MARCH 2018
TRINITY TIMES The monthly newsletter of Trinity Church
TABLE OF CONTENT
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Baptism What do children understand about the sacrament?
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Miles for Smiles Support early childhood education and care at Trinity by becoming a runner/walker in the annual race.
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Gifts at Work How your donations enables the church to share God’s love with our neighbors-in-need around the world by providing relief to those affected by natural disasters, provide food to the hungry, and helping to empower the poor and oppressed.
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Best Films of 2017 Richard Howerton counts down his top 15 films of the year.
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Agape Ribbon Cutting The Agape Youth and Family Center celebrates the opening of its new building on Marrietta Highway.
CONTRIBUTORS Kathryn Edmunds Children & Family Ministries
Richard Howerton Adult Ministries
Cindy Ferguson Session
Catherine Long Mission Ministries
Bonnie Harris Mission Ministries
Staff Contributors Pam Driesell Elizabeth Davis Patti Heinz Erin McGee Veronica Ridenhour Sarah Wikle
Julie Hope Mission Ministries
ENGAGE at Trinity HOLY WEEK & EASTER AT TRINITY All are welcome to attend our beautiful holy week services, concluding with Easter Sunday. See page 23 for details. LENTEN STUDY Grab a copy of Walter Brueggemann’s book, A Way Other Than Our Own and use the Lent study guide written by Trinity’s pastoral staff. Copies of the study guide are available at the church office and online. GREETERS NEEDED Looking for friendly, welcoming people to serve as greeters! Contact Susan FoxworthHamilton at sfoxworth@thplawfirm.com
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KEEP YOUR HEART OPEN Exploring the darkness of Holy Week that leads to the joy of Easter
T
hanks to Richard Howerton, our resident Faith
Christmas, Ordinary Time), Death (Lent, Holy Week) and
and Film teacher, for reminding us that traces
New Life (Easter, Pentecost), we would have to note the
of the Gospel story are hidden in plain sight all
human tendency to avert our eyes and turn away during the
around us. I love his tongue-in-cheek observation
painful scenes. We are eager to celebrate the A Child is Born,
about a “secular” movie he was reviewing in his class: “This
and Christ is Risen scenes; scenes that are indeed worthy of
film doesn’t have anything to do with religion or the church,
joyous gatherings and wholehearted singing! For some years,
except it’s about love, life, death, and forgiveness.” Life, death
we didn’t even get a sneak preview of the cross scene during
and new life…that’s the Gospel story! In many ways, we
our Sunday worship gatherings. We went from waving palms
rehearse and celebrate the whole story every Sunday when
and singing Hosanna on Palm Sunday to proclaiming Christ
we gather for worship. At Trinity, as a faith community that
is Risen and shouting Alleluia on Easter Sunday (Now the
follows the liturgical calendar, we also set aside seasons to
lectionary allows for the Sunday before Easter to be Palm/
pay particular attention to one aspect or another of the story.
Passion Sunday, so we get a glimpse of what is coming during
If we think of the Gospel story as a movie with every liturgical
Holy Week.)
season an annual rehearsing of the major scenes that are at
But Noel, Hosanna, and Alleluia are not the whole Gospel
the heart of the story: Life, Death and New Life; Life (Advent,
movie. There are dark scenes of suffering and pain, conflict
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and turmoil. Most of us would rather cover our eyes, or
that gnaw at you about the cross; initiate a conversation
even leave the theater to get some candy, during Holy Week
with people from different faith traditions about their
and not peek out or come back again until the scene when
understanding of or questions about the cross; participate in
the stone has been rolled away. The trouble with that is the
worship Maundy Thursday and/or Good Friday. Whatever
profound joy of Easter’s Alleluia cannot be fully grasped
you choose to do, I pray the mystery of Christ’s suffering
apart from the profound agony of Friday’s Cross. So, this
penetrates your heart and mind anew, prepares you for a
Holy Week, I encourage you to be intentional about keeping
glorious Easter Celebration and points you to new ways of
your eyes and your heart open and take in the scenes where
being Christ’s follower here and now.
the One whose birth was Good News of great joy embodies relentless love and suffers and dies in solidarity with all
Following with you,
who suffer and grieve. There are lots of ways to do that: prayerfully read and reflect on the Gospel accounts of Jesus’s final week, and/or Walter Brueggemann’s devotional, and/ or the Trinity pastoral staff’s devotions on each day of Holy Week; journal about your present understanding of the cross,
Pam Driesell, Senior Pastor
how it has changed over the years, the enduring questions
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BAPTISM by PAM DRIESELL
WHAT CHILDREN UNDERSTAND ABOUT THE SACRAMENT
by KATHRYN EDMUNDS Baptism…one of two sacraments practiced by Presbyterians (Communion is the other one). How often do you think of your baptism? Do you ever talk to your child about his or her baptism and what it means? If you are like me, this topic is not one that often comes up around our dinner table. But, yet, the sacrament of baptism is a perfect example of how we are called to care for one another. For in baptism, “we are called to a new way of life as Christ’s disciples, sharing the good news of the gospel with all of the world.”
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•
What does baptism mean to you? Baptism is when a preacher is making you a part of the world.
•
What are some of the promises we make to those who are being baptized? We promise we will always help them. We promise we will always be kind and we will always be their friend.
•
As a child of God, what is one way we can show our love for him? By praying to God and always being nice to other people.
Even our kindergartners, who have not yet had the experience of coming to the front of the sanctuary to watch a baptism have learned what it means to care compassionately. Alec Edmunds (age 6) shared these thoughts with us: “I promise to help [a child being baptized]
“Baptism means to share our love of God and always to respect humankind no matter what we look like or act like.” have a good life by treating them the way they want to be treated and not being rough with them. I can show my love for God by saying prayers.” And on the other end of the age spectrum, one of our “seniors” in CFM, 5th grader John Henry Jamieson, answered our questions with these heartwarming and thought-provoking responses: •
What does baptism mean to you? Baptism means to share our love of God and always to respect humankind no matter what we look like or act like.
Within Children and Family Ministries--no matter the
•
What are some of the promises we make to those who are being
age--the curriculum and conversation most always come
baptized? We will always protect this child and love him with all
back to being good stewards of God’s love. This same
our heart.
message is reinforced when the children are invited to come forward in the sanctuary to take part in the baptism of a new member of Christ’s church. The role of our children in this sacrament is a critical one, for this is their opportunity to verbally express their commitment to help
•
As a child of God, what is one way we can show our love for him? We show him we love him by worship.
Children have a wonderful way of reminding us how to spread good in the world. “Protect this child and love him with all our heart...”
raise this new church member with love and compassion. And, they get it! Second-grader Connor Adams had this to say in response to three questions posed to her about baptism:
THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM WILL BE CELEBRATED ON EASTER SUNDAY AT 9:00 & 11:00 AM WORSHIP
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MAUNDY THURSDAY MARCH 29, 2018
Saddest Night Ever Williams Hall, 6:00 pm Families are invited to a special worship service remembering “The Saddest Night Ever.” Supper is served, and the stories of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday are read. Childcare is available for infants and toddlers.
Maundy Thursday Worship & Communion Dobbs Chapel, 7:30 pm Sermon by the Rev. Pam Driesell.
This service commemorates Jesus’ last meal with his friends and his commission to the Great Commandment and demonstration of his love by the ritual of footwashing. It concludes by preparing the church for Good Friday.
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GOOD FRIDAY MARCH 30, 2018
Good Friday Tenebrae Sanctuary, 7:30 pm Sermon by the Rev. Pam Driesell.
A Tenebrae service of shadows will be held on Friday evening this year. This dramatic candle-lit service features the gradual extinction of lights in the sanctuary, as we experience the Biblical account of Jesus’ betrayal and arrest and hear beautiful seasonal music by our Chancel Choir.
GIFTS AT WORK YOUR GIVING REPAIRS THE BREACHES THAT SEPARATE PEOPLE FROM LIVES OF WHOLENESS. When the forces of chaos and calamity rip the fabric of human
Porch, they can eat a good meal, learn and grow among others
life, your One Great Hour of Sharing gifts are there to sew it
who have experienced similar struggles, and receive guidance
back together.
on employment opportunities. A Self- Development of People
Your generosity fulfills a vision rooted in the biblical witness
grant, made possible by
and beautifully stated in Isaiah 58:12. The prophet writes:
One Great Hour of Sharing gifts, helped renovate and equip
“You shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of
the building that houses the café.
streets to live in.”
“If I hadn’t gotten involved with the Front Porch, there is a
Around the world, One Great Hour of Sharing ministries
chance I would have started using again and been in prison
bridge the divides that tear apart the lives of individuals and
or even died,” Diretha says. Your gifts to One Great Hour of
communities.
Sharing gifts contribute to positive change that lasts.
In Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory that was devastated by
In Uganda, Najjuma, a 56-year-old widow, depends on
Hurricane Maria last year, Presbyterian Disaster Assistance
eight acres of farmland to feed three children and eight
promised help to the island’s Presbyterian leaders even before
grandchildren left orphaned by the HIV/AIDS pandemic.
the storm made landfall. Days after Maria hit, the first wave
However, her in-laws ordered her to leave the land her late
of PDA grants arrived and immediately pressing community
husband had inherited. Thanks to training programs held by
needs were being met. Desperately needed items such as
Action for Rural Women’s Empowerment (ARUWE), a partner
food, water, diapers and medical supplies were in the hands
of the Presbyterian Hunger Program, Najjuma knew the law
of hurricane survivors swiftly. Your gifts to One Great Hour
was on her side. She successfully appealed for help through
of Sharing made it possible for PDA to act promptly in Puerto
local land-governance structures. Your One Great Hour of
Rico, Texas, Florida and other places when disasters struck
Sharing gifts helped Najjuma continue to farm the land and
in rapid succession last year. In addition, PDA will continue
improve farming techniques in order to feed her children and
working in these communities long after other groups leave.
grandchildren.
In Akron, Ohio, Diretha’s recovery from drug addiction was
In places far and near, your One Great Hour of Sharing gifts
threatened by more than a decade of unemployment. She says
repair breaches that pierce the wholeness that God wants for
her decision to join the Front Porch Café community helped
everyone. Join Presbyterians worldwide in sharing God’s love
her get a job and remain drug-free. The Front Porch consists
with our neighbors in need – look for the One Great Hour of
of individuals who struggle with drug addiction or who seek
Sharing envelopes in your pew Easter morning. Please give
to re-enter society after spending time in prison. At the Front
generously. Trinity Times
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Easter celebration of the resurrection
APRIL 1, 2018
7:00 am | 9:00 am | 11:00 am
EASTER SUNRISE
EASTER CELEBRATION
7:00 am
9:00 am & 11:00 am
Rev. Jeremy Jinkins preaching
Rev. Pam Driesell preaching
A casual outdoor service with Easter hymns.
A service with Easter hymns and other music by the Chancel Choir with Brass.
A fellowship hour follows each service. SHUTTLE SERVICE 8:15 AM — 1:00 PM to and fom the Atlanta Speech School (3160 Northside Parkway)
FLOWERING CROSS You are invited to bring flowers to decorate the large wooden cross that will be located outside the sanctuary entrance
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WWW.T RINITYATLANTA.ORG
RUN THE RACE Trinity Early Learning Center (TELC) is a mission of Trinity Presbyterian Church. It provides superior early childhood education and care for approximately 110 children, while at the same time providing an employment environment for our teachers that encourages and supports professional growth. Each year TELC sponsors a “fun run” fundraiser, Miles for Smiles. A portion of the proceeds goes to support the TELC tuition scholarship fund, and a portion goes towards TELC improvements such as playground renovations, new floors, and technology for the classrooms, new tables, chairs, playground equipment, shelving, and more! We encourage you to support this mission by
SATURDAY, APRIL 14, 2018 5K Run/Walk – 8:00 am 1K Fun Run – 9:00 am | Tot Trot – 9:15 am
• being a sponsor, • donating, or • participating in the fun run.
WWW.TELCMILESFORSMILES.COM Details can be found at www.telcmilesforsmiles.com EVENT SCHEDULE 7:00 AM - T-shirt bib # pick up 8:00 AM - 5K start 9:00 AM - 1K start 9:15 AM - Tot Trot start 9:30 AM - Awards/Raffle prizes
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WELCOME, NEW MEMBERS Jennifer and Alan Beamer Jennifer and Alan are parents to 3-year-old daughter Maddie and 16-month-old son Alex. Jennifer is the analytic and tech coordinator with the Atlanta Regional Commission. She is a licensed MSW and enjoys running. Alan is VP of tech support with Cash Trans. Jennifer and Alan join by reaffirmation of faith. Sponsors: Rebekah and Jim Groover
Caitlin Burniske and Sam Mansfield Caitlin is a market executive for Allen Calsoft Labs. She is fluent in French, has also been a youth leader in the past, and is currently a youth advisor here at Trinity. She joins by reaffirmation of faith. Sam is the CEO of USOCR. He is skilled in budgeting, public speaking, and software development. His hobbies include music, playing the guitar, and he is fluent in Spanish. Sam joins by reaffirmation of faith. Caitlin’s Sponsor: Caroline Brown Sam’s Sponsors: Jackson McCann
Leah and Buck Dixon Leah is the advocacy director with the Georgia Conservancy. She and husband Buck are expecting their first child, a boy, in March. Buck is an attorney with Troutman Sanders LLP. Buck joins by profession of faith, and Leah joins by certificate of transfer from Peachtree City UMC. Sponsors: Ellie and Ed Dobbs
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Lindsay and Chris Jones Lindsay and Chris are parents to 22-month-old twin boys, Sawyer and Evan. Lindsay is an associate attorney with Jones Day. Her hobbies are hiking and Pilates. She also has experience working with children’s Sunday school. Chris is vice president and commercial insurance broker with H & H Insurance Services. He loves the outdoors and enjoys hiking and biking. Lindsay joins by reaffirmation of faith; Chris joins by profession of faith. Sponsors: Emily and Jim Boyer
Emily Pursel Emily, a sophomore at Bucknell University in Pennsylvania, is the daughter of Gail Pursel, who is also a new member. Emily enjoys singing and writing and currently is a member of the Bucknell choir and also is the copy editor of the Bucknell newspaper. She was active as a youth and has participated in various mission trips and youth Sunday worship. Emily joins by certificate of transfer from Covenant Presbyterian Church, Albany GA. Sponsor: Gay Gunter
Gail Pursel Gail, an attorney with Vernis & Bowling, is the mother of one adult daughter. Gail is an experienced global mission volunteer; she has traveled on mission trips to Romania, Belize, and Guatemala. She has also served as a youth leader in the past. An Elder in the Presbyterian Church, Gail joins by certificate of transfer from Covenant Presbyterian Church, Albany, GA. Sponsor: Gay Gunter
Velma and Stan Tilley Velma, a retired Juvenile Court Judge, spends most of her time consulting. She has taught adult church school, enjoys reading, and has a passion for adult literacy. Stan, a retired attorney, spends his free time with woodworking. He has experience with stewardship and finance. Both Presbyterian elders, they join by certificate of transfer from First Presbyterian Church, Cartersville, GA. Sponsors: Elinor and Tom Jones
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Tom Key’s
THURSDAY March 8 7:00 pm, Sanctuary Join us on Thursday for a special presentation of “C.S. Lewis on Stage” by one of Atlanta’s most celebrated performing artists. Tom Key brings Lewis’ work to life in this captivating one-man show.
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$
admission at the door Trinity Times 14
MOVIES THAT MOVE SOMETHING WITHIN US
MY BEST FILMS OF 2017 AND WHY by RICHARD HOWERTON Before I get started, there are some wonderful sources for
“The Darkest Hour”
checking out the best spiritual films. Juanita Watson recently
a world leader wrestles with human sacrifice for freedom
shared this one: Top 10 Films for Visual Parables in 2017,
“The Post”
Presbyterian News Service, by Edward McNulty. Here are his top 10 for 2017 include: 1) “Mudbound” 2) “The Shack” 3) “The Post” 4) “A Quiet Passion” 5) “Roman J. Israel, Esq”. 6) “All Saints” 7) “Same Kind of Difference” 8) “Downsizing” 9) “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” 10) “Sabina K.” I’ve seen only four of these recommended, so I look forward to checking them out. My list of best films below is not limited to religious films. I believe that God is at work in all great films that move us, grab our hearts, bring a tear whether of joy or sadness or help us learn from the trials of others how better to live on this earth.
what personal price are we willing to pay to illuminate truth about futile death in war
“I, Tonya” a true life story so absurd that it makes us ponder personal perseverance vicariously
“The Shape of Water” God’s creatures we can’t fathom but can be loved
“Three Billboards of Ebbing, Missouri” tragedy of loss and when is it ever too late to improve a
When I taught my last film series at Trinity, I remember saying
despicable life
something like, “This film doesn’t have anything to do with
“Blade Runner 2049”
religion or the church, except it’s about love, life, death, and
for the sheer beauty of cinematography and to ponder
forgiveness.”
whether artificial beings have souls
One could make the case that films showcase bad behaviors
“Call Me by Your Name”
to be avoided, but if that’s all they do, I wish I hadn’t seen
a story about a young man finding out who he is and his
them. I am a seeker of great films to experience, and when
parents’ role in helping him
I find one, I know that the story was grounded in things
“The Big Sick”
that we hold precious in our faith. Things like love, hope,
love, prejudice, growth, and transcendence in a comedy about
forgiveness, redemption, atonement, connection, empathy,
impending death
and reconciliation among God’s children.
“Get Out”
The films below are in no rank order. Films that I haven’t
a horror story about a new type of slavery
seen but could make this list include “Columbus” and
“Detroit”
“Downsizing.”Parts of the Bible could be R rated, and so are
to see how far we’ve had to come and know how far we still
several of these films.
need to go to love all God’s children as ourselves
“Maudie”
“Lady Bird”
to watch love and creativity emerge from within challenged
a mother/daughter relationship blossom out of idiosyncrasies
souls
“The Florida Project”
“Wonder Woman“
an immersion into life we don’t know through eyes of children
to witness a woman hero and sacrificial love
“Baby Driver” love and goodness on Atlanta streets from a man trapped by tragedy
and a man who tries to serve and protect them Thoughts and comments are always welcome at richardthowerton3@gmail.com
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AGAPE RIBBON-CUTTING CELEBRATION by BONNIE HARRIS Smiling faces everywhere! The voices of children were
in attendance had generously contributed to the “One Child
singing! Cheerful Agape staff members were greeting the
at a Time” capital campaign, and all were delighted with the
guests! Electric energy was in the crowd! Balloons, flowers,
fabulous new facility!
and bright colors! More than 300 people in attendance! Delicious food and Festive drinks!
The brief program at the Ribbon Cutting Celebration was held in the gymnasium. Lisa Bankoff, past president
All of the above are snapshot memories of the joyful Ribbon
of Agape’s Board, welcomed the robust crowd. A group
Cutting Celebration on February 1, 2018, at the new Agape
of Agape’s elementary-age children sang a lovely song
Youth and Family Center. Throughout the evening, guests
declaring how they can do anything with God’s help. Nell
were welcome to take tours through the new facility, which
Benn, Agape’s CEO, thanked the crowd for their support in
includes a gymnasium, a large dining hall and teaching
getting Agape to this beautiful new building and expressed
kitchen, 9 multi-use rooms for tutoring and after-school
how the new facility has empowered the children and
study, a recreation room, a computer lab, a STEAM room,
families, senior citizens, volunteers, and staff! Lesley Carroll,
a library, a special room for the Senior Citizens, as well as
Marie Foster and Bonnie Harris (the capital campaign co-
administrative offices. The crisp colors of bright green, blue
chairs) announced that the $8.5 Million capital campaign
and orange give the new space a clean freshness. The guests
had been reached and even gone above the goal! Joanna
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Adams gave a loving dedication and blessing for Agape’s new home, emphasizing that it is through God’s amazing grace that we should give unconditional love to all of our friends and neighbors. Mike Hobbs, Agape’s current Board president, charged the group to stay connected at Agape as this next new chapter begins because we need their support more than ever. The ceremonial ribbon was cut with great enthusiasm by Joanna Adams, with a host of Agape Senior Citizens, children, staff, volunteers and board members present. After the program, guests delighted in delicious food and drinks from Tony Conway’s Legendary Events. It was marvelous to see the new dining room full of happy people laughing and visiting, all with Agape love in their hearts. Many thanks to Ginny Hobbs and her wonderful committee for planning this joyful occasion. Agape’s new home is located at 2210 Marietta Boulevard NW. If you haven’t been to the new facility, please call 404-355-1877 and come by for a visit! Volunteers of all sorts, tutors, meal preparers and servers, craft leaders, etc…. are welcome with open arms!
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CLERK’S CORNER Highlights from the Session Retreat and January-February Session meetings by CINDY FERGUSON, Clerk of Session
The Session has been quite busy over the last couple of
at Trinity as well as collecting all kinds of demographic data
months with our regular monthly meetings and the annual
and information on other informal worship services held
Session Retreat. Highlights from our January meeting
by churches in our community. Elders were able to submit
included a motion from the Finance Committee to elect
their ideas for what they’d like to see in an informal service at
Trinity member David Beasley to serve as Treasurer at Trinity
Trinity, and then Richard and Betsy tallied these suggestions
for a three-year term. We have not had a treasurer at Trinity
and shared that most Elders are seeking a service that would
in several years, so we are thrilled that David will serve in
be in the Reformed tradition with quality music, interactive
this position. A special report from the Capital Campaign
worship, and informal community. After explaining the
Steering Committee Co-Chairs, Bill Jordan and Reynolds
demographic data, Richard and Betsy presented a summary of
Couch, as well as committee member Ann Speer, revealed
the day and time of informal worship services in neighboring
the committee’s strong support that Trinity moves forward
churches with the most frequent of those being on Sunday
with steps toward a capital campaign. It’s been 15 years
mornings. We then discussed three possible times to hold an
since Trinity’s last capital campaign. The committee has
informal service at Trinity on Sunday morning. Richard, Betsy,
consulted with John O’Kane, a retired consultant with Cox
and Pam have formed a task force to examine the various
Curry, to provide insight and is now looking at the viability
options for time and format for our new service at Trinity.
of fundraising and gathering rough numbers and costs for
They intend to solicit feedback from the congregation during
projects from Vision 2020. The Session also approved a
an upcoming church school series on worship and a Sunday
motion from Youth and Family Ministry to include a line of
morning Town Hall in April.
credit as part of a funding tool in the youth space renovation. Trinity Presbyterian Preschool brought a motion with support
FEBRUARY MEETING
from Children and Family Ministry, Property, and Finance
Our February Session meeting was held in the Youth Space in
to enhance the existing glen space (the wooded area where
Building D so that all Elders would be familiar with the current
outdoor worship has been held) with a Children’s Exploration
youth space, which is scheduled for renovation. Blaine Kelley,
Garden. This area will be used by the preschool as well as
chair of Youth and Family Ministry, gave a short presentation
available to all church members and will be fully paid for by
on the renovation designs, showed renderings of the new
the preschool.
space, and led a short tour of the space to point out details and answer questions.
SESSION RETREAT Our Session Retreat this year began with table discussions on Brian McLaren’s book The Great Spiritual Migration. Additionally, Richard Floyd and Betsy Lyles-Swetenberg gave a presentation on Informal Worship. They have been meeting with Pam weekly to discuss a potential new worship service
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I reported on an effort by the clergy and Clerks to identify members on our church rolls who are no longer active and who have not been seen at Trinity in quite some time. Tom Farmer has spent a significant amount of time reaching out to members for whom we have current contact information
as well as drafting a letter to be sent to those we can not reach by
Karen Simmons gave a brief update on her experience after
phone to inquire about them and their membership. The letter is
five weeks as Pam’s Executive Assistant and noted how much
pastoral in nature but seeks to request that the member complete
she’s learned about all the additional ways that Pam is engaged
and return an enclosed card indicating whether they wish to
at Trinity and in the community. She is enjoying her new role
remain on the active membership roll or if there might be a reason
while still staying connected to the operations staff as a search is
to move them to an inactive roll. The Session passed a motion
underway for her replacement as Operations Manager.
that those members who we do not hear back from or whose letters are returned will be moved to an inactive roll. I explained that we currently pay a per capita to the Presbytery on our active members so it is fiscally responsible for us to maintain as accurate an active membership roll as possible. David Gracey also reported on a letter sent by First Presbyterian to the Presbytery in September of 2016 noting concern that Trinity had allowed the Presbytery group, Joining Hands for Justice, to hold a meeting at Trinity where they had invited
Margaret Rieser and Scott Thompson, Commitment Campaign Co-Chairs, reported that the campaign had surpassed its goal of 675 pledges and was only $15,000 short of the monetary goal of $3.9 million. Cissy Smith, Chair of Worship and Music, brought a motion to make permanent the service of wine at wedding receptions according to the existing policy approved for a trial period. The motion passed.
a speaker from BDS, an organization which promotes the
Walt Gillikin reported that 2017 actual expenditures are about
divestiture of Israel. David explained that it is Trinity’s policy to
$340,000 favorable to budget. Most of this surplus will go to
allow Presbytery groups to use our space and that we do not vet
Property per a two-year agreement Session approved two years
their agendas. Given that Presbytery will host another JHJ event
ago. In future years, any surplus will be split 50/50 between
this coming spring at Trinity, Session agreed to reach out to First
Mission and Property. Walt also explained that funds are being
Pres to make them aware and explain our policy.
collected in trust for the Youth Space project. A line of credit from
Pam introduced Emily Hicks, a young adult member at Trinity who applied to and was accepted into the Young Adult Volunteer program sponsored by the Presbytery. Emily shared she has been inspired to discern her vocation by joining the program and
Atlantic Capital Bank is also being established to help bridge any funding gaps. Jeremy Jinkins provided Session with an update on the budget process noting that David Beasley, our new Treasurer, will play an important role.
moving to Washington D.C. and living minimally and intentionally.
Chris Betts, Chair of Congregational Activities and Events,
A motion was made and passed to endorse Emily on her new
reported that Trinity at the Table (TATT) would hold three
adventure.
Thursday night suppers the last three Thursdays in April. A task
Jim Stokes, Elder and member of the Elder Nominating Committee, reported on the committee’s recent work and read the names of the slate for the Elder class of 2021 which will be presented to the congregation on February 25. Pam reflected on the recent preaching workshop that the Trinity clergy participated in and said it was extraordinarily helpful and a good bonding experience. She reminded the Session that our Annual Meeting will be March 18 where an annual report will
force is working to identify different activities to bring members back to this weekly event. The April suppers will be a “trial” to check interest and participation. Susan Foxworth Hamilton shared her experiences with Welcoming Intentionally and encouraged all Elders to continue making this weekly effort. Elders shared that they liked the new designated time of welcoming and greeting each other at the beginning of worship.
be presented to the congregation and terms of call would be
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about the
reviewed.
great work Session is engaged in.
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TRINITY EXPLORES WITH WALTER BRUEGGEMANN We had a successful and thought-provoking Trinity Explores weekend (February 16, 17 and 18) with Walter Brueggemann. Friday night, Trinity welcomed 240 people to Brueggemann’s lecture; Saturday morning more than 175 listened to the conversation between Brueggemann and our own George Stroup; and Sunday morning’s Q&A during the church school hour had 150 people in Williams Hall.
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THANK YOU, TRINITY MEMBERS! An unexpected snowfall may have prevented the first day of the 2017 Christmas Market from taking place, but Trinity members were not to be deterred by snow, ice, power outages, and downed trees! You turned out in full force on Sunday, December 10th, to make the 2017 Christmas Market a tremendous success. This year, the Market featured items from some new artists and vendors, as well as many favorites from previous years. There was a great spirit of fun, fellowship, and goodwill in our new Williams Hall location. Most importantly, thanks to the generosity of all who participated, we raised a record of over $40,000 in gross sales. Your enthusiasm made the market a success. Portions will directly benefit our global mission partners in Cuba, Haiti, and for Refugee Resettlement here in Atlanta, in addition to other organizations and individuals who participated in the market. Thank you to everyone who volunteered, baked, created and donated unique arts and crafts, and shopped. Your generosity of spirit is indeed making a difference in people’s lives. CATHERINE LONG and JULIE HOPE 2017 Christmas Market Co-Chairs
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LOOSE CHANGE FOR LUNCHES by JULIE HOPE Thank you to all who contributed to, and volunteered to help with, our 3rd annual “Loose Change for Lunches” collection. This year, the collection raised more than $3,000 for the school lunch program on the island of La Gonâve, Haiti. Of that total, more than $1,300 was donated on Sunday, February 4th, through the Souper Bowl of Caring collection taken up by Trinity’s Youth. At a cost of 25¢/meal, this collection will provide 12,000 hot, nutritious meals at our partner school, St. Francois, and the nine other rural community schools supported by La Gonâve Haiti Partners. For many children, this may be their only real meal of the day. Thank you to the children, youth, families and all the members of Trinity Church young and old who gave so generously.
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Life at Trinity WORSHIP WEEKLY WORSHIP SCHEDULE - SUNDAYS 8:45 AM • DOBBS CHAPEL 11:00 AM • SANCTUARY CELEBRATING HOLY COMMUNION • Communion will be celebrated at the 8:45 am worship service on March 4 3RD SUNDAY IN LENT SUNDAY, MARCH 4 8:45 AM “Signs Along the Way: The Positive Side of Discipline” Exodus 20:1-17; John 2:13-22 Rev. Dr. Tom Farmer preaching 11:00 AM “Faith in the Chaos” The service will be led by youth members and the Youth Choir, and confirmands will be welcomed into membership. 4TH SUNDAY IN LENT SUNDAY, MARCH 11 “Signs Along the Way: Gains and Losses” Mark 8:31-38 Rev. Pam Driesell preaching Daylight saving time begins 5TH SUNDAY IN LENT SUNDAY, MARCH 18 “Signs Along the Way: Seeing Jesus” Matthew 11: 2-6; John 12:20-33 Rev. Dr. George Stroup preaching A congregational meeting will be held following 11:00 am worship for the purpose of receiving the 2017 annual report and reviewing the pastors’ terms of call. PALM/PASSION SUNDAY SUNDAY, MARCH 25 Rev. Pam Driesell and Rev. Dr. Richard Floyd preaching MAUNDY THURSDAY THURSDAY, MARCH 29 5:45 PM, WILLIAMS HALL The Saddest Night Ever A dinner and worship service for children and their families
GOOD FRIDAY FRIDAY, MARCH 30 7:30 PM, SANCTUARY A tenebrae service including seasonal anthems by the Chancel Choir
LEARN ADULT CHURCH SCHOOL CLASSES FEBRUARY 25 - MARCH 25 9:45 AM ADULT CLASSES WORSHIPPING CREATIVELY IN THE 21ST CENTURY B104-106 Speakers: Trinity clergy and guests As part of Trinity’s Strategic Vision2020, we will be launching a weekly, informal worship service in Fall 2018. This series will explore the history, theology, structure, and styles of worship. We will discuss order of worship, worship music, and worship spaces, all from a Reformed theological perspective. This class will provide lots of opportunity for dialogue, so we hope to see you there! March 4 – Expression of Worship Speaker: Rev. Pam Driesell March 11- Order of Worship Speaker: Rev. Dr. Martha Moore-Keish March 18 – Music of Worship Speaker: Norman MacKenzie March 25 – Worship Creatively Speakers: Rev. Betsy Lyles Swetenburg Rev. Dr. Richard Floyd RACE AND RECONCILIATION PART II B110 Speaker: Rev. Paul Roberts Rev. Paul Timothy Roberts, President of Atlanta’s Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary, will lead us in a continuation of our conversations begun last year on the topic of race and racism. We will consider the issues from several perspectives, focusing on mature self-examination and the search for paths of healing and reconciliation. In this 5-part class, we anticipate there will be many opportunities for
7:30 PM, DOBBS CHAPEL An intimate service including communion and handwashing Trinity Times
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Life at Trinity wide-ranging, respectful discussion along the way. March 4 - Social Stratification March 11- Clips and Conversations March 18 - Recovery, Restitution, Reparation, and Reconciliation
yo and younger) will be available. Aftercare for church member families (children Pre-K and older) with 2 working parents will be available Monday-Thursday. The link for registration will be sent in the CFM weekly email. To receive the CFM weekly email, contact Elizabeth Davis at edavis@ trinityatlanta.org
March 25 - Conclusion CELTIC CHRISTIANITY B112 Various speakers led by Patty Smitherman Celtic Christianity is primarily a spirituality of place. This series of classes will trace the Celtic spiritual heritage from its pre-Christian origin in nature worship to its manifestations in poetry, music, the visual arts, and religious thought and practice. With the help of a number of distinguished guests, we will celebrate together the Celtic love of and reverence for the God-infused natural world and its special meaning today. March 4 – Pelagius: Golden Age of Celtic Spirituality – St. Brigid, St. Columba, St. Hilda Speakers: Rev. Maggie Harney and Patty Smitherman March 11- The Irish Save Civilization: John Scotus Eriugena Speaker: Patty Smitherman March 18 - Carmina Gadelica: George MacLeod and Iona Speaker: Patty Smitherman March 25 - Teilhard, John Muir, John Philip Newell, John O’Donohue – Carrying the Celtic Tradition Speaker: Patty Smitherman and Kathy Michaud CFM MESSY CHURCH SUNDAYS 9:45 AM, GYM LOBBY
GATHER TOM KEY’S C.S. LEWIS ON STAGE THURSDAY, MARCH 8 7:00 PM, DOBBS CHAPEL Save the date! Perennial Atlanta favorite Tom Key, Artistic Director of Theatrical Outfit, will bring his one man show, “C.S. Lewis on Stage” to Trinity! LENTEN SMALL GROUPS FEBRUARY 14 - MARCH 29 “Lent recalls times of wilderness and wandering, from newly freed Hebrew slaves in exile to Jesus temptation in the desert. God has always called people out of their safe, walled cities into uncomfortable places, revealing paths they would never have chosen. Despite our culture of self-indulgence, we too are called to walk an alternative path, one of humility, justice, and peace. Walter Brueggemann’s thought-provoking reflections for the season of Lent invite us to consider the challenging, beautiful life that comes with walking the way of grace.” (A Way Other Than Our Own) During the season of Lent, you are invited to join a neighborhood-based small group to read Walter Brueggemann’s book A Way Other Than Our Own. Each group will meet once a week (February 14-March 29).
In place of children’s age level church school classes; parents and children together; 9:45-10:45 am in Gym Lobby
If you would like to receive the daily lent study guide written by Trinity pastors that is a supplement to Brueggemann’s book, please contact Esther Patrick at epatrick@ trinityatlanta.org
VACATION VENTURES BIBLE SCHOOL MONDAY, JUNE 11 - THURSDAY, JUNE 12 9:00 AM-12:00 PM
AWAKENING FRIDAYS 7:30 AM, A116
Children ages Pre-K thru 5th grade are invited to join us at the “Rolling River Rampage!” We will learn and play together through music, skits, storytelling, mission projects, recreation, and arts and crafts! This year, we will have VVBS Monday-Thursday with the finale of Family Bike Night on Thursday, June 14th! NO VVBS on FRIDAY! We have decided to shorten the week by ending on Thursday to accommodate the trending schedule of lower attendance from children and volunteers on Friday. Lots of families like to get out of town earlier on Fridays for vacations or weekend events. Childcare for volunteer’s children younger than Pre-K (3
Awakening: a Womens’ Study Group, meets on Friday morning at 7:30 am to coincide with the Men’s Breakfast. We hope that some of the spouses of the men who attend the breakfast, as well as other women of all ages, will join us for a light continental breakfast in A116.
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Contact: Karen Peters, krpeters12@aol.com or Judy Garland, kjudygarland@gmail.com
Life at Trinity
NOVEL IDEAS 1ST SUNDAY 1:00 PM, CHAPEL PARLOR Novel Ideas is changing its meeting time. We will meet following the all-church luncheons on the first Sundays of the month in the Chapel Parlor. All are welcome.
STAFFING NEWS Many of you are aware that when Karen Simmons became my new assistant we
MEN’S BREAKFAST FRIDAYS 7:27 AM, WILLIAMS HALL
had a staff vacancy for the Operations Manager position.
Join the group for great fellowship, a lively program, and a good breakfast. Reservations are not required; $7 per person.
This management position oversees the hospitality team, the food services team,
TRINITY AT THE TABLE WEDNESDAYS 12:00 PM • WILLIAMS HALL
campus security, the church facilities calendar, and interacts
Join members of the TPC pastoral staff for a light lunch and fellowship.
looking for someone with an understanding of and alignment
Cost: $7 per adult, $5 per child; $25 maximum per family Reservations: www.trinityatlanta.org/events
administrative and interpersonal skills; and enthusiasm
CFM FLASHLIGHT EGG HUNT AND FUN NIGHT FRIDAY, MARCH 23 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM Drop of the kids (2nd-5th grade) where they will enjoy an evening of fun including a pizza dinner, mission project, games, dessert and flashlight egg hunt on the hill! Cost: $10 per child
who has all that and who also already loves and is loved
Reservations: www.trinityatlanta.org/events
was promoted to Hospitality Supervisor within the past
CFM FAMILY BREAKFAST AND EGG HUNT SATURDAY, MARCH 24 9:00 AM BREAKFAST, 10:00 AM EGG HUNT
year. His new office will be located on the first floor near
Join our littlest egg hunters (infant - 1st grade) on the hill! Cost: $7 per child, $10 per adult; $35 max per family
Additionally, he owns a landscaping business. When he’s not
Reservations: www.trinityatlanta.org/events
with and serves as a liaison to outside groups. We were with the core values of Trinity; excellent management, about Trinity’s mission and vision. We have found someone by the people who are Trinity Church! We enthusiastically welcome TreVarius Worthy as the new Operations Manager. TreVarius began serving on our hospitality staff in May 2013. Because of his leadership skills and hard work, TreVarius
the church library. Stop by and see him when you’re here! TreVarius lives in Lithonia and has a daughter, Cadence (2). working, he likes to listen to music and play with Cadence. Please join me in praying for our staff and particularly for TreVarius as he begins this new chapter in our church’s life
CARE JOURNEY THROUGH CANCER THURSDAY, MARCH 8 6:00 PM The Stephen Ministers invite you to attend a program on Thursday, March 8, at 6 PM featuring speaker Nancy Vason, author of The Dance of the Sandpipers, in which she uses rich imagery from the sea to share her story about her journey through cancer treatment.
and ministry. Pam
TreVarius Worthy Operations Manager office: 404-495-8452 email: tworthy@trinityatlanta.org
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day, Friday & Satur
March 23-24
2nd - 5th Grade
Infant-1st Grade
March 23
March 24
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
6:30-8:30 PM
9:00-10:30 AM
Flashlight Egg Hunt & Fun Night
Family Breakfast & Egg Hunt
$10; $30 max per family
$7 child, $10 adult; $35 max per family
REGISTER ONLINE: WWW.TRINITYATLANTA.ORG