Weekly Newsletter - 2/4/21
Trinity Presbyterian Church PC(U.S.A.)
Welcoming you to share the joy of Christ
Worshiping Together | Serving Together | Caring Together
February 4, 2021
From Pastor Chris
While it seems that we just wrapped up Christmas, the season of Lent is just a couple weeks away. We've been hard at work preparing for some special events and activities as we near this season of preparation for Easter, and I want to highlight a few items. More details on all of this will be coming next week as well.
We will be holding a mid-week prayer service on Wednesday evenings at 6:00 p.m. This service will be a live, online service of prayer, liturgy, and music. Details on how you can participate will be shared next week.
I will also be leading a Lent Study Group on Thursdays. If you're interested, please fill out a quick two question survey to help me choose between two possible study topics and select a preferred time to meet. CLICK HERE to complete the survey. The deadline to complete the survey is Monday, February 8.
Finally, please remember that our next Curbside Food Drive is coming up THIS MONDAY, February 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. It is our celebration of "Souper Bowl 2021" - so bring along your donations of canned soup (or any other non-perishable, non-expired food) to help our ministry partners at Crosslines.
We've got more exciting things in the works, so make sure to check back next week for more details!
Peace,
Pastor Chris
2020 Statements of Giving
The 2020 Statements of Giving are being prepared and mailed to all families who gave to Trinity during 2020. Please review your statement when received. If you see any errors or have questions regarding your 2020 giving, please contact Steve Kane, Treasurer, at StephenKaneSGF@aol.com or 417.773.5584. Thanks to all who have so generously supported Trinity.
Volunteer Opportunity: Brentwood Emergency Cold Weather Shelter
Throughout the pandemic, Trinity has been working to help meet the emerging needs of our community. One of the most pressing needs is emergency shelter for those without a safe place to stay at night. Our facility partners at Brentwood have just received authorization to open our Fellowship Hall as an Emergency Cold Weather Couple's Shelter. This is especially important, as shelter space for couples is almost non-existent.
While we are working with Brentwood to identify specific additional needs beyond space, there is one pressing need: volunteers. There are two shifts per night (5.5 hours each), with two volunteers needed per shift. Volunteers are only used on nights when the temperature drops below the threshold set by the city to activate the shelters, but we are hoping to have volunteers lined up in advance for all nights just in case.
You can sign up online by CLICKING HERE, OR contact Pastor Emily with Brentwood to get more information. Her email address is: rev.emily.bowen@gmail.com
Carla's Corner
This Sunday is Super Bowl Sunday! I didn't really grow up with football......I was raised in Pleasant Hope and we didn't have a football team. My mom is really funny when she talks about football; "Well, you have a bunch of guys and they try to clobber whoever has the ball and after they clobber him, they get up and do it again until somebody reaches the other side of the field." Because my husband has a love of the game, I've grown to love it myself. But do you know what I really love? I really love that we sit down and watch it together. Before Tim, I only watched one football game a year and that was the Super Bowl. But it wasn't the Super Bowl I was interested in but everything attached to it: getting together with some friends, the food, the spirit of the entire thing, and we can't forget the commercials! So, why in the world am I writing about football in my church newsletter article? Well, my experience with football reminds me a bit of some people's experience with church. Sometimes people are drawn to churches for reasons that have nothing to do with understanding the faith behind the church. Some go to church because they enjoy the people and the sense of community, and some love the programming- whether for kids or adults: VBS, book clubs, Circles, mission work, Bible studies, retreats, and more. Some go because of tradition, family expectation or obligation, and the list goes on. But then, as we become more involved, we start learning more about the faith and about the LOVE (GOD) that started all of this in the first place. That is what I want Trinity to be about and what it has been about for me. God's love.....no matter who you are, how much you know about being a Presbyterian or any other denomination, what your race, nationality, creed or political party........God's love is the foundation of what I believe in and I believe it to be alive and well at our Trinity. My hope is you feel the same way, because the main thing that has drawn me to Trinity is love and the people. You!
Good-Bye's Aren't Always Sad
Last Sunday, youth Pastor Reed spoke about saying Good-bye and how it doesn't always have to be a sad thing. I got to thinking about that. During this pandemic we have lost a lot of people. It's been heartbreaking. When I speak to my mom about this, she doesn't use the term "dying," she talks about making a transition. She sometimes will say, "When I make my transition." I like that. It's as if my mom is planning on moving to something better, exciting, different.......and I don't get as sad thinking about her not being here on the planet with me. As I am starting my 2nd year in my full-time position at Trinity, I find myself saying good-bye to some people I have worked with on committees and hello to new members. I think about how I'll miss seeing those people who are no longer serving, but I am also excited to get to know the new folks from Trinity who are serving. And the cool thing is, those going off of committees are just "transitioning" to something else. I know they'll be there if we need them, their advice, and their experience. So, no need to feel sad.........we're all transitioning one way or the other and that's a good thing!
Youth Sunday School
Last Sunday was Pastor Chris's first Sunday teaching our youth. I sneaked in on the zoom call after my SALT class to check it out. He's great with the youth! I saw smiles and heard great conversation. I also was wanting to actually "see" some of our youth........this not getting together is a bummer! I'm sick of it. However, I know we are getting closer to warmer weather and, when we'll be able to gather outside again, we are going to have a big bonfire at my house and a LOT of fun! But in the meantime, I might be sneaking into the youth Sunday school classes with Pastor Chris from time to time. He has graciously volunteered to teach for the month of February. Right now our CE and Personnel committees are in discussion about Youth Sunday school and replacing Reed Dressler. If you, my Trinity family, have any ideas or opinions, please email or call me and let me know!
Valentine's Bags for our Trinity Kids: Would you like to include something?
If you haven't figured it out by now, I love to drop off bags for our kiddos on special occasions. Well, yes, Valentine's Day is coming up and I'm preparing Valentine's bags. Since Valentine's day is all about professing and showing our love with a card, small gift, etc, I was wondering if any of you would like to include something in the bags for our kiddos? If so, I make 27 bags. If you have anything you would like me to stick in there you can drop it off at the curb-side food drive this Monday, or anytime at church. (Make sure you label it for Carla or Trinity Kids.) I will be putting the bags together on the Feb. 13 and then delivering them on February 14. I'd love to include something from you if this is something you are interested in!
February Trinity Kids Birthdays
Here are our birthday kids for the month of February, just in case you want to help celebrate! I take all of our kids a birthday bag on their birthday, but I'm sure they would also love any cards or well-wishes from you!
Emmett Douglas, February 7
Ansley Arquitt, February 11
Connor Holliday, February 13
Trinity Book Club
Do you love to read? Do you ever want to discuss books you have read? Do you need recommendations for future reading material? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, you may enjoy the Trinity Book Club which meets (via Zoom for now) on the second Monday at 7:00.
Upcoming books:
February 8–The Only Woman in the Room by Marie Benedict
March 8-Say Nothing by Patrick Radden Keefe
If you are interested, contact Penni Groves at pennimarie@msn.com or 417-840-5264
The Common Table Podcast
Each week Pastor Chris is joined by a guest to discuss life, faith, and where we are on the journey. From Trinity members and staff to local ministry leaders and community members, there's always room at The Common Table! Listen and learn more at: https://commontablepodcast.com
COVID Vaccine Information from the Springfield-Greene County Health Department
As vaccination distribution efforts continue in our community and across Missouri, the Springfield-Greene County Health Department is encouraged by the ongoing community efforts to vaccinate eligible individuals against COVID-19. Although vaccine is extremely limited in Missouri, community and state partners have continued to solidify plans to distribute vaccine as efficiently as possible as supply has become available.
Mass vaccination opportunities to come
The governor’s office announced this week that mass COVID-19 vaccination sites will soon be established across the state to provide further access to eligible Missourians. The Missouri National Guard and Department of Health and Senior Services will establish mass vaccination teams in each of Missouri’s nine Highway Patrol regions. While we do not know when a mass vaccination site will be set up in our region, the governor’s office expects all nine sites across the state will be operational by the end of January. Each site will have the capacity to provide up to 2,500 doses per day. The governor’s office will announce dates and locations at a later time.
Health care vaccine opportunities
The COVID-19 vaccines are currently available to people who are eligible in the state’s current phases of vaccine distribution, but are in limited supply. Eligible groups include: healthcare workers, first responders, emergency service workers and certain high-risk individuals. Most people will receive the vaccine from their healthcare providers. You can sign up to receive updates at the links below.
Mercy: mercy.net/MOvaccine
CoxHealth: coxhealth.com/covid/vaccine
Jordan Valley Community Health Center: jordanvalley.org/covid-19-vaccine
Continuing to stay vigilant
Until there is a sufficient supply of vaccine available for everyone, our community will remain vulnerable. Individuals need to continue to wear a mask, watch their distance, wash their hands and avoid large crowds even if they receive the vaccine. If an individual has been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or if they have symptoms, it’s important for them to seek testing. Our community has worked hard to expand access, and we are confident in our ability to test people who need to be tested. To learn more on how to get tested, visit our testing information here.
Staying up-to-date
The health department is committed to keeping our community informed on vaccine distribution. There are several ways individuals can stay informed and up-to-date on the latest developments:
Sign up for regular email, text messages and automated phone calls at health.springfieldmo.gov/FinishStrong. There you can also sign a pledge to keep up prevention efforts.
Visit health.springfieldmo.gov/COVIDvaccine for information on vaccine safety and availability, as well as Frequently Asked Questions.
For questions not answered on our website, please call our COVID-19 call center Monday-Friday, 8 am to 5 pm at 417-874-1211. Selection Option 2.
Sign up to receive our news releases by using the Notify Me tool on our website.
Follow our social media accounts at facebook.com/SGCHD and twitter.com/SGCHD
Worship With Trinity
Even though the pandemic means we aren't gathered together in the same physical space, we are still worshiping together at a church family. Find our latest worship service, plus weekly resources for families, devotional links, and much more on our worship page.
https://trinityspringfieldpcusa.org/worship
February Birthdays at Trinity
Take a moment to say a prayer of thanks for these members of our Trinity family this month
Feb 4 Daphne Anderson
Feb 7 Emmett Douglas
Feb 11 Ansley Arquitt
Feb 13 Ronora Correll
Connor Holliday
Feb 14 Barbara Highley
Feb 15 Reed Dressler
Feb 17 Brenda Williams
Feb 19 Caleb Conaway
Joshua Conaway
Pamela Schlemmer
Feb 23 Sarah Gugliotta
Feb 24 Cynthia Oliver
Feb 27 Betty Forrester
Susan Uffmann
If you would like to be included in our birthday list, please be sure to update your records with the church office before your birthday occurs. You may call or email your information.
Remaining Connected During Social Distancing
Even though we aren’t together for in-person worship, there is still a lot happening with your Trinity family right now. To see the latest, and how you can get involved in safe ways, visit our News & Updates page on the church website: https://trinityspringfieldpcusa.org/news
Sunday School Classes
Topical Discussions Fellowship:
January 3: Class sharing and discussion-all members.
Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations by United Methodist Pastor and Bishop, Robert Schnase.
Jim Stewart will teach and facilitate these classes, enriched with scripture and thoughtful discussion questions.
January 10: Radical Hospitality
January 17: Passionate Worship
January 24: Intentional Faith Development
January 31: Risk-Taking Mission and Service
February 7: Extravagant Generosity
We encourage anyone who doesn’t have a Sunday school home to join us for fellowship, discussion, and new insights into our faith. Furthermore, with our Zoom format for a little bit longer, the coffee will always be ‘just the way you like it’.
The Lectionary Class meets via Zoom at 9:30 a.m. on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month.
The Salt and Topical Discussion Classes meet via Zoom from 10:15 - 11:15 a.m. on Sunday mornings.
Resources
Contacting Pastor Chris
I want to be the best support I can for you. Here is how to get in touch:
The easiest way is by email: cmiller@trinityspringfieldpcusa.org
I am also available by phone or text at 816.805.2742
I am in the office most days, Monday through Thursday. I am currently holding personal meetings / counseling sessions outside under the covered Trinity entrance. Call or email to schedule a time for us to meet.
NOTE ABOUT FRIDAYS: I take Friday as my Sabbath day to focus on my family. I try to not reply to email, phone, or text. However, if there is an urgent pastoral issue, please contact Deacon Sharon Marsh at 417.880.5988/smarsh43@icloud.com or Deacon Greg Redfern at 417.225.2435/jredfern1313@gmail.com and they will make any necessary arrangements. If you have an immediate need to speak with a pastor and it is a Friday or Chris isn’t in town, you may call Rev. Bill Havens at 417.350.4507.
Prayer Concerns
If you or someone you love want to be included on the prayer list, please let the office know. (Always get permission before submitting information.) Also, when you want your name removed from the prayer list (or an update added), please let the office know at 417-450-2544 or office@trinityspringfieldpcusa.org.
David Anderson is home and doing well. Thank you all for your prayers.
For Jeanne, Mary Erin Miller's mother, as she continues treatment and evaluation for pancreatic cancer.
For Teresa Olsen's brother, Craig, who lives in a care facility and has been diagnosed with Covid-19.
For friends of David and Susan Hart who have been diagnosed with cancer.
Brenda Havens continues to face health challenges and appreciates your continued prayers.
For Lori Becker as she undergoes medical care.
For Chris Plate and his family, as he continues medical treatment.
For Charlotte Dugan, as she receives medical care.
QUICK NOTES
TRINITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (U.S.A.)
P.O. Box 3486, Springfield, MO 65808-3486 | 1900 E. Barataria Street | 417-450-2544 | office@trinityspringfieldpcusa.org
Brentwood Wi-Fi Information
WIFI password: (all lower case) bccccb1960
Learn more about Trinity Presbyterian Church at http://TrinitySpringfieldPCUSA.org
Be sure to follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/trinitypcusaspmo/
Learn more about the denomination at http://www.pcusa.org
If you would like to receive the Trinity Presbyterian Church newsletter every week, you can sign up here.
Have something to add to our newsletter? Please send submissions to David Bohnenkamper at dabohnenkamper@gmail.com by Monday at 6:00 p.m.
