TIDINGS Trinity’s Mission: Acting in God’s love, Trinity Episcopal Church welcomes everyone to enthusiastically live the Christian faith. We call our members to worship and prayer, lifelong education, spiritual growth, cheerful giving, and active ministry with our community. All members serve as witnesses to Jesus Christ.
Vol. XXVII No. 2 February 2018
A Celebration of Absalom Jones
Inside this Issue Stewardship page 2 Christian Formation page 3 Children and Family Ministries page 4 Young Adults page 5 Trinity Connections pages 5, 6, 7
Ours is a Savior who puts love of the other at the center of being; ours is a Faith which calls us to build and nurture a “blessed community.” Trinity Church’s commitment to undo racism embodies these truths; and we welcome every opportunity to honor those saints in Episcopal history who have stood against racial injustice. One such opportunity will be on Saturday, February 17, 2018, starting at 11:00 am, when we will host an important event in collaboration with the Union of Black Episcopalians, our Diocese’s Racial Reconciliation Committee, Members of Historic St. James AME Church, and St. Luke Episcopal Church, among others, to celebrate the life and ministry of Absalom Jones (1746-1818). All Trinity Church members are encouraged to attend this service, to be followed by a reception in the Parish Hall. Reverend Jones, born into slavery in Delaware, bought his own freedom and served as a lay minister for St. George’s Methodist Episcopal Church. He dedicated his ministry to helping establish an interracial congregation of both white and black members for this church, and went on to become an elected overseer of the Free African Society, an organization for black Christians in Philadelphia. In his steadfast denunciation of slavery and in his tireless preaching on behalf of racial reconciliation within communities of faith, Reverend Jones came to be known as “the first black bishop of the Episcopal Church” in the United States. Please consider this early Lenten opportunity to join in an ecumenical celebration of our “blessed community.”
Gratitude Report As an early Carnival season already begins its final weeks, celebration is definitely in the air in New Orleans! Here at Trinity Church, we celebrate for a different reason - in grateful thanks for the 432 or so families who said “yes” during the end-of- year 2017 pledge season. They have, as of January 12, expressed their faith in God’s generosity in a tangible way, pledging to return a total of $1,301,266 of what God has first given them for the good work of Trinity Church. Praise God and Hallelujah! Although slightly under our stated goal of $1.4 million and less than the total pledged last year, we are no less grateful and even more committed to stewarding those gifts responsibly. Now it’s time to get to work! And if you haven’t submitted your 2018 pledge yet, it is never too late. Thank you so very much. Last year, at the October meeting, you may not know that your Vestry created something new: a standing Stewardship Committee. Rather than reinventing a working committee every fall to manage the pledge drive and then disband, the Vestry recognized that Christian stewardship doesn’t happen for just three months each year, and that a more measured and purposeful approach towards Stewardship was important. Stewardship - as our guest preacher the Rev. John Talbird noted last November during his homily - “is everything we do, with everything we have, all the time.” All the time. We have a duty to contemplate God’s generosity for each one of us, every day, and begin to ask some new questions. A new question for myself that I have been trying to live in is this: “Given the extraordinary wealth that God has showered upon my family, rather than simply consider how much I should give away to charity each year, perhaps instead I should consider how much of that wealth I can morally afford to keep - if I’m going to be a faithful steward?” It’s a very difficult question that, regardless of the answer, I believe bears good fruit. Your new Stewardship Committee consists of seven dedicated individuals who I know are excited to begin this work in a new way. I am honored to chair the first iteration of this group and we ask for your prayers of support and guidance. Along with me, the current committee members are: Michelle Cox, Curt Flournoy, Gordo Kolb, Marky Murphy, Alice Parkerson and, of course, Raina O’Neil, Trinity’s tireless Development Director. We will meet and report monthly to the Vestry. Check in here each month as a different member of the committee will submit a “Gratitude Report” and we’ll do our best to keep you updated on stewardship-related matters in that way. Please don’t hesitate to contact any one of us with comments, suggestions, criticisms or condolences! In service, Jim Theis Stewardship committee chairman Vestry member
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Christian Formation
by The Reverend Katherine S. McLean, Associate Rector
First Annual Trinity Mardi Gras Tailgate! Throw me something, Mister!!! Mark your calendars for Sunday, February 4!!! After the 10:30 am service, we will “parade” to watch the parades on St. Charles Avenue. The Trinity tailgate will be set-up on the neutral ground side between Jackson Avenue and Philip Street. Please BYOB and snacks to share! Molly’s House will serve as a home base for hot food and use of restrooms WITH WRISTBAND RESTRICTED ACCESS. Please pick up your wristband on Sunday at church (all services Jan 21 or 28) or in Ashley Eastham’s office during the week, beginning Monday, January 22. Questions? Contact aeastham@trinitynola.com.
Because of Mardi Gras Parades Worship Times Adjusted!
On Sunday, February 4 NO 6:00 pm service. We will have the morning services ONLY (7:30 am Morning Prayer, 8:00 am and 10:30 am Holy Eucharist.) On Sunday, February 11 we will only have a 8:00 am service. There will be no 10:30 am and no 6:00 pm services due to Mardi Gras parades.
Lenten Offering
Join us in the Chapel for Holy Eucharist at 7:30 am Monday - Friday during Lent.
Ash Wednesday
7:30 am, 12:05 pm and 6:00 pm (supper to follow the 6:00 pm service) 3
Children, Youth & Family Ministries
by Ashley Bond, Director of Children, Youth and Family Ministries
Confirmation/Reception/Reaffirmation We will offer a 6-week class for all those, both youth and aduts, interested in being confirmed, received or reaffirmed. The class will take place Sunday mornings beginning March 4, 2018, from 9:15-10:15 am. The Bishop will lead the worship service on Sunday, May 13, 2018, at 10:30 am. Any young person under the age of 16 is expected to attend all classes with a parent and/or adult sponsor. Preparation for confirmation is grounded in our Baptismal Covenant and explores the questions: Who is God? Who is Jesus? What is the Church? And how are we to live? These classes where we explore our faith are open to anyone interested in confirmation, in reaffirming their baptismal vows, in being received by the Episcopal Church, or those who are just curious about the Episcopal tradition. If you are interested in taking this class, please register by February 1 here: bit.ly/ExploreFaith2018. An informational meeting is scheduled for Sunday, January 28, 2018, at 9:30 am in the Chapel. Please do not hesitate to contact me should you have any questions.
Join us Saturday, February 24-25, 2018, at the Solomon Episcopal Conference Center for Family Camp! We’ll gaze at stars, sit by the fire, make s’mores, throw the football, play, do art, break bread together and RELAX. Register here: bit.ly/TrinityFamilyCamp or contact the Ashley B. (abond@trinitynola.com) or Ashley E. (aeastham@trinitynola.com). 4
Young Adults
Trinity Connections Vestry Nominating Committee
by Ashley Eastham, Young Adults Minister (aeastham@trinitynola.com)
With an exciting month of numerous ALLCHURCH events, Trinity’s 20s & 30s will have no scheduled events in February. Our young adult community is encouraged to step into the many exciting opportunities highlighted below: Sunday, February 4 Trinity Parade Tailgate Wednesday, February 14, Ash Wednesday Services and Simple Supper Saturday, February 17 Absalom Jones Service Wednesdays in Lent, February 21 - March 28 The Practice of Prayer Lenten Series
The Vestry Nominating Committee is looking for future church leaders and we want your input! We would like to encourage you, the members of our congregation, to participate in the process by submitting names for consideration. You may also submit your own name. It would be helpful to include background information on the nominee, including talents and interests. A vestry term is four years. Candidates must have been a member of the Church for one year in order to stand for election. Vestry members must be communicants in good standing, over the age of 21, and have been confirmed or received into the Episcopal Church by a bishop of the Episcopal Church. Nominees must also have provided financial support, as confirmed by the Church’s stewardship records, within the six months prior to the annual meeting. Vestry members are expected to provide leadership to the congregation in support of the mission of the church, including stewardship through annual pledges; to attend all vestry meetings; to participate actively in committee work; and to engage thoughtfully in the direction of Trinity’s business and activities. Please send nominations (of yourself or others) to Ashley Eastham at aeastham@trinitynola.com or call 522-0276. Deadline for receipt of nominations is February 24, 2018. Thank you for your thoughtful consideration.
Pilgrimage to the Holy Land
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Trinity Connections Walking the Mourner’s Path
Walking the Mourner’s Path is a Christ-centered, non-denominational grief support program. We believe grieving is not lack of faith but a natural part of living.
Out and About
Walking the Mourner’s Path is : • Eight spiritually directed small group workshops • Led by trained facilitators and a member of the clergy Walking the Mourner’s Path Workshop participants find: • That while their pain is unique they are not alone on their journey • The need to allow Christ to be a part of both the pain and the healing • Tools for moving forward with their life • A way to their honor loved one • Joy A group will be forming on Tuesdays 4:30 6:00 February 27 - April 17, 2018. The facilitators are Bo Farrell, Maria Elliott, and The Reverend Kit McLean. For information contact melliott@trinitynola.com or 504-6702535 if you are interested in walking the mourner’s path.
Daily Meditations Each weekday Trinity offers a reflection written by one of our parishioners on the one of the lessons from the Daily Office, or from their personal prayer life. If you would like to receive these little moments of inspiration, please send your email address to Kriste Buck kbuck@trinitynola.com. If you are interested in writing a reflection, please contact Maria Elliott at melliott@trinitynola. com to be a part of our growing community of writers!
Please reserve all the parking slots in the circle on Sunday morning for folks with difficulty; our handicap parking spots are not nearly enough. Your consideration and care are greatly appreciated. 6
(Reserve your place by January 28) The story of how Bob Hope gave levity and laughter to troops during WWII is a crucial component of the history of the war and a demonstration of how humanity can shine through in the darkest of times. BB’s Stage Door Canteen presents unique entertainment, showcasing the songs, style, stars, and spirit of this incomparable era. Enjoy a matinee performance by The Victory Belles, and lunch by The American Sector Restaurant at BB’s Stage Door Canteen! Tickets are $35 for a group of 10 or more. Time: 11:45 am - 1:45 pm To signup please email Tina Grant at tgrant@ trinitynola.com or 522-0276.
Are you receiving our emails?
As more and more of our communication is shared electronically, it’s critical that we have your correct email address. If you haven’t been receiving Tidings (our monthly newsletter) or Trinity Connections (our weekly email announcements) lately, then we need to hear from you! Please check your inbox and let us know if you haven’t heard from us in awhile. Please call Kriste Buck at 504-670-2513 with any updates. Thank you!
Trinity Connections Trinity Artist Series God’s Special Time Kairos Inside creates Christian communities inside prisons that can transform lives, decrease prison violence, and reduce recidivism. It is based on a series of talks, discussions, and chapel meditations. The Kairos Inside program brings positive and negative leaders together, in both male and female institutions, for a 3 ½ day weekend led by same gender Kairos volunteers. Others may serve on the cook team, provide home made cookies, pray throughout the weekend and donate financially. The weekend is followed up with weekly “Prayer-and-Share” Groups and monthly “Reunions” of the entire Kairos community. Team formation is on Saturday, March 3, 10, 24 and April 7 and 21 to serve at the women’s prison on April 26-29. To serve on the team or to support in any way, please contact Deacon Alyce at ajefferson@trinitynola.com.
Sundays at 5 pm
February 4 NO Concert due to Mardi Gras Parades February 11 NO Concert due to Mardi Gras Parades February 18
Valerie Francis soprano, Patriotic Project Members and Wilfred Delphin, piano present Negro Spirituals and Songs from the Fifties and Sixties era
February 25 Claude Hitt, vocals/guitar in a program of Blues, Folk and Rock.
Jazz Vespers Jazz Vespers is a late night Compline service that takes place in the main church at 8:oo pm on Sunday nights during Lent. It is a short prayer service with several interludes of music performed by some of the best jazz musicians in New Orleans. A unique and exciting program, it has been embraced by the jazz loving community and it is looked forward to as an added Lenten devotion. February 18
Ellis Marsalis, the preeminent jazz pianist, kicks off the 7th Annual Jazz Vespers.
February 25
“Sharp” Calvin Johnson, New Generation Sax wiz.
Every Tuesday at 6:00 pm Organ and Labyrinth
Beloved Community: The Trinity Option Beloved Community: The Trinity Option is a fabulous book by my former boss and mentor, Hill Riddle, and by my dear friend, William Barnwell. There’s even a whole chapter about Manon and me!! Without the commitment of Trinity’s Beloved Community, Hill Riddle and William Barnwell, there would be no Trinity Artist Series or Bach Around The Clock. Get your copy. Buy several! Available in Trinity Treasures. —Albinas Prizgintas
Albinas plays the 5000-pipe tracker organ with ambient lighting and occasional guest musicians. From Bach to the Beatles and beyond! Since Katrina, a unique and magical distinctively New Orleans musical meditation. All are welcome. See www.albinas.org for more details. Tuesday, February 13 NO Organ & Labyrinth due to Mardi Gras Parades.
Coffee Hour
If you would like to sponsor the snacks for 10:30 am Coffee Hour, please contact Mary Lane Carleton, marylane.carleton@gmail.com to sign up. No need to be present to sponsor. You can drop off in the kitchen morning of or in the WOTC fridge in the days prior. 7
NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID NEW ORLEANS, LA. PERMIT 411
1329 Jackson Avenue New Orleans, Louisiana 70130-5198 504-522-0276 Fax 504-522-9960 www.trinitynola.com
Return Service Requested
Please remember Trinity Church in your will.
Clergy
Worship Schedule
The Right Reverend Morris K. Thompson, Bishop The Reverend Andrew R. Thayer, Rector The Reverend Katherine S. McLean, Associate Rector The Reverend Alyce Jefferson, Deacon The Reverend Jay Albert, Deacon The Reverend E. Gary Taylor, Head of Trinity School The Reverend Dr. Hill C. Riddle, Rector Emeritus
SUNDAY 7:30 AM: Morning Prayer in the chapel 8:00 AM: Eucharist in the chapel 10:30 AM: Eucharist in the church 5:00 PM: Trinity Artist Series in the church 6:00 PM: Eucharist in the chapel
Vestry John Fay, Jr., Senior Warden Barbara Waller, Junior Warden Kelly Duncan, Clerk of Vestry Keith Crawford, Treasurer Phillip Gordillo, Elaine Haney, John Hevron, Ellinor Howard, Susu Kearney, Gordon Kolb, Heather Lonian, Chris Martin, Margaret Murphy, Alice Parkerson, Marguerite Redwine, Jim Theis, Carrie Wright John Wogan, Chancellor Mary Sutton, WOTC President Jill Pipes, Trinity School Board Chair
TUESDAY 7:30 AM: Eucharist in the chapel 8:30 AM: Morning Prayer in the chapel 6:00 PM: Organ and Labyrinth in the church THURSDAY 10:30 AM: Holy Eucharist and Healing Service in the chapel
The Church Office will be closed on February 12 and 13.
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