks. I think we’ve stumbled upon something. It was under our noses all along. What if on Friday at noon each of us updated our Facebook or twitter status by writing something to our soldiers?

You could offer a prayer… or a moment of silence… or simply type a soldiers name… anything that for you says, “I care!” I’m not asking you to be pro-war… or anti-war. All I’m asking is for you to tell our troops and their families you haven’t forgotten them.

If for one moment we stopped yelling at each other about health care and instead made are voices one. What would that look like? What if we all tweeted or updated our FB status at the same time as a grateful nation to all the men and women serving our country?

Anna and I have reached out to the people who inspired this idea… Sgt. Carlos Baldeosingh’s widow, Rebecca; Chaplain 1LT Thomas Watson, the Charlottean leading our soldiers through their toughest hours in Iraq; and Soldier Cody Fowler who has been reading this website from the frontlines in Iraq. They all love the idea. (You’d be amazed at how “plugged in” our soldiers are to social media.) Your gratitude will reach them.

So, we are asking you to join us on Friday, August 14, 2009 to take a moment and offer up some simple words of thanks to our troops.

Also, lets see how many people we can get on board. Start telling all your Facebook and twitter friends. Let’s see how far we can spread this simple gesture of thanks.

In case you’re like me and need it spelled out… here’s how our simple plan will work…

1. On August 14, 2009 at 12 NOON EST (9AM West Coast… 7PM Baghdad… 8PM Kabul, Afghanistan) we’ll all “tweet” or update our Facebook status with a few words of gratitude, or the name of someone serving or the name of someone killed in action. (If you don’t have Facebook or Twitter you can post your words of gratitude here on this site under “comments.”)

2. Before Friday, August 14 tell everyone you can and ask them to join in our moment of thanks… and ask them to pass along news of our effort to everyone they know.

We have about 24 hours, people, get the word out!

(Copied from Stop and Smell the People by Mike Redding)

2009-08-12T07:44:00.000-07:00

Last night a few members of Trinity headed down to Charlotte Douglas International Airport to pick up and welcome back 9 of the 20 team members of the Montana Mission Team. After waiting anxiously for quite a while, the team finally landed last night at 10:07pm and were welcomed by a slew of hugs, hand shakes, and questions like "Did you miss me??". Be sure to ask them about the trip, they are so excited to tell everyone! Welcome Home Montana Mission Team!

The Welcome Wagon!

The team coming down the escaltors!

The rest of the team!

Hugs!

Welcome Back!

Coming Home....

2009-08-11T06:28:00.001-07:00

The team in Heart Butte, Montana is full of heavy hearts today - excited about being able to see family and friends again, but saddened by the fact that they have to say goodbye to some people that have become close friends over the past two weeks.

Although, I have not been in contact with the team, I am confident that they said most of their goodbyes last night over dinner at the church. Smokie, Wishie, Arlene, and Eloise MUST have been there. Arlene may have even performed a smudging, which blesses those in attendance and asks God to protect and guide them through their travels.

This morning, they awoke to eat a breakfast of leftovers in hopes to eat up anything left in the fridge before they leave. They will begin packing their luggage, cleaning the church, and then loading up the cars soon. Around 12:00 EST they will pile into the rental cars and start out on the two hour drive to Great Falls International Airport. The kids will most likely talk about things that happened at Sam's as they pass by, and the adults will look toward the airport ready to get home, but not ready to leave.

They will quickly board the airplane on their way to Minneapolis/St. Paul where they will land around 6:00pm EST. They will have a short layover, which will give them time to grab a quick bite to eat and then they will board the last plane on their journey home. Northwest Airlines Flight #1287 from Minneapolis/St. Paul to Charlotte Douglas International Airport. They will arrive in Charlotte around 10:00pm to a crowd of family and friends there to welcome them home! Many will have made signs and banners and they will all wait patiently at baggage claim for the team to start down the escalators.

I hope that you will be one of those who is waiting there to welcome them home. Whether your immediate family was a part of the team or not, as a church family, we should all be there in support of this mission team who was ready and willing to answer the call of God to be the hands and feet of Christ to the Blackfeet Indians of Heart Butte, MT.

-Shelly Black
Missionary to Heart Butte, MT 2005, 2006, & 2008

Montana Here We Come!

2009-08-05T12:55:00.001-07:00

The Montana Mission Team headed out of Charlotte last Friday, July 31st and arrived in Heart Butte, Saturday, August 1st. After a VERY long trip to get there, they all arrived safely in Great Falls and made the standard trip to Sam's for grocercies. Since the grocery store is a two hour drive from the church in Heart Butte, you plan on buying EVERYTHING you will need for the WHOLE two weeks in ONE trip! Plus, you have to factor in feeding a LARGE part of the community during your stay. It makes for QUITE an expeierence to say the least! If you have been a part of this mission trip and been a "Team Leader" on the trip to Sam's you know what I'm talking about!

After heading out of Sam's, the team started on the two hour journey to the United Methodist Church in Heart Butte, MT where they will be staying until Tuesday, August 11th. During this Mission Trip, they will host Vacation Bible School with up to 40-50 kids EACH day, serve dinner to the community several nights, repair a few roofs (I'm sure!), build a wheelchair ramp (if needed), talk to the people and more importantly listen to them, chase a few kids around the church (more than once), tell Regis to stop setting things on fire, tell Colby to stop doing something (I'm sure!), take a day trip into Canada to enjoy God's creation, TAKE TONS OF PICTURES, study God's word, and receive a tremendous amount of blessings!

I have included some photos from previous mission trips to Montana. For those of you who have been before, this should bring back memories... and for those of you who haven't been a part, this might just make you want to go. Enjoy!

Waiting at the Great Falls Airport.
You can pretty much see the entire airport in this photo!

The view on the way to Heart Butte, driving across Mt.

Vacation Bible School. We always feed the kids lunch.

Craft time at Bible School. Preacher Rick is "helping" Jeron.

Donnie is helping Bunky.
He couldn't see very well, so Donnie is letting him use his glasses.

Wishie telling us a story about something! =)

The women's work project! Cleaning out the vestibule!
It was being using for STORAGE!

We got the room cleaned out!
Then we stained the wood wall and filled holes in the plaster!

The we painted the walls, the floor, built this new table, and hung art work!

This the room complete! Hopefully it looks exactly like that this year!

The men's work project was to build a storage unit for all the stuff in the vestibule.

Jeff and Donnie working hard!

Loading the storage shed up with all the stuff that was kept in the vestibule of the church.

The New Storage Shed for the Church... Complete!

Smoky and Arlene taught Yates the Hand Game

Girls Night. 9-13 year olds came to the church and spent the night.
We painted finger nails, gave pedicures, and giggled the whole night!

Pow Wow is an annual event held in Heart Butte

Pow Wow Dancer

Drummers at Pow Wow

Prayer cloths hung in a tree on the butte.
For each prayer the natives hang a cloth in a tree.

"Big Sky Country"

The Abe Cox Memorial Room

Charlotte Knights Baseball July 25th

2009-07-27T08:18:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, a whole lot of Trinity Church was seen at the Charlotte Knights stadium! In support of the Montana Mission Team, a large group rode the bus and several families drove separately to enjoy a Saturday night baseball game in Fort Mill, SC. The Knights hosted the Rochester Red Wings! Although the game started out a little slow, things picked up in the last few innings! We went into the top of the 9th with the Knights up 6 to 4... thinking the game was over we were preparing to watch fireworks as soon as we got three outs! The Red Wings had something else in mind... as we went into the bottom of the 9th the game was now tied at 6. The Knights managed to get the bases loaded and the Red Wing Pitcher WALKED in the WINNING RUN! Not the most exciting and glorious victory... but we'll take it! The Knights won the game 7 to 6 in the bottom of the 9th! A whole lot of fun was had by all that were able to make it!

Baseball and Hot Dogs! A great Saturday Night!

Cynthia and her family had a great time!

The first couple innings were pretty slow.

Carolyn had some ice cream... and gave Lawrie the bowl.

It became the perfect hat for Mr. Walrus!

We had a pretty big crowd! Marion Elliot caught a foul ball!

At this point... the game was getting exciting!

But the kids weren't as interested...

Enjoying the game...

There were lots of our youth there!

Most of them didn't know much about baseball.

Cynthia was explaining the game a little to Beau and Blake.

The bottom of the 9th inning... game tied 6-6... two men on base!

WE WON!

Fireworks were great!

A little loud for the little ones... but enjoyed by all!

Just watching the fireworks.

It was pretty long too!

The grand finale! The perfect end to a great day at the ball park!

June 28 - Celebrating July 4th

2009-06-30T14:36:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday, Trinity United Methodist Church celebrated July 4th! We all know what that means! Miss Doris sang the patriotic songs loud and proud, flags were hanging everywhere, and the Emmett Wilson Sunday School Class served BBQ Chicken for lunch! If you missed church this past Sunday, enjoy the pictures below.

Bringing in the light.

The fireman carried in the flags.

Saying the Pledge of Allegiance

Handbells played a patriotic medley!

Misti sang a beautiful song and played piano!

The choir sang lots of patriotic songs!

Chad and Avery carried the flame out into the world.

The Emmett Wilson Sunday School Class provided the famous BBQ Chicken lunch!

It was delicious!

We had a great big crowd stay for lunch!

May 31, 2009 - Graduation Sunday and End of the Year Youth Party

2009-06-25T09:18:00.000-07:00

This was a busy day at Trinity UMC. We honored our graduates and enjoy a fabulous water party for the youth group to close out the year. Those who graduated this year included: Here are a few photos taken that day.

Vacation Bible School 2009 Camp E.D.G.E.

2009-06-25T08:33:00.000-07:00

If you haven't been at the church the past few nights... you have missed out! We have seen so many beautiful smiling faces passing through the church the past three nights! This year our theme is Camp E.D.G.E. and the kids have enjoyed every minute of our camp themed crafts, activities, snacks, music, and story time!

Blaze and Sparx have helped the kids to blaze the trail as they Experience and Discover God Everywhere! "Miss" Cheryl has led music and kept the kids singing these songs throughout the rest of the night! Michelle and her friends have helped the kids to make lots of fun crafts that the kids are excited to take home and show their parents. "Miss" Lynne and her friends have led the kids on three different journeys throughout the Old & New Testaments! "Miss" Ginny and her gang have given the kids a great boost with Sun Drop slushies, protein bars, mini pizzas, and more! Mr Shea and "Miss" Holly have led the kids through relay races and fun activities with the help of LOTS of volunteers!

So far, this has been a great year for VBS at Trinity UMC! Stop by the church at 6:30 tonight or tomorrow night and be a part! There is always a need for help in the crafts, snacks, or recreation! You can also come join Preacher Rick's Bible Study in the Sanctuary! There is something for everyone!

The WHOLE church is invited Friday night!! Come hear the kids sing their songs and share with everything they have learned at bible school. There will be hamburgers and hot dogs, a water slide, human bowling, and more! DON'T MISS OUT!

Christmas Time is Over....

2009-01-14T07:38:00.000-08:00

This coming Sunday, you won't see the Christmas Tree in the Sanctuary. It is sad to see it all gone, but this past Saturday, January 10th we all got together and packed Christmas away for another year. The Nurture Committee would like to extend it's deepest appreciation to all those who came in November to "Hang the Greens" AND to all those who came back in January to "De-Hang the Greens." Thank you all so much for your help!

The Nativity Scene - Waiting to be packed up.

Getting it all packed away for another year.

It took a lot of hands - Thanks to Everyone!

Planning Session 2009

2009-01-14T07:34:00.001-08:00

"Go Til God Says NO!" - That is the theme of Trinity United Methodist Church 2009!! Our planning session this past Friday, January 9th was a huge success! There were not very many people present, but those that were there were on fire for God! It's going to be a wild ride at Trinity Church this year! Be prepared to see lots of changes and lots of new things going on! This year, we are going to "Go Til God Says No!!" and see just how far he will take us.

Church Planning Summary:

A new year requires a new outlook and rededication for our church. We have now adopted a saying that we feel summarizes this New Year …… “GO UNTIL GOD SAYS NO!” Too many times we avoid starting a mission, event, etc. because “we” feel it won’t succeed! We need to get out of the way and allow God to direct us and our church!!

We discussed qualities and practices of fruitful (successful) congregations. Here are the 5 practices of Fruitful Congregations:

1. Radical Hospitality – reaching out to those that aren’t like us
2. Passionate Worship – actually praising God in our services
3. Intentional Faith Development – offering programs, services, guidance in order to further our personal relationship with God and spiritual growth.
4. Risk Taking – missions and services (Montana, Health Fair, Room in the Inn, etc)
5. Extravagant Giving – times are tough and extremely tough with our very own church. The bible says “…to do good, to be rich in helping others, to be extravagantly generous. If they do that, they'll build a treasure that will last, gaining life that is truly life." (I Timothy 6:7-19, The Message)

This Week at TUMC

2009-01-05T10:05:00.001-08:00

Hey! We have LOTS going on at church this week! Throughout the week, several of the committees are meeting to make plans for 2009. If you are a member of a committee, call your committee chair to find out when your committee will be meeting.

This Friday, January 9th we are having our Church Wide Planning Session. Join us at 6:30 Friday night and help us plan events and activities for Trinity Church 2009!

Also, on Saturday January 10th, we will be taking down the Christmas decorations. We will need LOTS of help getting everything packed up and put away. We are meeting in the Sanctuary at 9:00. Call Shelly Swaringen if you have any questions!

Lots and lots to do! No time to waste! Step up and be a part!

Youth Lock-In

2009-01-05T09:52:00.000-08:00

This past weekend, the 6th-8th grade youth were at church extremely early. They actually got to church 13 hours before it started! We played video games and board games, ate lots of junk food, and hung out at the church Saturday, January 3rd through Sunday, January 4th. At 9:00 we all enjoyed the early service, then most of us went to Sunday School, and even the 11:00 service! The kids had a blast and hope we can do it again next year!

Everyone enjoyed the Guitar Hero Tournament!

Then we all enjoyed a movie.

There wasn't really any sleeping...

The Silent Night Before Christmas

2008-12-30T08:02:00.001-08:00

We here at Trinity United Methodist Church hope that you all had a wonderfully Merry Christmas! We had a wonderful time at the Christmas Eve services here. I have included a few photos from the 11:00 Candlelight Communion Service presented by the 6th-8th Grade Youth Group. Enjoy the photos and have a safe and Happy New Year!

Curtis started things off with a reading of "Twas the Night Before Christmas." Mike Raynor shared the "Soldiers Night Before Christmas." After Rick read the Christmas Story for us from the book of Luke, Shelly Swaringen sang "I Need a Silent Night" while the youth acted out the story for us. Regis Bryer, Colby Current, Serena Current, Madison Hyatt, Logan Massey, and Laura Miller presented us with a Live Nativity and shared communion with the congregation. The service ending while singing Silent Night as the candles were lit. We rang in the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at midnight.

Curtis Read "Twas the Night Before Christmas"

The Youth Presented a Live Nativity

Madison was the Angel, lighting the Advent Candles

Logan Massey was Mary in our Live Nativity

6th-8th Grade Youth Movie Night

2008-12-20T12:51:00.000-08:00

The 6th-8th Grade Youth got together Friday, December 19th for Christmas Movie Night! We didn't really watch much of the movie, but we all had a great time anyway. We had some business to discuss first and foremost, but after we got that out of the way, we dove into some pizza and LOTS of junk food!! After dinner and dessert, we watched maybe 30 minutes of Elf with Will Ferrell... then we arrived in the Land of Chaos! The kids decided to play Hide and Seek in the DARK! They took over the entire house... Colby and Shelly even scared the kids a bit with a prank phone call. It was all in good humor and the kids had a great time! Shelly developed a headache from all the screaming, so the game of Taboo was brought out to calm things down a bit. We also had a lot of fun with the camera. Enjoy the pics included below and visit the link at the bottom of this post to see the rest of the photos that were taken that night.

Laura, Colby, Logan, Sam, Serena, Madison (We missed you Regis!!)

Colby, Serena, and Logan

Camera fun!

Taboo! Sam and Colby trying to get "Stop Sign."

More Taboo fun.

Laura and Shelly

View additional photos here:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2177433&l=74979&id=36613438

Church Wide Caroling

2008-12-17T19:37:00.000-08:00

Tonight we enjoyed church wide caroling! We had a group total of 22 including Curtis and Braxton Buchanan, Jimmy and Cheryl Howard, Shea and Holly Hartsell, Margie and John O'Shields, Sherri, Sammi, and Lawrie Barth, Daniel Black, Shelly Swaringen, Laura Miller, Perry and Jewel McConnel, McKenzie, Karen, Regis, and Ryan Bryer, Carol Wilson, and Doug Darnell was the best bus driver!

We were able to visit Bobbie Almond, Betty Johnston, Bill Todd, and Jimmy Rogers. After several spirited renditions of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Jingle Bells, and We Fish You A Harry Christmas we headed over to Showmars for dinner.

I have included several photos from the evening below. Enjoy!

Betty Johnston enjoying some carols!

Merry Christmas, Betty!

Bill & Bennie Todd

2008-12-16T21:10:00.001-08:00

This is our brand new blog! It goes right along with our brand new website! We are excited about all the changes happening at Trinity these days. If you have moved away or haven't been able to visit with us lately, we are hoping this will help keep you in touch with what's going on at your home church!

We hope that you will visit with us in person as often as possible, but when you can't visit in person, we hope you will visit us virtually! Click on the link to the right to become a follower! You will receive a notification each time a new post is added!

Have a wonderful and safe holiday season! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!