December 2013 Vision

A Monthly Magazine ofA Monthly Magazine of

Trinity United Methodist ChurchTrinity United Methodist Church

Denver, ColoradoDenver, Colorado

Volume 20, Issue 11Volume 20, Issue 11

C hristmas songs have

been playing on the radio and in the mall for a month already. Stores were open on

Thanksgiving Day, taking employees away from their families on an American holiday of gratitude. Black Friday became Black Thursday this year.

As we enter December, we are blessed to belong to a body of believers whose focus is to prepare for the Child whose birth is again before us. The sounds, services, scriptures, songs, and stories of Advent anticipate the arrival of One who brings light, hope, and healing to a dark, depressed, and diseased culture.

Trinity Church offers a variety of opportunities to experience and express faith in meaningful ways in this month when there is social pressure to over-shop, over-eat, and over-imbibe. Here are ten healthy ways to prepare for and experience the silent night amid the chaos of the culture:

1) Christmas Caroling on the 16th Street Mall (Sundays, Dec. 1 and 8, 12:15-12:45 p.m.)

2) Advent Sunday Services (Dec. 1, 8, 15, and 22, 8:15 and 11:00 a.m.)

3) Advent Organ Recitals (Tuesdays, Dec. 3, 10, and 17, 12:15 to 12:45 p.m.)

4) Gloria by the Trinity Chan-cel Choir (Sunday, Dec. 15, 8:15 and 11:00 a.m.)

5) Pre-Christmas Eve Candle-light Services (Wednesday, Dec. 18, 12:15 and 6:30 p.m.

6) Handel’s Messiah by the Colorado Bach Ensemble (Friday, Dec. 20, 7:00 p.m., ticket required. Visit www. coloradobachensemble.org)

7) Alternative Christmas Gift Giving (Sundays in Trinity Café)

8) Olin Hotel Christmas Party (Thursday, Dec. 12, 6:30 p.m.)

9) Christmas Eve Candlelight Services (Tuesday, Dec. 24, at 1, 5, 7, 9 and 11 p.m.)

10) Trinity Annual Christmas Offering

Details on most of the above opportunities may be found else-where in this newsletter.

My sermon series this month is “Insights from Isaiah,” from the Advent Old Testament lections. I invite you to focus and claim all of the above that touch your soul and open your heart to welcome the Christ child anew. Thanks in advance for your presence and participation this most meaning-ful month.

Anticipating His advent, Pastor Mike

Advent Arrives with Anticipation

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

Vision

Advent-Christmas Sermon Series Dr. Michael Dent

Dec. 1 “Where Are You Walking?” Isaiah 2:1-5 Dec. 8 “A Shoot from a Stump” Isaiah 11:1-10 Dec. 22 “A Sign Is Promised” Isaiah 7:10-16 Dec. 18, 24 “A Sign Is Delivered” Isaiah 9:2-7

Some of the Features Inside this Issue …

Adult Ministries ..................................... 9 Children’s Ministries ......................... 14 Contemplative Corner .......................... 5 Council Corner ....................................... 3 Family Ministries ................................... 7 Memorial & Honorariums .................. 15 Military Ministry ................................. 10 Music & Arts .......................................... 8 Our Church Family ................................. 7 Trinity in Denver & the World ....... 12-13 UMW News ............................................. 6 Youth Ministries ................................. 11

Insights from Isaiah

The December 2013The December 2013

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Olin Hotel Christmas Party, page 13 7

The Vision of Trinity UMC Page 2

Poinsettias

Beautify our Sanctuary by purchasing a poinsettia in honor or in memory of a loved one.

Cost is $10 per plant. Plants may be taken with

you after the Christmas Eve service that you

attend. You and those you honor will be remem-bered in a bulletin insert on Dec. 15. Envelopes

are in the pew pockets and may be placed in the

offering plate or returned to the church

office. You may also call the church office (303-839-1493) with your request.

Note “poinsettias” in memo line of

checks. Deadline is Dec. 11.

Seven Candlelight and Carol Services Celebrated on Dec. 18 and 24

Trinity United Methodist Church will offer seven opportunities for worship on Dec. 18 and 24. With many folks expected to leave town as early as Thursday, Dec. 19, Candlelight and Carol Services will be held Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 12:15 and 6:30 p.m.

Christmas Eve Services will begin at 1:00, 5:00, 7:00, 9:00 and 11:00 p.m. The 5:00 Family Service will include participation by our children. The Chancel Choir will sing at the 7:00 and 9:00 services. Holy Communion will be served at the 11:00 service.

The 1:00 service is for those who don’t drive after dark, who desire a less crowded service, or who have travel or family plans in the evening.

We look forward to welcoming many guests to these meaningful services. Attractive color postcards with the Advent-Christmas worship schedule will be available at the church beginning Dec. 8 for you to pick up and share with friends, neighbors, co-workers, and relatives.

ANTICIPATION – 125TH ANNIVERSARY ORGAN CONCERT

Sunday, Dec. 8, 2013, 2:00 p.m. To celebrate the 125th anniversary of Trinity’s Roosevelt pipe organ, principal organist Norman Sutphin will play selections from organ literature written in the late 19th century: Torchlight March and Variations on an American Air (both by Isaac Van Vleck Flagler); Grand Fantasia in E Minor (“The Storm” by Jacque-Nicolas Lemmens); Theme and Variations in A-Flat Major (Carl-Ludwig Thiele); and Overture to William Tell (Gioacchino Rossini, transcribed by Dudley Buck). Some of these organ pieces were played in December 1888 by famed recital organist Clarence Eddy of Chicago during the first concert in the new Trinity Methodist Episcopal Sanctuary. These organ selections reflect the style of music popular in the late 19th century. For example, The Storm features “a somber introduction (which) becomes increasingly agitated (with effects of raindrops)” and leads into the recreation of a violent thunderstorm before “calm is gradually restored and a chorale-like ‘Prayer’ is heard.” These pieces were played “to demonstrate the colorful effects of a new organ to a delighted (and less-sophisticated) audi-ence.” Anticipate an afternoon of entertainment on Dec. 8, 2013, featuring organ music you’ve probably never heard before and may never hear again.

DISPLAY CASE FEATURES MEMORABILIA

In anticipation of the 125th Roosevelt Organ Anni-versary Concert on December 8, 2013, you will want to stop at the Display Case on Level 2. There, you will see a set of organ pipes, loaned to Trinity by Morel & Associates Organ Company; copies of news-paper announcements and reviews of the first organ concerts held on Dec. 20 and 21, 1888; and a short biography and picture of Isaac Blake, president of the Continental Oil Company and donor of the Roosevelt Organ. Did you know that the builders of the Roosevelt pipe organ, Hilbourne and Frank Roosevelt, had other business interests in New York? Come and read their short biographies.

December 2013 Page 3

“Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at your nose, yuletide carols being sung by a choir, and folks dressed up like Eskimos.” These are the opening lines to a well-known Christmas song. As I write this article, the song is true to the day. The chestnuts were tasty and Jack Frost is definitely making our fair city look like a winter wonderland. Like most people, we are preparing for Christmas. The anticipation of the holiday season is big. There are so many wonderful things to look forward to this time of year. I can’t think of anything that I truly dislike about Christmas or preparing for the season. It’s a lot of work and it never seems that there’s enough time, but I would say that for something so special, how could there ever be enough time?

We have seen God fulfill his promise by sending Jesus. Imagine what it was like before He came. Imagine the anticipation of a Messiah only to have it not fulfilled year after year. Imagine the faith that must have taken to continue to believe that Jesus was coming. They had been waiting for centuries! And, imagine the joy of the angels tasked with delivering the news when He finally arrived. How blessed are we to know what happened next?

In this season of Advent we get to prepare for the greatest gift any of us will ever receive. Preparations vary far and wide for each of us. I would even say they change every year for us, as we are not the same people we were a year ago. Some years might offer more reflection and some years less. Some years we might go all out and some years we just are not in a place to make that happen. Any and all forms of preparation are good – you have to do what is right for you and your family.

Trinity staff and laity have been preparing for months to make sure that we have several special opportunities this Christmas season. In typical Trinity fashion, we have offerings that vary from deeply spiritual to just good old-fashioned fun, with everything in between. If for some reason you can’t make any of these events, be sure to join us at one of our Christmas Eve services. No one should miss singing “Silent Night” in our beautiful Sanctuary lit only by candles.

So I will end this article as I started it – borrowing from Mel Tormé and Bob Wells… “And so I’m offering this simple phrase, to kids from one to ninety-two, although it’s been said many times, many ways, Merry Christmas to you!”

By Lorraine Knitt Trinity Council

Chairperson

Council CornerCouncil Corner

All Church Conference Set for Dec. 10 Trinity’s annual business meeting and celebration of ministry will

convene on Tuesday, Dec. 10, at 6:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Rev. Steve Goodier, Metro District Superintendent, will preside over the Trinity UMC Conference.

All members of Trinity are welcome to attend the Church Conference. Agenda items include the adoption of 2014 membership and wider mission goals; reports from Staff-Parish Relations Committee, Board of Trustees, and staff; approval of ministry candidates; and election of 2014 church leaders. The Church Conference is our important link to the larger United Methodist communion.


The word “advent” comes from the Latin adventus, which means “coming” or “arrival.” The four weeks prior to Christmas comprise the entire Advent season, when our focus is on the coming of Jesus as Messiah. It is a time for us to prepare our hearts for the birth of the King, and to teach our children what Christmas really means.

The liturgical color of Advent is purple, except on the third Sunday, when rose may be used. Many Advent wreaths have three purple candles and one pink, in honor of this old tradition. Like Lent, this season is somewhat penitential, although not nearly so emphatic or dramatic. It is a gentle season of expectation and wonder.

One ritual of the church in Advent is the Hanging of the Green, or Greens. Church members gather and place the evergreen decorations in the Sanctuary and on the exterior of the building. The evergreen is the symbol of eternal life, especially when formed into a wreath which has no beginning and no end. Like Jesus, it just is, a perfect symbol for this season. [Trinity's Hanging of the Greens takes place on Sunday, December 1 from 9:15 to

10:45 a.m. All are welcome to help.]

The first clear reference to an Advent celebration occurs in the 6th century. Prior to this time, there were celebra-tions and fasts. A three-week fast before Epiphany is described in the writing of St. Hilary of Poitiers, who died in 367 CE. The Western church eventually settled on four Sundays of Advent, giving it a more festive tone with emphasis on preparation.

All of December is in Advent, which ends on Christmas Day. Keep in mind that we are preparing for the birth of the Christ Child, not just frantically purchasing gifts, wrap-ping paper, and bows. Your entire family can recognize Advent as a season for thought, prayer, and expectation. You might buy an Advent wreath and light one candle each Sunday as the family dines together. Advent calendars can be purchased and enjoyed each day. And when you deco-rate your home for the season, let the children help place the “green” as you explain the significance. Have a happy Advent!! — Carol Feickert

This Christmas you can select from seven local and global mission outreach projects for non-commercial, authentic gifts that will sup-port people in need both here and abroad. The Alternative Gifts Project offers you an oppor-tunity to designate a holiday gift in the name of friends or loved ones. An envelope and a gift card are provided for mailing to the honoree.

This year’s projects include the Babyfold Orphanage at Old Mutare Hospital. This hos-pital in Zimbabwe cares for infants orphaned at birth or abandoned because of deformities.

Here at Trinity you can support the Capitol Hill Community Lunch Program that provides delicious hot meals to an average of 200 downtown neighbors Wednesday, Thurs-day, and Friday each week. Your gift can provide Bibles for children in Macedonia and cans of dry milk for children in Lemoa, Guate-mala. You may decide to support The New Life Program of the Denver Rescue Mission or the day shelter at The St. Francis Center. Your gift to the Heifer Project can purchase animals or poultry that will become a source of food and

Alternative Gift Catalogue 2013

Heifer

Children’s Bibles

Milk for Lemoa, Guatemala

Saint Francis Center Day Shelter

Capitol Hill Community Services Lunch

Denver Rescue Mission’s New Life Program

Babyfold Orphanage, Old Mutare, Zimbabwe

Alternative 2013

Gift Catalogue

Alternative Christmas Gifts Make Gift Giving Easy!

income for a family here in the U.S. or abroad. Visit the Alternative Gifts table in Fellowship Hall starting December 8 for more information on how you can help these important projects.

ADVENT – Something Wonderful Is Coming!


Contemplative SpiritualityContemplative Spirituality

Do you need affordable health insurance? Or, do you know someone who does? Maybe you’ve never purchased health insurance or you’re confused about how you can get financial assistance? Decisions around purchasing health insurance can be complicated.

Whatever your situa on and your par cular ques ons, the answers are literally around the corner . . . at the Central Presbyterian Church Health Assistance Site. Located at 17th and Sherman, the CPC Health Assistance Site is

staffed by cer fied Health Coverage Guides ready to help you understand the op ons now available through Connect for Health Colorado, the new online marketplace.

Simply stop by during open hours: Wednesdays 5:30 to 8 p.m.; Fridays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; third Saturday of each month 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., OR make an appointment by calling 720‐891‐6994 or visi ng healthcoverageguide@ centraldenver.com. Visit them and then help spread the word that in‐person assistance is available!

One definition of anticipation is “a visualization of a future event or state”; however, the Contemplative Spirituality community is primarily concerned with the Now instead. During Centering Prayer and Lectio Divina, the group is focused on opening our minds and hearts beyond thoughts and words simply resting in God in the moment.

In The Method of Centering Prayer, the Prayer of Consent, by Father Thomas Keating, he explains, “Through grace we open our aware-ness to God whom we know, by faith, is within us, closer than breathing,

closer than thinking, closer than choosing – closer than consciousness itself.” Father Keating continues, “The Contemplative Spirituality methods are not charismatic gifts, but a path of transformation. It is a way of culti-vating a deeper relationship with God, an exercise of faith, hope and selfless love. It is a deepening of faith in God’s abiding presence.”

So when the Reverend Dr. John Philip Newell, Companion Theologian for the American Spirituality Center of Casa del Sol and recent special guest lecturer at Trinity UMC, asks, “Do you know that you are loved? Do you know

it in the heart of your being?” By participating in Contemplative Spiritu-ality, and referring to Father Keating’s definitions, we are able to answer “Yes” to those questions.

Even though Centering Prayer and Lectio Divina are concerned with the Present during silent prayers, prior to participating in those activities, the group visualizes a state of stillness knowing we are loved in our hearts and in our very beings. We are each on a path of transformation into a deeper relationship with God. It is up to us to say “yess.” — Joy Harvey

If you are interested in an evening of contemplative worship, join us on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. in the Chapel. This is an opportunity to deepen your prayer life through silent prayer practice, learning and discussion. We will listen to a variety of spiritual teachers throughout the year in addition to practicing centering prayer. All are welcome! Please contact Cami Twilling at [email protected] if you have any questions.

Sunday mornings, we meet in the Chapel from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. We practice Lectio Divina and learn from the Rule of Benedict together.

Trinity UMC Contemplative Retreat Friday, December 6-Saturday, December 7

Mother Cabrini Shrine

During this retreat, you will have the opportunity to learn about and practice contemplative prayer practices including centering prayer and meditation, Lectio Divina and the Examen. This is a wonderful place to begin if you have been curious about contemplative prayer or a time to deepen your current practice.

Cost is $65 per person. Registration deadline is Sunday, Dec. 1. More information may be found in a flyer available in the church office and on the website or by contacting Cami Twilling at [email protected] or 303-839-1493 x32.

Anticipation of Transformation

Healthcare Assistance


Trinity United Methodist Women will celebrate the Christmas season with their annual Christmas program on Dec. 7, 2013, at 10 a.m. in the Parlors at Trinity followed by Tea at the Brown Palace. All Trinity women and their guests are invited to come to the program, which will feature special music by Cassandra Sulmeis-ters on the harp, a Christmas story read by Lenora Mahan, and infor-mation about Florence Crittenton Services by Susan Banning. Our Christmas mission project is the Florence Crittenton School, and we are asking for new unwrapped baby items, diapers, or a monetary dona-tion. Following the program, those who have tickets to the tea will walk to the Brown Palace.

On Sunday, Dec. 8, TUMW is planning a Mini Bazaar and Bake Sale. Small items suitable for Christmas gifts, as well as many yummy baked cookies, cakes, pies, etc., will be offered. The beautiful Trinity ornament pictured below will also be for sale then and all December Sundays before Christmas.

Deborah Circle will host Miriam Circle for their annual Christmas party on Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 6:30 p.m. in the Trinity Parlors. The mission project will be full-size toiletries and personal items for women at the St. Francis Center.

Book Circle will meet at Brio restaurant in Cherry Creek for their Dec. 10 holiday brunch. Call Bonnie

Bingham (303-424-5892) for reservations.

At the November meeting, the TUMW officers for 2014 were elected and installed. They are President, Jan Marie Locket; Secretary, Angie Vasquez; Treasurer, Dodi Vaughn; Mission/ Social Action/ Education and Interpretation, Marcia Hull; Communi-cations/Publicity, Lois Cochran; and Kitchen/Hospitality chair, Aneta McKay. The officers were installed by Dr. Dent. The Special Mission Recog-nition pin was awarded to Lois Cochran.

The Trinity ornament on sale on Dec. 8.

The new UMW officers, as listed above. Lois Cochran receiving her Special Mission Recognition pin from Nita Dipierro.

Trinity UMWTrinity UMW

Advent Calendars Go “Online” at Trinity United Methodist Church

Beginning Dec. 1 and continuing each day until Christmas, visit the online Advent Calendar for a daily scripture and thought-provoking question to reflect on experiences of Hope, Love, Joy, and Peace. How do these words impact our approach to the chaos that often accompanies the holiday season? Where are the words of wisdom from the scriptures? Check the weekly email, weekly bulletin, and Trinity website for links to this interactive resource to help calm the chaos.


Our Church FamilyOur Church Family

Family MinistriesFamily Ministries

Homebuilders

On Sunday mornings at 9:30 in Rooms 8 and 11 in the Atrium, a group of 30-40 partnered and single parents meet in Homebuilders class to enjoy a time of fellowship and teaching. Although we sometimes address parent-related topics, we spend the majority of our time studying the Bible, discussing spiritually related books and issues, and simply enjoying the company of other parents. In December, we will be studying the topic of “Prayer.”

On Saturday evening, Dec. 14, we will gather at Wayne and Beth Brown’s house (1771 Kearney St. in Park Hill) for our ANNUAL HOMEBUILDERS CHRISTMAS PARTY. Watch your email or Trinity's weeklyVision for more details.

Wednesday Evenings (W.E.B.)

During the various children and youth music programs, parents meet in the North Parlor around 5:45 p.m. for what we call our informal W.E.B. (Wednesday Evenings at the Beach) gathering.

Discussions are wide-ranging and tend to be more personal in nature – often focusing on that week’s particular challenges in parenting. Bring a dinner with you if you like.

We celebrate the life of Scott McMullan, stepson of Marty Sorensen and son of the late Linda Cornish. Scott entered eternal life on Nov. 13. 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:

2LT Tristan Felchlen, grandson of Joan & Jack Leimkuhler;

CPT Jason Sapp, U.S. Army, brother of Samantha Jackson;

MAJ Kevin Krebs, U.S. Air Force, nephew of Fred & Debra Krebs; and

PO2 Wes Cody, U.S. Navy, son-in-law of Clark & Ann Rheem. 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 [email protected].

Trinity Primetimers Christmas Party Primetimers, people who are retirement age or thinking about retirement, are invited to a Christmas Dinner and fellowship at the home of Betty and David Shantz on Friday, Dec. 13, at 5:30 p.m. RSVP by Dec. 6 to bettyshantz@ comcast.net or call 303-779-4427.

Betty and David are cooking the food, so just bring $10 per person to the dinner and savor the food and fellowship.


Music & ArtsMusic & Arts Advent Organ Recital Series

Trinity is pleased to continue its annual series of Advent Organ Recitals featuring several talented area organists. The concerts are Tuesdays during Advent from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. The recitals are free; free-will donations will be accepted. This is a delightful tradition that is sure to get you in the spirit of this holy season. Here is the schedule for this year’s series:

December 3: Daniel Romero, Director of Music at Church of the Ascension, Denver

December 10: Dr. Joyce Shupe Kull, former Organist/Director of Music at Grace Lutheran Church, Boulder

December 17: Norman Sutphin, Organist for Trinity United Methodist Church

Intervals of Joy in December

December 1 & 8: Dr. Trudi Wright will lead a two-part session Christmas Carols: A Study of New and Old looking at the history of some of our most beloved Christmas carols. Participants will have an opportunity to join in singing new carols and old favorites together in four-part harmony. What a joyous way to begin our Advent season!

December 15: Join Dr. Robert Harris, the composer of the Chancel Choir’s major Advent work “Gloria” between performances of this majestic piece for the 8:15 and 11:00 a.m. worship services. This is a unique opportunity to meet and talk with a living composer and hear about his music and compositional process. This session will be held in Trinity’s Sanctuary.

December 22: Welcome Christmas by joining in an old-fashioned Christmas carol sing-along. We will gather around the piano in Trinity Café to sing our favorite Christmas carols together, accompanied by Carolyn May.

You can find the Intervals of Joy classes in the Choir Room off the back of Fellowship Hall from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. on Sunday mornings. All are welcome!

Dr. Robert Harris Conducts His “Gloria” on Dec. 15

As part of our Anniversary Advent celebration, the Chancel Choir will perform “Gloria” by Dr. Robert Harris with orchestra at both worship services on Dec. 15 under the direction of the composer. This magnificent work based on the traditional Latin Mass was commissioned by the Westminster Choir of Westminster Presbyterian Church of Dayton, Ohio, and was given its first perfor-mance on May 21, 2006, with John Neeley, conductor.

Dr. Harris is Professor Emeritus at Northwestern Univer-sity’s Bienen School of Music, having taught previously at

Wayne State University in Detroit and Michigan State Uni-versity. He is active as a conductor, choir clinician, and adjudicator, having appeared in these capacities through-out the United States and internationally. As a composer, Dr. Harris has been the recipient of over forty commis-sions from schools, churches, and musical organizations. Dr. Harris received his education from Wayne State Uni-versity in Detroit, the Eastman School of Music, and his doctorate from Michigan State University in composition and theory. He has been active as a church music director throughout his career, currently serving Winnetka Congregational Church as Director of Music and Choir-master.

The Chancel Choir has had the privilege to rehearse the “Gloria” with Dr. Harris on two occasions, once at the choir retreat in October and again, when Dr. Harris attended a Wednesday night rehearsal on Nov. 20. Dr. Harris, Judith, and the choir are connecting in very significant and meaningful ways, and this connection is sure to result in an excellent, moving, and spiritual presentation on the 15th.

Dr. Harris on Nov. 20, mentoring the Chancel Choir in rehearsing his “Gloria.”

“Here We Come A-Caroling. . .” Trinity members of all ages are invited to enjoy the beloved tradition of Christmas caroling to our downtown neighbors on the 16th St. Mall on Dec. 1 and 8. As we sing and make merry, we will hand out cards inviting our community to Trinity’s upcoming Advent events. Each Sunday, we will meet in Trini-ty Café at 12:15 p.m., and we will carol for 30 minutes. Carol books will be provided. Adults, children, youth, and families are invited to join in this fun celebration of the season! For more information, contact Judith Mitchell at [email protected].


Blue Christmas: A Service of Comfort and Hope

Feeling blue? Not connecting with the celebration of the season? Blue Christmas is designed for those who are living with the loss of a loved one, depression, broken relationships, loneliness or just the need to step away from the chaos of the season. Through music, scripture, prayer, and candlelight, we acknowledge the pain and look toward the hope to come. The Trinity Care Team encourages you to attend this peace-filled service of comfort and hope. All are welcome!

Sunday, Dec. 15, 5:00 p.m. University Park UMC, Wasser Chapel

2180 S. University Blvd., Denver (Parking on north side)

Visit www.universityparkumc.org or call 303-722-5736 for more information.

Adult MinistriesAdult Ministries

Depression During the Holidays There is a word that is linked to the holiday season that

you won’t find on a Christmas card, or hear in a song, or see in a sale flyer: depression. Yet Google the phrase “depression during the holidays” and you’ll find a slew of information. I’m not talking about major depression; what many experience can be called “the blues” and is more of a beneath-the-surface melancholy. It is sometimes present in the background and sometimes front-and-center, and it’s not very clear why it’s there.

The reasons for its existence vary from person to person. For some, the season is a glaring reminder of a loneliness that can be ignored the rest of the year. As the end of the year approaches, many reflect on past failures and an uncertain future. Grief—due to the loss of a person or other losses in life—can be heightened this time of year. For others, the expectations and demands the season presents create an overload of stress. Whatever the reason or reasons, if you are one who experiences depression this time of year it is important to remember that you are not alone…and there is nothing wrong with you.

There is no magical cure for depression of any kind, but there are ways to cope. I encourage you to put together a coping plan now. When you are in the midst of depres-sion, making choices and taking action is incredibly diffi-cult. Hew are a few tips:

1) Take care of your body. Overindulgence in food (especially sweets) and alcohol, combined with little rest, is the hallmark of the season. However, this can worsen your mood. Besides leaving you feeling sluggish and un-

motivated, an increase in sugars, simple carbs, alcohol, and the caffeine you drink to keep going can wreak havoc on brain chemistry. Take joy in the foods of the season, but mix in lots of whole grains, a variety of veggies, and foods or supplements rich in omegas and B-vitamins. Get exercise, plenty of sleep, and lots of water.

2) Take care of your mind. Keep expectations realistic, and make a list of what is truly important to you this time of year. This year does not have to be the same as last year; life brings change. Set aside 15 minutes each day to turn off the phone, computer, TV, etc., and do some light stretching, go for a walk, or just sit in silence. Reach out to others—someone else might need a friend right now too. Volunteering gets you out of your own troubles as you give to others. Journaling is a great way to relieve stress and get in touch with what is going on for you.

3) Take care of your spirit. Advent is a spiritual time of year. It’s about waiting and watching for the Light and Hope of the world, and preparing ourselves to receive God’s love. Develop a daily Advent devotion time. There are many books available for this purpose, and Trinity offers online daily devotions throughout Advent on our website, www.trinityumc.org. Light candles and spend time in prayer or meditation; an Advent wreath is perfect for this practice. It’s okay to participate in the consu-merism and secular festivities, but keep your focus on God.

Remember to leave room for the range of human emotions, rather than demand only joy and happiness from yourself (and from others). May you find serenity and comfort in the coming of Christ this year. — Lee Anderson


Goose bumps were the order of the day for all attending the Patriotic Military Ministry concert on Veteran’s Day Sunday. All felt proud of each person and group participat-ing and especially proud of Trinity UMC for this special salute to our service men, women, and veterans.

Clark Rheem and Jack Houser were eloquent in their statements giving the background of Trinity’s Military Ministry. Pat Steeno’s stac-cato commands and the placing of the colors brought the right tone to this memorable occasion, while Judith’s introduction and direction and Norm’s leadership, as well as Pastor Mike Dent’s prayer and comments, were touching. The combined voices and performances of the musicians made for a magical experience that brought tears and goose bumps to many!

We were all touched by the num-ber of folks in attendance — more than 350. Among those attending were a family consisting of grand parents, the husband (a veteran – post Korea), and his wife, and their two young grandchildren. The grand-

children were flourishing poppies and jumping off the front steps of the church at the conclusion of the concert. Their grandfather and his wife attend Arvada UMC. He wanted his grandchildren to know about their patriotic heritage. Standing close to them were a group of young men in their early 20s, not regular attenders, who were wearing poppies and talking in animated voices about the music they had just experienced. This is all to say that this concert attracted a wide and diverse audience, as well as proceeds in excess of $1,600 that will benefit Trinity’s Military Ministry. What could be better?

The following are some of the comments received:

Trinity showed us proud yester-day! — Jim Wilkins

I am glad I had some tissues with me. The concert presentation, partic-ularly “Mansions of the Lord,” brought me to tears. The concert was so meaningful for our military ministry. Trinity’s military history is dynamic and important. Big “high fives” to Jack Houser for launching

this ministry and to Clark for his continuing energy and direction that keeps this ministry in orbit. And a big THANK YOU to the congregation and Trinity staff for their continuing support. I am PROUD of this church. — Marty Sorensen, Combat veteran, Vietnam, 1964-1966

I was overwhelmed by the out-pouring of talent by our musicians yesterday. Somehow, I like to think that Trinity veterans, no longer with us, were able to hear it. Two of our earlier supporters, Royal McKay and “Doc” Allison, always wore their World War II uniforms on this occasion....they were the only two veterans at Trinity that could still get into them!....it was a great day, and I want to thank everyone who conceived the idea and executed it in such a professional manner. The support of the 350+ who attended yesterday’s concert is a strong indi-cation of the increasing support that our Military Ministry enjoys. I was honored to be a part of it.

Thanks, and God bless you all. —Jack Houser

Military MinistryMilitary Ministry

Goose Bumps at the Military Ministry Concert!

The Chancel Chamber Choir, the Trinity Flute Choir, and Trinity’s Brass Ensemble inspired the audience. Marty Sorenson (right) and Pat Steeno are two of Trinity’s veterans who attended the concert. Steeno, along with Brian Lee, were the producers of this wonderful event.


Ichthus Youth group for youth in grades 6-12 meets from

12:30 to 2:30 p.m. on the Atrium level in the Youth Room the second and fourth Sundays of the month for lunch, devotions, games, group building, new friends, and tons of fun! Our annual Christmas party is Sunday, Dec. 8, at the Mammel’s home. Watch the mail for your invitation or check with Cami or Emma for details.

If you have any questions about Youth Ministries at Trinity, please call 303-839-1493 ext.32

Youth Burrito Breakfast! Dec. 15 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.! The youth serve

their famous burritos the third Sunday of each month in Trinity Café to help raise funds for their 2014 summer mission trips here in Denver; to Pine Ridge, South Dako-ta; and to Guatemala. Come breakfast with your Trinity friends and help make youth missions possible! Thank you for your support!

Youth MinistriesYouth Ministries

Guatemalan Crafts and Coffee: The youth will sell Guatemalan crafts and coffee on Dec. 8 and 15 in Trinity Café. These are always a favorite for Christmas gifts and you support Guatemalan artisans and a family-owned coffee plantation.

Look for this billboard behind the church on 18th Street.


Trinity at Work in the City and in the World As you may know, Trinity UMC supports a number of national and interna-tional outreach programs. This year, on Dec. 3, please consider sustaining the spirit of Thanksgiving into the Advent season by participating in “UMC Giving Tuesday.” When you make an online donation to one of these projects through The Advance (www.umcmission.org/give) on Dec. 3, your gift will multiply! For this one day only, as part of UMC Giving Tuesday, gifts made through The Advance to any project will be matched.

The Advance is The United Methodist Church’s giving channel which ensures that 100 percent of each gift supports the project designated by the donor—it is a link that connects the church in mission. The Advance has more than 850 Methodist-related projects and more than 300 mission-aries that have gone through a review process and are accountable for how funds are used. Your gift provides support for Bethany Church in Russia, birthing kits for a traditional birthing attendant in Liberia, Bibles for Carol Partridge in Macedonia or Missionary support for Red Bird Missionary Conference in Beverly, Kentucky. For more information, please visit www.umcmission.org.

Wishing you all the joy of this Advent Season,

Rev. Miriam Slejko

Minister of Discipleship

Raise a House with Habitat on Colorado Gives Day

Tuesday, December 10 From doors and windows to drywall and flooring,

every financial donation received on Tuesday, Dec. 10, will help fund the construction of a new Habitat Interfaith Alliance (HIA) sponsored home. See what your donation can help build by making an online donation to Habitat Interfaith Alliance on Colorado Gives Day, Dec. 10, and help us raise $85,000 for our 2014 home!

All donations made on Colorado Gives Day will be matched, thanks to the FirstBank Incentive Fund, and are 100% tax deductible. You will receive your tax receipt via email from Community First Foundation. Simply VISIT the Colorado Gives website at www.coloradogives.org , SEARCH for Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver, click on DONATE to complete the form, and in the box under Special instructions or comments for nonprofit (very important), type in Habitat Interfaith Alliance on behalf of Trinity UMC.

Please contact Nancy Green, Trinity member and your HIA rep, at [email protected] or 303-831-8583 with questions or help with completing the online donation form.

This picture was taken at our home dedication for the Qader‐Faraj family in Globeville during the Carter Work Project in October. The two Trinity members pictured are Carla Dickenson and Nancy Green.

The Denver Carter Work Project was a huge success in every way! President Jimmy Carter told us it was the most organized build project in his 30 years of building homes with Habitat for Humanity. Blessings to all involved!


You’re invited to the Olin Hotel

Christmas Party! Mark your calendar for Thursday, Dec. 12, at

6:30 p.m. That’s when Trinity members and friends will join our Olin Hotel residents for an old fashioned Christmas celebration! There will be music from the Joyful Voices Children’s Choir, a dramatic reading of The Twelve Days After Christmas by Nan Chizmar, carol singing accompanied by Carolyn May and Sam Chizmar on the piano, and Santa with gifts for all the hotel residents. In between there’ll be refreshments for all and merry-making as we remember our neigh-bors at this special time of year! Pastor Mike has already been asked if Trinity will be hosting this fun-filled evening and the answer is YES! So mark the date, select a gift from the Olin Hotel resident’s wish list, and join your Trinity friends for an evening of fun and friendship!!

The address is 1420 Logan St. and you can park on the street. However, please bring your gift to the church by Sunday, Dec. 8, even if you plan to attend the party. We need to register all the gifts to be sure no one is left out! Merry Christmas!

Penny Varner brought in her gifts for the Olin Hotel Party saying, ʺIʹm going away for Thanks‐giving and I wanted to be sure to get these delivered! Now Iʹve done something to get ready for Christ‐mas!ʺ

Santa made his annual appearance at the 2012 Christmas Party! Caroling is a favorite of residents and Trinity guests.

Red Bird Craft Sale a Success! Mission Trip to Red Bird Planned for 2014!

Happy shoppers provided sales of more than $5,500 in profits for Red Bird Mission in Beverly, Kentucky! Thank you, Trinity UMC, for hosting our Red Bird Mission Craft Sale. Next Oct. 11-17, Trinity will travel with a mission team to Red Bird Mission in the hills of Kentucky. It's a beautiful time with the fall leaves turning and the annual reunion of Red Bird graduates. So mark your calendar now and sign up with the team to go to this historic mission station, the largest United Methodist mission in the United States!


Children’s NewsChildren’s News

December 1 – Hanging of the Greens crafts will be available all morning in the Atrium. Children are invited to make and take at least two crafts. One will be for the Atrium Christmas tree and one, to take home. Each Sunday School classroom will light the Advent candles the first four Sundays in December in anticipation of the birthday of Jesus. December 8 – Snacks and carol singing will be added to our Sunday School classes. December 24 – Children and family service at 5:00 p.m.

Good News!! Great Joy!!! Thank you to all who packed a box or shared money for

This ministry of Samaritan’s Purse or “shoe box ministry” will be sending shoe boxes of surprises from Denver to children in Mexico, Tonga, and Guyana. Just imagine the smiles of the children who will be receiving your surprises!!!

Children’s Advent Schedule

Opportunities for Advent Ministry

1. Lighters for the Christ Child candle are needed for each of our sev-en services. Children must be tall enough to reach the Advent wreath in the Sanctuary and able to carry the lighted wand down the aisle.

2. Holy families are needed. There are a LOT of baby Jesus’s now grown up running around Trinity. Once again we are searching for baby Jesus. If you have a baby one year old or younger and would like to be our Holy family for a particular service, we would love to have you.

Our services are as follows: December 18, 12:15 and 6:00 p.m. December 24, 1:00, 7:00 and 9:00 p.m.

(The 5:00 service is filled.) Please contact Kathy Gibb at 303-783-1493 X22 or [email protected] if you would like to serve in these ways.


Memorials & Honorariums November 2013

Bruce and Deborah Anderson

Lynn Anderson

Daniel and Renee Crews

Gerald and Doris Crews Marian Griffen

Jack and Joan Leimkuhler

Glenda J. Lewis

Joseph and Roberta Marchese

Mrs. Royal McKay

Tim and Julie Mueller

Rebecca Eason Opalinski

Clark and Ann Rheem Margaret Sanders

Roberta Townsend

Dale and Sandy Wells

Kurt and Tammy Wells

Caleb, Trudi and Samson Wright

If you would like to make a memorial or designated gift, please contact Fred Lyons at (303) 839-1493, x30.

In Memoriam — Betty Mueller

Other Christmas Concerts at Trinity

Saturday, December 14 at 7:30 p.m.

CSU Holiday Gala

Musical ensembles from CSU will present a festive program of music and theater performances. Tickets are available by phone at 970-491-ARTS (2787) or online at www.CSUArtsTickets.com.

Friday, December 20 at 7 p.m.

Colorado Bach Ensemble presents Handel’s “Messiah”

Featuring a 27-member professional chorus,

chamber orchestra and outstanding soloists from international concert stages, the Colorado Bach Ensemble returns for a highly anticipated

“Messiah” performance in Denver. Dr. James Kim leads the world-class ensemble with soloists Awet Andemichael, soprano; Emily Marvosh, alto; Joseph Mikolaj, tenor; and Andrew Garland,

baritone. Tickets are available at www.ColoradoBachEnsemble.org

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

Trinity United Methodist Church 1820 Broadway Denver, CO 80202

1820 Broadway Denver, CO 80202

Phone: 303/839-1493 Fax: 303/839-1901

Email: [email protected] Web: www.TrinityUMC.org

http://Facebook.com/trinitydenver http://Twitter.com/trinitydenver

Trinity United Methodist Church

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Trinity United Methodist Church Vision

Trinity United Methodist Church

1820 Broadway, Denver, CO 80202

Financial Report

October 2013

$ 1,000,000 $ 1,500,000

$ 1,435,514

$ 1,464,606

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

Kathy Gibb

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 Fred Lyons

Wedding Coordinator Laini Tompkins

Trinity Young Adults Jasper Peters

James E. Barnes Iliff Intern Dan Krause

Ministry Giving

Ministry Investments

Documents

December 2013 Vision