A Monthly Magazine ofA Monthly Magazine of

Trinity United Methodist ChurchTrinity United Methodist Church

Denver, ColoradoDenver, Colorado

Volume 21, Issue 1Volume 21, Issue 1

I n late 2012 the Trinity Board of

Trustees ini- tiated a Space and Utilization Study of the heavily used, two-floor under-ground Plaza

Building. Engaging the services of Humphries Poli, a top Denver architectural firm that specializes in space studies for churches, libraries, and other public buildings, the board has recently received plans on how to best repurpose our space for mission and ministry moving forward.

After 30 years of use, the building needs more than cosmetic changes. Systems need replace-ment. Safety and security must be addressed sooner than later. The present location of our children on the lowest floor was a good idea in 1984, but much less so in 2014. In consultation with the archi-tects, contractors, and our building and program staff, the Board of Trustees is proposing a major remodel to the Plaza Building later this year to include:

A new entrance to the building from the plaza level for improved security and access.

New security, HVAC, fire alarm, sanitation, and commu-nications systems for safety and reduced operations and maintenance costs.

Relocation and reconfiguration of church offices, nursery, children’s classrooms, and

meeting spaces to provide more flexibility and safety for the 3,000+ people who are served each week in our buildings.

Widening the narrow stairwell between the Plaza and Sanctu-ary Buildings for better access.

The Trinity Council has received reports from the Trustees each month in the past year and is on board with the proposals. The Missions Team is recommending a “Mission Tithe” in the initiative to support one major local and one major international mission project.

The estimated cost of the build-ing project, including construction, fees, furnishings, upgrade to the elevator, all new systems, and the moving and storage of current furnishings and remote location for staff, is $2.6 million. The Trustees are working to refine the cost estimates, so the numbers are not yet firm. Over $100,000 is already given for the project.

Five years ago Trinity Church gave $2.3 million in a similar campaign. The Finance Committee acted last month to secure the services of stewardship consultant Gerald Farley, who worked successfully with us in 2002 and 2009. This new campaign is expected to begin in March and end in May. Construction could begin as early as the summer.

I believe the time is right for this major effort to renew God’s house. Here is why:

We want to provide a quality safe, warm, modern environ-

Plaza Building Renewal Initiative Announced

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

Vision

Dr. Dent’s lectionary-based messages for January focus on

two commands and two questions:

Jan. 5 “Rise and Shine!” Isaiah 60:1-6

Jan. 12 “Who Needs to Be Baptized?” Matthew 3:13-17

Jan.19 “What Are You Looking For?” John 1:29-42

Jan. 26 “Turn Around! I Will Lead You!” Matthew 4:12-23

Some of the Features Inside this Issue …

Adult Ministries ..................................... 9 Children’s Ministries ......................... 14 Contemplative Corner .......................... 5 Council Corner ....................................... 3 Family Ministries ................................... 7 Health Ministry ................................... 13 Music & Arts .......................................... 8 New Members ..................................... 10 Our Church Family ................................. 7 Trinity in Denver & the World ............ 12 UMW News ............................................. 6 Youth Ministries ................................. 14

The Trinity Pulpit

The January 2014The January 2014

See related story, page 14. Youth Choir at the Olin Hotel, page 12

Continued, page 2 

The Vision of Trinity UMC Page 2

ment to grow our children, youth, and adults in God’s way, fulfilling our mission “To offer a welcoming and transforming experience…”

The need is real. If we piecemeal repairs and upgrades to the building, it will cost us much more in the long run.

Our church finances are healthy. The economy is good. A window is open.

Our leaders support this effort – the Church Council, Board of Trustees, Finance Committee, Missions Team, and Staff have all been a part of the visioning of this effort.

The two missions included will help relieve hunger locally and help end disease globally.

What can you do now?

Pray for this renewal initiative. Participate in information meetings, surveys, and worship

this month. Consider serving as a leader, home meeting host, or task

force member. Ponder how you might participate financially within your

ability. If I were to offer a theme for this initiative it would be We’re

Here for Life. By God’s grace and our generosity, this effort will grow the lives and souls of children, youth, adults, and many guests who come into the Plaza Building each week for many decades to come. Our tithe to the Hunger Relief Center and “Imagine No Malaria” will literally save lives in Denver and Africa.

As we are here for good, we are here for life.

In Christ, Pastor Mike

Continued from Page 1 

2014 Lenten Devotional Entries Are Due January 26, 2014

In 2014, the Adult Ministries Council will once again sponsor a Lenten Devotional Book. The Theme for this year’s book is “Holy Questions: Questions We Ask God and Questions God Asks Us.” Even though we are answer people, this year we want to focus on the questions we have or that God has of us. The Lenten Devotional Book is a great way of sharing our insight and helping our Trinity family focus on renewing our conversations with God during Lent. Each devotional entry should be limited to 250 words and should include a scripture reference and a prayer or thought for the day. Don’t let the lack of a scripture refer-ence keep you from submitting a devotion – we have many resources that will help us find the perfect scripture for your thoughts. All entries should be submitted as Word documents to Susan Long (sblong303@ msn.com). For those who are computer challenged, you may also submit typed hard copy to Linda Marshall in the church office.

Epiphany begins with Communion January 5

The Trinity Church family will gather at the Lord’s Table at 8:15 and 11 a.m. on Jan. 5, the day before Epiphany Day. The Epiphany of the Lord is an even more ancient celebration among Chris-tians than Christmas. Epiphany means manifest- ation and originally focused on the Nativity, Incar-nation and Baptism of Christ. Today it often includes the visitation of the Magi to the Christ child. We expect a visit from the Magi during the Children’s Moment that day!

Invite a friend to join you on the first Sunday of 2014 in sharing the sacrament of Holy Communion on this special day. Dr. Dent’s message is from the Old Testament lection Isaiah 60:1-6 and is entitled “Rise and Shine!”

January 2014 Page 3

Happy New Year! I hope that 2013 ended on a better note than it started for you. Before we jump into the New Year, I thought it would be fitting to take a quick look at 2013.

While 2013 had some challenges for Trinity, all in all, it was a good year. Our attendance is slightly down, but unlike this time last year, our finances are slightly up. For over 150 years, Trinity has made a difference, not only to our congregation, but to our community, and to the world – this year was no different. As always, I am overwhelmed by how much we accomplish and all of the people that step up to make this happen. I personally want to thank each and every staff member and our laity that helps make Trinity the special place that it is. With all of the good work that happens here, it is impossible to capture every accomplishment, so please forgive me if I have left something out – these are just some highlights. Trustees have been working with space planners to

learn how we can improve the Plaza building. The Finance Committee has been focusing on cash management and investing our excess funds responsibly. Our Staff Parish Relations Committee assisted in the hiring of a new Communications Director and helped navigate our Music and Arts leadership during Judith’s absence. Dave Sanger is our new Lay Leader and has done a great job. Our lay delegates experienced a very positive response to “Imagine No Malaria” at the annual conference. Adult Ministries welcomed over 400 people for John Phillip Newell. Youth made several mission trips, including Chicago, Montana, Denver Dive, Olin Hotel and helping with VBS. Children had another successful Vacation Bible School with “Everywhere Fun Fair” and kicked off raising $100,000 for “Imagine No Malaria.”

The Missions Committee continues to thrive with over 20 mission opportunities. The Music and Arts Ministry had a challenging year with the horrible accident of Judith and Bob Mitchell that resulted in Bob’s death. Despite this, TMAM had a strong year offering Jesus Christ Super-star, the Royal McKay concert series, a Veteran’s Day Concert and many other special music offerings. The Communications Committee had a busy year with the change of our Communications Director. The Congrega-tional Care team has reorganized our Stephen Ministers, revived our Parish Nurse program, and continues Caring Blossoms. The Worship Committee recently did some worship surveys to help improve our worship experience. The Evangelism Committee continues with welcome baskets, prayer teams, and our military ministry. Through bake sales, the United Methodist Women continue to support different missions such as helping families affected by domestic violence.

Seven people are rotating off council in 2013. I would like to thank Jessica Cain, Dave Licko, Steve and Leah Nelson, Bob Gibb, Sharon Morneau, and Virginia White-side for their service. Each one of these individuals served their areas very well. Trinity is blessed to have such people!

In 2014 we will be welcoming the following people to council: Gary Moore, Dana Crandall, Diane Hopmann, Scott and Julie Tannehill, Josh Davies, Carol Feickert and Jan Marie Locket. Welcome! We look forward to your contribution to council.

I hope that 2014 is off to a wonderful start. May it be a year filled with many blessings and may all of us feel the love of God all year long.

By Lorraine Knitt Trinity Council

Chairperson

Council CornerCouncil Corner

Trinity Council: Chair: Lorraine Knitt (2014) SPRC: Rebecca Opalinski (2014) Lay Leader: Dave Sanger (2015) Finance: Gary Moore (2015) Stewardship: Sara Cassidy (2015) Music and Arts: Lynn Toedtli (2014) Congregational Care: Nick/Belinda

Schrag (2015) Missions & Outreach: Dana Crandall

(2016)

Evangelism: Diane Hopmann (2016) Fellowship Events: Scott and Julie Tannehill

(2016) Communications: Amanda Johnson (2014) Children’s Ministry: Kyle/Andrea Evashevski (2014) Adult Education: Jody Pritzl (2014) Lay Members to Annual Conference: Susan Long (2014), Kevin Matter

(2015), Josh Davies (2016)

Worship: Carol Feickert (2016) Board of Trustees: Lynn Willcockson Youth Ministries: John McKay UMW President: Jan Marie Locket Secretary: Shaun Boyd (2016)

Barnes Scholarship Committee: Kem Barney 2015, Julia Williams, 2015 Sally Hirsch (From Trustees)

2014 Leadership to be Dedicated January 12 Chairs, boards, councils, and committees for the new year were elected at the annual Church Conference on Dec. 10. The Lay Leadership report with the following nominees was approved. All persons below, as well as members of other church committees, United Methodist Women officers, church staff, and Choir leaders will be dedicated for their service in 2014 in the 11:00 morning worship service on Sunday, Jan. 12. All leaders are expected to attend the 11 a.m. service that day. Metropolitan District Superintendent Rev. Steve Goodier will lead the dedication.

Continued, page 4 

The Vision of Trinity UMC Page 4

Staff Parish Relations Committee: Rebecca Opalinski, Chair (2014), Lay Leader: Dave Sanger 2014: Wendy Pritchard, Bruce Baldwin, Dan Hopmann 2015: Ed Crabtree, Michele Ferguson, Susan Turman 2016: Ryan Bergsieker, Larry Hone, Kristin Mammel

Board of Trustees: 2014: Paul Smith, Paul Soroka, Lynn Willcockson (Chair) 2015: Kathy Thompson, Sally Hirsch, Tim Mueller 2016: Dave Sanger, Leanne Rietzig, Pat Steeno Finance Committee: Chair: Gary Moore (2014), Lay Leader: Dave Sanger 2014: Dwight Steen, Julie Petty, Virgil Holtgrewe 2015: Tim Morris, Craig Toedtli, Rhonda Wyche 2016: Erick Scheminske, Karl Schipper, Stephen Schmeltekopf

Second Century Foundation Board: Lara Davies (President), Rev. Miriam Slejko, Dave Licko, Christine Case, Melanie Haggerty, Jason Mitchell, and Sharon Morneau

Lay Leadership Committee: Lay Leader: Dave Sanger 2014: Paula Kempton, Jason Mitchell, Bill Wilde 2015: Steve Belcher, Barry Price, Sharon Scheminske 2016: Bonnie Bingham, Brian Lee, Scott Orr

Continued from page 3 

Burrito Breakfast on January 19

The youth serve their famous burritos the third Sunday of each month in Trinity Café from 9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. to help raise funds for the 2014 summer mission trips here in Denver; to Pine Ridge, South Dakota; and to rural Guatemala. Come have breakfast with your Trinity friends and help make youth missions possible.

Thank you for your support!

Dana Crandall, Mission Outreach Chair

Dana Crandall is Trinity’s Mission and Outreach Chair-person for 2014-2016.

She is looking forward to bringing her skills in leader-ship and administration to this position. As Vice Presi-dent of Customer Experience Transformation for Comcast Communications, Dana sees the opportunity to share the outcomes of many of Trinity’s outreach projects in stories, data and pictures with our congregation.

Dana joined Trinity UMC in 1994 after her mother, Judee Filip, joined in 1993. She has twin 10-year-old daughters, Abigail and Emma. Dana recently returned to Trinity after spending four years in London as Managing Director and Global CIO with British Telecom.

She has traveled widely, most recently to South Africa, where the efforts to improve maternal and child health captured her attention. She is looking forward to working with Trinity’s Mission Committee, whose work includes coordinating and sharing the diverse local and global missions which make up a large portion of Trinity outreach ministries.

Diane Hopmann, Evangelism Chair

Diane Hopmann is the new Evangelism Chair for 2014-2016. Diane and her husband Dan transferred their membership from First United Methodist Church, St. Charles, Missouri, to Trinity in 2011. Since then Diane has served on the Evangelism Committee in the area of hospitality and on the leadership team of Trinity Academy. Diane is looking forward

to leading the Evangelism Committee, which provides leadership for coordinating activities designed to attract and welcome first-time visitors to Trinity UMC. The Evangelism Committee is responsible for leading Trinity’s congregation in making Trinity a welcoming and hospit-able place through experiences and activities designed to introduce prospective members to Trinity UMC’s beliefs, ministries, staff and congregation. These include Exploring Trinity, an orientation for prospective mem-bers; the Spiritual Gifts Inventory; New Member Lunch-es; and First-Time Visitor Calls.

Diane is looking forward to exercising her spiritual gift of hospitality in leading the Evangelism Committee as it determines priorities and working closely with the Communications Committee in allocating resources for community outreach.

January 2014 Page 5

The people that braved the record-breaking cold to attend Trinity United Methodist Church’s Contempla-tive Retreat at the Mother Cabrini Guest House were welcomed with a spectacular view of sparkling snow-covered trees on the snow-covered mountainside. It was as though God has already read the leaflet for the Retreat that ensured the attendees, “This will truly be a contemplative time for you to be mindful of God’s presence within and all around you.”

The group spent most of the time participating in Contemplative Spirit-ual practices in a large room with one very small heating vent. So during our Centering Prayers and Lectio Divina sessions, we were covered up with warm soft blankets from head to toe

and looked as though we might have been sitting around a campfire. How-ever, this did not dampen our spirits in the least as we sat in silence, or when we were sharing our thoughts, or simply involved in Holy Listening with one another.

Early Saturday morning we moved to the Chapel where we listened to one of the meditative chants, one that John Philip Newell had used during his weekend at Trinity UMC, followed by Centering Prayer. The Chapel has many windows where the glistening snow added to the peacefulness of this special time.

We ended the Retreat by having lunch, not in the dining room that was still available, but in the small kitchen

where it felt like a family gathering; a perfect ending to the Retreat.

On the Contemplative Outreach website, an article about Fr. Thomas Keating says, “Prompted by these studies and time spent in prayer and meditation, he experienced a profound realization that, on a spiritual level, the Scriptures call people to a personal relationship with God.” The people who met in that small kitchen would agree.

As everyone left and drove through the winter wonderland, we were renewed in our faith in the Scripture, the one that was quoted during our last Lectio Divina practice, from Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God.” — Joy Harvey

Wednesday evenings from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. in Stiles Chapel We practice Centering Prayer each week, as well as other prayer practices such as

Lectio Divina and contemplative journaling in the group setting. We will also watch DVD series with various teachers such as Father Thomas Keating.

Sunday mornings from 9:30 to10:30 a.m. in the Chapel We are learning from the Rule of Benedict and practicing the ancient prayer practice

of Lectio Divina. This is a time of quiet prayer for those looking for peace and contem-plation.

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

Glistening Snow, Warm Blankets and Silence

Contemplative SpiritualityContemplative Spirituality

Lectio Divina, literally “divine reading,” is an ancient Christian practice of praying the Scriptures. The monastic form of Lectio Divina is an ancient method that was practiced by the Mothers and Fathers of the Desert (Christian ascetics living in the desert of Egypt, Palestine and Syria in the 4th and 5th centuries CE) and later in monasteries both East and West. During Lectio Divina, one is not thinking of the passage historically or analytically, but with a heart that is open to hear God speaking. The method

of Lectio Divina includes the fol-lowing:

Lectio - Moments of reading the Scripture passage for the first time. Listen with the “ear of your heart.” What phrase, sentence or even one word stands out to you?

Meditatio – Reflection on the passage, relish the words. Let them resound in your heart. Let an attitude of quiet receptiveness permeate the prayer time. Be at-tentive to what speaks to your heart.

Oratio - Responding spontane-ously as you continue to listen to a phrase, sentence or word. A prayer of praise, thanksgiving or petition may arise. Offer that prayer, and then return to repeat-ing the word in your heart.

Contemplatio - Finally, resting in God. Simply “be with” God’s presence as you open yourself to a deeper hearing of the Word of God with the intention of nourish-ing and deepening your relation-ship with the Divine. – Contemplative Outreach

What Is Lectio Divina?

The Vision of Trinity UMC Page 6

Trinity UMWTrinity UMW

Trinity United Methodist Women celebrated the Christmas season with their annual Christmas program Dec. 7 in the Parlors at Trinity followed by Tea at the Brown Palace. The program featured special music by Cassandra Sulmeisters on the harp, a Christmas story read by Lenora Mahan, poems read by Lois Cochran, and infor-mation about Florence Crittenton Services by Susan Ban-ning. Thanks to all who brought gifts for the Florence Crittenton School.

The UMW Leadership Team will meet Monday, Jan. 6, at 6 p.m. in the Conference Room. The leadership team consists of elected officers and committee chairmen. Any interested member is welcome to attend. Plans for 2014 programs, fundraisers, mission projects and a possible change of meeting time will be on the agenda for the January meeting. Anyone with suggestions may bring them to the meeting or tell one of the officers.

The officers for 2014 are President – Jan Marie Locket; Secretary – Dodi Vaughn; Treasurer – Angie Vasquez; Mission/Social Action – Marcia Hull; Communications/Publicity – Lois Cochran; Hospi-tality/Kitchen Co-Chairs – Darlene Medlin and Aneta McKay; Committee on Nominations Chair – Darlene Medlin.

Book Circle will meet Tuesday, Jan. 14 at 10 a.m. at the Tattered Cover Bookstore to hear about new books that are available. For information contact Bon-nie Bingham (303-424-5892).

Deborah Circle will meet Tuesday, Jan. 14 at 6:30 p.m. in rooms1-6 and 1-7 at Trinity. The

program will be by Cynthia Mousel telling of the Russia project.

Miriam Circle will meet Tuesday, Jan. 14 at 6:30 p.m. in room 1-3 at Trinity. The program will include a pledge service, and Lois Cochran will report on her mission trip to La Puenta in Alamosa.

Metropolitan District Leadership Training meeting (E.E.E. – “Educational Empowerment Experience”) will be Saturday, Jan. 25, at Phillips UMC, 1450 S. Pierce Street, Lakewood. Registration, Fellowship, Resource Room and Refreshments begin at 8:15 a.m. Leadership training and celebrations will begin at 9:00 a.m. Expected closing time is noon. All officers (including Circle leaders) should plan to attend. There is no cost or advance regis-tration for this event. 

Habitat Interfaith Alliance Soup Cook-off January 25

Fun for the Whole Family!! Many of you already know that one of our most popular fundraisers is the annual

soup dinner, held this coming year at Christ the King Church, 830 Elm St, Denver, on Saturday evening, Jan. 25, 6:30 - 8:30. There will be three categories of soups that will be judged. These soups are provided by members of our congregations and the event is well attended by families within our congregations. The categories remain: Kosher, Meat, Vegetarian. Desserts are also requested for this event!

If you like to cook or if you like to eat or if you just enjoy supporting a terrific outreach program, Habitat Interfaith Alliance, then mark your calendar for the Annual Soup Cook-off. Contact Trinity’s HIA Coordinator Nancy Green, nskigreen@msn.com, to volunteer to help, provide a soup or dessert, or for more information. There are very specific instructions for soup bringers, so be sure to contact Nancy for this.

January 2014 Page 7

HOMEBUILDERS

On Sunday mornings at 9:30 in rooms 1-8 and 1-11 in the Atrium, a group of between 30 and 40 partnered and sin-gle 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 January we will be borrowing from the idea of “The Five Love Languages for Adults” and exploring how there is no “one size fits all” approach to understanding and responding to our own children’s unique love languages, as well. (See photos below.)

WEDNESDAY EVENINGS (W.E.B.)

During the various children and youth music programs, parents meet in the North Parlor around 5:45 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.

OTHER EVENTS

FAMILY CAMP IN MARCH! Staying ahead of the game, we are encouraging families to set aside MARCH 14, 15 and 16 for our annual, exhilarating and really, really fun Family Camp. We’ll have more information on this in the near future.

We celebrate the life of Verland Cannon, who entered eternal life on Nov. 28, and remember in prayer his wife Sandy. We remember Ken Klane and family in the death of his mother; and Shirley and Charles Riggs and family in the death of Shirley’s grandson Theodore and Charles’ son Chas.

Our Family Serving Overseas Please update your church family on your loved ones! Have any of those listed below returned home?

How are you and your family faring? Please send any updates to Lee Anderson at the contact information listed below.

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

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

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

Family MinistriesFamily Ministries

Our Church FamilyOur Church Family

The Vision of Trinity UMC Page 8

Music & ArtsMusic & Arts

Intervals of Joy in January: Enhancing Your Choral and Vocal Techniques

This four-week session beginning on Jan. 5 will focus on exploring the Chancel Choir’s choral anthems planned for the winter and spring to further develop music reading, choral singing, and vocal production techniques. Judith Mitchell and Phil Szajnuk will share their vast experience and knowledge with participants during these classes on Jan. 5, 12, 19 and 26. It will be a wonderful opportunity to focus on developing your personal musi-cianship. Please join us Sunday mornings from 9:30-10:15 a.m. in the Choir Room. All are welcome!

Early Childhood Music New Semester Starts in January The baby is in a regular routine, the fall soccer season

is done, and the family is looking for something wonderful to do together! Does this sound like your family? There is a great music education program right here at Trinity that you can join this January and start your child down the road toward a love of music and developing his or her natural musical talents. We begin with classes for children as young as newborns and go through age nine. Our program currently has many openings for babies and toddlers, so check out the class offerings listed below to see what might fit your schedule, and then take a look at our website at www.trinityumc.org/ECM to learn more or to register. If you have any questions, please contact Jackie Ives at ivessteeno@icloud.com or 303-254-8489. We hope you will consider joining us! Mondays 4:45 Music Makers at the Piano: Year 2 (full) 5:30 Music for Baby & Me: Ages newborn to 15 months 5:30 Musical Discoveries: Ages 15 months to 3 years 6:15 Musical Discoveries 6:15 Exploring Music & Movement: Ages 3-5 years (full) 6:15 Music Makers at Home (full) 6:15 Music Makers around the World (full) 6:15 Music Makers at the Piano: Year 1 6:15 Music Makers at the Piano: Year 2 (full)

Wednesdays 9:30 Family Music: Ages newborn to 5 years

ADULTS Chancel Handbell Choir Chancel Choir Men’s Choir Women’s Choir Chancel Chamber Choir Brass Ensemble Flute Choir (youth

welcome) Dramatic Arts Ministry Arts Education for Adults: Intervals of Joy Classes Adventures in the Arts Adult Keyboard Classes Theater and Theology “The Artist’s Way”

classes “Finding Our Way”

Writers Group

YOUTH Youth Bells Youth Choir Dramatic Arts Ministry Flute Choir CHILDREN Children’s Chimes Genesis Ringers Joyful Voices Primary &

Intermediate Choirs Early Childhood Music

Ministry offering classes for ages birth-8

Experience Personal Renewal Through the Arts

January is a traditional time of self-reflection and a shift in focus to those things we value most. This often includes a desire to develop ourselves personally and commit ourselves to that which gives us joy and a fresh spirit. Being open to our creativity and developing our creative talents is a powerful way to renew ourselves and feel more connected to our faith and to God. We are blessed at Trinity to have so many opportunities to do just that through our vibrant Music and Arts Ministry. There are programs available for all interests and all ages. We invite you to read through the list of ministries below to see what piques your interest, and then contact Judith Mitchell at 303-839-1493 x16 or jmitchell@ trinityumc.org for more information. We would love to have you join us!

Dr. Robert Harris speaks to the  Intervals of Joy class in the Sanctuary on Dec. 15, prior to conducting the day’s second presentation of his Gloria at Trinity UMC. We were honored to have the composer here to lead the Chancel Choir, a full orchestra, and soloist Judith Mitchell in a very  exciting Advent performance. 

January 2014 Page 9

Adult MinistriesAdult Ministries

Couple’s Retreat This one-day seminar is for couples in the beginning

stages of their lifetime commitments and for couples who are looking for “tune-ups” in their relationships. The purpose of this training is to explore both the joys and challenges faced by a couple during their shared life together. In this fast-paced and sometimes crazy world, we face many turns in our married or partnered lives, and it can be advantageous to “slow down” and explore how to create a meaningful and lasting relationship with our best friends.

Topics covered include: Maintaining balance: When daily stress and expect-

ations impact all of us, how do we assure support for ourselves and our partners?

Resolving conflicts: Can we establish ways to keep communication open and resolve issues without all of the drama?

Identifying techniques for enhancing the romance in our relationships and building support for one another.

Technology: Benefits and barriers to “face to face” communication.

Creating our own meaningful family traditions and celebrations.

The seminar is designed to be non-threatening; couples

participate in exercises and discussions between just the two of them and are not required to share among the group if they do not wish to do so. At the same time, participants are enabled to share and learn from one another. This seminar is not taught from a rigid faith-based perspective; the individual beliefs of the participants are respected. It is intentionally a “fun” time to explore skills that could be very helpful in keeping the romance alive.

The seminar is led by Trinity members Larry and Karen Hone, who hold graduate degrees in Counseling and Social Work from Colorado universities and have conducted hundreds of hours of training in both the public and private sector. It is held in the comfort of their private home, and refreshments and lunch are provided during the breaks. The pastoral staff at Trinity endorses the Hones’ leader-ship.

When: Saturday, Feb. 22, 2014, from 9:00 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.

Cost: $100 per couple if registered by Jan. 31, 2014; $125 per couple after.

Childcare can be arranged upon request. To Register: Contact Lee Anderson at landerson@

trinityumc.org, or 303-839-1493 x11.

Refresh Your Mind and Spirit Sunday mornings at Trinity provide a wide variety of opportunities to renew our minds and spirits. Check out the Trinity

website to discover a Sunday School class that fits your interests. Need ideas? Contact Rev. Linda Marshall, lmarshall@trinityumc.org or 303-839-1493 x15.

2x2’s are married, divorced and widowed individuals in their 50s with kids who have a wide variety of religious/spiritual backgrounds and beliefs who want to spend time together on Sunday mornings exploring the challenges, benefits, and possibilities of their faith and their relationship with God. It is a group in which people can feel safe sharing, listening, laughing, crying, and not judging. Meets in room 1‐11.  Contact Class coordinator, Kelli Weiskopf at  willbenmax@comcast.net. 

The Trinity Young Adults study biblical, non‐biblical, religious, and contemporary material in order to gain a better under‐ standing of their spiritual lives and faith. Faith and study spring into action beyond Sunday morning with various mission and social activities. You can connect with the Trinity Young Adults on Facebook for  

regular updates on activities and studies. Meets on level 1, in room 1‐10.  

Contact Jasper Peters at 303‐839‐1493  or youngadults@trinityumc.org. 

The Vision of Trinity UMC Page 10

Welcome, New Members!Welcome, New Members!

Suzy Bossart and Scott Fearon are engaged. They are members of Trinity’s Young Adults. Suzy is a Professional Research Assistant at  the University of Colorado. Scott is a School Clinical Social Worker in the Cherry Creek 

Schools. Suzy transfers her membership from Middletown UMC in Greensburg, Pennsyl‐vania. Scott transfers his membership from  

Boise First UMC in Boise, Idaho. 

Jane and Stuart Siekmeier were married at Trinity in May of 1989. They learned of the church by driving 

by. They have been in Denver for twenty‐eight years and are transferring their membership from St. Andrew UMC. They have three sons, Andy, Jim and Scott, and a daughter Jennie who is in 11th grade and still at home. All four children were baptized at Trinity. Jane works in account management at  Arrow Electronics. 

Jill Daiss is a Master of Social Work student at the University of Denver. She has been in  Denver two years from South Korea and Summit County,  Nebraska. She joins by a transfer of membership from Grant UMC in Grant, Nebraska. She learned of Trinity from the website. 

Jen DeGraauw is a physician at Western Nephrology. She 

attended a wedding at Trinity and learned more from the 

webpage and driving by. Jen is from Portland, Oregon. She hopes to become involved at Trinity with volunteer work. 

Julie Gladney is from McKinney, Texas. She drove by Trinity by chance and learned about the church from Trinity’s web‐site. She has been in Denver three months. 

Kathleen Wells was born and raised in Denver, but left here in her late twenties. She is now an Emerita Professor from Case Western Reserve University and has been back in Denver five years. She learned of 

Trinity from friends and has transferred her member‐ship from Church of the Covenant in Cleveland, Ohio. She would like to be  

involved at Trinity in Theo‐ logical Study and Outreach. 

Russ H. Pierson, Jr. is a Portfolio  Manager for the 

Trust Company of America. His wife, Sheila Pierson, is retired from her 

most recent job as Executive Director of the Colorado SIDS  

Program. Sheila has been in Denver since 1966 from Indiana. They were married by Rev. Olon Lindemood and frequently attended FUMC in Loveland where he was senior pastor. Russ is  transferring membership from Fort Richardson in Alaska; and Sheila, from First Presbyterian 

Church in Valparaiso, Indiana. 

January 2014 Page 11

New Member ProgramsNew Member Programs

Here we grow again...New Member Outreach in 2014 From our corner on 18th and Broadway amid the on-

going transformation and revitalization of downtown Denver, Trinity actively welcomes new members into its church family. Trinity is God’s church and all are welcome in God’s family. Members of Trinity take pride in their ministry, feeling a sense of connection, accountabil-ity, and commitment through our faith. So, make 2014 your year to become a member if you haven’t already.

For 2014, we have a few exciting changes to our new member programs. We will be introducing Trinity 101 as a new path to membership, complementing our traditional Exploring Trinity program. Introducing Trinity 101 – 1st Session January 26

Throughout 2014 on the last Sunday of each month, we will be introducing Trinity 101 for a quick introduction to Trinity. Over coffee and donuts with some of the pastoral staff in the Fellowship Hall from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., we’ll discuss ways to get involved in the Trinity commun-ity. Anyone is welcome – maybe you have questions you’ve been wanting to ask about why we do things a certain way, or maybe you just want to make a few new friends, or maybe you want a crash course about what it means to be a part of this church family. We’ll have time for all of those in Trinity 101. We’ll also discuss the ministry of our church and what it means to be part of the Methodist tradition.

Some potential members have expressed challenges with attending a full six-week orientation session such as Exploring Trinity. We are introducing Trinity 101 as an easy way to learn about membership and quickly become involved in our community. Similar one-day membership sessions are being offered by other large Protestant churches in Denver, including many of our fellow Method-ist churches. We hope Trinity 101 will be a way to offer a path to membership that accommodates busy schedules and the conflicts of modern life.

After attending a session of Trinity 101, anyone wishing to join Trinity as a member can do so the following week – the first Sunday of any month. Our first Trinity 101 session will be held on Jan. 26, 2014, with new members joining on Feb. 2. We hope to see you there! New Sessions of Exploring Trinity

For those who want to learn the basics of what Trinity is and what this Christian message we preach is all about, we offer Exploring Trinity, our traditional new member orientation. A six-week series of classes, Exploring Trinity covers the history of the Methodist denomination, the history of Trinity in Denver, basic Christian beliefs, Methodist teachings about God, an exploration of spiritual gifts, and ways to get involved in the Trinity community. You’ll leave Exploring Trinity feeling connected to our church family. Although it sounds like a lot, Exploring Trinity provides a place to engage openly in deeper conver-

sation than we can have in a brief Trinity 101 orientation. On the final (sixth) week of Exploring Trinity, we will welcome new members into the congregation. The first Exploring Trinity session of 2014 will begin on Jan. 5, with new members received on Feb. 9.

And, hey, while we’re at it, we should reiterate that Exploring Trinity is not designed simply for new members. If you’ve been a member for many years but have questions, feel free to drop by any session that piques your interest. If you’re a visitor who would like to know more about Trinity or exploring your faith, feel free to stop by any session without any pressure to become a member. Have Questions? Is Membership Your Next Move?

Perhaps you’ve been interested in joining Trinity for a while, but couldn’t make a six-week commitment for a traditional Exploring Trinity class? Well, join us for Trinity 101. Perhaps you have made a New Year’s resolution to explore your faith more deeply? Then, join us for Exploring Trinity. Whatever hesitations or concerns you may have about membership, we’d love to talk through them. Membership isn’t some secret club and doesn’t put you on any pedestal – it’s about committing yourself to God and joining the fellowship we all share in God’s love as we search for answers, learn from our mistakes, and grapple for meaning on our life journeys.

Whether you’re new to Trinity or you’ve been in the Trinity community for a while but never joined as a member, you may have some questions. So, please feel free to contact either Rev. Miriam Slejko or Pastoral Intern Dan Krause. Miriam and Dan would be happy to answer any questions about membership and our orientation programs. We’ll help you find mean- ingful connections to get involved here; we can always use more hands, for God’s work is never done. Welcome home to Trinity.

If you have any questions, please contact: Miriam Slejko, Minister of Discipleship Email: mslejko@trinityumc.org Phone: 303-839-1493 x14 Dan Krause, Pastoral Intern Email: intern@trinityumc.org Phone: 303-839-1493 x26 Text: 650-799-4530 Facebook: facebook.com/dan.krause.96 Twitter: @DanK_Iliff

The Vision of Trinity UMC Page 12

Trinity at Work in the City and in the World Visit Estes Park UMC on January 19

Trinity UMC has been invited to provide prayer, financial aid, and hands-on help to the flood-damaged area and residents of Estes Park. We are partnering with Estes Park UMC and plan to join them for worship on Sunday, Jan. 19, leaving the Trinity parking lot shortly after 7 a.m. and returning no later than 6 p.m.

We will join the congregation for worship at 9:30 a.m. and then enjoy lunch with them in the town of Estes Park. We will hear their stories, learn what is needed and share this mission outreach with Trinity’s congregation through their stories and pictures when we return.

If you are able to join us on this one-day mission outreach, please contact the church office to sign up (303-839-1493). We will take private cars. Please indicate if you are able to drive, how many you can take with you or if you need transportation.

Olin Hotel Christmas Party, Merry and Bright! The Olin Hotel Christmas Party was the merriest cele-

bration! A big “Thank You” to Trinity UMC members who provided gifts and made Christmas wishes come true for the Olin residents!

The Youth Choir, led by Director Kathy Ives and accompanied by Allison Meininger, sang two Christmas medleys, Welcome Christmas and Christmas Joy. The Grinch, Alex Weirich, made his appearance! The smiles on the faces of the residents told just how much the presence of the youth, volunteers and Santa himself (Dick Johnson) meant to them!

Rev. Sam Chizmar led carols accompanied by Carolyn May, and residents and Trinity members joined in the singing. Rev. Nan Chizmar shared a dramatic reading of the “Twelve Days After Christmas,” which drew laughs from all.

Santa and helpers distributed gifts, the youth brought candy canes to share, and everyone had a wonderful time. Beginning in November, Leslie and Steve Drevecy had helped Trinity members select recipients from the 120 Olin resident’s wishes. So it was no surprise that at the party each resident received a gift matching the wish he or she had requested!

That’s the kind of “ministry” that reminds us of the power of love. God’s love shone out from each one and made so many “merry and bright”! (See photos below.)

The Wesleyan Breakfast Club will meet at Hot Cakes Restaurant, 18th The Wesleyan Breakfast Club will meet at Hot Cakes Restaurant, 18th

Avenue and Humboldt Street, on Friday, Jan. 3 at 9 a.m. Jasper Peters, Avenue and Humboldt Street, on Friday, Jan. 3 at 9 a.m. Jasper Peters, Trinity’s Young Adult Coordinator, will be the guest speaker. All are Trinity’s Young Adult Coordinator, will be the guest speaker. All are welcome! welcome!

January 2014 Page 13

“If you don’t take care of your body, where will you live?” Hmm. This sign on the gymnasium wall at Prairie View Middle School caught my attention. Food for thought! I smiled.

Are you taking care of the body you live in? We all know about healthy choices: 10,000 steps daily, moderate

portions of healthy foods, a good night’s rest, fresh air and sunshine, dental floss, shared tears as well as laughter with family and friends. All of this advice is geared toward disease prevention and good health — our personal well-being.

You may not know, however, that Rev. John Wesley was a well-known proponent of these same practices. When Wesley recognized that only the wealthy people in his community could afford medical care, he wrote a manual to promote disease prevention through good health habits. His book Primitive Physick was written in 1847 and contained hundreds of recommendations for a healthy life style. It remained the most popular medical resource for over 50 years. Although some of his recommendations are strange by today’s standards, many continue to be relevant.

In this month of resolution and renewal, set your sights on your own well-being. One component of well-being is a healthy body. As the sign at the gymnasium reminds us: “If you don’t take care of your body, where will you live?”

Read more at http://www.umcmission.org/Find-Resources/John-Wesley-Sermons/The-Wesleys-and-Their-Times/Primitive-Physick.

“The love of God, as it is the sovereign remedy of all miseries, so in particular it effectually prevents all the bodily disorders the passions introduce, by keeping the passions themselves within due bounds; and by the unspeakable joy and perfect calm serenity and tranquil-ity it gives the mind; it becomes the most powerful of all the means of health and long life.” – John Wesley, Primitive Physick

Health MinistryHealth Ministry

Taking Charge: Your Own Well-Being

Trinity Quilters have been working on quilts for the Youth to take to Guatemala for families there that could benefit from them. We have two quilts nearly finished and will be working on a third quilt at our January meet-ing. We meet at the church the second Saturday of the month at 9:00 a.m. For our Jan. 11 meeting, all material and supplies will be provided, so you don’t need to bring anything. We’d love to have new and returning members attend and, even if you can’t sew, you are welcome to visit.

At our February meeting, we’ll start another fun pro-ject. Come join us for fun, laughter, and fellowship!!

Trinity Quilters

The Vision of Trinity UMC Page 14

Children’s NewsChildren’s News

The Wise Men Cometh

The wise men are wandering around and will find their way to Trinity on Epiphany Sunday, Jan. 5. They will make an appearance in both Sunday School and worship. Because every celebration requires cake (!!), cupcakes will be served in Sunday School.

Pancake Breakfast

We will fix them if you come to eat them!!! Trinity will smell like pancakes all morning Sunday, Jan. 26. Pancakes are the basis for our annual fundraiser for Children’s ministry to help provide scholar-ships for Vacation Bible School (June 23-27, 2014) and other events. We appreciate your freewill offerings and your support. We promise yummy pancakes and very cute servers.

Youth MinistriesYouth Ministries

Youth Sunday School Senior High Youth meet in Room 1-12 from

9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Confirmation begins Jan. 12 for all middle

school youth and any high school youth who have not been confirmed. We meet in the Youth Room (Room 1-3) from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. All parents and youth are invited to be at the first Confirmation class orientation on Jan. 12.

Sunday school teachers have snack sign-up sheets for the new semester. Please sign up to bring snacks for class.

Ichthus Ichthus…Youth group for grades 6-12...meets

the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month! We have changed the time of Ichthus! Middle

and Senior High Youth meet together at Trinity from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. for lunch, games, devotions, music and awesome group building time. This is a great time for all of the youth to get to know each other and grow together on their faith journeys. We will meet on Jan. 12 and 26.

Winter Retreat This year’s retreat for youth in grades 6 to 12

takes place Feb. 28 to March 2, 2014. Come hang out with your friends, ski or snowboard, and grow in your faith on this awesome retreat! Check with Cami or Emma if you need a registration form. Registrations are due Jan. 26.

Summer 2013 Denver Dive Middle High Mission is July 7-9,

2014. This is a mission experience for youth currently in grades 6 and 7. Youth will have hands- on opportunities to reach out to their neighbors here in Denver. We will volunteer at the Olin Hotel, Project Angel Heart, Metro CareRing and more. Registrations are due Feb. 23.

If you have any questions about Youth Ministries

at Trinity, please call Cami or Emma at 303-839-1493 x32.

January 2014 Page 15

Is anyone ever fully prepared to take on the role of caregiver? While this responsibility brings many rewards, it can also pose varied and unexpected challenges. If you find yourself in this situation and would like the support and fellowship of others in similar circumstances, the new informal support group Care for the Caregiver is for you!

WHEN: 2nd & 4th Saturdays beginning Jan. 11 through April 12 (seven sessions)

TIME: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. LOCATION: TUMC Office Conference Room

(Second Level) LEADER: Marti Robards, TUMC Member

(former RN with 35 years of personal caregiving experience)

Each meeting will focus on a specific topic followed by open discussion to share experiences and concerns. All matters will remain confidential. For this reason, and due to the sensitive nature of some dis-cussions, those with children are asked to arrange for child care. Topics will include, but may not be limited to: First things First – Gaining Perspective Recognizing Signs of Stress – Ways to Alleviate

Stress Developing a Care Plan -- Structure with

Flexibility

Managing Guilt, Second Guessing, and Negativity

Coping with Difficult or Uncooperative Behavior – Communication

Maintaining a Safe Environment Planning Ahead

If interested in signing up, contact Lee Anderson at landerson@trinityumc.org by Friday, Jan. 3, 2014. Registration forms may be found at the church office or on the Trinity website under Adult Ministries/Care Ministry. Specific questions may be directed to Marti Robards at mrobards@aol.com. There is no charge. Please join us!

Trinity’s Care MinistryTrinity’s Care Ministry

Trinity’s Care Ministry is a thriving ministry designed to promote the physical, mental, social, and spiritual well-being of the congregation. Under the leadership of Rev. Linda Marshall, Minister of Nurture, and Lee Anderson, Care Coordinator, those involved in the Care Ministry provide Christian companionship and support to members and friends of Trinity. This support comes in many forms, from one-on-one visits to prayers to simply connecting with resources in the community. The Care Ministry also provides education in mental, physical, and spiritual health.

Do you ever wonder how Trinity can help when you are in a challenging place in your life? Learn more about the Care Ministry and its programs and people at the Celebration of Care. Even if you don’t need help now, it’s helpful to know where to turn when you do.

Please join us in Fellowship Hall on Sunday, Feb. 23 between 9:15 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. There will be information to take home and caring people who can answer your questions!

Celebration of Care

CARE FOR THE CAREGIVER

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: info@trinityumc.org Web: www.TrinityUMC.org

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

Trinity United Methodist Church

Periodicals postage paid at Denver, Colorado

POSTMASTER:

Send address changes to:

Trinity United Methodist Church Vision

Trinity United Methodist Church

1820 Broadway, Denver, CO 80202

Financial Report

November 2013

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

$ 1,581,775

$ 1,609,514

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