Trinity News for the week of March 6, 2022
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Letter from Governance. Announcements. Rev Blair Odney. Doers News.

Trinity United Church Port Coquitlam
Trinity News for the week of March 6, 2022
Letter from our Governance Team

Letter from our Governance Team

To a church in social isolation

Hello Trinity Church congregation,

We share a letter from Tressa Brotsky
Communications Pacific Mountain Regional Council
Published On: February 28, 2022

News reports of the invasion of Ukraine stir both our hearts and our conscience. As people of faith, The United Church of Canada holds in prayer all those facing fear and violence and seeks the immediate cessation of war. We think of those in the direct line of fire, particularly already marginalized people who are so vulnerable to the devastation of ongoing conflict. We are also deeply concerned for Ukrainian members within our communities of faith and Ukrainian communities across our land―our neighbours―in constant worry for family and friends.

We invite our communities of faith to continue to hold the people of the region in prayer.

A Prayer for Ukraine

Lord God,
We ask you to hold the people of Ukraine deep in your heart.
Protect them, we pray;
from violence,
from political gamesmanship,
from being used and abused.
Give, we pray,
the nations of the world the courage
and the wisdom
to stand up for justice
and the courage too,
to dare to care―generously.
Lord, in your mercy,
take from us all
the tendencies in us
that seek to lord it over others:
take from us those traits
that see us pursuing our own needs and wants
before those of others.
Teach us how to live in love
and dignity
and respect―following your example.
In your name and for your sake,
Amen

―Issued by Lord Wallace, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, and the Very Rev. Dr. Susan Brown, convener of the Faith Impact Forum, Church of Scotland

Please see in our announcement page links below to other Pacific Mountain resources relating to the concerns for Ukraine.

The One-Day Thrift Sale on Feb 26 in the church hall was a day to celebrate. Thank you to the United Church women and supporters for all the time and work that made this day happen!

This Sunday our church service will be a Hybrid one, in the sanctuary wearing masks, live on ZOOM and recorded to YouTube. Thank you to all that have helped make this become a reality! While excited to be back at the church building, we remember the pandemic is still with us, so please: distance yourselves, wear your mask, and respect  others.

Such a special way to begin Lent. 

God’s blessings from the Governance team,
Judi Carroll, Robert Nicolson, Wendy Squires, Rev. David Cathcart, Pat McCann, and Syd Sawyer

 

 

The week of March 6, 2022

The week of March 6, 2022

Announcements

 
 
Hybrid Worship on Sunday, March 6, 2022 SUNDAY at 10:30 am: Rev David will lead our worship at 10:30 am on ZOOM and in-person. To join the ZOOM Meeting, CLICK HERE to "log on" on Sunday morning or dial 778-907-2071 to participate by phone. We will send out an email with all the ZOOM information on Sunday morning as well.
 
Lent 1, March 6, 2022, will be our first "In-Person" worship service: We are excited to welcome the Trinity congregation back to in-person worship this Sunday! We will still be asking people to wear their masks and to observe distancing (no handshaking or hugging without sanitizer). Folks can sing behind their masks and we will be collecting offering as you enter and as you leave only. We will not be checking for vaccination status (and so keeping our numbers under 50 percent of sanctuary capacity, about 145 people). There will be no coffee hour following the service for the time being, but we encourage you to meet up in the parking lot to chat following the service! For folks not yet feeling safe to come to in-person services, the ZOOM invitation and room will still be open for you to participate in the service from home.
 
Concern for Ukrainian Communities: The United Church of Canada has created a webpage with information on ways United Church people can express solidarity with Ukrainian neighbours, including a letter template, CLICK HERE. We also know that while reporting on this invasion, white supremist commentary is coming from mainline news outlets around the globe, and there are alarming reports of Black and Brown people being discriminated against whilst trying to flee. To root down into our denominational call for justice and equality, read our United Church of Canada's Anti-racism statement (CLICK HERE), and a powerful post titled Twelve Steps toward Ending White Supremacy (CLICK HERE). Perhaps both may be part of personal practices this Lent, in our collective, ongoing work to dismantle white supremacy.
 
One Day's Pay Project: During the Lenten season, we, at Trinity, have challenged ourselves to set aside One Day's Pay as a Lenten gift. Each person, family or group can participate. During this 40 day season of reflection One Day's Pay can be an opportunity for the spiritual practice of giving. Monies raised will be put to the support of Trinity United's mission in our community.
 
World Day of Prayer: Today, Friday, March 4. This year the writer country is England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The theme for 2022 is "I Know the Plans I have for You" (Jeremiah 29:11) World Day of Prayer is a time for "informed prayer and prayerful action". This year, due to Covid, we are encouraged to participate in World Day of Prayer virtual service video. On March 4, CLICK HERE, to watch the 2022 service.
 
"Palm Parade Sunday": in preparation for Palm Sunday please take a picture of yourself and family waiving a "palm branch." The "palm branch" can be anything from a fern leaf, a spruce, or cedar bough, or a green streamer! Send the picture to revcathcart@gmail.com. The pictures will be compiled into a "Palm Parade"video for Palm Sunday. Deadline: April 3, 2022.
 
Mission & Service Report 2021: Congratulations! Thank you! Trinity people have again met their stated M&S goal and surpassed it. At the Ginancial Planning meeting for 2021, we set a gaol of $10,000 for Trinity's contribution to Mission & Service. In 2021 we gav $12,085.85 to M&S--WOW! This generosity is greatly appreciated. Respectfully submitted, Joy Galea, Mission & Service Enthusiast.
 
Trinity Prayer Circle: We have two prayer circles set up to receive and act on your prayer requests. Please refer prayer requests to Linda Lund (778-883-3064/linda.lund60@gmail.com).
 
Trinity + Worship: Missed the Ash Wednesday Gathering? Check out the Ash Wednesday service presented by Rev David this week CLICK HERE , streamed on our YouTube Channel this past Wed, Mar 2 .
 
Prayers of the People: March 6 - 12, 2022
In the Ecumenical Prayer Cycle of the World Council of Churches this week, we pray for the peoples of  Ireland; United Kingdom: England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. CLICK HERE to find out more about this part of the world and the ecumenical prayer cycle. In our own Pacific Mountain Region of the United Church of Canada, on this First Sunday of Lent, we join in prayers for this journey.
 
Healing Pathways: We are offering distance healing during those times or whenever convenient for both practitioner and receiver. Contact Linda Lund (778-883-3064/linda.lund60@gmail.com). We may not connect "Hand to Hand," we must deepen our practice of connecting "Heart to Heart".
 

Celtic Spirituality (Online): Starting March 8, Tuesdays, 7:00 to 9:00 pm, $80 for all 4 classes (March 8, 15, 22, 29). Facilitator:  Rev. Sue Rodgers. Learn how the Celts looked to nature as the first book of revelation. Be introduced to Celtic practices, wisdoms, and traditions. Sue will engage us in story, poetry, music, writing exercises, contemplative practices, and discussion about how we might adapt insight from the Celts into our everyday life. CLICK HERE to register.

Bible Crossword Puzzles: Here's the link to a fresh, new crossword puzzle with a Christian theme. God bless whoever keeps making these every week, it is remarkable! CLICK HERE to see this week's puzzle, which you can fill in on the webpage or print out to fill in at home!
 
This week's prayer roster:

March 6
Julia Livingstone
Diana Koo-Davies
Fran Lahaye
Margaret Bennett
Linda Lund

March 7
Bobby and Goomtie Raghoobarsingh
Mary and Bob Karyula
Wendy and Dave Squires
Ross and Sandra Dunning
Harvey Loucks

March 8
Derek, Courtney and Taber Kootte
Megan Rankin
Judy Johnson
Wayne, Anne, Charlotte, Rebecca and Emily Moughtin
Eve Teubert

March 9
Olina Swinton
Pat and John McCann
Gloria Nystrom
Elaine Stead
Maureen Adams

March 10
Patrick and Natasha Bandet
Ann Blue
Janis Drozdiak
Laura Drozdiak

March 11
Trudy Espiritu
Josephine Forster
Lyn Hardman
Yonette Harrod

March 12
Paul and Barb Kopacek
Bev Lohm
Gail Shaw
Judi White
Jen Yang

Pastoral Letter from Blair Odney

Pastoral Letter from Blair Odney

Regarding the war in Ukraine

FEBRUARY 25, 2022

Dear Friends of the Pacific Mountain Regional Council,

Greetings to all of you in the name of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, the one we invite to live within us through faith, and in whose footsteps we try to follow.  I write to you in deep sadness over the events of the past week in the Ukraine. And in this moment, I invite you into a time of reflection.

It is inconceivable to me that in these most modern of times, we are witnessing invasion and war, to achieve singular political gain, construed to be a viable choice; that people still believe violence is a justifiable way to solve complex social and political issues.  In one hand we hold the undeniable truth that violence is not God’s way.  And in the other hand, we witness violence and acts of aggression – both large and small – every day of our lives.

As you take a minute to imagine these two realities in your hands, sitting in front of whatever device you read this from, we recognize that the scales of justice are in our hands.  In one hand, the peace that surpasses all understanding not just for you, but for everyone.  In the other hand, violence and acts of aggression, we see and/or unwittingly participate in.

This happens when we fail to see each other’s humanity, each other’s right to the fullness of life Christ speaks of in the gospel of John.  From where I sit, that is what is happening in the Ukraine right now.  The failure of one to see and recognize the other. And while this affects us all, none so much so as those in the direct line of fire, fleeing from homes and safety to God only knows where.  And whether we’re in disagreement about vaccine protocols and leadership capacities, pro-life or pro-choice, matters of reconciliation and right relationship, the minute we fail to see someone else’s humanity, the easier it is to dehumanize them.

On your behalf, in words barely adequate for the time, I have written to the Father Mykhailo from Holy Eucharist (Ukrainian) Cathedral in New Westminster expressing our sadness and solidarity.  And I know you are expressing your own words of love and support to those in the Ukrainian communities where you live and serve.  That’s what we do.

Let’s also recognize that the way of peace takes practice right here at home, deep within each of us.  Peter Short’s words are present for me in this moment:  “Behind every pair of eyes is a soul at work.”  Even those with whom we most disagree.  Our common humanity is our common ground.

May be the peace of Christ be with you in the troubling days ahead.

Rev. S. Blair Odney

DOERS virtual meeting

DOERS virtual meeting

Notes from ZOOM meeting Feb 16, 2022

Doers Zoom Meeting – Feb.16, 2022

This virtual meeting was attended by 20 Trinity-ites.  Irene McKinney welcomed everyone to the meeting and read an Acknowledgement of the Territory.  The meeting was hosted by Joy Galea.  Rev. David presented opening and closing worship.
Financial Report:
-    The opening balance for Jan. in our operating account was $33,602.  Our income for Jan. was $18,456 and the expenses were $18,693.  Closing balance for Jan is $33,365.

Governance Team Update:
-    Fundraising ideas are being considered.  The Governance team knows that these are short term fixes in our long range financial situation.
-    The Governance team sees Trinity as a partner in the community through our actions and future plans and realizes that now is the time we can envision a future for ourselves as we come out of our isolation.
-    Rev. David, Robert, Judi & Syd will all be attending a year long, once a month workshop through leadership called “From Decision making to Discernment”.  We expect this will help the Trinity congregation envision a future.
-    Judi Carroll will step into a past chair position on Governance at the congregational meeting in June, 2022.  Syd Sawyer will step out of Governance to give more time to Doers.
-    Governance team thanks the Doers for all the behind the scene work that goes into keeping Trinity United Church congregation and It’s building together.

General Items:
Fundraising Ideas brought forward:
-    The application for using the Church as a movie site has been filled out and pictures will be taken in the next couple of weeks to attach to this application.  Thanks to Ross and Dave for this work.  They would still like to have someone come forward to help out as needed, at times they  may not be available..  Ross noted there could be tax implications, as non profits are only allowed at this time to make approx. $22,500 per year.  This would be looked into further if this process was to move ahead.
-    Buy A Brick –We would need a diagram of the church bldg., which would then be divided into  bricks and these bricks would be sold at an agreed upon price.  This has been done in the past and was quite successful.
-    Chapter Gift Cards – possibly a Christmas fundraiser?
-    Find new tenants/partners.   Increase membership.
-    Paper shredding.

We know within Trinity there are always a lot of people willing to help when needed, but in order to carry out any of these fundraising ideas we need members to please step forward (2-3) who would take on organizing an event. The helpers will surely follow behind to make any event successful.  

A reading from the King James version of the bible:  James 1: Verse 22. “ Be ye doers of the word – not hearers only”

Please continue to bring forward any fundraising ideas you may hear about, no matter how big or small!

Sister Church Relationships:
-    We have had for a number of years a relationship with two churches.  One was Wesley Broadway in New Zealand and Kappa United Church of Christ in Kauai, Hawaii.  Win Fleming was our liaison with the church in New Zealand and as there has been no contact with anyone associated with this Church, we have decided to discontinue the relationship at this time.
-    Ross & Sandra Dunning will continue to connect and correspond with the Kappa United Church in Kauai.
                  
Nominating:
-     Beth Anderson is looking for two people to help her with this important job.  At this time, we are aware of the Co-chairs stepping down from Governance and these positions will need to be filled.  Please contact Beth if you are willing to give her a hand in this search.

Stewardship:
-    The goal from Trinity to M&S for 2021 was $10,000.  Joy noted that on behalf of Trinity United, $12,085.85 (as at Dec. 31/21) was submitted to Mission & Service for 2021. This amount has been updated since our meeting.
-    Please consider donating one days pay during the Lenton season.


Break Out Rooms

Pastoral Care:
-    A discussion was had regarding the three funerals that are coming up in Apr/May and whether or not we will be doing receptions.  For now, we will wait and see what further Covid restrictions will be lifted and the willingness to take this on again.  
-    Betty McLean has done a survey on how many people are still reading the services to congregants who had asked for this.
-    The Prayer list will continue until the end of Lent.
-    A new phone directory will be available at the end of May.

Property:
-    Lawn Maintenance – Sheri Bohorquez (Squires) mentioned her willingness to attend to the lawns/gardens at Trinity.  She has many years experience from working at Art Knapp’s.  Ross made a motion that Sheri Bohorquez be hired as Trinity’s lawn/garden maintenance person for 2022, commencing April & ending in October at a cost of $300 per month ($2100 per year).  Seconded by Beth Anderson.  Carried.  A job description to be developed by M&P.
-    Interior painting is under review.
-    Tree Stump removal (Dawn Redwood) – Ross to review and prepare budget for removal.

UCW:
-    There will be a one day Thrift sale on Sat. Feb. 26th, from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM in the hall. All Covid protocols will be observed.  Friday set up will be at 3:00 PM.  Advertising: Digital sign, newsletter, Trinity website and posters to go to Stewart House, Hope Manor and on doors around outside of Church.  Take home notices will be handed out on Food Bank Days.  Maureen will be in touch with previous thrift volunteers regarding help and pls give her a call if you are available to help.
-    The Pacific Mountain UCW AGM will be held on Zoom April 30th between 1:00-4:00 PM.  The guest speaker is Jeimei Lee (a former Buddhist who has become a Christian).
-    The 60th anniversary of the UCW will be held in North Sydney, Nova Scotia from July 11-15/22.  There is funding for help in attending from: Trinity, Pacific Mountain Region and the National UCW.  Application forms available online or at the office.
.

Worship & Music: 
Recent Decisions
-    Sunday Zoon – We moved opening the zoom room from 10:00 to 10:15.
-    Still waiting for full in-person worship services.
Needs:
-    More Zoom or “Hybrid hosts”
-    Anybody who is interested in creating Welcome Home videos.
-    Congregants to take a photo of themselves waving a frond, some grasses, a small branch, a homemade paper frond etc., and send to the office where they will be put together for the Palm Sunday Service.
Celebrations:
-    Moving forward into Hybrid services.
-    Choir has returned to Sunday worship.
Lent & Holy Week Services:
-    Shrove Tuesday, March 1: Via Zoom (possibly have a Shrove Tuesday dinner shared)
-    Ash Wednesday, March 2: Via Zoon at 7:00PM with pre-recorded music.
-    Palm Sunday April 10- W&M asking for photos as noted above.
-    Maudy Thursday, April 14 – 7:00 PM service - In-person/ Hybrid to be determined.
-    Good Friday, April 15 – we hope to listen to the recorded Moderators service that day – still to be confirmed.
-    Easter morning April 17- Sunrise service 8:00 AM.  Lions Park has been booked for this in-person service.
-    Easter morning April 17 – 10:30 Service – In person or Hybrid?  This to be advised.

     
Next Doers meeting to take place in April
From your Doers Team (Irene, Joy, Peggy)

Actual photo of the holy spirit...reminding you that you are loved.

Actual photo of the holy spirit...reminding you that you are loved.

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2211 Prairie Ave
Port Coquitlam, BC
Canada V3B 1V8

604-942-0022

office@ucpoco.ca