“Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you

can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.”—John Wesley

The Trinity VineOctober/November 2015 Issue

A publication of Trinity United Methodist Church, Denver, Colorado

Pastoral Intern, and good sport, Tom Owens braces himself for another dunk in the tank on Homecoming Sunday.

Contact Us

Church Office HoursMonday–Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Trinity United Methodist Church1820 Broadway, Denver, CO 80202

Phone: 303-839-1493 | Fax: 303-839-1901info@trinityumc.orgwww.trinityumc.org

www.Facebook.com/trinitydenverwww.Twitter.com/trinitydenver

www.YouTube.com/c/TrinityChurchDenverwww.Google.com/+TrinityChurchDenver

Our MissionTrinity United Methodist Church offers a welcoming and

transforming experience: the love of Jesus Christ.

This mission is further articulated through three goals:1. Inviting our congregation and others throughout the community

to Come Worship God2. Helping our congregation to Grow in Spirit

3. Preparing our congregation to Go Serve Christ

Come join us as we Grow Our Souls.

Trinity Staff

Dr. Michael D. DentSenior Pastor

Rev. Linda MarshallMinister of Nurture

Rev. Jasper PetersAssociate Pastor

Rev. Lee AndersonMinister of Care

Judith MitchellDirector of Music and Arts

Cami TwillingDirector of Youth Ministries and

Contemplative Spirituality

Emma MuellerYouth Ministry Assistant

Allison WatkinsDirector of Children’s Ministry

Angela M. ThomasChurch Administrator

Erin AchesonDirector of Communications

Laura WinbergDirector of Finance

Julie GladneyInterim Front Office Assistant

Sharon ScheminskeWedding Director

Kathy IvesMusic Assistant

Lou SeminMusic Assistant

Jamielee DemskeJames E. Barnes Iliff Intern

Tom OwensPastoral Intern

Rod RodriguezBuilding Operations Manager

In This Issue

Upcoming Events..................................6, 8, 12Homecoming Sunday......................................7Staff News..................................................9, 10Journey of Generosity....................................13 Children’s Ministries...............................14-15Book Recommendation................................17Music & Arts............................................18-19Meet Your Ushers.........................................21Mission Updates............................................22 A Look to December..................................23

Gratitude for Great Generosity!

Dear Trinity Friends and Family,

You are reading words written two days after our Bring It Home Expansion Campaign Commitment Sunday in mid-September. My heart is overflowing with thanks for the outpouring of generosity on the part of so many in response to our goal of completing the We’re Here for Life Plaza Building Initiative and Mission Tithe Campaign without any long-term indebtedness. We already have 365 families that have given, made commitments, or expanded commitments totaling $2,940,916, or 94.8% of the $3.1 million goal. Cards are continuing to come in daily. The sight of so many persons on September 13—singles, couples, youth, children, veteran members, new members, and nonmembers—coming forward to help bring it home was inspiring, indeed! Some very special things happened during the campaign. The children collected and donated over $700 on Commitment Sunday. A young family agreed to match that amount. With the money our children gave and received on August 20, a total of over $2,000 came from the youngest among us. Jesus said, “And a child shall lead them.” Some folks who had been away for a while came on Homecoming Sunday and were moved to join in the campaign. Some were inspired by the beauty, flexibility, and quality of the newly completed Level 1; they rejoiced to increase their commitments. Paul wrote to the Corinthians, “You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity, which will produce thanksgiving...for the rendering of this ministry...overflows with many thanksgivings to God.” On behalf of our campaign leadership team, thank you for your gifts and commitments. I am confident we will reach the $3.1 million goal soon. I am confident we will complete our pledges. I am humbled and grateful for the magnificent giving of the generous people of Denver’s first church. Thanks be to God, indeed! With great joy and hope, Pastor Mike

The Trinity Pulpit

October and November WorshipSundays, 8:15 a.m. & 11 a.m.

Dr. Michael Dent, Senior Pastor

Summer Sunday School is offered for children, youth and adults

at 9:30 a.m.

October 4 “We All Share a Name”

World Communion Sunday

October 11“We Believe in Music”Trinity Music & Arts Dedication Sunday

October 18“You Must Be Present to Win”New Member/Burr Sunday

October 25Youth Sunday

November 1“When the Roll Is Called Down

Here”All Saints Sunday/Communion

November 8“For Such a Time as This”

Veterans/Bible Sunday

November 15“Great Is Your Faithfulness”

Generosity Sunday

November 22Thanksgiving Sunday

November 30First Sunday of Advent/

Communion

A Special Note of Thanks...

Trinity leadership and staff would like to extend their sincerest gratitude to Dave Sanger and Julie Gladney for their above-and-beyond work

during these last several months of transition. Not only did they lead the organizational efforts for preparing for Level 1 and 2 renovations, but they also took on many of the ongoing front office and administrative

tasks during the church administrator search process. We are so appreciative of all you have done, and continue to do, for Trinity!

News From the United Methodist Church

Welcoming the StrangerHow can we help the refugee crisis in Europe?

Many of us are concerned about the people displaced by the conflict in the Middle East and migrating to Europe. Please keep these vulnerable people in prayer. Those who would like to support the work of UMCOR (The United Methodist Committee on Relief), its response to this and other disasters, and its efforts to reduce disaster risk, are encouraged to give to the International Disaster Response Advance #982450. UMCOR provides emergency relief in many areas of the world. To find out more about UMCOR’s ministries, please visit umcor.org. You can donate to any project by placing a contribution in the offering plate at a local United Methodist church, by sending a check to UMCOR, PO Box 9068, New York, NY 10087-9068, or by calling 1-800-554-8583, where credit card donations are accepted. You can also give online by clicking any of the “DONATE” links on the UMCOR site or make a $10 donation anytime by texting “UMCOR” to 41444 to support our relief efforts around the world. UMCOR is exempt from tax under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of the United States and qualifies for the maximum charitable contribution deduction by donors. Thomas Kemper, General Secretary of the General Board of Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church, has written a statement about the scope of the current refugee crisis in Europe, the work of UMCOR, resettling refugees in the U.S., and enlarging the welcome. The article can be found at http://bit.ly/1KItYwo. You can also help each time you are at Trinity. During the month of October, every Facebook check-in at Trinity will provide six gallons of drinking water to refugees through Save the Children.

• Ryan White• Tom Owens• Julianne Wilson• Andrew Lincoln

Welcome, New Members!

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• Sandy Johnson• Dale Phillips• Bob Heuermann• Yong Heuermann

We welcome the following new members into the Trinity family:

Dr. and Mrs. Mike Dent invite all persons who have joined Trinity since June to a New Member Fellowship in their home. The gathering will be Sunday, October 18, at 3:00 p.m. Invitations and directions will be emailed soon for this informal time of fellowship, food, fun, and getting acquainted with other new members, pastors, and program staff members.

By now you have likely explored the beautifully renovated Level 1 of the Plaza Building. The new spaces are being put to good use as Level 2 undergoes its transformation. Please remember that Level 2 is off limits during this second phase of renovations. Current estimates anticipate Level 2 completion in mid-December.

We’re Here for Life

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Would you like to receive a printed issue of The Vine?

Copies are available in the church office, at the Welcome Cart on Level 3, and in the back of the Sanctuary. Those who are unable to pick a copy up at the church building may request that a copy be mailed to their

home by contacting the Communications Department at communications@trinityumc.org or 303-839-1493 x25. Large print copies can be provided upon request.

One of the new meeting rooms.

The new Atrium from above.

The new Youth Room.

The former staff office area.The former Parlors.

Upcoming Events

For additional information on these and other upcoming events, visit www.trinityumc.org/experience-trinity/upcoming-events.

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On September 13, our Trinity family came together to say goodbye to summer and welcome all that fall has to offer. We celebrated a very special Homecoming Sunday with delicious food, special musical moments, spoken word, crafts, and a variety of games and entertainment for all ages. Thank you to all who played a role in making the day so successful, especially Julie and Scott Tannehill, Julie Gladney, and Trinity’s Music & Arts Ministry for the many hours of advance planning and preparation. View more images from the day on Trinity’s Facebook page. Photographs by Steve Hostetler.

A Look Back...

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Upcoming Events

For additional information on these and other upcoming events, visit www.trinityumc.org/experience-trinity/upcoming-events.

Our Congregation

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Trinity Welcomes New AdministratorContributed by Dr. Michael Dent, mdent@trinityumc.org The Staff-Parish Relations Committee is delighted to announce the hiring of Angela Thomas as our Church Administrator, effective September 8. Angela joins us from her former position as the Administrator of Crystal Springs United Methodist Church in Mississippi. She is a graduate of Mississippi State University and Millsaps College, where she received her Master’s Degree in Business Administration. A licensed Certified Public Accountant, she brings 20 years of experience from United Methodist churches in Mississippi and is certified in church administration through the Mississippi Conference of the UMC. Angela’s previous ministries include music and worship leadership, missions, finance, and administration. She has taught Sunday School for children and youth, led a women’s small group, served on local and foreign mission teams, and served as youth counselor. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the Mississippi Society of Certified Public Accountants, and the National Association of Church Business Administrators. Angela will work closely with the staff, board of trustees, and building committee to oversee the property, facilities, personnel, and other administrative matters of the church. SPRC Chair Susan Turman and Senior Pastor Michael Dent say, “Angela brings valuable skills, education, certification, and experience to this critical position. We are grateful she has come our way and joined our staff team. We hope you will get to know and welcome her to Trinity, Denver, and Colorado.”

Farewell, and thank you, WayneContributed by Rev. Linda Marshall, lmarshall@trinityumc.org Wayne Brown, Director of Adults with Kids, announced his resignation from the Trinity staff after five meaningful years of ministry. Developing a strong and well-connected network of spiritual friends through the Homebuilders Sunday School class, family camps, and the single moms group, Wayne has brought a depth of spirituality and wisdom to his ministry, along with his teaching abilities and leadership. This spirituality and wisdom also filtered into his relationships with the Trinity staff through staff meetings and a wide variety of consultations and planning with the team. His presence will be missed by the staff and the Adults with Kids ministry. While Wayne loved his Trinity ministry, he is eager to spend more time with his family, return to his counseling practice, and reactivate his passion for and gift of writing. There is a new book waiting to be written soon to accompany his two previous publications: Living the Renewed Life and Water from Stone: When “Right Christian Living” Has Left You Spiritually Dry. Wayne, his wife Beth, and daughter Paige, a high school junior, will still be seen around Trinity as they continue their membership. Thank you, Wayne, for sharing your faith, your love of God’s creations, and your Christian living witness.

Our Congregation

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New Director for Joyful VoicesContributed by Kathy Ives, massistants@trinityumc.org Trinity’s Music & Arts Ministry is delighted to introduce our new Joyful Voices director, Michael Ballard. A lifelong resident of Denver, Mr. Ballard discovered a passion for music in middle school choir. Having since pursued that passion, he recently received a degree in Music Composition and Music Education with a dual emphasis in Voice and Choral Conducting from Metropolitan State University of Denver. Mr. Ballard teaches music at the World Compass Academy in Castle Rock. As a composer, Mike has had chamber works, art songs, and choral works performed in Denver and Kansas City, Missouri. As a singer, Mike has enjoyed singing several operatic roles, including Figaro in Le Nozze di Figaro, Malatesta in Don Pasquale, Fiorello in Il Barbiere di Siviglia, and the title role in Don Giovanni. As a conductor, Mike has had the opportunity to study conducting under Dr. David Kish and MB Krueger, and has participated in master classes led by Dr. Brad Holmes and Dr. Karen Kennedy. He plans to pursue graduate school for choral conducting, and then continue a career in conducting both choral and instrumental ensembles. Mr. Ballard just completed a term as the Conducting Fellow of the Colorado Repertory Singers.

Our Church FamilyContributed by Rev. Lee Anderson, landerson@trinityumc.org, 303-839-1493 x11

We celebrate the lives of Trinity members Beth Grenfell, who entered eternal life on August 7; Ed Buhrmaster, who entered eternal life on August 19; and Ron Loser, who entered eternal life September 5, also remembering in prayer his wife Jeri and son and daughter-in-law Mike and Chris Losier, also Trinity members. We remember Karen Colt-Pasternack in the death of her husband Fred; Sally, Dan, and Caden Hirsch in the death of Sally’s mother; Ken, Lou, and Ana Klane in the death of Ken’s father; Ann, Kelvin, Nathan, Mitchell, Jed, and Rudy Aist in the death of Ann’s father; Melissa, John, Grant, Julie, and Tori McKay in the death of Melissa’s mother; Carole Thaler-Barr in the death of her son, Will Murfield, who sang in the Trinity choir; Karen and son Bryan Anderson in the death of Karen’s mother; and Kay Norman in the death of her uncle.

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

Major Bradley Matthew May, US Navy, son of Tom and Carolyn May Petty Officer 2nd Class Wes Cody, U.S. Navy, son-in-law of Clark and Ann Rheem Lt. Daniel Ford, US Navy, son of Michael and Joanne Ford Captain Tristan Felchlin, grandson of Joan and Jack Leimkuhler

If you would like to have a family member placed on our prayer chain and listed in The Vine, please contact Rev. Lee Anderson at the contact information listed above.

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Our CongregationGiving Thanks for Our SaintsContributed by Dr. Michael Dent, mdent@trinityumc.org

All Saints Day is November 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 November 1, at 8:15 and 11:00. We will share the sacrament of Holy Communion, read the roll of the honored dead, and toll a bell in the memory of each. My message is When the Roll Is Called Down Here. 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:

Kathryn Susan AtkinsonC. Joyce Bettridge

Helen BoringDaisy Leone Buhrmaster

Edward BuhrmasterWinifred “Beth” Grenfell

Ronald Stuart LoserNadine Moore

William Cary MurfieldFred J. Pasternack

Mark Lawrence SmithEsther Anna Olson Tatlock

Carrie Elaine Scott “Scotty” Ellis Wilkins

2020 VISION Focus GroupsContributed by Rev. Linda Marshall, lmarshall@trinityumc.org

Members and friends of Trinity are invited to participate in the development of a 2020 VISION to help shape the future programming and ministry of this congregation. Between October 11 and November 1, a wide variety of focus groups will be offered to invoke the dreams for Trinity. Watch the weekly email and Sunday bulletins to find a group in which you can participate, either in your neighborhood or here at Trinity. This strategic visioning process has been encouraged by the Trinity Council and staff under the leadership of the 2020 VISION Design Team: Jody Pritzl, chair; Shaun Boyd, Dan Hopmann, Laura Igo, Kurt Lausmann, Linda Marshall, Brian Lee, Jasper Peters, and Jill Rampacek. The future of Trinity belongs to each of us and we all have an opportunity to shape that future together.

Can You Help Beautify the Sanctuary?

Help keep our Sanctuary beautiful on Sunday mornings by providing flowers in honor, in memory, or in celebration of loved ones. Floral arrangements costs $45 each. Orders may be placed through the church

office. You may take your arrangement(s) with you following the 11 a.m. worship service or donate them to our Caring Blossoms Ministry for members who are in the hospital or homebound.

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Upcoming Events

For additional information on these and other upcoming events, visit www.trinityumc.org/experience-trinity/upcoming-events.

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Our Congregation2016 Journey of Generosity OutlineContributed by Dr. Michael Dent, mdent@trinityumc.org

I. THEME: For Such a Time as This

II. SCRIPTURE “And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”—Esther 4:14, RSV

III. GOALS1. To invite and inspire all Trinity members to express gratitude by offering specific commitments of their

prayers, presence, financial gifts, service, and witness. 2. To maintain the pattern of faithful stewardship by generously serving, sharing, and celebrating the life of

Christ in and with the world, a hallmark of this congregation for 127 years at 18th and Broadway.3. To provide expanded support for the church’s daily mission and ministry in a time of unique opportunity

in our changing, growing downtown community and renewed church home.

IV. METHOD1. Every family will be asked to make a specific commitment of financial generosity, growing in their giving,

in gratitude for receiving and growing in God’s grace in Christ.2. The church’s Mission and Ministry for 2016 (budget) will not be set until after the campaign, with total

ministry investments determined by the willingness of the families of the church family to give.

V. CALENDAR Oct. 25 Journey Sunday #1 – Campaign Kick-off/Youth Sunday Nov. 1 Journey Sunday #2 – All Saints Sunday with Holy Communion

Nov. 8 Journey Sunday #3 – Distribution of 2016 For Such a Time as This Packets at Trinity Nov. 15 Generosity Sunday – Dedication of 2016 For Such a Time as This Gratitude Cards

Military Ministry: Sending Christmas CheerContributed by Clark Rheem, 720-837-7775

Trinity’s Military Ministry is on fire! We are serving meals at the Fisher House on the Fitzsimmons campus each month as well as continuing to support our troops who are deployed in Afghanistan by sending care packages at Christmastime. We have also committed to a very special ministry this year: sending gift packages to an orphanage in northern Afghanistan that houses 66 Hazara girls ranging in age from 6 to 18. Most of these girls have been orphaned by the Taliban. The boxes will contain fun girl stuff such as perfume, fancy soap, and hair ribbons, plus a pair of shoes. We would appreciate your support for both our troops and for the orphanage. A box for the troops is $65.00 and a box for one of the girls is $40.00. For a donation of $100.00, we can send one of each. If you have any questions, contact Clark Rheem at 720-837-7775. Thank you for your ongoing support of this important ministry!

Fall Sunday School for toddlers through children in the 5th grade, started on September 13, Homecoming Sunday. We welcomed back 65 children and babies to six different Sunday School classes. It was so nice to welcome back families and meet new children and parents.

9:30 a.m. Sunday School Younger Elementary (ages 4 through 1st grade) will meet in Room 112. Older Elementary (2nd grade through 5th grade) will meet in Room 113.

Children are studying John Wesley through the Revival curriculum by Adam Hamilton, learning with stories, crafts, and music that teach about John Wesley’s life, where he lived, and ideas he felt were important to the Christian faith. The lessons are theme-based, and each week children will hear not only John Wesley’s connection to the theme, but also what the Bible teaches us about that theme. One of the lessons focuses on how John Wesley learned about prayer from his mother, Susanna, who was very influential in his life. Children may have the idea that prayer is something we do only at special times, such as mealtimes or bedtimes, or in special places, such as church. This lesson helps children understand that prayer can happen anytime and anywhere. During the first 15 minutes of class, children will learn about the hymns that John and Charles Wesley composed. Music time will be directed by Dr. Trudi Wright and Rev. Linda Marshall and accompanied by Kathy Ives, Director of Trinity’s Youth Choir and music assistant to Judith Mitchell.

11:00 a.m. Sunday SchoolPre-K and Kindergarten children will meet in Room 112. 1st and 2nd grade children will meet in Room 113. All 3rd, 4th and 5th graders will meet in Room 116 for the Deep Blue Learning to Use your Bible class. Bible Sunday is scheduled for November 8 during the 11:00 worship service.

All children will be learning the Deep Blue curriculum based on the award-winning Deep Blue Bible, which includes adventure, exciting stories, science experiments, arts and crafts, animated video storytelling, and active games all combined into a living-faith experience that will help children discover what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ today. Each of our tech-savvy children will receive a Deep blue zipper pull to be used with the FREE Deep Blue Adventure App. This is the key kids will use to unlock an exciting interactive world in which they can create their own avatars, explore challenging quests, play games, chat with familiar Deep Blue characters, and more!

Toddlers at 9:30 and 11:00 a.m. Toddlers (2 and 3-years-old) will be in Room 127 at 9:30 and 11:00. They will also learn from the Deep Blue curriculum, which will help them grow in the Christian faith and become familiar with God and Jesus. Toddlers will have monthly Bible stories and verses. Each week children will bring home a colorful card with the Bible story for parents to retell at home.

The Trinity Nursery is temporarily located on Level 1 in Room 128 near the elevators and is available for all babies and toddlers from 8:00 a.m. until 12:15 p.m. each Sunday. Our youngest members are taken care of by loving, trained and CPR-certified staff.

If you have any questions about Sunday School classes or the Trinity Nursery, please contact Allison Watkins at the contact information above.

Children’s MinistriesContributed by Allison Watkins, awatkins@trinityumc.org, 303-839-1493 x22

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Trinity’s young children, and the young at heart, collected their pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters, and even some silent paper money, for Noisy Sundays which took place on August 30 and September 13. Everyone was encouraged to save their change for the children to collect during the Children’s Message those weeks to benefit the Bring It Home Expansion Campaign for the Plaza Building. The children walked through the Sanctuary with buckets and collected $637.57 the first Sunday, with the help of longtime members who are “kids at heart,” and $769.49 the second Sunday. Another member donated a matching amount of $769.49. All of this change—totaling $2,176.55!—brought the church one step closer to reaching the renovation campaign goal. We are so thankful to our anonymous and matching gift donors and for everyone who participated by bringing their coins and bills. It was a joy to see children and adults with their baggies of change eager to place their donations in the buckets and construction hats and make some noise for Trinity!

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For Some, It’s Only Temporary...

Many of us attended Homecoming Sunday on September 13 and were able to see for the first time the new changes in the Plaza Building. Level 1 is completed except for a few minor finishing touches and many of the staff members have moved into their new spaces. However, Level 1 is also temporarily housing the church office, administrative offices, and all the children’s areas and Nursery while Level 2 is undergoing renovations. Our administrative staff has been very creative in scheduling so that every group, class, meet-ing, event, and rehearsal can be accommodated on Level 1 in the interim. At times—especially on Sunday mornings—it can be frustrating to be squeezed into an office or small room, but we must remember to have patience and be welcoming as we all continue to share space for a few more short months while Level 2 is transformed into a new, wonderful ministry area.

Noisy SundaysContributed by Allison Watkins, awatkins@trinityumc.org, 303-839-1493 x22

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Youth MinistriesContributed by Cami Twilling, ctwilling@trinityumc.org

Youth Sunday SchoolMiddle School and Senior High youth will meet in the new Youth Room (116 and 117) on Level 1 for fall Sunday School. All youth meet together on the third Sunday of each month for Burrito Breakfast Sunday. This is an awe-some place for you to explore your faith, ask questions, be yourself, and grow on your spiritual journey.

Youth Group:Middle School Youth: Hang Time, our new Middle School youth group will meet on the second and fourth Wednes-days from 5-6 p.m. in the Youth Room. We will play great games, dig deeper into our faith, encourage one another, and have awesome group-building time. This is an hour just for you!

Senior High Youth: Senior High Sunday Nights (SHSN) will meet the second and fourth Sundays from 4:30-6:30 p.m. in different youths’ homes for group-building, deepening our spiritual journey, real discussions, and dinner together.

Burrito Breakfasts are back! The youth serve their famous burritos the third Sunday of each month in Trinity Café from 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. to help raise funds for 2016 summer mission trips here in Denver and to Salt Lake City and Guatemala. Come have breakfast with your Trinity friends and help make youth missions possible.

View the entire Youth Calendar for 2015-2016 at www.trinityumc.org/ministries/youth.

HomebuildersContributed by Wayne Brown, wbrownstone1@gmail.com October and November will be a time of exciting transition for the Homebuilders class and Family Ministries. During these months, class members will be sharing teaching and leadership responsibilities and engaging in a wide range of topics. If you haven’t attended a Homebuilders class before (Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. in Room 114), now is the perfect opportunity to get involved. The class is composed primarily of parents, single or coupled, with children in grade school, middle school, high school, and college. Our goals are simply to enjoy one another, grow in our faith, stimulate our hearts and minds, and serve our community and world in the process. We have monthly potlucks, seasonal parties, community outreach opportunities, and many other events throughout the year. We would be thrilled to have you join us! Our staff contact person for these next few months is Rev. Linda Marshall, who can be reached at lmarshall@trinityumc.org or 303-839-1493 x15.

Trinity’s New Mobile AppContributed by Erin Acheson, communications@trinityumc.org

We now have our very own mobile app! The app is a distilled version of our online presence that easily brings the latest news, events, and registration opportunities into the palm of your hand. Through the app you can register your presence on Sunday mornings, contribute your offering with credit or debit card, take notes on the sermon, and view important announcements. The app is a work in progress. If there is something you would like to see included in our app, contact Erin Acheson. The app is free to download; search for “Trinity UMC Denver” in iTunes or the Google Play store.

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A Personal Look at Contemplative Spirituality I had no idea how hard it would be to remain silent and pray as is practiced during Centering Prayer, a method of Contemplative Prayer. My first attempt was in Stiles Chapel - I chose a Sacred Word, took a few deep breaths and began. The difficult part was ignoring the continual stream of thoughts I had. With perseverance I found the process easier and when I could quiet my mind, even for a few moments, I began to sense a different level of consciousness. Richard Rohr, in a Daily Meditation article described it as “A participative knowing, as if you are actually inside of a larger mystery.” Frequently, I am sitting in my Grandmother’s rocking chair while engaged in Centering Prayer but, on one occasion, I was undergoing a CT Scan and chose to use Centering Prayer to change a stressful situation into a calming one; very effective. My favorite place remains Stiles Chapel where I am often reminded of another quote by Richard Rohr, “Contemplative Prayer is a practice for a lifetime, never perfected, yet always enough.”—Joy Harvey

Contemplative Spirituality:You will find a quiet space where you can deepen your contemplative practice or learn for the first time what contemplative spirituality is, and the impact it can have on your life. We will practice Centering Prayer as well as other prayer practices such as Lectio Divina, exploring the labyrinth, and reflecting on teachings of the ancient and present-day mystics. Please come as you are. All are welcome.

Wednesday evenings from 7-8:30 p.m. in Room 107. We will not meet on Sunday mornings until Level 2 renovations are complete.

Contemplative CornerContributed by Joy Harvey and Cami Twilling, ctwilling@trinityumc.org

Drawing From Memory by Allen SayOrder online: http://www.tatteredcover.com/book/9780545176866

I recently read this memoir by Allen Say, one of the great illustrators of books for children and young adults. The book is written in graphic novel style and tells of his journey to becoming an artist in Japan during World War II. To keep him at home and away from danger, his mother plied him with comic books. Soon he was copying images from his comics, or drawing what he saw and imagined. He was shunned by his father, who believed that artists were “lazy and scruffy people”, so Say apprenticed himself to Noro Shinpei, his favor-ite Japanese cartoonist. Allen was embraced by Noro, and he came to consider him as his “spiritual father.” As World War II raged on, Allen is encouraged to consider questions of his own heritage and the motivations of those around him. He worked hard at his art and personal development, ultimately coming to a deeper understanding of himself. I especially appreciated this look at a real-life relationship between a mentor and his student; it is inspiring to watch his devel-opment and to begin to recognize the unconditional love and support of a true mentoring relationship. This book was originally written for teen-age readers, but is appropriate for anyone.

Staff Pick! Book RecommendationContributed by Dave Sanger

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Care MinistryContributed by Rev. Lee Anderson, landerson@trinityumc.org

We Are In This Together

You have no doubt heard the terms church family or faith community to describe churches. Have you ever paused to reflect on what these phrases mean to you? One way in which a church is a family or community is in the care shared among its members. More than a building, a church is a spiritual sanctuary in the midst of life’s challenges. Through the support and nurture of others, each of us can weather the storms and grow spiritually. As we are blessed with this care and growth, we then give to others from our own place of strength. In doing so, we take part in God’s kingdom and help create a healthy community. Trinity’s Care Ministry offers several ways to provide and receive care. Current care teams include Stephen Ministry, Homebound Visitation Team, Health Ministry, Prayer Team, Prayer Quilts, Bereavement Ministry, and Caring Blossoms. In addition to involvement with these teams and ministries, care for others in the Trinity family can be shown in many ways. Often, simply listening, providing a meal or errand, or sending a note that says “I’m praying with you” makes a difference during a difficult time. If you would like to talk more about how to be a caring presence to others in your church family or in other parts of your life, feel free to contact Rev. Lee Anderson, Minister of Care, at 303-839-1493 x11 or landerson@trinityumc.org. If you are in need of support yourself, never hesitate to contact any of the pastors at Trinity.

Music & Arts Dedication SundayContributed by Judith Mitchell, jmitchell@trinityumc.org

The members of Trinity’s Music & Arts Ministry will dedicate their service for the coming season during a celebratory worship service on Sunday, October 11. The morning services will be filled with vocal and instrumental music created by musicians of all ages, as the Ministry members live out their theme for this season, “In This Together.”

Historic Organ Tour

Join Historic Denver, Inc. and the American Guild of Organists for the 4th Annual Pipe Organ Tour on Saturday, November 7. Take a stroll with us to get your fill of architecture, history, and beautiful organ music. This year’s tour begins at 9:30 a.m. at Trinity. Participants will then proceed by foot to Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Church. At each church, participants will hear about history and architecture from a local historian and then the history of the organ before listening to a selection of music. Paid parking is available in the lots to the north of Trinity (adjacent to 19th & Broadway) and the east (adjacent to 18th & Lincoln) for a small fee. Tickets for this special music and history tour are $20. Tickets are available through Historic Denver or the American Guild of Organists. They may also be purchased the morning of the tour at Trinity beginning at 9 a.m. Cash, checks, and credit cards will all be accepted.

Upon returning from a Sabbath in August, the Chancel Choir is back in worship, refreshed and renewed, ready once more to glorify and serve God. As we begin a new season, we, as a community, reflect upon the purpose of our work together and dedicate ourselves to serving God and Trinity through music and the arts. I want to share with you the core values that guide the Chancel Choir’s ministry, mission, and day-to-day practices. These core values are ones we have in common with all of the Music and Arts ministries at Trinity. We strive for Excellence in our music and Growth in both our abilities and our ministry: we study and hone our craft with intentionality, in the hopes that through our gifts of music others may come to know Jesus. We seek to foster Inclusivity and a loving Community: we warmly welcome all to join us, and we pray and care for each other, as God cares for each of us. We are called into Service to share God’s love through music: in our service, we feed hungry hearts and provide an experience of the Divine. We are guided both by our individual faith journeys as well as a shared Spiritualty: underpinning our ministry is the assurance that we are loved and cherished children of God. Lastly, we want to have Fun. And we do have fun! On any given Wednesday night, you will find old and new friends lingering long after rehearsal to catch up with each other. On some nights, you will see members of our choir showcasing their vocal or other talents to perform at our monthly birthday celebrations, or members of the Choir Board acting out skits to provide some comic relief for the evening. As we often hear from Judith, it’s “just another ordinary Wednesday night,” but as she knows, these ordinary nights are full of richness and love and beauty. Here, God is present as friendships are forged, creativity is unleashed, and the bonds of community are deepened. This season, I hope that when you see and hear the choir sing, you will see a reflection of you, the Trinity community: an open, inclusive space to share God’s love and experience God’s grace. If you’re feeling the call to join our ministry… if you’re a singer of many years or a brand-new singer... if you want to experience the power of God through music... and if you want to have fun while doing all of these things, I hope you’ll consider joining the choir. To get connected, simply contact Director Judith Mitchell at jmitchell@trinityumc.org or 303-839-1493, ext. 16. Come and see, hear, feel, and know… there is a place for you in the choir loft!

—Caroline Lee, Trinity Chancel Choir President

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Music & Arts MinistryContributed by Caroline Lee

Choir Works with Noted Composer John LeavittContributed by Judith Mitchell, jmitchell@trinityumc.org

This October, Trinity’s Chancel Choir welcomes Dr. John Leavitt as their clinician for their annual fall retreat. Dr. Leavitt is a composer, conductor, pianist, and teacher, whose music captivates listeners and musicians of all ages. He received his undergraduate degree in music education from Emporia State University, Emporia, Kansas; a master’s degree in piano and composition from Wichita State University; and the Doctorate of Musical Arts in conducting from The Conservatory of Music at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Dr. Leavitt has directed countless festivals for communities, schools, and churches with all ages, church music workshops, hymn festivals, and piano and organ dedication recitals. The Chancel Choir has performed a number of Dr. Leavitt’s works in worship in the past, and the choir members are thrilled to be working with the composer in preparation for their presentation of his Christmas cantata, What Child Is This?, this coming Advent season.

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United Methodist WomenContributed by Lois cochran, 303-934-8838A Great Big THANK YOU!!! Trinity United Methodist Women wish to thank everyone who contributed to the success of the school supply collection project. Eighty-three UMCOR School Kit bags were filled by the Sunday School children and an additional five were filled later. After being blessed in church, they were sent to the UMCOR depot in Salt Lake City, Utah, and from there will be sent whereever in the world they are needed. Fifty-eight pounds of supplies that were not included in the UMCOR list or were extras were delivered to Goldrick Elementary School, a school where 96% of the more than 600 students are eligible for free or discounted lunches. They were extremely grateful to receive the supplies.

YUM! YUM! Cupcake Walk Trinity UMW hosted the “Cupcake Walk” for the Homecoming celebration again this year. Cupcakes and oversized cookies were brought by members and enjoyed by the many winners of the Cupcake Walk. “Bread of Life” Program David Kaminer, owner and baker at Raleigh Street Bakery, spoke about bread philosophy, bread history, grains, fermentation, and breadmaking tools before demonstrating how to make loaves of bread from sourdough starter, flour, salt, and water. When he asked for someone who didn’t mind getting their hands messy to come and help with the demonstration, young Connor Mahan, great-grandson of Lenora Mahan, volunteered. David, with Connor’s help, showed the process from “starter” to loaves ready to bake and provided take-home instructions and a small container of starter for everyone in attendance. Thanks to Angie Vasquez for contacting David and arranging for this program. Julie Gladney’s devotions provided everyone with cards printed with Bible verses referring to bread.

Trinity United Women Annual Business Meeting The annual business meeting will be held November 17 at 6:30 p.m. on Level 1, and will include election and installation of officers, voting on the 2016 budget, a memorial service for members who have died in the past year, special mission recognition for a deserving individual, and the World Thank Offering collection. Christmas Tea at the Brown Palace Tickets for the Christmas Tea at the Brown Palace (Saturday, December 5) will go on sale November 1. Cost of tickets this year will be $45. Tickets for children 5 years and under will be $20. Price includes tax and gratuity.

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Our Ministry and MissionMeet Your Trinity Ushers and Greeters!

Future issues of The Trinity Vine will include a feature on one of our wonderful ushers and greeters, who provide a warm welcome and smile to our members and guests on Sunday mornings. We start this series with Bob Culwell, fearless leader of the Trinity Ushers.

Name: Bob CulwellOccupation: I’m a supervisor in the Colorado Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property Division.Trinity member since: June 2011Trinity usher since: I think it was 2011 or 2012.What originally brought you to Trinity: I first came for a Christmas Eve service and sat in the north balcony.How did you come to be an usher at Trinity: It seemed like an easy and enjoyable way to get involved with the church once I joined. Plus, you get to wear a bright red coat like a genuine 18th-century British infantryman!What do you like most about being an usher: I enjoy getting into the Sanctuary and helping to make sure everything is prepared for whatever service the congregation is about to experience. Moving through the pews and trying to make sure that the worship leaders and parishioners will have everything they require for the service is satisfying for me. After that, it’s much easier for me to relax and enjoy welcoming all the people coming to church that day.What do you love about Trinity: This is a congregation that recognizes that Christianity is an active faith. Trinity has a vibrant outreach into the community that is uncommon. What is your hope for Trinity’s future: That this generation of the church will be faithful stewards of the gifts given us by previous generations and will find ways to smooth the way for those who will follow us in making sure that this church remains a vital part of life in Denver.

October 11: Miriam Circle meeting, 12:30 p.m., Heritage RoomOctober 13: Book Circle, 10 a.m., home of Mary Frances Keller, 910 Columbine; Book: Yes, Chef by Marcus SamuelssonOctober 14: Deborah Circle, 12:30 p.m. home of Dodi Vaughn, 6029 E. Hinsdale Ct., Centennial, 303-503-3862October 16-17: Rocky Mountain Conference UMW Annual Meeting, Alamosa First UMC, 2005 Mullins Ave., Alamosa, CO; Theme: “Interrupting Indifference”October 19: Leadership Team, 6:00 p.m.November 6: Church Women United – World Community Day, 9:30a.m.–12 p.m. potluck; Cleaves Memorial CME church, 2222 Marion St.November 8: Miriam Circle 12:30 p.m., Heritage RoomNovember 10: Book Circle 10 a.m., home of Marilyn Wimmer, 6048 Xenon St.; Book: I Am Malala by Malala YousafzaiNovember 11: Deborah Circle, 12:30 p.m.; Piccolo Restaurant, 3563 South Monaco ParkwayNovember 17: TUMW Annual Meeting November 22: Bake Sale December 5: Tea at the Brown PalaceDecember 13: Bake Sale

United Methodist Women CalendarContributed by Lois cochran, 303-934-8838

Our Ministry and MissionSecond Century Foundation Awardee: The Blue BenchContributed by Christine Case Once a year, Second Century Foundation reviews grant applications submitted by various organizations throughout the Denver metro area. These organizations assist all populations and ages, and all provide a valuable service to individuals and the community. Following Second Century Foundation’s July meeting, when we carefully review these grant applications and award monies to some of these organizations, members of the foundation visit some of the organizations to gain a better understanding of the organization’s mission and how it ties into the mission of the foundation, “to serve the downtown and metro Denver needy.” This year Second Century Foundation awarded financial support to The Blue Bench (formerly known as RAAP) whose mission is “putting an end to sexual assault through prevention and care.” Two foundation members were able to visit The Blue Bench and were amazed and impressed at the services this organization offers victims of sexual assault and the community. The Blue Bench offers education to youth, young adults, and adults around sexual assault as well as workshops to educate and empower young girls and women. In addition, they have a 24-hour sexual assault hotline and volunteers available 24 hours a day to visit sexual assault victims in the hospital. The Blue Bench offers individual and group therapy to victims of sexual assault and their family members. Furthermore, they have case managers to assist victims with the intricacies of the justice system and to advocate on their behalf. This organization employs a small staff and relies heavily on volunteers and community support. In fact, the 24-hour hotline is staffed by volunteers who participate in in-depth training before being allowed to take a hotline call. This is just one of the many deserving organizations to which Second Century Foundation awards mon-ey. Other organizations include Warren Village, Capitol Hill Community Services, Reading Partners, DenUm and many more. If you would like to learn more about how you can support Second Century Foundation, please visit our website at www.trinityumc.org/who-we-are/second-century-foundation or contact us at secondcenturyfoundation@trinityumc.org.

News from Metro CaringContributed by Alicia Houser, Metro Caring

Metro Caring works to end hunger in Denver by providing nutritious food to families and individuals to meet their short-term needs. We also provide nutrition and gardening classes, job training, ID vouchers, and utilities assistance to help move people out of poverty. We cannot succeed without the help we receive from communities such as Trinity. Our top food needs are peanut butter, tuna, canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, whole grain items, fresh eggs, and low-fat or nonfat dairy items. There are also other ways to get involved: come volunteer! Volunteers help guide families through the fresh foods market, connect individuals to additional resources, and sort and shelve our many delicious food items. You can also contribute financially through www.metrocaring.org/get-involved/support/support.html. A donation of $90 covers the cost of services for one individual; $245 feeds Metro Caring’s average family of 3. Thank you, Trinity, for your ongoing support!

It won’t be long before the Advent and Christmas season is upon us! Staff and lay leaders are already busy preparing. Below are some items of note to put on your calendars now.

Hanging of the Greens: Sunday, November 29 Help your Trinity family beautify our church home for Advent and Christmas. Beginning at 9:15 a.m., we’ll set up the Christmas trees, drape the Sanctuary and outside building with garland, and add the special touches that make Trinity a warm and welcoming place. Bring a breakfast treat to share at 10:30 when we will gather in Trinity Café to sing Christmas carols and enjoy the beauty of the season. Our children will participate during their 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday School hours by learning the Advent story and making Christmas ornaments for the trees around Trinity.

Advent Organ Recitals: Sundays, December 1, 8, and 15 Our historic Roosevelt pipe organ will be featured in three Advent-themed programs by Trinity organist Norman Sutphin and special guests. Recitals are free and held over the lunch hour from 12:15–12:45 p.m.

Chancel Choir Presentation: Sunday, December 6 Trinity’s Chancel Choir, under the direction of Judith Mitchell, will present John Leavitt’s Christmas cantata, What Child Is This?, with orchestra during worship.

Amahl and the Night Visitors: Friday, December 11 through Sunday, December 13 Central City Opera and Trinity’s Music & Arts Ministry are joining musical forces to present Gian Carlo Menotti’s holiday opera, Amahl and the Night Visitors. This tuneful one-act opera, sung in English, brings the meaning of the Christmas season home for us all through the story of a magic star, a shepherd boy, and how unselfish love and good deeds can work miracles. Trinity’s Chancel Chamber Choir will also sing Haydn’s Christmas cantata, Run, Ye Shepherds, to the Light. Three performances, all at Trinity: Friday, December 11 at 7 p.m., Saturday, December 12 at 2 p.m., and Sunday, December 13 at 2 p.m.. Tickets are $30 or $20 for students (age 5 to 18). Save 20% with the code AMAZING through the Central City Opera website: www.CentralCityOpera.org/amahl.

Christmas Eve Ushers Needed: Thursdays, December 17 and 24 Celebrating Christmas Eve at Trinity is a tradition for many in Denver. Last year, the church welcomed nearly 4,000 guests who began their Christmas festivities here. The regular usher team needs your help to provide a smile and welcoming presence for those people who may be experiencing worship at our church for the very first time. This year, Trinity will hold a pre-Christmas Eve service on Thursday, December 17, at 6:30 p.m., as well as services on Christmas Eve at 3:00 (note new time!), 5:00, 7:00, 9:00, and 11:00. If you would be interested in helping to welcome members and guests to church for those services, please contact Bob Culwell at 303-505-0257 or bob.culwell@state.co.us.

A Look Ahead...

Photo © Elevate Photography

We’re Here for Good...We’re Here for Life!Trinity United Methodist Church1820 Broadway, Denver, CO 80202

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