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

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

The Trinity VineFebruary/March 2016 Issue

A publication of Trinity United Methodist Church, Denver, Colorado

Laura Lundquist and Sandy Sunseri get into the holiday spirit while setting up for the Olin Hotel Christmas Party.

Contact Us

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

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

Trinity United Methodist Church1820 Broadway, Denver, CO 80202

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

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

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

Our MissionTrinity United Methodist Church offers a welcoming and

transforming experience: the love of Jesus Christ.

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

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

3. Preparing our congregation to Go Serve Christ

Come join us as we Grow Our Souls.

Trinity Staff

Dr. Michael D. DentSenior Pastor

Rev. Linda MarshallMinister of Nurture

Rev. Jasper PetersAssociate Pastor

Rev. Lee AndersonMinister of Care

Judith MitchellDirector of Music and Arts

Cami TwillingDirector of Youth Ministries and

Contemplative Spirituality

Emma MuellerYouth Ministry Assistant

Allison WatkinsDirector of Children’s Ministry

Angela M. ThomasChurch Administrator

Erin AchesonDirector of Communications

Laura WinbergDirector of Finance

Julie GladneyPastoral and Administrative Assistant

Sharon ScheminskeWedding Director

Kathy IvesAdministrative Assistant

Lou SeminMusic Assistant

Jamielee DemskeJames E. Barnes Iliff Intern

Tom OwensPastoral Intern

Rod RodriguezBuilding Operations Manager

Manuel De LeonBuilding Operations

Francisco AcostaBuilding Operations

In This Issue

Plaza Building Updates....................................4Holy Week & Easter..........................................5Upcoming Events.........................................6, 8Music & Arts..............................................9, 10Lenten Small Groups....................................12 Children’s Ministries.....................................14Youth Ministry...............................................15Contemplative Spirituality...........................16UMW............................................17-18

Dear Trinity Friends and Family,

Waiting is not easy. It is made more difficult, in some ways, by the nature of our world. We have access to what we want. If we don’t have something, after a few clicks, we know it’ll be on our doorstep soon. If we don’t know something, we can consult Google and feel like experts in moments. Barely anything in our world requires us to simply wait.

Except God.

With God, we aren’t in control. We can’t force things to go fast. We can’t force God to show up. We don’t get to know everything about everything with God. We are often left feeling helpless, as our normal means of control are left useless.

In some ways, the only thing we can control is us. We get to determine our attitude. The season of Lent reminds us of this reality. We have a period of 40 days as we prepare for Easter. Soon, we will experience Good Friday, Resurrection Sunday, and all the emotion that comes along with them.

But not yet.

We can’t speed it up or slow it down. We can only choose how we spend the time as we wait. Will we work on being more patient? Will we try to be filled with love? Will we feel God in the slowness, in the process, in the waiting? May it be so, Rev. Jasper Peters

The Trinity Pulpit

February & March WorshipSundays, 8:15 a.m. & 11 a.m.

Dr. Michael Dent, Senior Pastor

Sunday School is offered for all ages at 9:30 a.m.

February 7Message from Metropolitan

District Superintendent Rev. Paul Kottke

“Searching for Sunday” Lenten Series:

February 14Baptism: We Are Beloved

February 21Confession: We Are Broken

February 28Holy Orders: We Are Commanded

March 6Communion: We Are Fed

March 13Confirmation: We Are Welcomed

March 20Palm Sunday

Chancel Choir presntation of Dvorak’s Stabat Mater

March 27Easter Sunday

If There Were No EasterLenten Series to focus on “Searching for Sunday” Senior Pastor Michael Dent will preach a series of messages during the 2016 Lenten season based on the five chapters of Rachel Held Evans’ 2015 book, Searching for Sunday. The subjects are based on the church’s traditional sacrament. The themes each week will correspond with the Lenten Small Group Studies taking place around the Denver metro area using a study guide developed by Ken and Clare Whitney. View study group locations and meeting times at www.trinityumc.org/Lent2016.

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News and Updates

Trinity Welcomes Rev. Paul Kottke in WorshipContributed by Rev. Linda Marshall, lmarshall@trinityumc.org Visionary pastor and Metropolitan District Superintendent Rev. Paul Kottke will share the morning message in both worship services on Sunday, February 7. A highly regarded leader in the United Methodist Church and a strong community leader in the greater Denver area, Rev. Kottke’s leadership began when he founded DENUM, Denver Urban Ministries. While senior pastor of University Park United Methodist Church for the past 20 years, Paul initiated a strong partnership with the University of Denver, Iliff School of Theology, and the United Methodist Church in the aftermath of 9/11. As a result of that partnership, an Interfaith Religious Advisory Council was developed, which continues to build bridges of understanding across religious communities. Rev. Kottke’s sermon on February 7 will provide a message of hope and encouragement as we move into our 2020 VISION.

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We’re Here for Life Update It’s an exciting time! Workers are putting the finishing touches on Level 2 of the Plaza Building, and Trinity staff have been put on alert to start thinking about moving in the next 4–6 weeks. Soon we’ll be in a mild state of chaos once again as items from long-term storage return and staff offices and classrooms shift to their planned new locations. Patience and grace will most certainly be called upon over the next few months! Here’s a brief look at just some of the recent work taking place around the building:

The stairway between Levels 2 and 3 is being widened.

Short-term use lockers are being installed on Level 2.

The new entryway to Level 2.

Three Ash Wednesday Observances February 10 The 40-day season of Lent to prepare Christians for Easter begins on Ash Wednesday with three special observances. Trinity pastors will impose ashes on the foreheads or hands of disciples of Jesus at three different times throughout the day. Our pastors will be in front of the church on Broadway from 7:30–8:30 a.m. to share ashes with passersby on their way to work. The second opportunity is when many guests come into the building for lunch or recovery groups. If it is available, the Stiles Chapel will host a time of prayer, contemplation, and imposition of ashes. The traditional worship service begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary. The service will last about 45 minutes and include special music from the Flute and Brass Ensembles, an invitation to the observance of Lenten discipline, and the imposition of ashes. Rev. Lee Anderson, Minister of Care, will deliver the homily.

Holy Week and Easter at Trinity

Worship at 8:15 a.m. and 11 a.m. with Children’s Palm ProcessionTrinity’s Chancel Choir will present Dvorak’s Stabat Mater with orchestra in the context of worship during both services.

Worship with Communion at 7 p.m. with message by Pastoral Intern Tom Owens

Community Good Friday Service at 7 p.m. hosted by United Church of Montbello4879 Crown Blvd., Denver 80239

Worship at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.Children’s Easter Eggstravaganza at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. with the Easter story, games, and crafts.Pancake Breakfast served by the Youth in Trinity Café, 8-11 a.m. 100% of donations go to make youth missions possible!

Lent and Easter Season 2016

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Upcoming Events

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

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Our CongregationMilitary Ministry Care PackagesContributed by Clark Rheem, 720-837-7775

The Military Ministry Committee is thrilled to report that all 109 boxes that were shipped to Afghanistan before Christmas arrived on time and the recipients were very appreciative. We shipped 68 boxes to the Hazara girls orphanage and 41 boxes to the Special Operations troops. We will be shipping more boxes to our troops this spring, and the committee again wants to say to the congregation, “Thank you SO much for your generosity and your dedication to our troops.” Please continue to pray for their safety. If you have any questions about our ministry, please stop by our table in Fellowship Hall on the third Sunday of each month and talk to us. We would love to have you join us.

Trinity QuiltersContributed by Judy Woodring

We provide our prayer quilts to members and friends of Trinity who are experiencing a medical or family crisis as a way to provide comfort. The quilts are made at our monthly Saturday meetings or on our own at home. The names of potential recipients for our quilts come from Rev. Lee Anderson, Rev. Linda Marshall, or a prayer team member. After receiving the request, we display the quilt in Fellowship Hall. Trinity members stop by our table, say a silent prayer, and tie that prayer into the quilt. The quilt is then delivered to the recipient. When recipients wrap the quilt around themselves, they feel God’s arms around them and are comforted with all the prayers. We receive many messages of thanks from those receiving the quilts, expressing the peace and comfort they feel from the quilt. Trinity Quilters will meet on Saturday, February 13, with Cami Twilling sharing warm words from Guatemalan families that received our quilts from Trinity Youth on past mission trips. This year will mark our fourth quilt to be shared with a Guatemalan family. New members are always welcome. For more information, contact Sherry Valentic at sherryvalentic@netscape.net.

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

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

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

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Upcoming Events

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

Music & Arts

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Kathy Ives Retires as ECM Teacher

A surprise celebration in honor of Kathy Ives was held on Monday, January 11, as she retired as a long-time teacher for Trinity’s Early Childhood Music program. Joining in the celebration were current ECM staff, students, and families, as well as former students, families, and director Jackie Ives. In an announcement in the December ECM newsletter, Kathy shared this message with the families in the program:

For 15 years, I have had the joy and privilege of being part of Trinity’s Early Childhood Music staff, and now, with a heart full of emotion, I tell you that it is time for me take a new path and leave my position as ECM teacher. I have an opportunity to expand my role at Trinity as Administrative Assistant, while maintaining my position as Music Assistant. This increased workload and the changing needs of my family have led me to this decision. I am so grateful for the hundreds of magical Monday evenings spent sharing my love of music and playing piano with so many incredible children and their families, and learning so much from them in return. I have been blessed to be supported and nurtured under the leadership of current directors Carrie and Jeremy Nicholas and former director Jackie Ives. And I know that I have been extremely fortunate to work with such a caring, devoted and professional staff of teachers, including current teachers Valerie, Shelley, Justina, Sharon, Tanya, Carrie, and Julie.

Thank you for your colleagueship. It is all of these connections that make it especially difficult to say goodbye. My love goes with all of you as you continue your musical journey in this very special program…a haven where the JOY of God, the JOY of Family and the JOY of Music Making are truly experienced. Thank you for the JOY! I will treasure it always.

Come Sing (and Grow!) with UsContributed by Kathy Ives, massistants@trinityumc.org

Trinity’s Men’s and Women’s Choirs have been experiencing some recent growth and rejuvenation, and you are invited to come be a part of these thriving music ministries. Adult singers of all abilities are welcome. The Men’s Choir is led by Judith Mitchell and rehearses on select Wednesday evenings from 6:00–6:45 p.m. Under the direction of Phil Szajnuk, the Women’s Choir rehearses on select Sunday mornings from 9:30–10:15 a.m. Both choirs sing in worship for the 8:15 a.m. service once per month. For more information, please contact Judith at jmitchell@trinityumc.org or Phil at phil.szajnuk@gmail.com.

Music & ArtsDvorak’s Stabat Mater: Sunday, March 20Contributed by Judith Mitchell, jmitchell@trinityumc.org

On March 20, Palm/Passion Sunday, the Chancel Choir with soloists and orchestra will share Antonin Dvorak’s Stabat Mater. “The Mother stood grieving, Weeping beside the cross, While on it hung her Son.” In 1875, not long after completion of his Fifth Symphony, Antonin Dvorak and his wife lost their infant daughter Josefa, only two days old. Dvorak channeled his grief into music. Other things then took precedence, but in 1877, further tragedy brought him back to this work. Within a month their baby daughter died of accidental poisoning and their three-year-old son succumbed to smallpox. In his grief, the composer took up work on his sketches and completed the Stabat Mater in about two months. Affecting in its simplicity, sincerity, and heartfelt compassion, it is one of his most beautiful creations. Despite the recurring family tragedies that led to this work, the sunny side of Dvorak’s personality cannot help but shine through. It is a work of profound beauty. The great American choral conductor Robert Shaw chose to record it and it became the last music he would conduct in his lifetime. The Chancel Choir invites you to come and bring a friend to walk with us from Palm to Passion in one Sunday morning, March 20 at 8:15 or 11 a.m. Or find the recording of Robert Shaw conducting the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus and hear Robert Shaw’s own words about the piece that has been little performed in America. It will accompany you to the depths and lift you to new heights.

There will be a talk about the Stabat Mater in the Sanctuary on Sunday, March 13 at 9:30 a.m.

Staff Pick! Book RecommendationContributed by Judith Mitchell, jmitchell@trinityumc.org

I highly recommend Sanctuary by Terry Hershey. The subtitle is “Creating a Space for Grace in Your Life.” Terry was here at Trinity with his work, The Power of Pause: Becoming More By Doing Less. He has now extended that work to include this idea of personal haven, your soul’s shelter or your sanctuary. I think the idea of a personal sanctuary may be especially received by Trinity members, since we have been drawn by our amazing Sanctuary. I once heard that people who are drawn to Trinity have a special sensitivity to beauty and are thus called here. Now Terry Hershey expands our experience to our daily lives, not just our Sunday mornings. He asks, “Have you ever come back from a vacation only to feel more wiped out than before? Does the phrase ‘a little R&R’ sound like an unattainable dream, something you’ll ‘get around to’ one of these days? What do you do when you need to ‘just be’ for a while? The challenges of daily life take a toll in energy, time, and effort. And the space and rest we need to recuperate—physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually—is usually pushed to the back burner. What we need is sanctuary, a place and a space that allows us to reflect, rejuvenate, and restore.” Terry’s book not only defines what sanctuary is but why we need it, where we can find it, and how we can create it as space and habit. I attended the Spiritual Directors of Colorado retreat last month and heard Terry talk about these ideas. It was wonderful. I also invite you to come to A Creative Life Retreat that I will be leading on Saturday, February 13 here at Trinity from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. if you would like more help to create a space for grace in your life. The cost is $25.00, which all goes towards scholarships for Early Childhood Music families and Artist’s Way classes.

Our Congregation

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

We celebrate the lives of the following members of Trinity: Marian Pennington, who entered eternal life on November 17; Warren Watson, who entered eternal life on November 20, and we remember in prayer his parents Gretchen and Ronnie Watson, also Trinity members; Jim Groebe, who entered eternal life on December 16, and we remember in prayer his wife Martha; Nancy Colvin, who entered eternal life on December 19; Carol Addington, who entered eternal life on December 28; and Rodney Cummins, who entered eternal life on January 6, and we remember in prayer his wife Angie and daughter Marleigh. We remember those in our church family who lost loved ones: John Moore, in the death of his daughter Brenda; Sharilyn Baldwin, in the death of her mother; and Mike and Sharon Dent, in the death of Sharon’s mother, Melba.

Our Family Serving Overseas Please update your church family on your loved ones! Have any of those listed below returned home? How are you and your family faring? We keep in our prayers these brave men and women serving overseas in the armed forces, and their families:

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

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

Living with Loss WorkshopContributed by Rev. Lee Anderson

It is often difficult to talk about grief and loss. Many have questions about their own experience as well as how to be supportive to someone close who is grieving. Living with Loss is a workshop for grievers and supporters alike. Participants will learn about the grieving process and gain tools to manage their own grief or to support others as they journey through their grief process, and are invited—but not required—to share their personal experience. Led by Trinity’s Minister of Care Rev. Lee Anderson, this workshop is a supportive environment where participants can be part of a community of those traveling a similar journey. There is no fee to attend, but advance registration is requested. Childcare is available upon request. A light lunch is provided.

Date and Time: Saturday, March 12, 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at TrinityContact: Rev. Lee Anderson at landerson@trinityumc.org or 303-829-1493 x 11

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Our CongregationSearching for Sunday During Lent 2016Contributed by Rev. Linda Marshall, lmarshall@trinityumc.org

Beginning February 14, Trinity’s Adult Ministries Council will offer a wide range of small groups through the six weeks of Lent to explore the Lenten theme, Searching for Sunday. Using the book of the same title by Rachel Held Evans, the study will incorporate conversations around the sacraments (baptism, confession, communion, holy orders, confirmation, and anointing of the sick) and offer opportunities to understand and communicate our faith stories in real, relatable, and concrete ways. Register for a small group by visiting the Adult Ministries table in Trinity Café on Sunday mornings through February 7, or online at www.trinityumc.org/Lent2016. For a snapshot of this engaging Lenten series of sermons and small group discussion, check out Rachel’s website blog at http://rachelheldevans.com/blog/searching-for-sunday-reading-discussion-guide.

Lenten Devotional Book

Sunday Stories is the theme of the 2016 Trinity Lenten Devotional Book. Partnered with the Lenten sermon series and small groups, this devotional book is comprised of personal stories from Trinity members telling their experiences of Sundays and church. What is important to you about church? Who introduced you to the importance of worship…to the value of a faith community…to setting aside time to study and grow in faith? Devotional books will be available in the Sanctuary beginning February 10, on the Trinity website (www.trinityumc.org/Lent2016), and through the Trinity mobile app, downloadable for free from the iTunes and Google Play stores by searching for “Trinity UMC Denver.”

Dark Flannel Fabric Needed

The United Methodist Medical Clinic in Sierra Leone, Africa, is regularly in need of dark flannel fabric. Help Trinity member Judy Kane and her friend Jim Bouska with their significant outreach by bringing your contribution of dark flannel fabric to Trinity Café (Level 3) on Sunday mornings. Look for Judy with the sign that says “Sierra Leone Medical Clinic.” Thank you!

Trial of Miles, Miles of TrialsContributed by Brian Lee

Are you a runner? Do you ever think about the big stuff on a run and want a chance to share your musings with others? If so, a small group will be forming during the Easter season to explore endurance and faith, and participate in an exciting mission opportunity. If this sounds interesting to you, please contact me at brianlee9k@gmail.com.

Christian CareContributed by Rev. Lee Anderson, landerson@trinityumc.org

One of the blessings in my ministry is that I get to sit with people in their suffering. This surprises people when I say this. “Doesn’t it make you sad? Don’t you get weighed down?” some have asked. Yes, I do feel sad. My heart aches for people in their distress, and I often wish I could wave a magic wand to take their suffering away. But, something special happens in the moments when I can connect with someone. The Holy Spirit is truly found in between people, and this Spirit is uplifting and healing in ways that I can barely understand. It is a gift, and to be part of that is a blessing. This experience is available to all, and the ministry of presence with someone else who is suffering is a shared ministry of all Christians. One does not need to have advanced education or training, or be a pastor, to offer her or his presence. Presence goes farther than we often think. People have often expressed hesitation in reaching out to someone who is hurting because they don’t know what to say, or they feel they need to be able to fix the situation. However, when we recognize that there are no magic words or actions that can take it all away anyway, this eliminates some of the pressure. Think of the last time you were going through a challenging situation. You may have received nuggets of wisdom, sure…but what stood out the most? The words, or the fact that someone cared? At the same time, there are words that are unhelpful or even hurtful. Statements like “I know just how you feel,” “You’ll get over it soon,” “God needed him/her more than you did,” or “Let me tell you what you need to do” fall into the unhelpful category. These words may come from a place of care and concern; but, anyone who has experienced pain knows that the best medicine is to know you are not alone. You can honor the other person’s ability to manage their situation, and show your support, by simply listening. By showing up and opening ourselves to the Spirit, rather than being closed off to it because of our own anxieties or sense of inadequacy, we can allow for God’s healing and love. You are not Christ, but you can share Christ’s presence. This Christian love is no small thing. Sharing that love will transform you and bring something needed into the world.

Meet Your Ushers

Name: David SangerOccupation: Retired school library director currently teaching a couple of library classes at DUTrinity member since: 1967Trinity usher since: 1975What originally brought you to Trinity: Karen and I had grown up in the First Methodist Church in Cañon City, and we looked for a church that had the warm, family feel that we had enjoyed. Trinity met that need. When we decided to marry, Rev. Bob Paul married us at Trinity.How did you come to be an usher at Trinity: One of the ushers at the time, Heath Boone, asked me if I would be interested in helping out once in a while.What do you like most about being an usher: Greeting and visiting with so many members and visitors.What do you love about Trinity: Traditional worship with great music and message.What is your hope for Trinity’s future: A growing congregation and serving our community.

Care Ministry

Children’s Ministries

Spaghetti Fundraiser LunchContributed by Allison Watkins, awatkins@trinityumc.org

On Sunday, December 13, the Children and Family Council provided a delicious spaghetti lunch fundraiser for items for the newly remodeled children’s space on Level 2. We had grandparents, parents, and children joyfully decorating, cooking, serving, and visiting with our guests. Many people visited our Christmas Giving Tree and purchased items that they wanted to see in the new children’s space. Throughout the month of December, we received very generous monetary donations along with toys, puzzles, books, games, bean bags, and art supplies. The Children and Family Council is so very thankful for all the donations! With your donations we will be able to provide a welcoming and inviting place for Trinity’s children to grow in their faith and learn the stories of Jesus for years to come. It is with heartfelt gratitude and appreciation that we say “Thank you” for supporting the children of Trinity.

What’s Happening in Sunday School?Contributed by Allison Watkins

Each week we have Sunday School for children age 2 through 5th grade. Currently at 9:30 a.m., the children age 4 and up are learning the Parables of Jesus with Legos. The children hear the story and look up the scripture in their Bibles. Then the children get creative and build the story with Legos. They are free to use their imagination in retelling the story through their own creations. It’s a fun and different way to learn about the Bible and the life of Jesus. Many thanks to Trinity members who donated Legos to help with this curriculum.Starting February 14, the 9:30 classes will return to more traditional Sunday School lessons as we enter the season of Lent. During the 11 a.m. Second Session Sunday School, children are encouraged to attend the worship service with their parents and then come to class after the Children’s Message. We are studying the Deep Blue curriculum, which follows the church lectionary calendar. The children learn with video, music, crafts, games, cooking, and science experiments. Each Sunday we have fourteen teachers help in the classrooms. I appreciate each and every one as they bring their own special gifts, talents, and patience to help teach.

Upcoming Events As you plan the next few months and start signing up your children for spring and summer activities, please keep these fun upcoming events in mind:• Friday, February 26 – Parents’ Night Out, 6–8:30 p.m. A fun night for the kids at the church to play with

friends and have dinner, while parents can enjoy an evening out!• Sunday, March 20 – Palm Sunday. At both the 8:15 a.m. and 11 a.m. worship services, the children are

invited to meet in the back of the Sanctuary prior to the start of the service to join in the palm processional. Parents are welcome to process with their younger children.

• Sunday, March 27 – Easter Sunday Eggstravaganza. At 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., the children are invited downstairs to hear the Easter story, play games, and make crafts and Easter eggs.

• Sunday, May 29 – Games on the Green. This is a fun Sunday to celebrate the end of another school year and welcome the beginning of summer. We will meet outside on the Trinity Green at 9:30 and 11 a.m.

• June 20–24 – Vacation Bible School. An exciting week of Bible stories, games, snacks, crafts, science experiments, and making new friendships. This is always a special week for all who attend. We will end with a joyful celebration on Sunday, June 26 during the 11 a.m. worship service to share the highlights of the week with Trinity’s congregation.

Youth MinistriesContributed by Cami Twilling, ctwilling@trinityumc.org

Youth Sunday School Middle High Youth and Senior High Youth will gather in Room 117 on Level 1, then Senior High will move to their temporary space until the building construction has finished. All youths meet together on the third Sunday of each month for Burrito Breakfast Sunday. This is an awesome place just for you to explore your faith, ask questions, be yourself, and grow on your spiritual journey.

Youth Group:Middle School Youth Hang Time: Time and day change for our 6th–8th grade youth group. We now meet on the second and fourth Sunday of each month from 12:15–1:45 p.m. in the Youth Room. We play great games, dig deeper into our faith, encourage one another, and have awesome group-building time. Lunch is provided. Dates we meet: February 14 (to host the Primetimers Valentine Party 12–2 p.m.), February 28, March 13, and April 10

Senior High Youth: Senior High Sunday Nights (SHSN) is time just for 9th–12th grade youth. We will meet the second and fourth Sunday of each month from 4:30–6:30 p.m. in different youths’ homes for group building, deepening our spiritual journey, real discussions, and dinner together. A calendar of dates and hosts is available for youth in the Youth Room.Dates we meet: February 14 (to host the Primetimers Valentine Party 12–2 p.m.), February 28, March 13, and April 10

Winter Retreat: March 4–6, for youth in grades 6–12. Hang out with your friends, ski or snowboard, and grow in your faith on this exciting retreat! We will stay in Evergreen and spend Saturday at Loveland Ski Area. All registrations are due by February 7.

Denver Dive Middle High Mission is July 11–13, 2016: 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 Caring, and other service organizations. Registration forms are in a mailbox near you and available in the Youth Room.

Burrito Breakfast on Sunday, February 21: The Youth serve their famous burritos the third Sunday of each month in Trinity Café from 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. to help raise funds for the 2016 summer mission projects here in Denver and trips to Salt Lake City and Guatemala. Have breakfast with your Trinity friends and help make youth missions possible. Thank you for your support! Please note—burritos will not be served on March 20. Please join us for pancakes on Easter morning, March 27.

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Contemplative Spirituality You will find a quiet space where you can deepen your contemplative practice or learn for the first time what contemplative spirituality is and the impact it can have on your life. We will practice Centering Prayer as well as other prayer practices that invite us into a deeper place of listening for the ways in which God speaks within us. We’ll also explore the labyrinth and reflect on the teachings of the ancient and present-day mystics. Please come as you are. All are welcome.

Sunday mornings from 9:30–10:30 a.m. in Stiles Chapel. Please note, Sunday morning classes will begin again as space opens up after construction. Updates will be available in the weekly email.

Wednesday evenings from 7–8:30 p.m. in Room 107 (until Stiles Chapel is available in February). During the season of Lent, we will reflect on the wisdom of various teachers such as Thomas Merton, Simone Weil, St. Augustine, Paul Tillich, Soren Kierkegaard, and others each week as we look inward and open ourselves to the coming of Easter. We will begin with 30 minutes of Centering Prayer/meditation followed by reflection and listening deeply to one another.

Please contact Cami Twilling if you have any questions or would like more information on Contemplative Spirituality: 303-839-1493 x32 or ctwilling@trinityumc.org.

Contemplative CornerContributed by Cami Twilling, ctwilling@trinityumc.org

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Save the Date! School of Celtic Consciousness

School of Celtic Consciousness May 17–19, 2016 Join us for an experiential time of learning, prayer, and chant rooted in the Celtic vision with acclaimed Scottish teacher, Rev. Dr. John Philip Newell, at the beautiful YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park. This will be the first gathering of an annual event to nurture a community of shared vision and spiritual practice for transformation in our lives and world. Teaching will focus on the “Spring Source” that rises within all things. Practices will concentrate on sustainable contemplative disciplines for individual well-being and collective healing. Our daily schedule will consist of prayer at the beginning and ending of each day, presentations by John Philip focusing especially on teachings from the Celtic tradition, followed by meditative practices, silence, and sharing. Meals will be shared in common and there will be free time to hike and rest, as well as a party on the last evening to celebrate our time together. Located near Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park, The YMCA of the Rockies is a peaceful retreat center nestled between breathtaking mountain views. The event will be held in two large, modern cabins with plenty of space indoors and outdoors for quiet reflection and space to converse with old and new friends.Register at www.heartbeatjourney.org. Questions? Contact Ben Lindwall at 888-310-7770 or ben@heartbeatjourney.org.

United Methodist WomenContributed by Lois cochran, 303-934-8838Farewell 2015 At the November UMW annual meeting, Nita DiPierro was awarded Special Mission Recognition for her work organizing, purchasing supplies, and recruiting help for the many receptions that UMW has served. Over 60 people enjoyed Christmas tea at the Brown Palace Hotel on December 5 hosted by Trinity United Methodist Women. A free-will offering was collected for Trinity’s Military Ministry and the Christmas gift boxes that were sent to deployed troops and the orphanage they support. The highlight of the UMW Christmas party December 8 was a “white elephant” gift exchange following a delicious potluck supper. Gifts ranged from funny to yummy to useful. What one person doesn’t want to keep may be treasured by someone else. The night’s offering was given to Trinity’s Youth Ministry to support their summer mission trips.

A New UMW for the New Year The Leadership Team met in early January to set goals and plan programs for the coming year. This year is designated by TUMW as “The Year of Appreciation” to show our appreciation for all the organizations and people at Trinity who bless our lives. In appreciation for the Children’s Ministry, we purchased library center furniture and books for the children’s new Sunday School room. We plan to hold four bake sales this year with proceeds going to a different mission each time. Three are Trinity missions: youth, military, and Early Response Team. The first bake sale proceeds will go to UMCOR disaster relief. Our regular meetings in March, May, and the fall will be special programs and different groups within the church will be invited in addition to other visitors. We will expand our school supply collection project to include a local school. Other local hands-on projects are also being planned and some will involve working with other groups within the church. Two new “special interest groups” are being started this year: 1. The UMW Reading Program group for those who want to participate in the UMW Reading Program. We will meet five times during the year. Each meeting will focus on one of the five categories in the Reading Program: Education for Mission, Leadership Development, Nurturing for Community, Social Action, and Spiritual Growth. Contact: Lois Cochran (303-934-8838, lcochran@centurylink.net).2. “Operation: Save Our Slaves (SOS)” to raise awareness and advocate about human trafficking, especially as it concerns sex trafficking of children and young women. Contact: Mber Rose Love (720-364-9066, mberteach@yahoo.com).

Calendar: All ladies are invited to participate in any or all of the UMW activities and projects.February 9: Book Circle: 10 a.m. at home of Bonnie Bingham, 6952 W. 87tth Way # 261, Arvada. Kathy Gibb will lead a discussion of I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai.February 9: Human Trafficking Task Force of Southern CO: 5:30–7:00 p.m. 1st UMC, 410 N. Nevada, Colorado Springs.February 10: Deborah Circle: 12:30 p.m. at Piccolo Restaurant, program by Trinity’s new Church Administrator Angela Thomas. Reservations to Julie Gladney, jgladney@trinityumc.org.

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Calendar: continuedFebruary 13: Operation: SOS, 5:00 p.m., Performance of “The Vagina Monologues” at Jefferson Co. Open School, 7655 W. 10th Ave., followed by dinner at Panera Bread, 650 S. Wadsworth Blvd.February 21: Miriam Circle: 12:30 p.m. in the Heritage Room, program by Diane Kurniawan based on 2 Timothy 1:7.February 22: Leadership Team: 6:15 p.m. at Trinity.February 24: Reading Program interest group: 2:00 p.m. at home of Lois Cochran, 680 S. Canosa Ct., Denver. Discussion of books from “Education for Mission” category.February 25: Human Trafficking Advocacy Day – join with other advocates at the Capitol to effect change in the laws concerning human trafficking. March 8: Book Circle: 10 a.m. at home of Sue Dunn, 750 Jersey St., Denver, Clare Whitney will lead a discussion of The Painter by Peter Heller.March 8: “Fascinating Flowers”: 6:15 p.m. Fellowship Hall, A hands-on night with Trinity’s Caring Blossoms Ministry. Come learn the art and joy of arranging flowers. Belinda Schrag will be our guide and you will go home with two arrangements. Cost is $7. Reservations required—sign up by calling or emailing the church office (303-839-1493, info@trinityumc.org). Scholarships are available. Please bring an appetizer to share.March 13: Miriam Circle: 12:30 p.m. in the Heritage Room, Program by Audrey Willis. “Grandmother Lived Green – So Can You.”April 1–4: Rocky Mountain Conference Spiritual Life Retreat at YMCA of the Rockies at Estes ParkApril 9: Metropolitan District Spiritual Day Apart at Mother Cabrini Shrine

United Methodist WomenContinued...

Help Us End Sex Trafficking in ColoradoContributed by Mber Rose Love

Did you know that there are 27 million slaves in the world, more than ever before in human history? The majority of them, 21 million people, mostly women and children, are forced to make a living in the sex industry across the world. This is absolutely unbelievable and unac-ceptable to me. However, the most outrageous part of this is that 200,000 are children under the age of 18, working in AMERICA! These are our children who are often kid-napped, stolen, and the last we see of them is often their pictures on milk cartons. This horrific crime is in our back-yards, at our schools, truck stops, and everywhere. That’s why I want to do everything I can to stop this. I am asking you to join me at Trinity on Sunday, February 7, 12:15–1:00 p.m. for an informational meeting to explore ways that we might respond to this social injustice.Please contact me by text at 720-364-9066 or at mberteach@yahoo.com.

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A Look BackTrinity’s Early Response Team Breakfast Fundraiser

Trinity ERT members treated the Trinity congregation to a delicious breakfast on January 10 to raise funds. The ERT provides a caring Christian presence in the aftermath of disasters in our area, working closely with those affected by recent fires and floods.

Denver’s Organist-Clergy Banquet Warms Up a Monday Night in JanuaryContributed by Kathy Dunnewald

Organists and clergy from churches throughout Denver came together at Trinity to celebrate and play music you won’t necessarily hear in church on a Sunday! Our own Principal Organist, Norman Sutphin, orga-nized and hosted the event for the American Guild of Organists, Denver Chapter, for which Norm serves as Sub-Dean. Trinity members Myrt Dorroh, Sharon Mirabella, and team catered a delicious dinner in the Café, featuring pork tenderloin and vegetable lasagna. And for dessert? To go with the meringue chocolates and fruit, a splendid one-hour recital in our sanctuary, featuring Trinity’s Brass Ensemble and organists from all over Denver! The marvelous repertoire was all over the map, too! Pieces ranged from Henry Purcell’s Sonata in D for Trumpet and Organ, Z.850, to Swedish folk music from Oskar Lindberg, to the humor of P.D.Q. Bach’s Toot Suite, S212!

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Photos, clockwise from top: Page Whitesides preparing bacon. Kathy Whitesides, Bob and Myrt Dorroh making muffins. Don “Sarge” Connors cooking eggs. Serving line: Donna Ralston, Heidi Roque, Bob Dorroh, Jim Utzinger. Sandra Sunseri and Debi Padilla at the condiment table.

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

303-839-1493 | 303-839-1901 fax | info@trinityumc.orgwww.trinityumc.org

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