Trinity MCC Church - Gainesville, Florida

Dear Trinity Members and Friends,

 When I was a “youth” growing up church, we went to “afterglow” following the evening service. I must admit, I usually didn’t feel very glowing about it. However, I’m still reveling on the blessing of our Worship Celebration this past Sunday when we observed World AIDS Day and the first Sunday of Advent. I also want to thank those who have shared their HIV/AIDS stories with me since then. I’m proud that MCC has been there since the very beginning for people whose lives are impacted by HIV/AIDS. Oh and one more time, thanks to Barb Petersen and her team for our beautiful Advent decorations – there will be more each week.

 This Sunday we move to Advent 2, during which we will focus on peace. What brings peace to you? Where are your peaceful places? I’d love to hear from you about that in advance. You can write to me at revjim@revjim.org. We’ll also install our new Board of Directors during the service. Look for their names and contact information in this edition of Trinity E-talk.

 We’ve returned to an old activity at Trinity and we’re now calling it the Trinity Lunch Club. The good news is that everybody’s already a member. A group of us will go to lunch together on Sundays other than our monthly potluck weeks. Each person is responsible for her/his own bill. This might also be an opportunity for some to share a bit of hospitality by inviting and covering someone who might not otherwise be able to afford a lunch out. That’s part of what radical (I know, I used that word again) hospitality. Try it on.

 The office is still in need of white legal size paper – no letter size, please. This will be the week we’ll have to go purchase it, so if you would like to help us, now is a really good time. We also need HP printer cartridges 940XL in all colors, especially black.

 Thanks for your generosity to Trinity. We have a very good November. We’ll share more about that at this Sunday’s Board Meeting. Remember our potluck luncheon this week – bring a dish of your favorite food with enough to share.

 I look forward to seeing you at church tomorrow and again on Sunday. Once again, a blessed Advent to each one of you.

Fondly,

Rev. Dr. Jim Merritt

Pastor