We offer a welcoming and transforming experience: the love of Jesus Christ.

Sundays in November 

Nov. 2 All Saints/Youth Sunday Naming of the Saints Service of Holy Communion Daylight Savings Time ends

Nov. 9 Veterans Sunday Recognition of Veterans Message: The Cure for the Common

Church Distribution of 2015 Blessed to Be a

Blessing Packets

Nov. 16 Generosity Sunday Dedication of 2015 BBB Gratitude

Cards Message: Blessed to Be a Blessing Norman Sutphin Organ Recital,

2 p.m.

Nov. 23 Thanksgiving Sunday Sand Creek Presentation, 9:30 a.m. Message: An Amazing Thanksgiving Complete return of BBB Gratitude

Cards

Nov. 30 First Sunday of Advent Service of Holy Communion Sand Creek Commemoration Hanging of the Greens Message: Fed with the Bread of

Tears

Features Inside this Issue … Adult Ministries ....................................... 6 Care Ministry ............................................ 9 Contemplative Corner ........................... 15 Council Corner ......................................... 3 Health Ministry ...................................... 10 Music & Arts ............................................. 5 Our Church Family ................................... 7 Staff Book Picks .................................... 12 Trinity at Work ......................................... 8 UMW News ............................................. 14 WHFL Update ........................................... 4 Youth Ministry .......................................... 7

A Monthly Magazine ofA Monthly Magazine of

Trinity United Trinity United

Methodist ChurchMethodist Church

Denver, ColoradoDenver, Colorado Volume 21, Issue 11Volume 21, Issue 11

VisionVisionVision The November 2014The November 2014 Pastor Dent

blessing the runners of the Hot

Chocolate Mara-thon on Oct. 5 ,

benefitting Ronald McDonald House.

See comments on future races,

page 13.

“Excuse me, but there’s a  Rolex in my soup ...” 

The Trinity Pulpit

Jeanne Dodd may easily have uttered that exact line after she opened the lid of a Camp-bell’s soup can. Inside she discovered silver and gold jewels, rings, a bracelet, and a Rolex watch rather than soup. Jeanne had been temporarily unemployed and went to work as a volunteer at a food bank. However, she had no idea or suspi-cion of what she would discover in one of the cans she received after working.

Apparently, the can of asparagus soup was a tiny safe designed to protect the precious treasure of the owner. That owner must have been confused and placed the can with other donations for the food bank.

In any case, this incident demonstrates the wisdom of Jesus’ words, “Do not store up treasures here on earth, where they can be eaten by moths and get rusty, and where thieves break in and steal.” (Matthew 6:19) Our faith is not in our possessions, riches, and treasures, but in the God who creates, redeems, and sustains us and our world.

The power of the gospel to transform our lives is witnessed in the radical change in Zacchaeus’ life. He was a wealthy tax collector, gaining his riches by extortion and dishonesty. Yet, Jesus came to him and his life was changed. Zacchaeus was “up a tree” until he met Jesus.

The tax collector moved from extortion to extravagance, as he gave away half of his wealth to the poor and repaid all he had cheated. His greatest treasure came in his relationship with his Lord, and not his ill-gained wealth.

Remember that lesson the next time you open a can of soup…or find yourself up a tree…or prepare to fill out a Gratitude Card. Generosity Sunday is November 16. We are blessed to be a blessing.

Yours in blessing, 

Pastor Mike 

The Vision of Trinity UMC Page 2

Blessed to Be a Blessing Interview with Dr. Mike Dent

EDITOR’S NOTE: As Trinity approaches its 2015: Blessed to Be a Blessing Journey to Generosity

climax on Gratitude Sunday, Nov. 16, its senior pastor answers questions concerning the church, the journey and the giving.

Q. How much money does Trinity UMC need for next year? A: While no budget has been set for 2015 and will not be until after the Journey to Generosity is completed, our financial needs will be equal or greater than this year. Our 2014 budget is $1,917,194, a 1.3% increase from a year ago. All committees and ministry teams have made wise ministry investments in 2014. Growing in giving will enable us to sustain all vital present ministries and provide needed support to staff, as well as underwrite some increases in operating expenses beyond our control. We know we have lost several long-time members to death and relocations this year and will need to grow in generosity to fully support present ministries.

Q: What are the major items in our mission and ministry? A. Our gifts provide for the wider mission of Christ through the United Methodist connection in the Rocky Mountain Conference, USA, and 90 countries in God’s world. We support significant local missions, as well. We provide local ministries in these areas: Youth, Women, Men, Family, Fellow-ship, Adult Education, Member Care, Music and Arts, Evangelism and Communications. We open our doors to daily support/recovery groups, weekly rehearsals, meal ministry, classes, and meetings. Sunday worship services, as well as many weddings, memorial services, and seasonal con-certs and services take place in the sanctuary and chapel. Operating costs – security, annual audit, utilities, insur-ance, postage, office supplies, office machinery, building maintenance, light bulbs, toilet paper, and soap are es-sential. Appropriate compensation for all staff positions is vital.

Q: What encourages you as you look at the congregation?

A: First, I continue to rejoice as I see our folks doing much “hands-on” ministry –

feeding the hungry, going on mission trips, caring for shut-ins, and teaching ESL classes. This is in addition to all those who weekly serve by teaching, singing, greeting, ushering, growing and supporting children and youth, and taking care of God’s house. Second, I am encouraged daily by staff members who are energetic, passionate, crea-tive, committed and who genuinely care for one another. Third, our church approved by a 95% favorable vote a mission tithe campaign in February. Over 94% of the $2.5 million has been pledged; and over $750,000, given already. The church’s Board of Trustees is working with the architects and contractors to complete the details to remodel the inside of the Plaza Building – nursery, children and youth class-rooms, offices, chapel, and meeting space to enhance security, flexibility, and visibility. The 30-year-old building will be renewed in every way. I rejoice that this effort includes $100,000 each to the local Hunger Relief Center at Metro CareRing and the Imagine No Malaria global effort to save the lives of children. Over 330 families have committed to the We’re Here for Life campaign, and commit-ments are still being received . Fourth, I am very pleased with a new worship service begun recently. It is called Common and offers an alternative time, day, location and style of worship. Under the leadership of staff members Jasper, Lee, and Dan, it has gotten off to a good start.

Q: Let’s shift gears now. Why should one give to the Church? A: For many reasons. We give out of gratitude to God. We give because we are blessed and can bless others. That is our Journey theme. We believe in the ministry of the Church. God wants us to feed the hungry, minister to the sick, care for children and youth. We give because it helps us keep our priorities straight. We give because it is a joy. We give because it is biblical. The Bi-ble says we are blessed by God so

that we can bless others. (Genesis 12:2).

Q: What will be in the 2015 Journey to Generosity Packets we receive Nov. 9? A: All Trinity families are invited to pick up their packets that Sunday. Inside you will find two letters, a pie chart sharing what our dollars do, other support materials, and a 2015 Blessed to Be a Blessing card and return envelope.

Q: By completing a 2015 Blessed to be a Blessing card, what am I committing to? A: In addition to pledging your support of prayers, presence and service, a completed card tells your intention to give a specific amount of money for the church’s ministries in 2015.

Q: Can I give by credit card or a monthly draft on my bank account?

A: Yes, indeed. Both of these options are available on the back of the grati-tude card. You can also complete your card electronically on the church web-site.

Q: What if I lose my job and can’t complete my commitment?

A: Commitments may be adjusted by calling the church office. All pledges are confidential.

Q: Are regular visitors to the church able to complete a card?

A: While all members are expected to pledge, any person of any age who shares the joy of worship and other ministries of Christ at Trinity is welcome to make a commitment.

Q: What is Generosity Sunday?

A: Sunday, Nov. 16, will be the day we present our 2015 Gratitude Cards, placing them in the Jehoash Box (II Kings 12:9) and then kneeling in prayer at the altar at a time of special dedication in each morning service. Cards are in the family packets to be distributed Sunday, Nov. 9. Persons

Continued, next page

November 2014 Page 3

Council Corner

By Lorraine Knitt Trinity Council

Chairperson

For those of you who do not know me, I am a “foodie.” As you can imagine, a holiday like Thanksgiving is right up my alley. I love it all. I love trying new recipes, resurrecting old favorites, walking in the house to tantalizing smells with friends, family, and sometimes soon-to-be new friends around the table, and even the grand mess that comes with all of it. Sometimes there are meals that come toge-ther without a hitch. However, more often than not, inevi-tably something goes a little sideways... Someone comes back from the store with cilantro versus parsley; the oven is accidentally turned off when someone is trying to figure out the timer; baking soda is confused with cornstarch. Regardless of what happens, it all seems to work out. The mistakes end up being the joke of the day; and even if dinner does not come out as planned, no one seems to mind a bit. It is almost like the entire meal is the perfect recipe for joy and love. Of course it never hurts when you have the right people around the table.

At our most recent Trinity Council meeting I could not help but think that we had the right people around Trini-ty’s table. Each person discussed his or her progress on

the goals of their respective areas, and it was humbling to hear all the good work that is happening here at Trinity. Countless volunteers and our staff are doing tremendous amounts of work. Some of this work benefits our church, some of it benefits people in our city, and some of it helps people around the world. Our different areas are working together to bring out the best in each other. By our council and the areas it represents, working together we are better, stronger. Talk about a good recipe. I would like to thank each and every person who works on Trinity’s behalf to provide a welcoming and transforming experience – the love of Jesus Christ.

As Thanksgiving approaches and we start to focus on the food and the fun, let’s remember to thank our God for all the many blessings, both big and small, that we are given every day. Let us remember that what God gives us cannot be found at a supermarket, a parade, a football game—or on sale. Thanksgiving is a time to focus on things like love, joy, peace, grace, and most of all a loving relationship with a wonderful Savior. May each and every one of us have a blessed and joy-filled Thanksgiving.

unable to be present on Generosity Sunday are asked to mail or bring their cards to the church in time to be consecrated that day.

Q: Is every pledge important?

A: Yes, therefore I encourage every-one to pledge. Children and youth are invited to make financial commitments. God rejoices in our attitude of giving. Just as those saints for the past 155 years have made God’s work through Trinity strong, so every present member of Trinity has a contribution to make the mission and ministry of Christ vital and effective among us.

Q: How much should I give?

A: I encourage and practice tithing – giving 10% of one’s income. Some people give more than a tithe. The tithe is biblical, easy to figure, and can be adjusted as one’s income changes. If you cannot tithe yet, then give three, five or another percentage until you reach 10 percent. Tithing is not a legalistic obligation, but an act of love that brings joy and liberates the believer from the grip of materialism.

Q: What last important word would you share with the church family? A: Trinity Church has been blessed in so many ways – a prime location for ministry, an historic house of worship

that attracts folks from around the world, a dedicated staff, strong lay leadership, a diverse congregation, and a commitment to do good. We are blessed to welcome over 125,000 persons into our church home each year – to worship, to pray, to sing, to meditate, to serve, to learn, to eat, to grow, to receive a word of hope, a hand of comfort, a gift of compassion, an act of faith, a witness of love. Thank you in advance for being generous in your giving to bless others as God has first blessed us!

Yours in gratitude,

Pastor Mike

Continued from previous page

The Vision of Trinity UMC Page 4

The Trustees are pleased to report that they have hired the firm City Projects as our Owner’s Represen-tative to ensure Trinity’s best interests throughout the renovation process. The owner’s representative acts as adviser and advocate to the owner of a project during the design and construction phases.

Through City Projects, we’ll be represented by Cherie Kirschbaum (President and Founder) and Jason Newcomer (Vice President, LEED AP):

Cherie is dedicated to improving lives through real estate, providing public and private companies with expertise in strategic real estate planning; organization-al readiness assessment; financial mapping; stake-holder relationships; and project management. A respected community leader, Cherie served on Mayor Michael Hancock’s Community Planning & Develop-ment Transition Team. She also had her first date with her husband at a concert here at Trinity 28 years ago.

Jason enjoys applying his expertise in conceiving, planning, and delivering complex real estate projects to benefit clients who are making positive changes in their communities. His expertise covers real estate acqui- sition, including due diligence and property entitle-ment; project finance; asset management; and property management. He serves on NAIOP Colorado’s board of directors; is a member of Housing Colorado; and has

taught graduate-level courses in sustainable development, green de-sign, and construction principles, as well as advanced construction management at the Uni-versity of Colorado.

PBI Project Status Using updated cost estimates, the Plaza Building

Initiative (PBI) project team is now engaged in a value engineering exercise to align the project scope and costs with the approved budget. This is an expected and necessary part of the project process and will help drive detailed planning. The current plan involves two phases of construction which will require closing off sections of the building during the demolition and reconstruction activities. This approach will enable the church to continue to provide most of the programs and services currently provided throughout the project. Planning with Trinity staff and program leaders is currently in progress to address the challenge of how to most effectively utilize available space in both the plaza building and main church building during each phase. Not surprisingly, everyone involved in the planning effort has demonstrated a willingness to be flexible, and many creative ideas have been proposed.

We’re Here for Life Update

I. THEME Blessed to Be a Blessing

II. SCRIPTURE “I will bless you…so that you will be a blessing.” –

Genesis 12:2

III. GOALS To invite and inspire all Trinity members to express gratitude in offering specific commitments of their prayers, presence, financial gifts, service and witness.

To maintain the pattern of faithful stewardship in generously serving, sharing, and celebrating the life of Christ in and with the world, a hallmark of this congregation for 126 years at 18th and Broadway.

IV. METHOD Every family will be asked to make a specific commit-ment of financial generosity, growing in their giving, in gratitude for receiving and growing in God’s grace in Christ.

The church’s Mission and Ministry for 2015 (budget) will not be set until after the campaign, with total min-istry investments determined by the willingness of the families of the church family to give.

V. CALENDAR Oct. 26 Journey Sunday #1 – Campaign Kick-off Nov. 2 Journey Sunday #2 – All Saints/Youth

Sunday Holy Communion Nov. 9 Journey Sunday #3 – Family Packet Pick-up Distribution of 2015 Blessed to Be a

Blessing Packets Nov. 16 Generosity Sunday

Dedication of 2015 Blessed to Be a Blessing Gratitude Cards

2015 JOURNEY OF GENEROSITY OUTLINE

November 2014 Page 5

Choir Experience for 3rd-5th graders Trinity’s Music & Arts Ministry and Children’s Ministry

have teamed up to develop an awesome, new Sunday School activity for our children in grades 3-5. All 3rd-5th graders who attend the 11 a.m. Sunday School session between 11/2 and 12/7 will be rehearsing to perform together as a choir during the Christmas concert on Sunday, Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. The concert, titled simple. peaceful. christmas., will feature all of Trinity’s ensembles offering music that will soothe the soul and fill the heart with the peace of Christmas. [See page 12.] The choir sessions begin after the 11 a.m. Children’s Message and continue until the end of the Second Session Sunday School hour. The children will celebrate their participation in the Christmas concert during the 11 a.m. Sunday School hour on Dec. 14. If you would like more infor-mation, please contact Judith Mitchell or Cristina Muldoon through the church office.

Music & Arts Events in November November brings two opportunities to enjoy excellent

music by extraordinary musicians. First, on Sunday, Nov. 16 at 2 p.m., Trinity’s talented staff organist Norman Sutphin will give a recital on our magnificent Roosevelt organ. Mr. Sutphin will perform works by Bach, Gershwin, Lemare, Saint-Saëns, Tournemire and Vierne. This is a free concert. Donations to Trinity’s Music & Arts Ministry can be made during a freewill offering.

Later in the month, the Chancel Choir is pleased to bring back Darren Curtis Skanson in concert with Gregg Hansen and The Skanson Strings. On Friday, Nov. 21 at

7 p.m., they will present “Beatles to Bach, Too,” featuring contemporary songs, original compositions, and classical and holiday favorites. Skanson is Colorado’s finest acoustic guitarist and a Billboard Top Ten Artist. If you attended the concert last year, you know how extraordinary the music of these fine musicians and collaborators is. If you were unable to attend last year, you will not want to miss this evening of brilliant and magical musical performanc-es. Tickets are $15 ($10 for students) and are available in Fellowship Hall on Sunday mornings or online. You can access the link by going to the Trinity website at www.trinityumc.org and clicking on Upcoming Events under the “Experience Trinity” tab. Tickets will also be available at the door the evening of the event. Proceeds will benefit Trinity’s Music & Arts Ministries and Trinity’s We’re Here for Life Plaza Building Initiative. Child care will be available upon advanced request and can be arranged by emailing Cristina Muldoon at cmuldoon@ trinityumc.org with the subject “11/21 Concert Child Care.”

An Invitation to Flute and Brass Musicians Trinity is blessed to have two excellent instrumental

groups as part of our Music & Arts Ministry, the Flute Choir and the Brass Ensemble. If you play flute or a brass instrument, you are invited to join them. Each group has a dedicated and gifted director, Earl Berglund and Norman Sutphin, respectively. The Flute Choir meets on Monday evenings from 6-7:30 p.m., and the Brass Ensemble rehearses on Tuesday evenings from 7-8 p.m. Interested in learning more or getting connected? Contact Judith Mitchell at jmitchell@trinityumc.org or 303-839-1493, ext. 16.

Music & the Arts

Christmas Concerts 2013—See page 12 for your

invitation to the 2014 Christmas Concert entitled

simple. peaceful. christmas.

The Vision of Trinity UMC Page 6

Adult Ministries

Hanging of the Greens

Help decorate your church home for Christmas on Sunday, Nov. 30, from 9:30 until 10:30 a.m. Along with deco-rating, enjoy Christmas caroling and hot chocolate.

Primetimers Primetimers (open to all retirees and those

thinking about retirement) learned to ride the light rail and enjoyed fellowship during lunch followed by an immersion into the newly reno-vated Union Station in downtown Denver.

Women’s Retreat Twenty-five women experienced the beauty of

the mountains, the joy of Christian fellowship and spiritual growth during the October Retreat at Snow Mountain Ranch.

November 2014 Page 7

We celebrate the life of Mary Moore, who entered eternal life on Sept. 24. We remember in prayer her husband John and family. We remember in prayer Barry Price in the death of his mother, Ron Iwagoshi in the death of his father, and Sarah and Brent Gephart in the death of Sarah’s stepmother. We celebrate the birth of Jacob to Leanne and Steve Daignault on Sept. 21.

Our Family Serving Overseas Please update your church family on your loved ones! Have any of those listed below returned home? How are you and your family faring? Please send any

updates to Lee Anderson at the contact information listed below.

We keep in our prayers these brave men and women serving overseas in the armed forces, and their families:

Maj. Bradley Matthew May, U.S. Navy, son of Tom and Carolyn May; Petty Officer 2nd Class Wes Cody, U.S. Navy, son-in-law of Clark & Ann Rheem; PFC Krystal Wright, U.S. Army, niece of Darlene & John Medlin; Lt. Daniel Ford, U.S. Navy, son of Michael and Joanne Ford; Capt. Tristan Felchlin, grandson of Joan & Jack Leimkuhler; and Sgt. Preston Linger, U.S. Army, son of Kathy and Dan Linger.

If you would like to have a family member placed on our prayer chain and listed in the monthly Vision, or if you have any updates on these loved ones listed here, please contact Lee Anderson at 303-839-1493 x11 or landerson@trinityumc.org.

Youth Sunday School: Senior High Youth in grades 9-12 meet in Room 1-3 and Middle High Youth in grades 6-8 meet in Room 1-12. All youth meet together on the third Sunday of each month, Nov. 16, in Room 1-3. This is an awesome place just for you to come explore your faith, ask questions, be yourself, and grow on your spiritual journey.

Ichthus: Youth group for youth in grades 6-12 meets from 12:30-2:30 p.m. on the Atrium level in the Youth Room the second and fourth Sundays, Nov. 9 and 23, for lunch, devotions, games, group building, and a safe place to ask questions as you grow on your faith journey.

4th and 5th Graders at Youth Group: On Sunday, Nov. 23, all youth in 4th and 5th grades are invited to join the Ichthus gathering. We will have lunch together, play games, and get to know each other. Our goal is to intro-duce the 4th and 5th graders to the youth and youth ministries so when they join Ichthus as 6th graders, they will be familiar with the group. Each guest will have a youth host assigned to him or her to help welcome them. We will have another similar event in the spring. We look forward to seeing you there!

If you have any questions about Youth Ministries at Trinity, please call Cami or Emma at 303-839-1493.

Youth Ministry

Save the Date!

Our 2014 Church Conference

will be held on Sunday, Dec. 14,

following the 11 a.m. worship

service. Please plan to attend!

Our Church Family

The Vision of Trinity UMC Page 8

Continued, next page

Trinity at Work in Denver & the World 2014 Habitat Build Completion and Dedication Ceremony

This fall has been a busy one for Habitat Interfaith Alliance (HIA) as we completed our 13th home in late October. Thank you to ALL the great volunteers who made it out to the build site – this success would not be possible without all those willing to pitch in and literally give a hand…to a hammer, a shovel, a paintbrush…!

The home is a two-story, three-bedroom townhouse in the Sable Ridge development off I-70 and Chambers. Single mother Mbalou and her four daughters, ages 15 to 5, are SO excited to move in. The DEDICATION CEREMONY will be held Tuesday, Nov. 18, at 5:30 p.m. at 15136 E. Andrews Drive, Building #4, Denver, CO 80239. All are invited to attend and share in this experience as Mbalou and her girls receive the keys to their new home, and we celebrate this achievement together.

After the ceremony, there will be socializing, tours of the home and light food/beverages. Please attend if you are able. Contact Trinity member, Nancy Green, at nskigreen@msn.com or 303-831-8583 with questions.

Liberia and the Ebola Crisis Trinity has been successfully involved in Liberia for five

years now. As a result, it is impossible to ignore the ongoing Ebola situation. The following letter to Bob Gibb, Trinity’s leader of Liberia Connect, was received last week from the school principal at John Dean Town Village, our partner village with Michigan since January 2014. It gives us some on-the-ground insight into the situation in the areas where we are working. While there is no Ebola in these areas, it shows us the effect of the virus on the nation as a whole.

Dear Bob,

Greetings in Jesus’ Mighty Name.

I hope you remember the students and people of John Dean Town, Liberia. Schools are not yet opened in Liberia due to the Ebola crisis. Kindly pray with us so that the virus can leave the country. It has brought every activities to a standstill and there has been high increased [sic] in the prices of goods and services. Those of us residing in rural communities are at a serious disadvantage due to the bad condition of motor roads, thus making traveling very expensive, especially on commercial vehicles.

However, we are grateful to God because the virus has not reach [sic] John Dean Town and surroundings. We will appreciate whatever way you can help.

With Peace,

Jerry C. Giah–Principal

The training supplied from the Traditional Birthing Attendant program in the Camphor/John Dean Town area has been a major reason for the lack of Ebola cases thus far. Now it’s time to assure people there that we have not forgotten them. UMCOR has set up a method to get dona-tions where they need to go through the Advance. One hundred percent of the money we give through the church gets to the people in Camphor and John Dean Town, supplementing their income and allowing them to get food and medical care. We have had to cancel the planned trip in January, but we can let them know our prayers and thoughts are with them and provide Blessings in Christ’s name.

Public awareness is crucial to stopping the spread of Ebola. To make a donation, call 1-888-252-6174 or make your check payable to Advance GCFA (Advance number 982450 on the memo line) and mail to Advance GCFA, PO Box 9068, New York, NY 10087-9068. Questions? Email donationhelp@umcor.org.

Make Christmas Merry and Bright for Olin Hotel Residents

This December would you like to help brighten the lives of our neighbors? The Olin Hotel (1420 Logan St.) is an historic landmark in downtown Denver and a home for low and moderate income elderly and adults with physical or mental disabilities. Trinity has provided a Christmas Party for our friends at Olin for many years, and the tradition continues on Thursday, Dec. 11, from 6-8 p.m. Trinity members select items from the wish lists of the 109 Olin residents. Residents receive gifts at the party and provide Trinity guests with refreshments. Musicians and dramatists from Trinity will perform favorites and lead carols.

Trinity Build Day 2014 — Left, Don Sperber & Suzy Bossart; right, Ken Whitney

November 2014 Page 9

Continued from previous page

Care Ministry

When: Saturday, Nov. 15, 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Where: Trinity Conference Room

While the death of a loved one is difficult year-round, many people find the holidays a special challenge. When it seems the whole world is celebrating, you may find you have trouble joining in. As part of Trinity’s Living with Loss grief series, this workshop focuses on managing the stress of the holidays. It is designed for both grievers and supporters alike. Participants will learn tools to manage their holiday grief or to support others in their journeys, and are invited—but not required—to share their personal experiences. Workshop leader Lee Anderson, Trinity Care

Coordinator, helps create a safe and supportive environment where participants can be part of a community of those traveling similar journeys.

There is no fee to attend, but registration is requested. Childcare is available upon request. Light lunch will be provided.

Contact: Lee Anderson at landerson@trinityumc.org or (303) 839-1493 x11.

From Rev. Miriam Slejko

It has been a joy for me to serve in ministry at Trinity for the past 10 years. I’ve shared with Pastor Mike Dent my plan to retire in May 2015. As Minister of Discipleship I have had the opportunity to watch many new friends join our community. Now, like all of us who were once new to Trinity, they are sharing with others many of their gifts as members of our congregation. I am deeply grateful to have had the oppor-tunity to walk our faith journey together. Serving together with so many dear friends here at Trinity will remain one of my most treasured experiences. I look forward to sharing my gratitude with you over the coming months, since it was through my membership at Trinity that I was called into ministry and was able to fulfill my heart’s desire to serve God in our community of faith. In Christ, Miriam

If you would like to participate in this annual Olin Hotel celebration, an orientation will be held following worship on Sunday, Nov. 16, in the North Parlor, including the party schedule, opportunities for music and drama enter-tainment, and hospitality volunteers. Call the church office at (303) 839-1493 to sign up.

Beginning Nov. 16 you will also have the opportunity to select a gift from the wish list. Leslie and Steve Drevecky, Olin Hotel Party coordinators, will be happy to help you.

Look for Leslie and Steve in Trinity Café. Contact Rev. Miriam Slejko (mslejko@ tinityumc.org) for more information.

Living with Loss: Managing the Holidays

The Vision of Trinity UMC Page 10

Trinity Quilters’ Annual Holiday Sale dates are Sun-days, Oct. 26 and Nov. 9. Be

sure to stop by our tables in the Fellowship Hall to see all the beautiful items for sale. We have lots of table runners, place mats, wall hangings, tote bags, quilts and other great Christmas gift ideas for you to select from. As always, our profits go to help support our missions and provide Prayer Quilts, Baptismal Squares, and Confirm-ation Squares.

Our next meeting will be Saturday, Nov. 8 at 9 a.m. at the church. We always welcome new members, even if you don’t quilt. We work on projects that are easy to do for all levels of ability – new to experienced.

Our prayer quilts offer great comfort for anyone who might be experiencing a health or personal issue. If you know of someone who could benefit from a quilt, feel free to contact Linda Marshall or Lee Anderson. Your request can remain confidential if you desire.

Stay tuned for information about an alternate meeting place starting in January.

If you have questions about Trinity Quilters, contact Sherry Valentic at sherryvalentic@netscape.net or Judy Woodring at judywoodring@comcast.net.

Getting Your House in Order

“I told Mama about Pari Wahdati’s visit…she really was quite lovely. Gentle, slim, gray hair, long neck with a full blue vein crawling up each side, warm gap-toothed smile…Bad rheumatoid arthritis. The knobby hands, especially, still functional, but the day is coming and she knew it. It made me think of Mama and the coming of her day.” (Excerpt from And the Mountains Echoed by Khaled Hossseini, page 288)

Does this observation by the physician Markos make you take pause, too? Do you recog-nize that “the day is coming” for yourself or a family member? Perhaps a good friend comes to mind.

The Trinity Health Ministry is sponsoring a program, “Getting Your House in Order,” which will be led by Kathy Thompson and Tim Mueller. They will share insights into organ-izing our financial and estate records as we age, and planning for our retirement living arrangements.

Saturday, November 8, 2014

9–11 a.m.

South Parlor

We hope you will join in this important conversation. No RSVP is necessary, but we can be sure to have enough cof-fee and snacks if you call the church office (303) 839-1493 or e-mail peggy.steen@gmail.com to let us know you plan to attend.

Health Ministry

Trinity Quilters

November 2014 Page 11

Youth Burrito Breakfast! November 16 from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

The youth will serve their famous burritos the third Sunday of each month in Trinity Café (Level 3) to help raise funds for their 2015 summer mission trips. There is no charge for breakfast, and your donations are appreciated. All funds raised go directly to help support youth missions. Come enjoy breakfast with your Trinity commu-nity and help make youth missions possible. Thank you for your support!

All Saints Day is Nov. 1, a day to remember and give thanks for the lives of our friends and loved ones who have joined the Church Eternal in the past year. We will observe All Saints Sunday on Nov. 2, at 8:15 and 11 a.m. We will share the sacrament of Holy Communion, read the roll of the honored dead, and toll a bell in memory of each. The youth will be leading worship.

All present will have the opportunity to name and give thanks for their departed loved ones. Trinity saints who have entered eternal life since last All Saints Day include the following:

Giving Thanks for Our Saints — All Saints Day - November 1, 2014

Cathy Bell

Verland D. Cannon

Sarah Jane “Sally” Crabtree

Betty Damerau

Joyce Fitzpatrick

Merlyn Gilbert

Don Gleaton

L. Frances Hudson

Eldred June Lindecrantz

Lawrence Martinez

Melvin Haley Prior

Drew Sonstroem

Donald Duane Troyer

Vivian Augusta Vernon

William Arthur “Bill” Wilde

On Sunday, Nov. 23, all Trinity members are invited to a special presentation of Sand Creek—The Story of Three Johns at 9:40 a.m. in Trinity Café. Pastor Mike Dent will share first-person narratives of Col. John Chivington, Gov. John Evans, and Gov. John Hicken- looper. Supported by a PowerPoint presentation, he will share the backstory of the most tragic event in Colorado history that took place Nov. 29, 1864.

On Saturday, Nov. 29, Trinity members will travel to the site of the Sand Creek Massacre in southeastern Colorado to observe the 150th anniversary of the brutal events that took place there. This will be a journey of healing through which we will gather with Native Ameri-can descendants of the victims to find paths to greater healing for our communities.

We will gather at 9 a.m. at Eads UMC for an opening devotion by Bishop Elaine Stanovsky. At 9:30 a.m. The Civil War and Sand Creek video will be shown, followed by a panel of Native Americans leading a time of reflec-tion. Box lunches will be distributed for the bus ride

from Eads UMC to the site at Sand Creek. The site visit-ation will include times of remembrance of those lives lost and prayer. Arrangements for transportation from Denver to Eads are currently being discussed. Contact Rev. Miriam Slejko, (303) 839-1493 or mslejko@trinityumc.org, for more information.

On Sunday, Nov. 30, Trinity will observe 150 seconds of silence during worship in remembrance of the 150th anniversary of the Sand Creek Massacre. Pastor Mike Dent will bring a message of remembrance and healing, Fed with the Bread of Tears, with scripture taken from Psalm 80:1-7.

On Wednesday, Dec. 3, from 7:30-8 a.m., a memorial ceremony at Riverside Cemetery will be led by Sand Creek descendants and guests including Rev. Jerry Boles. The group will walk/run to the marker for Silas Soule and arrive at the Capitol for a ceremony at 11 a.m. Following a ceremony on the capitol steps, a feast will be provided for 400 descendants at History Colorado.

Remembering Sand Creek

The Vision of Trinity UMC Page 12

I am without noticeable talent in most measurable endeavors, but I can claim to have worn out the magnetic strip on my library card more than once. As a result, it is quite difficult to narrow down my book selection to one book. So, I am cheating and selecting an author.

Marilynne Robinson has written a num-ber of books and essay collections, and each one is a work of near perfection. You begin a Marilynne Robinson book slowly, and then slow down because her sentences are so beautiful, so distilled. I am particu-larly enamored of one of her novels House-keeping (1980), but her 2004 novel Gilead and her 2012 essay collection When I Was a Child I Read Books are also thoughtful, moving, and incisive.

Housekeeping tells the story of two young girls, Ruth and Lucille, who are orphaned after their mother’s suicide. They are then raised by their competent grand-mother, well-meaning but ineffective great aunts and, finally, by Sylvie, their physically transient and emotionally distant aunt. Ruth and Lucille respond very differently to their ephemeral caregivers, and

their lives begin to diverge when Sylvie arrives. Lucille is distressed by Sylvie’s vagabond tendencies, but the very habits that unnerve Lucille give comfort to Ruth who be-lieves that if Sylvie “could remain transient here, she would not have to leave.”

Housekeeping explores the effects of loss and survival and the attraction of imperma-nence and certainty. Robinson is occasion-ally defined as a “Christian writer,” but it is a title she objects to for its narrowness. She describes her work this way: “Religion is a framing mechanism. It is a language of ori-entation that presents itself as a series of questions. It talks about the arc of life and the quality of experience in ways that I’ve found fruitful to think about. Religion has been profoundly effective in enlarging human imagination and expression. It’s only very recently that you couldn’t see how the high arts are intimately connected to religion.”

I believe Robinson’s novels and essays are imagination enlarging, and I hope you will enjoy her as much as I do. — Cristina Muldoon

Staff Pick! Book Recommendation from Cristina Muldoon, Director of Children’s Ministries

Works of Marilynne Robinson (Link to order online: http://www.tatteredcover.com/search/apachesolr_search/Marilynne%

lÉâ tÜx vÉÜw|tÄÄç |Çä|àxw Sunday, December 7 at 6 p.m.

simple. peaceful. christmas.

A concert presented by Trinity’s Music & Arts Ministry featuring choirs, handbells, flutes, brass, and

carols for all to sing.

No tickets required; a freewill offering will be accepted.

November 2014 Page 13

Embrace the Race, Again?

Your ministers and staff at Trinity are concerned about the frustration and confusion that recent downtown races have caused many in our worshiping community. Trinity staff has worked closely with the organizers of the most recent downtown race, the Rock ‘N’ Roll Marathon. In spite of the best efforts on the part of both Trinity and the organizers, the race proved problematic for many in Trinity’s congregation. We are now working with groups representing our downtown churches to find alternative solutions to the access problems we experience on race days. Among the suggestions that will be shared with other faith communities and neighborhood representatives suffering the same frustrations are these:

Change the day of the races to holidays or Saturdays.

Change the race course to alternative venues such as Red Rocks Park or City Park.

Offer shuttle service from lots outside the race perimeter for worshippers. Your additional suggestions are welcome. Please address these to info@trinityumc.org.

Together we can find a solution to this issue and with your help, we will be able to provide a better experience for our members and friends every Sunday of the year.

Trinity Parking Changes Effective immediately, there are changes coming to the parking lots surrounding the church.

There will be no pass-through access between the lots adjacent to 19th and Broadway (the north lot) and the lot adjacent to 18th and Lincoln (the east lot). These changes are being implemented as a safety measure and to reduce damage to vehicles and the asphalt between the lots. This area will also be used for snow storage during the winter months. Additionally, when parking in the garage, please be sure to park neatly between the lines as the parking lot attendants are issuing tickets for improper parking.

Please keep in mind that neither these lots nor the garage are owned by Trinity and the parking company who manages those surface lots has control over them. We have a long-standing arrangement with them to use these lots, and over the years they have been very generous to Trinity. We are working to maintain these relationships, but want to be sure that everyone is aware of the situation as we work towards a better understanding of their expectations.

Important Information for All Trinity Members!

Wesleyan Breakfast Club All are welcome to join the Wesleyan Breakfast Club on Friday, Nov. 7 at

9 a.m. at Hot Cakes, E. 18th Avenue and Humboldt Street. This month’s speaker is Sharon Tewksbury, an accomplished musician who started playing the flute in the fourth grade and continued through college before giving it up for the next 25 years. She started playing again about 15 years ago in a small church group and has since played with many other groups. She has many interesting stories to relate. Join us for breakfast and good Christian fellow-ship! Contact Wayne Fleischauer, (303) 428-5534, with questions.

The Vision of Trinity UMC Page 14

Bake Sale and Gift Market

Trinity UMW will have a bake sale/gift market Sunday Nov. 9. A variety of baked goods and small gift items will be offered. King Soopers gift cards and the beautiful Trinity ornament will also be available.

Tea Tickets

Tickets for the annual “Tea at the Brown Palace” on Saturday, Dec. 6, will be on sale during November in Fellowship Hall. The cost is $35 per ticket. A Christmas program will precede the tea at 10 a.m. in Trinity’s Parlors. Please consider bringing a new unwrapped baby item, diapers, or a monetary donation for our mission project, Florence Crittenton Services. Contact Betty Shantz, (303) 779-4427, or Aneta McKay, (303) 474-4800, with questions. Special Mission Recognition

Special Mission Recognition offers a meaningful way to honor someone who has dedicated much time and effort to service of UMW, the church, and to God. A pin is given to the recipient, and the cost of the pin is sent to UMW missions. The name of the honoree is kept secret until the meeting when the award is made.

World Thank Offering

For the past 133 years, World Thank Offering has been a part of United Methodist Women and its predecessor organization’s channels of giving. The World Thank offering is an opportunity for individuals to respond to God’s abundance and grace with gifts of gratitude. The funds collected are used in the total program of mission in the United States and around the world that is carried out through the United Methodist Women’s national office. Collectively, UMW members strive to meet the physical and social needs of women, children, and youth around the world through the national and international mission institutions supported by United Methodist Women.

TUMW Calendar for November

Nov. 3: Leadership Team, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., salad potluck at 680 S. Canosa Ct. (Lois Cochran’s)

Nov. 7: Church Women United World Community Day Messiah Community Church ELCA, 1750 Colorado Blvd. 9:30 a.m. Fellowship, 10 a.m. Program on Healing, “Through God our hands can heal.” Followed by potluck lunch.

Nov. 9: Bake Sale and Gift Market, Fellowship Hall, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Nov. 11: Book Circle meeting, 10 a.m. at the home of Adelaide Murray, 2500 Cherry Creek Drive South #519 in Denver. The discussion of the book The Proof of Heaven by Eben Alexander will be led by Clare Whitney with devotions by Jan Morgan.

Nov. 18: TUMW Annual Meeting, 6:30 p.m., South Parlor. Program includes Election and Installation of officers for 2015, Memorials, World Thank Offering, and Special Mission Recognition.

Nov. 30: Put up the Christmon Tree in the north parlor during “Hanging of the Greens”

Trinity United Methodist Women

2013 Bake Sale High Tea at the Brown Palace, 2013

November 2014 Page 15

Wednesday evenings from 7–8:30 p.m. in Stiles Chapel. We practice Centering Prayer each week as well as other prayer practices such as Lectio Divina and contemplative journaling in the group setting. We are currently learning from the teach-ings of Richard Rohr and John Philip Newell.

Sunday mornings from 9:30–10:30 a.m. in Stiles Chapel. We are learning from the Rule of Benedict and practicing the ancient prayer practice of Lectio Divina. This is a time of quiet prayer for those looking for peace and contemplation.

Contemplative Retreat November 7-8 at Mother Cabrini: We will stay at the guest house at Mother

Cabrini just outside Denver. During the retreat you will have the opportunity to spend time together in quiet and prayer, learn about and practice contem-plative prayer including centering prayer and medi-tation, Lectio Divina, and other prayer practices. This a wonderful place to begin if you have been curious about contemplative prayer or a way to deepen your current practice. No matter where you are on the journey you are welcome. Registration is $85. Please check with Cami to see if space is still available.

Contact Cami Twilling, ctwilling@trinityumc.org or (303)839-1493 x32.

Contemplative Spirituality

Why did you want to go to the Isle of Iona? When I visited Scotland in January of 2000, I

learned of the Isle of Iona while on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. At the time it was not possible to make the trip to Iona, but I knew that someday I would be back; there was something I could not yet name drawing me there. While in Guatemala in 2008, I was introduced to the writings of John Philip Newell by a Maryknoll sister and dear friend. After talking about seeking a new way forward for Christianity and our own visions, she handed me the book Listening for the Heartbeat of God and said with great enthusiasm, “You really need to read this book.” It was as if I was taking a deep breath of air after coming up from the depths of the waters. Again Iona was before me, and I remembered the longing I had felt to be on this is-land. A year ago in October, John Philip led a retreat here at Trinity. I listened to his teachings and stories from Iona. When I learned of this pilgrimage, I knew it was time to go. I was deeply drawn to the island as a place to help me recognize the sacredness in all places in our world. Iona felt as though it was a place where I would be reminded of something I knew long ago, a place to reconnect me with the Oneness. What stood out to you about the experience?

The community of pilgrims was a blessing to journey with as we shared our stories, our longings, and our discoveries with one another. Something that stood out to me perhaps more than anything was the nature of the island itself. It was as if it welcomed

each visitor in with a beautiful energy and a wildness of sun and wind and rain. One could almost hear the island whispering love and a message that if you al-lowed it, the island would enter into your being, leav-ing you forever changed. There was deep blessing as I walked each day and explored the solitude of beach-es, hills, and fields. Again and again I felt as though with each step I could kneel and touch my forehead to the ground in gratitude. Each new morning brought the gift of walking at sunrise to St. Michael’s Chapel to sit in silent meditation with other pilgrims and then to chant together before we again stepped out into the freshness of creation. Each part of the day from early morning meditation, morning sessions, and commu-nity gathering, the pilgrimage around the island, meals together and the beautiful, quiet, peace of the island was truly a blessing. How did the experience impact you?

Each day since returning home from Iona the in-sights and wisdom shared there keep unfolding. It is amazing to notice what arises as the experience is shared with those around me. The impact of this experience is not only a deepening of my journey, but an unfolding, a continuous flow from the center. To be able to share with others who are searching for a new way forward from this place of discovery and hear in new ways is a true gift. This is not an experience that simply lasted for a week, but rather one that will last always. What a blessing it will be to invite others to share in this pilgrimage in the years to come. — Cami Twilling

Cami Twilling Reflects on her Recent Pilgrimage

Trinity United Methodist Church 1820 Broadway Denver, CO 80202

THE STAFF OF TRINITY UMC

Senior Pastor Dr. Michael D. Dent

Minister of Discipleship Rev. Miriam Slejko

Minister of Nurture Rev. Linda Marshall

Director of Music and Arts Judith Mitchell

Director of Adult and Family Formation

Wayne Brown

Care Coordinator Lee Anderson

Director of Youth Ministries and

Contemplative Spirituality Cami Twilling

Director of Children’s Ministries

Cristina Muldoon

Church Administrator Angie Cummins

Director of Communications Erin Acheson

Discipleship Assistant and Front Office Administrator

Jill Rampacek

Administrative Assistant to the Senior Pastor Juli Van Hooser

Finance Administrator Laura Winberg

Wedding Coordinator Laini Tompkins

Director of Young Adult Ministries

Jasper Peters

James E. Barnes Iliff Intern Dan Krause

Urban Ministries Intern David Wilcox

Periodicals postage paid at

Denver, Colorado

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Trinity United

Methodist Church Vision

Trinity United Methodist Church 1820 Broadway,

Denver, CO 80202

Sunday Schedule: Informal Worship

8:15 a.m. (Sanctuary)

Traditional Worship 11:00 a.m. (Sanctuary)

Sunday School for adults and

children at 9:30 a.m.

Church Office Hours: Monday-Friday

8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Phone: 303-839-1493 Fax: 303-839-1901

1820 Broadway

Denver, CO 80202

Phone: 303/839-1493

Fax: 303/839-1901

Email: info@trinityumc.org

Web: www.TrinityUMC.org

http://Facebook.com/trinitydenver

http://Twitter.com/trinitydenver

Trinity United Methodist Church

Financial Report September 2014

$ 1,000,000

$ 1,339,627

$1,288,336

Ministry Giving

Ministry Investments