Meditation for the Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost August 16, 2020 “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.’ Then Jesus answered her, ‘“Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.’ And her daughter was healed instantly.’ [Matthew 15:27-28] "We must have hindsight, insight, and foresight. That is complete sight. It's not an 'I' sight, it's a 'we' sight." [Ruby Sales] This is an extraordinarily timely gospel for this weekend. It shows us Jesus in a moment of learning: A Canaanite woman calls out to Jesus asking that her daughter be healed. Jesus at first rejects her, saying that he has been sent to the people of Israel, and—in repulsively harsh language—dismisses her plea: “It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.” Her response shows that her persistence is grounded in faith and not in a sense of entitlement. ‘Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.’ Then Jesus responds, ‘Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.’ And her daughter was healed instantly. This story takes place after Jesus has fed 5,000 people with just a few loaves and fishes; he has walked on water and responded to hundreds of requests for healing; he has challenged the strict religious rules on defilement. He has just arrived in Tyre and Sidon, a wealthy region where a lot of the grain supply from the country was bought up and stored, leaving the peasants and farmers with only a subsistence living; hence, the disciples’ resentment and defensiveness. The word “Canaanite” was code word for enemies and unbelievers; but at the same time by naming her as “Canaanite” Matthew makes this a more complex episode than Mark does. (It is the only time this word is used in the New Testament; the same story in the Gospel of Mark names her a Syro-Phoenecian woman.) On the one hand the Canaanite woman is everything that the followers of Jesus despise: She is a woman. She is not a Jew. She is probably wealthy. However, at the same time,by naming her Matthew evokes the three Canaanite women who are in Jesus’ lineage: Rahab, Tamar, and Ruth. Thus, Matthew reminds his audience that Jesus and this despised stranger share the same foremothers. The woman herself is desperate and yet she refuses to be shamed, convinced that only Jesus can heal her daughter. She knows that no one will believe her when she proclaims her faith.. It’s very possible that she is a woman who is used to getting her way, accustomed to being the one who grants favors to people who kneel before her, a woman accustomed to eating delicacies and rich food—not leftover crumbs. What it must have cost her to come to an itinerant teacher, to have to shout out and compete with peasants for his attention! What it must have cost her to kneel before him after he has ignored her and his disciples have urged him to dismiss her! What it must have cost her to admit that she would accept even the “crumbs” of God. She holds Jesus accountable for his own teachings. And Jesus listens. The Canaanite woman teaches us to pray with a trust that does not reflect any sense of entitlement and with fierce passion. She teaches us that the vulnerability awakened in us every day can also bring an unexpected strength that will bring the healing we so desperately seek. In You through whom all things speak, use me please to sing your song. -from Bedside Prayers MORNING PRAYER via ZOOM Ministers of the Liturgy The Rev. Dr. Judith Lee Members of the Vestry: Ginny Starkis, Susan Edmondson (wardens) Lucille Clinkman, Steve Ketcham Musicians: Randolph Bloom, Jeff Lukas After the service, we will discuss recent Vestry decisions and the next steps in preparing for the search for a new rector. I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God-- what is good and acceptable and perfect. [Romans 12:1-2] https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82256827302?pwd=Z0E3ZlpXY0hIRFdIZHN0ZnltdXNlZz09 Meeting ID: 822-5682-7302 Password: 546896 If you cannot access through your computer, you may participate by telephone. Telephone: 929-205-6099 For the Morning Prayer leaflet, click here. For the Weekly Announcements click here. On the Sundays in August, videotaped sermons by Bishop Fisher, Canon Simpson, and Canon Ix are available on our website. Mother Judith's videotaped reflections will resume in September. September Newsletter Deadline: This Saturday August 15th Please send your submission to [email protected] Forward Day by Day Booklets are now available at the church. Please let Mother Judith know if you would like a copy. A Death in the Extended Parish Family: Nicholas J. Blazensky, Jr. May 24, 1932 – August 6, 2020 I am saddened to announce that the father of Lauren Lukas died on August 6th. Our prayers are with Lauren, Jeff, and their family. Most merciful God, whose wisdom is beyond our understanding, deal graciously with Nicholas’ family and friends in their grief. Surround them with your love, that they may not be overwhelmed by their loss, but have confidence in your goodness, and strength to meet the days to come; through Jesus Christ our Lord. May Nicholas’ soul and the souls of all the departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen. Mr. Blazensky’s obituary can be found at https://www.buckler-johnston.com/tributes Next Steps: Moving Forward God of the living word, give us faith to receive your message, the wisdom to know what it means, and the courage to put it into practice. -from A New Zealand Prayer Book New Rector Search: Next Steps: The Holy Cow Survey - MUST BE COMPLETED BY MONDAY AUGUST 17th. The Congregational Assessment Tool (CAT), also called the Holy Cow Survey because it is designed by Holy Cow Consulting, is the first official step in your preparation for new ministry. Your responses are anonymous. For link to to the online survey click here. Please contact Ginny Starkis if you have a hard copy to be returned to the church. Canon Simpson will meet with the Search Committee, the Profile Committee, and the Vestry on Saturday September 12th to review the survey results. An updated timeline of the 2 "arcs" of the search process can be found on our website: https://www.trinitychurchmilford.org/ Thank you to everyone who participated in the parish meetings in June. For a summary of those conversations, including a summary of the Youth conversations, click here. May God continue to inspire us, bless us, and guide us. Entering Stage 2: We will suspend the hours for the church to be open for private prayer until September. We will begin with new hours during the week of September 27th. On Monday, the Vestry approved a new Building Use Policy and a Building Use Agreement and that includes a liability waiver, a checklist of safety protocols, and a health questionnaire. We are in the process of preparingl a proposal for opening our building to community groups and small parish groups, and opening our office to the public. Pending a peer review, those steps will take place at the beginning of September. Our parish Zoom Chats, Family Game Night, and Bingo will resume in September. The schedule will be announced in the newsletter. Wednesdays @ 10 am: Morning Prayer & Fellowship via ZOOM - We'll continue weekly https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83161138171?pwd=TitUUzdtRVhjZVFadjNZbFlxV1dhdz09 Meeting ID: 831 6113 8171 Password: 497792 Telephone: 929-205-6099 Training to lead Morning Prayer - The diocese is offering a webinar in how to lead Morning Prayer; Thursday September 3rd at 7 pm. Please check with Mother Judith if you are interested. To learn more and to register, click here. Sacred Ground: A Film-Based Dialogue Series on Race & Faith Beginning on September 26th: Sacred Ground is a film- and readings-based series on race, grounded in faith. Small groups will walk through chapters of America’s history of race and racism, while weaving in threads of family story, economic class, and political and regional identity. This program designed by the Episcopal Church has 10 sessions. We have scheduled the first 5 sessions; we will hold two opportunities for each session every other week: Sundays at 5 pm and Tuesdays at 7 pm, September 26th – November 22. Mary Johnson and Mother Judith will lead the program for Trinity and our group will include emembers of other congregations. To learn more see https://episcopalchurch.org/sacred-ground. Please contact either Mary or Mother Judith to register. Community Dinners We will distribute meals prepared by Oliva's from the parking lot at Trinity on August 27th. In addition, we will arrange for delivery of meals to Whitcomb House in August. Your generosity has made it possible for us to continue feeding about 100 people each month during the pandemic, in addition to supporting our local restaurants. If you can volunteer to help with setting up and taking down the tables, distributing meals, and bring leftover meals to the Food Pantry, in July or August, please contact Glen Peterson. We will certify Community Service credit.
This week a Public Health Inspector will visit our kitchen with the volunteer team to review what will be required by the state mandates for restaurants. Next month, the volunteer team will present a proposal to the Vestry to begin preparing takeout meals in September or October. We have applied for a grant to continue the program of purchasing meals from local restaurants for our neighbors and frontline workers through December 2020. To contribute to this project, please send your check payable to Trinity Church with Community Dinners on the memo line or donate directly to Hopedale Unitarian Parish, who is managing the funds for this project, by going to https://hopedaleunitarian.org and pressing the Donate button. Prayer List Please send Magee the names of people you would like to be on the Prayer List. Our policy has been to remove names after 4 weeks, but we want to be sure we follow the wishes of families and friends. Our Prayers Are Offered For: Parish Members & Friends: the Blazensky & Lukas Families; David Stochaj; Rose Marie Moore; David Gillis; Mary Torian, Bob Bloomburg; Brad Gustavesen; Arlene Person; Sharon Manoogian; Sal & Vas Ferreira; Cami Carter; Alana Phoenix-Laliberte; Jill Henderson; Patty Souder; Sandra Arbogast; Len Baird; Judy Shea; Robin Rowe; Skye Bayleigh Plaisted; Alex; Alisha Starkis Weddeke; Chrissy & Mark; Thomas Scano; the Canali Family; Heidi Donnelly; Sherel & Lou Frere; Craig Silverman; Justin Perkin; Dr. Stephen Janko; Tom Childs; Nancy Sharoogian; Bob Mezzadri; all those serving in the military and the Peace Corps, especially Avary DeRagon; Dan Consigli; Drew Beauchamp; Charles; Laura; Elena; Brendan Wood; Danielle & Joel Marsh; Tom Bento; Joel Joudrey; Justin Woessner; Chris Ketcham and their families. Homebound Parishioners: Betty Henneberry; Verna Parente, and Wayne Morey. Deceased: Nicholas J. Blazensky, Jr. Our Partner Dioceses: Kumasi and Asante-Mampong in Ghana Those celebrating birthdays this week: Alexander Menges; Sandy Krol; Steven Masse; Scott Harrison; Colleen Shaw; Grace Prevelige; Felicity Ferreira; Kenneth George; Nathan George; Johanna Cornwell; James Menges; Veronica Lynch; Leyani Piacente-Perez; Zaya Hall; Malichai Carpenter; Rick Nelson; Andrew Eastwood; Tom Cortese; David Carr; Erin Hynes; Mia Carr; Touie Jackson; Dean Harrison; Chris Lloyd; Amanda Ellis; and Penelope Woods. Pledges: Thank you to all of you who have been sending in your pledges. There has been a slight drop in our pledge income this month. This is understandable for the summer, but please do not let your contribution lapse. Our deposits are being made on a different schedule these days, so there may be a delay in seeing the record of your payment. Some of you are facing financial stress: if so, please give what you can; if not, please give a bit extra to support those who cannot. Please note: Unscrupulous people have contacted parishioners claiming to be Mother Judith and asking for money. Mother Judith's only email addresses are [email protected] or [email protected] and her phone number is (716) 949-8194 . She never asks for money! Please do not respond to any other email addresses or phone numbers. If you have a question about whether a request is REALLY from Mother Judith, please contact her first at these email addresses/phone number before sending any money. Thanks. How to keep up with Trinity news: All notices, videos, and links can be found at www.trinitychurchmilford.org and on the Trinity Church-Milford Facebook page. Our diocesan website offers links to online worship in our diocese. https://www.diocesewma.org/ Worship from the National Cathedral is available online every Sunday at 11:15 am. https://cathedral.org/ The Episcopal Church offers valuable resources for spiritual renewal. https://episcopalchurch.org/ Mission Matters: News from the Episcopal Diocese of Western MA latest issue can be found here.
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Meditation for the Tenth Sunday after Pentecost August 9, 2020 Take heart, it is I; have no fear. [Matthew 14:27] This Sunday we read the story of Jesus walking on water. He has asked his disciples to sail across the lake where he will meet them after he has bid farewell to the crowds who have come to him for healing. However, the winds rise and hinder their journey so Jesus walks on water from the shore to meet the boat. He invites Peter to come to him and Peter begins to walk on water toward Jesus; however, he suddenly becomes afraid and begins to sink, whereupon Jesus reaches out and lifts him up. On this Sunday fifteen years ago I began ministry at my first parish: St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Burt, NY. This gospel has thus always had special meaning for me as the starting point for my ministry. In these fifteen years I have frequently been challenged to “get out of the boat,” to risk looking foolish, to face my reluctance to trust and my tendency to second-guess myself. I have sailed through rough waters against the wind on many a dark night, and more times than I can count I have found peace and direction in Jesus’ words, Take heart . . . have no fear. [Matthew 14:27] On that day, preaching to my congregation for the first time, I said, God is smiling upon us today with the story of Jesus walking on water as we begin our ministry together. And this week I feel the same way: God is smiling on us with the story of Jesus walking on the water as we commission your Search Committee. God is smiling with encouragement: Think about what’s possible! God is smiling with bemusement: Don’t be brash or overconfident! God is smiling with compassion: Do not be afraid! We often think of our faith as the boat where we are safe and secure. In all the storms and winds of the world, with all that pushes us this way and that, we find shelter in our faith. We cling to the conviction that it is enough to do what God has told us to do, just as Jesus’ disciples are sailing their boat to the far shore as Jesus has asked them to do. But in this story we learn that our faith does not protect us from long dark nights and storms of the heart and mind. On the contrary, our faith calls us out of the safety of our “boat”—our habits, our assumptions, our modest goals. “Come,” says Jesus. “Be bold! Trust me!” Faith is an alternative to fear. Faith means doing what we could not imagine we were capable of doing: even walking on water. According to today’s gospel, faith may feel more like walking on stormy, whirling waves than sailing on calm waters. Like Peter, we may flounder. Acting in faith may not be graceful: We may be awkward and we may lose our composure. At the same time, when we act in faith we do not act alone. That’s the paradox of faith: In faith we discover both unforeseen strength and our absolute dependence upon God. As we begin this new stage in your journey toward new ministry, it is good to remember that we may well be called to sail through the night, that what seems like an obvious goal may not be and that what seems like a hindrance may be an opportunity to learn a crucial lesson. You do not need to prove that you can walk on water; nor are you looking for a priest who can. This story is about trust, not power; it is about collaboration, not self-sufficiency. Jesus does not promise that faith will give Peter power. He promises that faith will allow for trust--trust that God is with us and trust that God’s Spirit will guide us through any storm no matter how dark the night. Lord of heaven and earth, whose Son came eating and drinking, bringing to light the rivalry that tears the world apart: May we share his feast and friendship and lay our burdens in his liberating arms; through Jesus Christ, Wisdom's child. Amen. -from Prayers for an Inclusive Church MORNING PRAYER via ZOOM Commissioning of the Search Committee Pam Hennessy (Chair) Katherine Côté, Jim Donohoe, Stephen Howe, Toussaint Jackson, Mary Johnson, Hilary Stafford, Lucille Clinkman (Vestry Liaison) Ministers of the Liturgy The Rev. Dr. Judith Lee Members of the Search Committee: Pam Hennessy, Jim Donohoe, Stephen Howe, Touie Jackson, Mary Johnson, Hilary Stafford, Lucille Clinkman (Vestry Liaison) Musicians: Randolph Bloom, Jeff Lukas The word is near you, on your lips and in your heart.” [Deuteronomy 30:14] https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82256827302?pwd=Z0E3ZlpXY0hIRFdIZHN0ZnltdXNlZz09 Meeting ID: 822-5682-7302 Password: 546896 If you cannot access through your computer, you may participate by telephone. Telephone: 929-205-6099 For the Morning Prayer leaflet, click here. For the Weekly Announcements click here. On the Sundays in August, videotaped sermons by Bishop Fisher, Canon Simpson, and Canon Ix are available on our website. Mother Judith's videotaped reflections will resume in September. A Message from Rachel Carpenter: HI all! This week, we are focusing on the fruit of the spirit, KINDNESS!! Check out our weekly Douglas Talks video followed by a video by "Kid President". After watching the videos, do at least one random act of kindness this week. Take a picture or email me what you did for a point towards the end of the summer prize!! Emily Kee is our leader right now!! Way to go Emily!! Douglas Talks https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3FTiWQ9Ihnw Kid President https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bH5ozEo1Ao4 ~Rachel [email protected] September Newsletter Deadline: This Saturday August 15th Please send your submission to [email protected] Next Steps: Moving Forward God of the living word, give us faith to receive your message, the wisdom to know what it means, and the courage to put it into practice. -from A New Zealand Prayer Book New Rector Search: Next Steps: The Holy Cow Survey - THE LAST WEEK The Congregational Assessment Tool (CAT), also called the Holy Cow Survey because it is designed by Holy Cow Consulting, is the first official step in your preparation for new ministry. The questions provide a profile of Trinity in your demographics and your views of Scripture, liturgy, mission, qualities of a Rector, parish life, and theology. The final summary shows where Trinity fits in the spectrum of Episcopal churches across the country. It is very, very important that as many people as possible take the survey. Each adult member of every household should complete a survey. It takes about half an hour. to complete. Your responses are anonymous. For link to to the online survey click here. We have mailed hard copies of the survey to those members who may not be comfortable working online. We will also pair each person who has received a hard copy with someone who will work with you to complete the survey, and then someone will enter the data onto the website. Your written responses will remain anonymous. hard copies must be returned to the church by this Thursday August 13th. The online Survey must be completed by August 17th. Holy Cow Consulting compiles the results and sends them to Canon Simpson, who will review the results with the Vestry, Search Committee, and Profile Committee on September 12th. Thank you to everyone who participated in the parish meetings. For a summary of those conversations, including a summary of the Youth conversations, click here. May God continue to inspire us, bless us, and guide us. Entering Stage 2: The church is now open for private prayer for 3 hours each week: Tuesday evening 6:30-7:30pm Thursday morning 10am-11am Sunday morning 11am-noon On Monday, the Vestry will review a revised Building Use Agreement with Addenda that include a liability waiver, a checklist of safety protocols, and a health questionnaire. When those documents have been approved, we will submit a proposal for opening our building to community groups and opening our office to the public. Pending a peer review, those steps will take place at the beginning of September. Parish Zoom Events: Summer Schedule: ZOOM Bingo on Sundays at 3 pm & Game Night on Tuesdays @ 7 - We'll resume in September Zoom-Chats: Mondays @ 7am & Wednesdays @ 8 pm: every other week: Mondays: August 10; Wednesdays: August 19 Wednesdays @ 10 am: Morning Prayer & Fellowship via ZOOM - We'll continue weekly https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83161138171?pwd=TitUUzdtRVhjZVFadjNZbFlxV1dhdz09 Meeting ID: 831 6113 8171 Password: 497792 Telephone: 929-205-6099 Fridays @ Noon: Lunch & Bible Study: We will begin again on Friday, September 18th. Sacred Ground:A Film-based Dialogue Series on Race and Faith Sacred Ground is a film- and readings-based series on race, grounded in faith. Small groups will walk through chapters of America’s history of race and racism, while weaving in threads of family story, economic class, and political and regional identity. This program designed by The Episcopal Church has 10 sessions; groups of 4-10 participants will meet every other week, beginning in September. Mary Johnson and Mother Judith will lead the program for Trinity and members of other churches will participate with us. To learn more see https://episcopalchurch.org/sacred-ground and watch for more information about how to register with either Mary or Mother Judith. Community Dinners We will distribute meals prepared by Oliva's from the parking lot at Trinity on August 27th. In addition, we will arrange for delivery of meals to Whitcomb House in August. Your generosity has made it possible for us to continue feeding about 100 people each month during the pandemic, in addition to supporting our local restaurants. If you can volunteer to help with setting up and taking down the tables, distributing meals, and bring leftover meals to the Food Pantry, in July or August, please contact Glen Peterson. We will certify Community Service credit. At their August meeting the Vestry will make a decision on how to continue the Community Meal program in the fall, pending peer review by the Dean and the Bishop. Meanwhile, we continue our strong partnership with the Food Pantry and with other local churches and community organizations. To contribute to this project, please send your check payable to Trinity Church with Community Dinners on the memo line or donate directly to Hopedale Unitarian Parish, who is managing the funds for this project, by going to https://hopedaleunitarian.org and pressing the Donate button. Prayer List Please send Magee the names of people you would like to be on the Prayer List. Our policy has been to remove names after 4 weeks, but we want to be sure we follow the wishes of families and friends. Our Prayers Are Offered For: Parish Members & Friends: the Clark Family; David Gillis; Mary Torian, Bob Bloomburg; Brad Gustavesen; Arlene Person; Sharon Manoogian; Sal & Vas Ferreira; Cami Carter; Alana Phoenix-Laliberte; Jill Henderson; Patty Souder; Rose Marie Moore; David Stochaj; McKenze Cahill; Sandra Arbogast; Len Baird; Judy Shea; Robin Rowe; Skye Bayleigh Plaisted; Alex; Alisha Starkis Weddeke; Chrissy & Mark; Thomas Scano; the Canali Family; Heidi Donnelly; Sherel & Lou Frere; Craig Silverman; Justin Perkin; Dr. Stephen Janko; Tom Childs; Nancy Sharoogian; Bob Mezzadri; all those serving in the military and the Peace Corps, especially Avary DeRagon; Dan Consigli; Drew Beauchamp; Charles; Laura; Elena; Brendan Wood; Danielle & Joel Marsh; Tom Bento; Joel Joudrey; Justin Woessner; Chris Ketcham and their families. Homebound Parishioners: Betty Henneberry; Verna Parente, and Wayne Morey. The Deceased: Harry Clark Our Partner Dioceses: Kumasi and Asante-Mampong in Ghana Those celebrating birthdays this week: Wayne Morey; Brian Kelly; William Jones; Marion Benard; William Bentley; Andrew Sholudko; Anthony Gulbankian; Barbara Chambers; Jessie Smith; Benjamin Fletcher; Lucille Clinkman; Dwight Kee; Alexander Bedrosian; Thana Reed; Joe Gatchell; Sarah O’Connell; Michael Palinkas; Mattina Cole; Laurel Pirelli; Drake Meurant; Samuel Corman; & Alexander Menges. Pledges: Thank you to all of you who have been sending in your pledges. Our deposits are being made on a different schedule these days, so there may be a delay in seeing the record of your payment. Some of you are facing financial stress: if so, please give what you can; if not, please give a bit extra to support those who cannot. Please note: Unscrupulous people have contacted parishioners claiming to be Mother Judith and asking for money. Mother Judith's only email addresses are [email protected] or [email protected] and her phone number is (716) 949-8194 . She never asks for money! Please do not respond to any other email addresses or phone numbers. If you have a question about whether a request is REALLY from Mother Judith, please contact her first at these email addresses/phone number before sending any money. Thanks. How to keep up with Trinity news: All notices, videos, and links can be found at www.trinitychurchmilford.org and on the Trinity Church-Milford Facebook page.
Our diocesan website offers links to online worship in our diocese. https://www.diocesewma.org/ Worship from the National Cathedral is available online every Sunday at 11:15 am. https://cathedral.org/ The Episcopal Church offers valuable resources for spiritual renewal. https://episcopalchurch.org/ Habits of Grace: An invitation for you, from Presiding Bishop Curry A new video meditation will be posted on Mondays through July. Click here to view the latest. Mission Matters: News from the Episcopal Diocese of Western MA latest issue can be found here. Meditation for the Ninth Sunday after Pentecost August 2, 2020 Taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And all ate and were filled; and they took up what was left over of the broken pieces, twelve baskets full. [Matthew 14:19-20] In this Sunday’s gospel we read the first of two stories of Jesus feeding the crowds told in the Gospel of Matthew. It is perhaps particularly poignant this year because Jesus’ blessing and distribution of the bread reminds us so vividly of the Eucharistic liturgy that many of us miss deeply. It is a story through which Matthew reiterates his theme that Jesus’ ministry is a fulfillment of prophecy. In reassuring his disciples and blessing the bread, Jesus is a living sign of the God who speaks in the passage from Isaiah that we read today: Everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you that have no money, come, buy and eat! [Isaiah 55:1] This story also teaches us that the healing sought by thousands of people is a healing of both body and soul, just as our hunger is a hunger of both body and soul. Matthew makes this a story of Jesus’ compassion – it is not just a story of a powerful wonder-worker or a popular preacher. Jesus leaves the quiet place to which he had withdrawn because he felt compassion for the crowds who had followed him; when at the end of the day his disciples suggest that the crowds should be sent away so that they can buy their own food, Jesus thinks first about their comfort “They do not need to go away; you give them something to eat,” he says. We learn from this story that compassion is grounded in fearless trust. We are reminded that in baptism we promise to help one another grow into the full stature of Christ--to be persons whose compassion inspires us to find ways do what seems impossible. In baptism, we promise to see and to show each other our hunger - our needs, our failings, our inconsistencies, our gifts, our hopes. We promise to remind each other that—together—we will always have enough and that we will provide for each other even when we do not feel we have—or are—enough. We promise to turn to one another when our burdens are too heavy. We promise that each of us will always find a home in the Body of Christ, where our hunger will enable us to meet the hunger of others, where we will know the fullness of Christ’s presence in our hearts and in the company of friends. May all of us know, in the depths of our being, both the hunger that brings us to Christ and the compassion we will find in Christ. Glory to you, O God our Creator, when you inspire us to serve our neighbors, to make humility shine in our souls; deep-piercing rays of light fall into the hearts of each one of us. . . . Glory to you, transfiguring our lives with deeds of love. . . .Glory to you, present in fragrant compassion. Glory to you, sending us failures and afflictions to make us sensitive to other people’s sufferings. . . . . Glory to you, welcoming the impulse of our heart’s love. Glory to you, for raising love above everything on earth. Glory to you, O Holy God, from age to age. Amen. [Metropolitan Tryphon] MORNING PRAYER via ZOOM Ministers of the Liturgy The Rev. Dr. Judith Lee Mary Johnson, James Jones, Mary Beth Sweet, Landon Sweet Musicians: Randy Bloom, Jeff Lukas The eyes of all wait upon you, O Lord, * and you give them their food in due season. You open wide your hand * and satisfy the needs of every living creature. [Psalm 145.16-17] https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82256827302?pwd=Z0E3ZlpXY0hIRFdIZHN0ZnltdXNlZz09 Meeting ID: 822-5682-7302 Password: 546896 If you cannot access through your computer, you may participate by telephone. Telephone: 929-205-6099 For the Morning Prayer leaflet, click here. For the Weekly Announcements click here. A Message from Rachel Carpenter: HI all! This week, we are learning about the Fruit of the Spirit, PATIENCE! Watch Douglas Talk's video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bgovFZUEORI And try out this activity: The Fruit of the Spirit is Patience Activity Instructions Hands On: Sweet Treat Test of Patience Object Lesson
I hope so much you are all having a great summer!! ~Rachel Next Steps: Moving Forward Make us glad, we pray you, gentle God, to give each other your loving care; make us happy to receive it. May there daily grow within us a generous, trusting spirit. -from A New Zealand Prayer Book New Rector Search: Next Steps: Search Committee Appointed: The Vestry has appointed the following people to the Search Committee: Pam Hennessy (Chair); Katherine Cote, Jim Donohoe, Steve Howe, Touie Jackson, Mary Johnson, Hilary Stafford, and Lucille Clinkman (Vestry Liaison). They will be commission during the service on Sunday, August 9th. The Holy Cow Survey - The Congregational Assessment Tool (CAT), also called the Holy Cow Survey because it is designed by Holy Cow Consulting, is the first official step in your preparation for new ministry. The questions provide a profile of Trinity in your demographics and your views of Scripture, liturgy, mission, qualities of a Rector, parish life, and theology. The final summary shows where Trinity fits in the spectrum of Episcopal churches across the country. It is very, very important that as many people as possible take the survey. Each adult member of every household should complete a survey. It takes about half an hour. to complete. Your responses are anonymous. For link to to the online survey click here. We have mailed hard copies of the survey to those members who may not be comfortable working online. We will also pair each person who has received a hard copy with someone who will work with you to complete the survey, and then someone will enter the data onto the website. Your written responses will remain anonymous. hard copies must be returned to the church by August 10th The online Survey must be completed by August 17th. Holy Cow Consulting compiles the results and sends them to Canon Simpson, who will review the results with the Vestry, Search Committee, and Profile Committee on September 12th. Thank you to everyone who participated in the parish meetings. For a summary of those conversations, including a summary of the Youth conversations, click here. May God continue to inspire us, bless us, and guide us. Entering Stage 2: The church is now open for private prayer for 3 hours each week: Tuesday evening 6:30-7:30pm Thursday morning 10am-11am Sunday morning 11am-noon We will adjust these hours in the coming weeks, depending on interest and need. Each person will be asked to sanitize their hands and to wear a mask upon entering the church through the main door. (We will provide both as needed.) Seating will be designated according to safe distancing, and you will be asked to bring your own prayer book. The church building and the bathrooms will not be open. The sanctuary, offices, and Lane Chapel room have been cleaned and sanitized. We will continue with Morning Prayer on Sundays and Wednesdays via ZOOM. Beginning this Sunday, we will have the opportunity to break into smaller groups for fellowship and discussion. On August 10th, the Vestry will review a revised Building Use Agreement with Addenda that include a liability waiver, a checklist of safety protocols, and a health questionnaire. When those documents have been approved, we will submit a proposal for opening our building to community groups and opening our office to the public. Pending a peer review, those steps will take place at the beginning of September. Parish Zoom Events: Summer Schedule: ZOOM Bingo on Sundays at 3 pm & Game Night on Tuesdays @ 7 - We'll resume in September Zoom-Chats: Mondays @ 7am & Wednesdays @ 8 pm: every other week: Mondays: August 10; Wednesdays: August 5 & 19 Wednesdays @ 10 am: Morning Prayer & Fellowship via ZOOM - We'll continue weekly https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83161138171?pwd=TitUUzdtRVhjZVFadjNZbFlxV1dhdz09 Meeting ID: 831 6113 8171 Password: 497792 Telephone: 929-205-6099 Fridays @ Noon: Lunch & Bible Study: The Gospel of Matthew We will have a final meeting on July 31st, and then begin again on Friday, September 18th. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87474952317?pwd=UkdpQTNuNmtxVkhtYlZkVGVDVkZOQT09 Meeting ID: 874 7495 2317 Password: 097331 This Friday we will continue our discussion of the Gospel of Matthew with special focus on Chapter 24 & Chapter 28. Sacred Ground:A Film-based Dialogue Series on Race and Faith Sacred Ground is a film- and readings-based series on race, grounded in faith. Small groups will walk through chapters of America’s history of race and racism, while weaving in threads of family story, economic class, and political and regional identity. This program designed by The Episcopal Church has 10 sessions; groups of 4-10 participants will meet every other week, beginning in September. Mary Johnson and Mother Judith will lead the program for Trinity and members of other churches will participate with us. To learn more see https://episcopalchurch.org/sacred-ground and watch for more information about how to register with either Mary or Mother Judith. Community Dinners We will distribute meals prepared by Oliva's from the parking lot at Trinity on August 27th. In addition, we distributed meals to the staff of Cornerstone Assisted Living in July and we will arrange for delivery of means to Whitcomb House in August. Your generosity has made it possible for us to continue feeding about 100 people each month during the pandemic, in addition to supporting our local restaurants. If you can volunteer to help with setting up and taking down the tables, distributing meals, and bring leftover meals to the Food Pantry, in July or August, please contact Glen Peterson. We will certify Community Service credit. At their August meeting the Vestry will make a decision on how to continue the Community Meal program in the fall, pending peer review by the Dean and the Bishop. Meanwhile, we continue our strong partnership with the Food Pantry and with other local churches and community organizations. To contribute to this project, please send your check payable to Trinity Church with Community Dinners on the memo line or donate directly to Hopedale Unitarian Parish, who is managing the funds for this project, by going to https://hopedaleunitarian.org and pressing the Donate button. Prayer List Please send Magee the names of people you would like to be on the Prayer List. Our policy has been to remove names after 4 weeks, but we want to be sure we follow the wishes of families and friends. Our Prayers Are Offered For: Parish Members & Friends: Mary Torian, Bob Bloomburg; Brad Gustavesen; Arlene Person; Sharon Manoogian; Sal & Vas Ferreira; Cami Carter; Alana Phoenix-Laliberte; Jill Henderson; Patty Souder; Rose Marie Moore; David Stochaj; McKenze Cahill; David Gillis; Ruth Warner; Sandra Arbogast; Len Baird; Judy Shea; Robin Rowe; Skye Bayleigh Plaisted; Alex; Alisha Starkis Weddeke; Chrissy & Mark; Thomas Scano; the Canali Family; Heidi Donnelly; Sherel & Lou Frere; Craig Silverman; Justin Perkin; Dr. Stephen Janko; Tom Childs; Nancy Sharoogian; Bob Mezzadri; all those serving in the military and the Peace Corps, especially Avary DeRagon; Dan Consigli; Drew Beauchamp; Charles; Laura; Elena; Brendan Wood; Danielle & Joel Marsh; Tom Bento; Joel Joudrey; Justin Woessner; Chris Ketcham and their families. Homebound Parishioners: Betty Henneberry; Verna Parente, and Wayne Morey. Our Partner Dioceses: Kumasi and Asante-Mampong in Ghana Those celebrating birthdays this week: Cathy Harrison; Alex Papasodero; Ava Cortese; Rene Phaneuf; Mary Ann Stand; Travis Montag; Betsey Scrimgeour; Mary Webber; Allen Tattrie, III; Kristin Foody; Rebecca Leverock; Elisa Williams; Nia Welter; Anna Prevelige; Vandel Forgione; Dotty Butler; Ronald Kuligowski; Eric Lyon; Arianna Morese; Molly Steen; Lindsay Sweet; Wayne Morey; Brian Kelly; and William Jones. Pledges: Thank you to all of you who have been sending in your pledges. Our deposits are being made on a different schedule these days, so there may be a delay in seeing the record of your payment. Some of you are facing financial stress: if so, please give what you can; if not, please give a bit extra to support those who cannot. Please note: Unscrupulous people have contacted parishioners claiming to be Mother Judith and asking for money. Mother Judith's only email addresses are [email protected] or [email protected] and her phone number is (716) 949-8194 . She never asks for money! Please do not respond to any other email addresses or phone numbers. If you have a question about whether a request is REALLY from Mother Judith, please contact her first at these email addresses/phone number before sending any money. Thanks. How to keep up with Trinity news: All notices, videos, and links can be found at www.trinitychurchmilford.org
and on the Trinity Church-Milford Facebook page. Our diocesan website offers links to online worship in our diocese. https://www.diocesewma.org/ Worship from the National Cathedral is available online every Sunday at 11:15 am. https://cathedral.org/ The Episcopal Church offers valuable resources for spiritual renewal. https://episcopalchurch.org/ Habits of Grace: An invitation for you, from Presiding Bishop Curry A new video meditation will be posted on Mondays through July. Click here to view the latest. Mission Matters: News from the Episcopal Diocese of Western MA latest issue can be found here. Meditation for the Eighth Sunday after Pentecost July 26, 2020 The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in his field; it is the smallest of all the seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches. [Matthew 13:31-32] I love this image of the mustard tree, the beautifully lush shelter for birds that grows from “the smallest of seeds.” We often think of the mustard bush as a weed that will grow under any conditions. However, mustard seeds were planted along the border of vegetable gardens in order to distract birds by providing a place where they could build nests. The mustard seed was not just an image of wildness, of a divine energy and purpose undeterred by barren ground or hostile climate. It was also an image of abundance, in particular a life-giving abundance that doesn’t merely bring individual comfort but also provides safety for others. This vividly colorful image captures the wonder of this. Like any good teacher, Jesus uses several different images to describe the realm of God, knowing that each will resonate differently with different listeners: a mustard seed, yeast, a treasure discovered in a field, a pearl more precious than any others, a net that catches fish without sorting them. Even with their differences all these images show God surprising us with an unexpected gift discovered in the course of ordinary life. We can take comfort in this promise for our own lives, especially during this time when clarity and comfort elude all of us. Jesus teach us that a small, priceless gift is hidden in plain sight. And we are inspired, as a community of faith, to be the unexpected gift discovered by people who may have given up on seeking. While we understandably spend a lot of time wondering when we will once again gather for worship and share Holy Communion, Jesus’ parables remind us that our mission remains unchanged and necessary: Sharing the Grace of God, the Light of Christ, and the Power of the Holy Spirit through worship, ministry, and fellowship. Even in our own spiritual and emotional hunger, we are mustard seed, yeast, hidden treasure, net. We are not called to be all things to all people. We are called to feed, shelter, find, and gather ordinary people in ordinary ways. A Prayer for the Journey God, set me on the path again. Turn me to the rising sun when I need to be inspired. Turn me to wilderness when I need to be lost. Turn me toward the business of the world when I need to work. Turn me toward the mountain when I need to be refreshed. Then turn me toward the sunset when I need rest. Amen by Becca Stevens MORNING PRAYER via ZOOM Ministers of the Liturgy The Rev. Dr. Judith Lee James Jones, Justin Varteresian, Margaret Myatt, Douglas Lloyd Musicians: Randy Bloom, Jeff Lukas For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. [Romans 8:39] https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82256827302?pwd=Z0E3ZlpXY0hIRFdIZHN0ZnltdXNlZz09 Meeting ID: 822-5682-7302 Password: 546896 If you cannot access through your computer, you may participate by telephone. Telephone: 929-205-6099 For the Morning Prayer leaflet, click here. For the Weekly Announcements click here. A Message from Rachel Carpenter: Hi everyone! This week, we will focus on the Fruit of the Spirit PEACE! Check out the Douglas Talks video and then try the Cosmic Yoga youtube channel! As always, email me a pic or video to earn points! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPv4MqtpfNM https://www.youtube.com/user/CosmicKidsYoga Have a great week!! ~Rachel [email protected] Next Steps: Moving Forward Heavenly Father, whose blessed Son came not to be served but to serve: Bless all who, following in his steps, give themselves to the service of others; that with wisdom, patience, and courage, they may minister in his Name to the suffering, the friendless, and the needy; for the love of him who laid down his life for us, your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. New Rector Search: Next Steps: Search Committee Appointed: The Vestry has appointed the following people to the Search Committee: Pam Hennessy (Chair); Katherine Cote, Jim Donohoe, Steve Howe, Touie Jackson, Mary Johnson, Hilary Stafford, and Lucille Clinkman (Vestry Liaison). They will be commission during the service on Sunday, August 9th. The Holy Cow Survey - The Congregational Assessment Tool (CAT), also called the Holy Cow Survey because it is designed by Holy Cow Consulting, is the first official step in your preparation for new ministry. The questions provide a profile of Trinity in your demographics and your views of Scripture, liturgy, mission, qualities of a Rector, parish life, and theology. The final summary shows where Trinity fits in the spectrum of Episcopal churches across the country. It is very, very important that as many people as possible take the survey. Each adult member of every household should complete a survey. It takes about half an hour. to complete. Your responses are anonymous. For link to to the online survey click here. Today we will mail hard copies of the survey to those members who are not comfortable working online. We will also pair each person who has received a hard copy with someone who will work with you to complete the survey, and then someone will enter the data onto the website. Your written responses will remain anonymous. The Survey must be completed by August 17th. Holy Cow Consulting compiles the results and sends them to Canon Simpson, who will review the results with the Vestry, Search Committee, and Profile Committee on September 12th. Thank you to everyone who participated in the parish meetings. For a summary of those conversations, including a summary of the Youth conversations, click here. May God continue to inspire us, bless us, and guide us. Entering Stage 2: The church is now open for private prayer for 3 hours each week: Tuesday evening 6:30-7:30pm Thursday morning 10am-11am Sunday morning 11am-noon We will adjust these hours in the coming weeks, depending on interest and need. Each person will be asked to sanitize their hands and to wear a mask upon entering the church from the back door. (We will provide both as needed.) Seating will be designated according to safe distancing, and you will be asked to bring your own prayer book. The church building and the bathrooms will not be open. The sanctuary, offices, and Lane Chapel room have been cleaned and sanitized. We will continue with Morning Prayer on Sundays and Wednesdays via ZOOM. On August 10th, the Vestry will review a revised Building Use Agreement with Addenda that include a liability waiver, a checklist of safety protocols, and a health questionnaire. When those documents have been approved, we will submit a proposal for opening our building to community groups and opening our office to the public. Pending a peer review, those steps will take place at the beginning of September. Parish Zoom Events: Summer Schedule: ZOOM Bingo on Sundays at 3 pm & Game Night on Tuesdays @ 7 - We'll resume in September Zoom-Chats: Mondays @ 7am & Wednesdays @ 8 pm: every other week: Mondays:July 27 & August 10; Wednesdays: August 5 & 19 Wednesdays @ 10 am: Morning Prayer & Fellowship via ZOOM - We'll continue weekly https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83161138171?pwd=TitUUzdtRVhjZVFadjNZbFlxV1dhdz09 Meeting ID: 831 6113 8171 Password: 497792 Telephone: 929-205-6099 Fridays @ Noon: Lunch & Bible Study: The Gospel of Matthew - We'll continue weekly through the month of July. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87474952317?pwd=UkdpQTNuNmtxVkhtYlZkVGVDVkZOQT09 Meeting ID: 874 7495 2317 Password: 097331 This Friday we will continue our discussion of the Gospel of Matthew through Chapter 24. Sacred Ground:A Film-based Dialogue Series on Race and Faith Sacred Ground is a film- and readings-based series on race, grounded in faith. Small groups will walk through chapters of America’s history of race and racism, while weaving in threads of family story, economic class, and political and regional identity. This program designed by The Episcopal Church has 10 sessions; groups of 4-10 participants will meet every other week, beginning in September. Mary Johnson and Mother Judith will lead the program for Trinity and we have invited members of other churches to participate with us. To learn more see https://episcopalchurch.org/sacred-ground and watch for more information about how to register with either Mary or Mother Judith. Community Dinners We distributed 45 meals on June 25th and donated 5 meals to the Food Pantry. We will distribute meals prepared by Oliva's from the parking lot at Trinity on July 30th and August 27th. In addition, we will distribute meals to the staff of Cornerstone Assisted Living in July and Whitcomb House in August. Your generosity has made it possible for us to continue feeding about 100 people each month during the pandemic, in addition to supporting our local restaurants. If you can volunteer to help with setting up and taking down the tables, distributing meals, and bring leftover meals to the Food Pantry, in July or August, please contact Glen Peterson. We will certify Community Service credit. At their August meeting the Vestry will make a decision on how to continue the Community Meal program in the fall, pending peer review by the Dean and the Bishop. Meanwhile, we continue our strong partnership with the Food Pantry and with other local churches and community organizations. To contribute to this project, please send your check payable to Trinity Church with Community Dinners on the memo line or donate directly to Hopedale Unitarian Parish, who is managing the funds for this project, by going to https://hopedaleunitarian.org and pressing the Donate button. Prayer List Please send Magee the names of people you would like to be on the Prayer List. Our policy has been to remove names after 4 weeks, but we want to be sure we follow the wishes of families and friends. Our Prayers Are Offered For: Parish Members & Friends: Cami Carter; Alana Phoenix-Laliberte; Jill Henderson; Patty Souder; Rose Marie Moore; David Stochaj; McKenze Cahill; David Gillis; Ruth Warner; Arlene Person; Sharon Manoogian; Sal & Vas Ferreira; Len Baird; Judy Shea; Robin Rowe; Skye Bayleigh Plaisted; Alex; Alisha Starkis Weddeke; Chrissy & Mark; Thomas Scano; the Canali Family; Heidi Donnelly; Sherel & Lou Frere; Craig Silverman; Justin Perkin; Dr. Stephen Janko; Tom Childs; Nancy Sharoogian; Bob Mezzadri; all those serving in the military and the Peace Corps, especially Avary DeRagon; Dan Consigli; Drew Beauchamp; Charles; Laura; Elena; Brendan Wood; Danielle & Joel Marsh; Tom Bento; Joel Joudrey; Justin Woessner; Chris Ketcham and their families. Homebound Parishioners: Betty Henneberry; Verna Parente, Wayne Morey. Our Partner Dioceses: Kumasi and Asante-Mampong in Ghana Those celebrating birthdays this week: Katie Gallerane; Jessica Peguero; Derek Gatchell; Angus Scrimgeour; Jennifer Kane; Sejal Abraham; Evan McCall; Len Baird; Cindi Scrimgeour; Michael Ibrahim, Jr.; Riley Person; Sharon Manoogian; Robert Kleinfield; Barbara Dutko; Timothy Murray; Andy Spencer; Sal Morese, Jr.; Anne Smith; Cathy Harrison; Alex Papasodero; and Ava Cortese. Pledges: Thank you to all of you who have been sending in your pledges. Our deposits are being made on a different schedule these days, so there may be a delay in seeing the record of your payment. Some of you are facing financial stress: if so, please give what you can; if not, please give a bit extra to support those who cannot. Please note: Unscrupulous people have contacted parishioners claiming to be Mother Judith and asking for money. Mother Judith's only email addresses are [email protected] or [email protected] and her phone number is (716) 949-8194 . She never asks for money! Please do not respond to any other email addresses or phone numbers. If you have a question about whether a request is REALLY from Mother Judith, please contact her first at these email addresses/phone number before sending any money. Thanks. How to keep up with Trinity news: All notices, videos, and links can be found at www.trinitychurchmilford.org
and on the Trinity Church-Milford Facebook page. Our diocesan website offers links to online worship in our diocese. https://www.diocesewma.org/ Worship from the National Cathedral is available online every Sunday at 11:15 am. https://cathedral.org/ The Episcopal Church offers valuable resources for spiritual renewal. https://episcopalchurch.org/ Habits of Grace: An invitation for you, from Presiding Bishop Curry A new video meditation will be posted on Mondays through July. Click here to view the latest. Mission Matters: News from the Episcopal Diocese of Western MA latest issue can be found here. Meditation for the Seventh Sunday after Pentecost July 19, 2020 Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; * knit my heart to you that I may fear your Name. [Psalm 86.11] The gospel for this Sunday includes the parable of the wheat and tares. Jesus tells the story of a farmer who has planted wheat; unbeknownst to him “an enemy” has sown weeds (tares) among the wheat. But when the field workers ask if they should pull up the weeds, the farmer says to let the wheat and the weeds grow together until the harvest, and then they will be separated. In this parable, Jesus refers to a particular kind of weed: The tare is otherwise known as the bearded darnel. Its roots impinge upon the roots of the plant around it so that it sucks up nutrients and water. As a result, it’s impossible to root it out without damaging the good plants. In addition, because it looks like wheat until it produces seed, which can cause hallucinations or death, there is no way to prevent the damage it causes. This is a powerful warning against both complacency and judgement. I like the way that Tom Ehrich has put it in his daily meditation on July 13, 2020 (On the Journey, morningwallkmedia.com): [W]heat and tares are sown together. We carry our flaws and foibles with us, along with our strengths and accomplishments. Our characters, our moral fiber, our demons and our doubts are as portable as our laptops. Even as we reinvent ourselves in a new world, our old selves also have voice and vote. . . . I do think we get better at it as time goes on, maybe because, after growing awhile, “wholesome grain” is more readily distinguished from weeds. As you enter a new stage of preparing for new ministry, it is important to look at both the “wheat and the tares” of your life together, in your history as well as your hopes. Your parish meeting showed a strong consensus that you do not see the need for fundamental change—either to leave behind any particular practices or to initiate any radically new ministry. This stability is a true gift, for it grounds the reflection that will be prompted by the Holy Cow Survey that you will be taking in the coming weeks. Where are the obstacles to growth? When have you mistaken a tare for wheat? When, even in the time of harvest, have you ignored the invitation to cast aside illusions? When have you found the opening to blossom that God sends us now and again? As you prepare for someone to choose to do ministry with you, what are your “flaws and foibles” along with your “gifts and accomplishments”? With God’s grace, may we welcome our “old selves” as we continue to grow into a new and fruitful body. Almighty and everlasting God, you made the universe with all its marvelous order, its atoms, worlds, and galaxies, and the infinite complexity of living creatures: Grant that, as we probe the mysteries of your creation, we may come to know you more truly, and more surely fulfill our role in your eternal purpose; in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen 9 AM SUNDAY - MORNING PRAYER via ZOOM Prayers for A Time of Transition Commissioning of the Profile Committee: Leigh Martin (Chair), Dave Clinkman, Peach Warren, Mary Beth Sweet, Wayne Stochaj (Vestry Liaison) Ministers of the Liturgy The Rev. Dr. Judith Lee Dave Clinkman, Peach Warren, Wayne Stochaj For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. [Jeremiah 29:11] https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82256827302?pwd=Z0E3ZlpXY0hIRFdIZHN0ZnltdXNlZz09 Meeting ID: 822-5682-7302 Password: 546896 If you cannot access through your computer, you may participate by telephone. Telephone: 929-205-6099 For the Morning Prayer leaflet, click here. For the Weekly Announcements click here. The service will begin with a brief organ prelude, and Jeff Lukas will offer a musical meditation. After the service, Ginny Starkis and Wayne Stochaj will introduce you to the Congregational Assessment Tool (Holy Cow Survey) which will be available to be completed online July 20th - August 17th. We will hold Morning Prayer via ZOOM at 9 am every Sunday in July and August A Message from Rachel Carpenter: Hello Trinity Church School! This week's Fruit of the Spirit is JOY! Check out this video and see the object lesson below! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQwHnmRBSHU Overflowing with Joy object lesson! https://www.pinterest.com/pin/165718461262920880/ As always, send me a video or picture of you doing something that shows me what you learned from this lesson! You could send me a video of you doing the object lesson or maybe a picture or video of something that brings you JOY! Have fun! ~Rachel [email protected] Next Steps: Moving Forward Heavenly Father, whose blessed Son came not to be served but to serve: Bless all who, following in his steps, give themselves to the service of others; that with wisdom, patience, and courage, they may minister in his Name to the suffering, the friendless, and the needy; for the love of him who laid down his life for us, your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. New Rector Search: Next Steps: The Holy Cow Survey - The Congregational Assessment Tool (CAT), also called the Holy Cow Survey because it is designed by Holy Cow Consulting, is the first official step in your preparation for new ministry. The questions provide a profile of Trinity in your demographics and your views of Scripture, liturgy, mission, qualities of a Rector, parish life, and theology. The final summary shows where Trinity fits in the spectrum of Episcopal churches across the country. It is very, very important that as many people as possible take the survey. Each adult member of every household should complete a survey. It takes about half an hour. to complete. Your responses are anonymous. On Monday July 20th we will send a parish email with the link to the survey. On Thursday July 23rd we will mail hard copies of the survey to those members who are not comfortable working online. We will also pair each person who has received a hard copy with someone who will work with you to complete the survey, and then someone will enter the data onto the website. Your written responses will remain anonymous. The Survey must be completed by August 17th. Holy Cow Consulting compiles the results and sends them to Canon Simpson, who will review the results with the Vestry, Search Committee, and Profile Committee on September 12th. Thank you to everyone who participated in the parish meetings. For a summary of those conversations, including a summary of the Youth conversations, click here. May God continue to inspire us, bless us, and guide us. Entering Stage 2: The church is now open for private prayer for 3 hours each week: Tuesday evening 6:30-7:30pm Thursday morning 10am-11am Sunday morning 11am-noon We will adjust these hours in the coming weeks, depending on interest and need. Each person will be asked to sanitize their hands and to wear a mask upon entering the church from the back door. (We will provide both as needed.) Seating will be designated according to safe distancing, and you will be asked to bring your own prayer book. The church building and the bathrooms will not be open. This week, the sanctuary, offices, and Lane Chapel room were cleaned and sanitized. We will continue with Morning Prayer on Sundays and Wednesdays via ZOOM. We may hold one special outdoor service in August, pending public health protocols and peer review by the Dean and the Bishop. On August 10th, the Vestry will review a revised Building Use Agreement with Addenda that include a liability waiver, a checklist of safety protocols, and a health questionnaire. When those documents have been approved, we will submit a proposal for opening our building to community groups and opening our office to the public. Pending a peer review, those steps will take place at the beginning of September. Meanwhile, we are preparing the Lane Chapel . Parish Zoom Events: Summer Schedule: ZOOM Bingo on Sundays at 3 pm & Game Night on Tuesdays @ 7 - We'll resume in September Zoom-Chats: Mondays @ 7am & Wednesdays @ 8 pm: Every Other Week: Mondays:July 27 & August 10; Wednesdays: July 22, August 5 & 19 Wednesdays @ 10 am: Morning Prayer & Fellowship via ZOOM - We'll continue weekly https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83161138171?pwd=TitUUzdtRVhjZVFadjNZbFlxV1dhdz09 Meeting ID: 831 6113 8171 Password: 497792 Telephone: 929-205-6099 Fridays @ Noon: Lunch & Bible Study: The Gospel of Matthew - We'll continue weekly through the month of July. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87474952317?pwd=UkdpQTNuNmtxVkhtYlZkVGVDVkZOQT09 Meeting ID: 874 7495 2317 Password: 097331 This Friday we will continue our discussion of the Gospel of Matthew through Chapter 20 Please note: Unscrupulous people have contacted parishioners claiming to be Mother Judith and asking for money. Mother Judith's only email addresses are [email protected] or [email protected] and her phone number is (716) 949-8194 . She never asks for money! Please do not respond to any other email addresses or phone numbers. If you have a question about whether a request is REALLY from Mother Judith, please contact her first at these email addresses/phone number before sending any money. Thanks. Sacred Ground:A Film-based Dialogue Series on Race and Faith Sacred Ground is a film- and readings-based dialogue series on race, grounded in faith. Small groups are invited to walk through chapters of America’s history of race and racism, while weaving in threads of family story, economic class, and political and regional identity. This historical program designed by The Episcopal Church has 10 sessions; groups of 4-10 participants will meet every other week, beginning in mid- to late August and ending by January. Mary Johnson and Mother Judith will lead the program for Trinity and we have invited members of other churches to participate with us. To learn more see https://episcopalchurch.org/sacred-ground and watch for more information about how to register with either Mary or Mother Judith Community Dinners We distributed 45 meals on June 25th and donated 5 meals to the Food Pantry. We will distribute meals prepared by Oliva's from the parking lot at Trinity on July 30th and August 27th. In addition, we will distribute meals to the staff of Cornerstone Assisted Living in July and Whitcomb House in August. Your generosity has made it possible for us to continue feeding about 100 people each month during the pandemic, in addition to supporting our local restaurants.
If you can volunteer to help with setting up and taking down the tables, distributing meals, and bring leftover meals to the Food Pantry, in July or August, please contact Glen Peterson. We will certify Community Service credit. At their August meeting the Vestry will make a decision on how to continue the Community Meal program in the fall, pending peer review by the Dean and the Bishop. Meanwhile, we continue our strong partnership with the Food Pantry and with other local churches and community organizations. To contribute to this project, please send your check payable to Trinity Church with Community Dinners on the memo line or donate directly to Hopedale Unitarian Parish, who is managing the funds for this project, by going to https://hopedaleunitarian.org and pressing the Donate button. Prayer List Please send Magee the names of people you would like to be on the Prayer List. Our policy has been to remove names after 4 weeks, but we want to be sure we follow the wishes of families and friends. Our Prayers Are Offered For: Parish Members & Friends: Rose Marie Moore; David Stochaj; McKenze Cahill; David Gillis; Ruth Warner; Arlene Person; Sharon Manoogian; Sal & Vas Ferreira; Len Baird; Judy Shea; Robin Rowe; Skye Bayleigh Plaisted; Alex; Alisha Starkis Weddeke; Chrissy & Mark; Thomas Scano; the Canali Family; Heidi Donnelly; Sherel & Lou Frere; Craig Silverman; Justin Perkin; Dr. Stephen Janko; Tom Childs; Nancy Sharoogian; Bob Mezzadri; all those serving in the military and the Peace Corps, especially Avary DeRagon; Dan Consigli; Drew Beauchamp; Charles; Laura; Elena; Brendan Wood; Danielle & Joel Marsh; Tom Bento; Joel Joudrey; Justin Woessner; Chris Ketcham and their families. Homebound Parishioners: Betty Henneberry; Verna Parente, Wayne Morey. Our Partner Dioceses: Kumasi and Asante-Mampong in Ghana Those celebrating birthdays this week: James Jones; Viviana Elliot; Julian Piacente-Perez; Andrea DellaCroce; C. K. Hagedorn, II; Chip O’Connell, III; Erin McCarthy; Leah Prevelige; Joyce Nogler; Sydney Redden; Jason Adams; Dante Leone; Mikael Bedrosian; Lyall Chambers; Matthew Negrotti; Cathy Poch; Kali Vickery; Katie Gallerane; and Jessica Peguero. Pledges Thank you to all of you who have been sending in your pledges. Our deposits are being made on a different schedule these days, so there may be a delay in seeing the record of your payment. Some of you are facing financial stress: if so, please give what you can; if not, please give a bit extra to support those who cannot. How to keep up with Trinity news: All notices, videos, and links can be found at www.trinitychurchmilford.org and on the Trinity Church-Milford Facebook page. Our diocesan website offers links to online worship in our diocese. https://www.diocesewma.org/ Worship from the National Cathedral is available online every Sunday at 11:15 am. https://cathedral.org/ The Episcopal Church offers valuable resources for spiritual renewal. https://episcopalchurch.org/ Habits of Grace: An invitation for you, from Presiding Bishop Curry A new video meditation will be posted on Mondays through July. Click here to view the latest. Mission Matters: News from the Episcopal Diocese of Western MA latest issue can be found here. Meditation for The Sixth Sunday after Pentecost July 9, 2020 For you shall go out in joy, and be led back in peace; the mountains and the hills before shall burst into song, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the cypress; instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle [Isaiah 55:12-13] This passage from Sunday’s Scripture follows the prophet Isaiah’s exhortation to repent, to trust in the mercy of God and turn away from dehumanizing behaviors and practices. It describes the deep peace that is brought about by facing the damage we have done in our lives and then turning away from fear and shame. In these days when uncertainty shadows our every action and the paths forward are either obscured or confusing, Isaiah holds before us the image of a God infinitely compassionate, source of a beauty and joy. On Sunday we will say prayers for the Church, and your Wardens and Vestry members will lead a conversation about our life at Trinity: where we are and where we are going. The promise of Isaiah offers a starting point for that conversation. The Church at its best offers a path to the freedom that comes only from trusting in God. We are the Body of Christ, the visible sign of a compassionate abundance that cannot be diminished by human folly. We offer the promise of forgiveness not because we minimize the damage that we are capable of incurring on each other and on the earth, but because we proclaim a God who transforms our recklessness into a life-giving order. We offer to the world an alternative to fear not out of pride but out of the vulnerability that is the beginning of growth, the honest response to uncertainty. Too often the Church has warned us of the “thorn” and the “brier.” In this time and in this place, we must instead listen to “the mountains and hills . . . burst into song” and to “all the trees clapping their hands.” We must trust in the joy and hope that lingers deep in our hearts. We must be the Word of life. Most Blessed Creator: Help us never to forget that there is nothing we can do to make you love us less and there is nothing we can do to make you love us more. -Archbishop Desmond Tutu 9 AM SUNDAY - MORNING PRAYER via ZOOM Prayers for the Church Ministers of the Liturgy: The Rev. Judith Lee Wardens and Vestry Ginny Starkis, Susan Edmondson (Wardens) Peach Warren, Steve Ketchum, Wayne Stochaj, Grace Prevelige, Sarah Prevelige, Lisa Ruggiero https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82256827302?pwd=Z0E3ZlpXY0hIRFdIZHN0ZnltdXNlZz09 Meeting ID: 822-5682-7302 Password: 546896 If you cannot access through your computer, you may participate by telephone. Telephone: 929-205-6099 For the Morning Prayer leaflet, click here. The service will begin with a brief organ prelude. Thank you to Randy Bloom and Ann Marie Lockwood. After the service we will have an opportunity for conversation with your Wardens and Vestry members about where things stand with preparing for the search and our shared hopes and concerns. We will have this conversation with the Wardens and Vestry on one Sunday each Month. Our next conversation will be on Sunday August 16th. We will hold Morning Prayer via ZOOM at 9 am every Sunday in July and August A Message from Rachel Carpenter: Each week I will be posting on Trinity's website (www.trinitychurchmilford.org) some videos and activity ideas that you can do from home! If you complete an activity, email me a picture of your finished product. You will get a point for each activity you complete. At the end of the summer, whoever gets the most points will win a prize! Our summer theme will be The Fruits of the Spirit. WAY TO GO EMILY KEE!! I LOVED the video of you, Brandon and your dad doing the Fruits of the Spirit dance! 1 point for the Kees! Nice singing Mr. Kee:) Here is this week's church school activity! Click here. This week, we will focus on our first fruit of the spirit, LOVE! Take a few minutes to watch these two videos and then do the activity! In the first video, there's a little muppet guy - it might look like the video is for young kids, but it's really not! He does a great job teaching us about LOVE:) https://youtu.be/rqC21JQBcaI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZxas7MJ2-A Remember to send me a text or email showing me something you learned or a video of you doing the project! [email protected] HAVE FUN!! ~Rachel Next Steps: Moving Forward Heavenly Father, whose blessed Son came not to be served but to serve: Bless all who, following in his steps, give themselves to the service of others; that with wisdom, patience, and courage, they may minister in his Name to the suffering, the friendless, and the needy; for the love of him who laid down his life for us, your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. Beginning this week, the church will be open for private prayer for 3 hours each week:
Each person will be asked to sanitize their hands and to wear a mask upon entering the church from the back door. (We will provide both as needed.) Seating will be designated according to safe distancing, and you will be asked to bring your own prayer book. The church building and the bathrooms will not be open. This week, the sanctuary, offices, and Lane Chapel room will be cleaned and sanitized. We will continue with Morning Prayer on Sundays and Wednesdays via ZOOM. We may hold one special outdoor service in August, pending public health protocols and peer review by the Dean and the Bishop. At this week’s meeting the Vestry will decide when to open the building to community groups and under what conditions. For the month of July the office will be open by appointment only on Mondays and Thursdays, 10am – 3pm Parish Zoom Events: We have a new Summer Schedule: ZOOM Bingo on Sundays at 3 pm & Game Night on Tuesdays @ 7 - We'll resume in September Zoom-Chats: Mondays @ 7am & Wednesdays @ 8 pm: Every Other Week: Mondays:July 13 & 27, August 10; Wednesdays: July 22, August 5 & 19 Wednesdays @ 10 am: Morning Prayer & Fellowship via ZOOM - We'll continue weekly https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83161138171?pwd=TitUUzdtRVhjZVFadjNZbFlxV1dhdz09 Meeting ID: 831 6113 8171 Password: 497792 Telephone: 929-205-6099 Fridays @ Noon: Lunch & Bible Study: The Gospel of Matthew - We'll continue weekly through the month of July. This week we will begin at 11:30 so that the ROMEOs can begin at 12:30 pm https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87474952317?pwd=UkdpQTNuNmtxVkhtYlZkVGVDVkZOQT09 Meeting ID: 874 7495 2317 Password: 097331 This Friday we will continue our discussion of the Gospel of Matthew through Chapter 16 Please note: Unscrupulous people have contacted parishioners claiming to be Mother Judith and asking for money. Mother Judith's only email addresses are [email protected] or [email protected] and her phone number is (716) 949-8194 . She never asks for money! Please do not respond to any other email addresses or phone numbers. If you have a question about whether a request is REALLY from Mother Judith, please contact her first at these email addresses/phone number before sending any money. Thanks. For the weekly announcements, click here. New Rector Search: Next Steps Thank you to everyone who took the time to participate in the Parish Meetings. During this time of preparing for new ministry, it means a lot to listen to each other express our hopes and concerns for the future. We have heard some good ideas about what we might initiate and improve, and you have been very clear about what is important to you. Your stability and commitment to ongoing ministries is a real strength and it will be a clear message to your candidates. If you have not taken part in the zoom meetings, nothing is more important now than for you to send your written responses to the church or to email them to Ginny Starkis ([email protected]) by next Wednesday July 15. We need to present an accurate portrait of our congregation to candidates, and your responses are absolutely necessary for the Profile Committee to design a Parish Profile. On July 13th, the Vestry will appoint the Chairs of the Profile and Search Committees. The members of the committees will be appointed at a later meeting. On Sunday July 19th i will commission them, and they will be our Readers in the Liturgy. For a copy of the questions to respond to by mail or email click here. May God continue to inspire us, bless us, and guide us. Community Dinners We distributed 45 meals on June 25th and donated 5 meals to the Food Pantry. We will distribute meals prepared by Oliva's from the parking lot at Trinity on July 30th and August 27th. In addition, we will distribute meals to the staff of Cornerstone Assisted Living in July and Whitcomb House in August. Your generosity has made it possible for us to continue feeding about 100 people each month during the pandemic, in addition to supporting our local restaurants.
If you can volunteer to help with setting up and taking down the tables, distributing meals, and bring leftover meals to the Food Pantry, in July or August, please contact Glen Peterson. We will certify Community Service credit. At their August meeting the Vestry will make a decision on how to continue the Community Meal program in the fall, pending peer review by the Dean and the Bishop. Meanwhile, we continue our strong partnership with the Food Pantry and with other local churches and community organizations. To contribute to this project, please send your check payable to Trinity Church with Community Dinners on the memo line or donate directly to Hopedale Unitarian Parish, who is managing the funds for this project, by going to https://hopedaleunitarian.org and pressing the Donate button. Prayer List Please send Magee the names of people you would like to be on the Prayer List. Our policy has been to remove names after 4 weeks, but we want to be sure we follow the wishes of families and friends. Our prayer list is included in the weekly announcements . Pledges Thank you to all of you who have been sending in your pledges. Our deposits are being made on a different schedule these days, so there may be a delay in seeing the record of your payment. Some of you are facing financial stress: if so, please give what you can; if not, please give a bit extra to support those who cannot. How to keep up with Trinity news: All notices, videos, and links can be found at www.trinitychurchmilford.org Our diocesan website offers links to online worship in our diocese. https://www.diocesewma.org/ Worship from the National Cathedral is available online every Sunday at 11:15 am. https://cathedral.org/ The Episcopal Church offers valuable resources for spiritual renewal. https://episcopalchurch.org/ Habits of Grace: An invitation for you, from Presiding Bishop Curry A new video meditation will be posted on Mondays through July. Click here to view the latest. Mission Matters: News from the Episcopal Diocese of Western MA latest issue can be found here. Meditation for Independence Day July 2, 2020 For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for self-indulgence, but through love serve one another. [Galatians 5:13] This year’s 4th of July celebrations will be an opportunity for us to invent new traditions, either by modifying what we are used to doing or by trying something we haven’t done before. In the poignant mix of disappointment and appreciation that will inevitably color this weekend, we give thanks. On this weekend, we remember and honor the people who took great risks to come to an unknown land, to build a society that had never existed before. We remember, too, the costs and mistakes that continue to be part of making their dream come true. We remember with humility that our work is unfinished and we accept with awe the mercy with which God continues to guide us to repair the damage we have done. We pray for the grace to stop waiting for the world to be the way we want it to be and to remember that God’s promise of a community of mutual respect and shared dignity means that our personal freedom cannot be limitless. We prayer for the grace to turn our thoughts from our limitations to our freedom: from what we cannot do to what we can do, from what we should do to what we must do. We pray for the grace to reach beyond the barriers of self-pity and self-indulgence and to clasp the hands that are reaching out to us in compassion and hope. O God, who out of nothing brought everything that is, out of what I am bring more of what I dream but haven’t dared; direct my power and passion to creating life where there is death, to putting flesh of action on bare-boned intentions, to lighting fires against the midnight of indifference, to throwing bridges of care across canyons of loneliness;n so I can look ocreation, together with you, and, behold, call it very good; through Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen. [Ted Loder, Guerillas of Grace] 9 AM SUNDAY - MORNING PRAYER via ZOOM Prayers for Our Nation Ministers of the Liturgy: The Rev. Judith Lee Military Veterans: Steve Howe, Jeff Lukas, Dave Clinkman https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82256827302?pwd=Z0E3ZlpXY0hIRFdIZHN0ZnltdXNlZz09 Meeting ID: 822-5682-7302 Password: 546896 If you cannot access through your computer, you may participate by telephone. Telephone: 929-205-6099 For the Morning Prayer leaflet, click here.We will hold Morning Prayer via ZOOM at 9 am every Sunday in July and August A Message from Rachel Carpenter: Each week I will be posting on Trinity's website (www.trinitychurchmilford.org) some videos and activity ideas that you can do from home! If you complete an activity, email me a picture of your finished product. You will get a point for each activity you complete. At the end of the summer, whoever gets the most points will win a prize! Our summer theme will be The Fruits of the Spirit. This week, the activities focus on introducing the topic. The following weeks will focus on each individual fruit of the spirit. Make sure to email me something that shows me that you completed an activity. What did you learn from the cartoon video? Send me a video of you doing the dance in the second video! Send me a picture of the craft you complete! Have fun!!! My email is [email protected] Fruits of the Spirit Cartoon https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZrlDT3k84U Fruits of the Spirit Song/Dance https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YF8Rdn7lEFU Fruits of the Spirit Craft https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bPxwkImyzus Next Steps: Moving Forward Heavenly Father, whose blessed Son came not to be served but to serve: Bless all who, following in his steps, give themselves to the service of others; that with wisdom, patience, and courage, they may minister in his Name to the suffering, the friendless, and the needy; for the love of him who laid down his life for us, your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. On June 22nd, your Vestry met to consider plans for re-opening the church building and in-person worship for the months of July and August. Their two considerations were the well-being of the congregation and faithfulness to your Mission Statement: Sharing the Grace of God, the Light of Christ, and the Power of the Holy Spirit through worship, ministry, and fellowship.
Parish Zoom Events: We have a new Summer Schedule: ZOOM Bingo on Sundays at 3 pm & Game Night on Tuesdays @ 7 - We'll resume in September Zoom-Chats: Mondays @ 7am & Wednesdays @ 8 pm: Every Other Week: Mondays:July 13 & 27, August 10 Wednesdays: July 8 & 22, August 5 & 19 Wednesdays @ 10 am: Morning Prayer & Fellowship via ZOOM - We'll continue weekly https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88905158309?pwd=dVpmY1JhajN6RWpTZmEzQ3NnOERBdz09 Meeting ID: 889-0515-8309 Password: 365669 Telephone: 929-205-6099 Fridays @ Noon: Lunch & Bible Study: The Gospel of Matthew - We'll continue weekly through the month of July. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87474952317?pwd=UkdpQTNuNmtxVkhtYlZkVGVDVkZOQT09 Meeting ID: 874 7495 2317 Password: 097331 This Friday we will continue our discussion of the Gospel of Matthew through Chapter 13. Please note: Unscrupulous people have contacted parishioners claiming to be Mother Judith and asking for money. Mother Judith's only email addresses are [email protected] or [email protected] and her phone number is (716) 949-8194 . She never asks for money! Please do not respond to any other email addresses or phone numbers. If you have a question about whether a request is REALLY from Mother Judith, please contact her first at these email addresses/phone number before sending any money. Thanks. For the weekly announcements, click here. New Rector Search: Next Steps Thank you to everyone who took the time to participate in the Parish Meetings. During this time of preparing for new ministry, it's helpful to listen to each other express our hopes and concerns for the future. We have heard some good ideas about what we might initiate and improve, and you have been very clear about what is important to you. Your stability and commitment to ongoing ministries is a real strength and it will be a clear message to your candidates. If you have not taken part in the zoom meetings, nothing is more important now than for you to send your written responses to the church or to email them to Ginny Starkis ([email protected]) by July 15. We need to present an accurate portrait of our congregation to candidates, and your responses are absolutely necessary for the Profile Committee to design a Parish Profile. On July 13th, the Vestry will appoint the members of the Profile and Search Committees. On Sunday July 19th i will commission those members, and they will be our Readers in the Liturgy. For a copy of the questions to respond to by mail or email click here. May God continue to inspire us, bless us, and guide us. Community Dinners We distributed 45 meals on June 25th and donated 5 meals to the Food Pantry. We will distribute meals prepared by Oliva's from the parking lot at Trinity on July 30th and August 27th. In addition, we will distribute meals to the staff of Cornerstone Assisted Living in July and Whitcomb House in August. Your generosity has made it possible for us to continue feeding about 100 people each month during the pandemic, in addition to supporting our local restaurants.
If you can volunteer to help with setting up and taking down the tables, distributing meals, and bring leftover meals to the Food Pantry, in July or August, please contact Glen Peterson. We will certify Community Service credit. At their August meeting the Vestry will make a decision on how to continue the Community Meal program in the fall, pending peer review by the Dean and the Bishop. Meanwhile, we continue our strong partnership with the Food Pantry and with other local churches and community organizations. To contribute to this project, please send your check payable to Trinity Church with Community Dinners on the memo line or donate directly to Hopedale Unitarian Parish, who is managing the funds for this project, by going to https://hopedaleunitarian.org and pressing the Donate button. Prayer List Please send Magee the names of people you would like to be on the Prayer List. Our policy has been to remove names after 4 weeks, but we want to be sure we follow the wishes of families and friends. Our prayer list is included in the weekly announcements . Pledges Thank you to all of you who have been sending in your pledges. Our deposits are being made on a different schedule these days, so there may be a delay in seeing the record of your payment. Some of you are facing financial stress: if so, please give what you can; if not, please give a bit extra to support those who cannot. How to keep up with Trinity news: All notices, videos, and links can be found at www.trinitychurchmilford.org Our diocesan website offers links to online worship in our diocese. https://www.diocesewma.org/ Worship from the National Cathedral is available online every Sunday at 11:15 am. https://cathedral.org/ Third season of The Way of Love with Bishop Michael Curry podcast began on May 5th. Click here. Habits of Grace: An invitation for you, from Presiding Bishop Curry New video meditations were posted on Mondays through June. Click here to view them all. Mission Matters: News from the Episcopal Diocese of Western MA latest issue can be found here. Meditation for June 28, 2020 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. [Matthew 5:9] Our service of Morning Prayer on Sunday will center on prayers for social justice, and our readers will be members of the Mission Committee. In recent weeks all of us have been reawakened to the many ways we have unintentionally, even unconsciously, been complicit in racial injustice. I have been haunted by the poem “Strange Fruit”, especially as it was sung by Billie Holliday. (A 1959 recording is available on YouTube). The poem was written by Abel Meerpool, a Jewish man who taught English at DeWitt Clinton High School in the Bronx and who wrote under the name Lewis Allen. In the early 1930s, he wrote this poem in horrified response to a photograph of a lynching; he put the words to music and performed it for a club owner he knew, who gave it to Billie Holliday, through whom it became widely known as this century’s central metaphor for lynching. Abel Meerpool wrote out of indignation and horror, little knowing how many millions of lives he would touch. We pray for the grace to trust that our own small acts from the heart, perhaps solitary and invisible, will also awaken others in ways we cannot imagine. Strange Fruit , by Lewis Allen. Sung by Billie Holiday Southern trees bear a strange fruit Blood on the leaves and blood at the root Black bodies swinging in the southern breeze Strange fruit hanging from the poplar trees. Pastoral scene of the gallant South The bulging eyes and the twisted mouth Scent of magnolia, sweet and fresh Then the sudden smell of burning flesh. Here is a fruit for the crows to pluck For the rain to gather, for the wind to suck For the sun to rot, for the tree to drop Here is a strange and bitter crop 9 AM SUNDAY - MORNING PRAYER via ZOOM Prayers for Social Justice Ministers of the Liturgy: The Rev. Judith Lee Members of the Mission Committee: Mary-Ellen Yaroshefski, Lucille Clinkman, Mary Torian, Ginny Starkis, Mary Johnson https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82256827302?pwd=Z0E3ZlpXY0hIRFdIZHN0ZnltdXNlZz09 Meeting ID: 822-5682-7302 Password: 546896 If you cannot access through your computer, you may participate by telephone. Telephone: 929-205-6099 For the Morning Prayer leaflet, click here.We will hold Morning Prayer via ZOOM at 9 am every Sunday in July and August Next Steps: Moving Forward God of the present moment, God who in Jesus stills the storm and soothes the frantic heart; bring us hope and courage as we wait in uncertainty. Bring hope that you will make us the equal of whatever lies ahead. Bring us courage to endure what cannot be avoided, for your will is health and wholeness; you are God, and we need you. - from A New Zealand Prayer Book On June 22nd, your Vestry met to consider plans for re-opening the church building and in-person worship for the months of July and August. Their two considerations were the well-being of the congregation and faithfulness to your Mission Statement: Sharing the Grace of God, the Light of Christ, and the Power of the Holy Spirit through worship, ministry, and fellowship.
Parish Zoom Events: We have a new Summer Schedule: ZOOM Bingo on Sundays at 3 pm & Game Night on Tuesdays @ 7 - We'll resume in September Zoom-Chats: Mondays @ 7am & Wednesdays @ 8 pm: Every Other Week: Mondays:June 29, July 13 & 27, August 10 Wednesdays: June 24, July 8 & 22, August 5 & 19 Wednesdays @ 10 am: Morning Prayer & Fellowship via ZOOM - We'll continue weekly https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88905158309?pwd=dVpmY1JhajN6RWpTZmEzQ3NnOERBdz09 Meeting ID: 889-0515-8309 Password: 365669 Telephone: 929-205-6099 Fridays @ Noon: Lunch & Bible Study: The Gospel of Matthew - We'll continue weekly through the month of July. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87474952317?pwd=UkdpQTNuNmtxVkhtYlZkVGVDVkZOQT09 Meeting ID: 874 7495 2317 Password: 097331 This Friday we will continue our discussion of the Gospel of Matthew through Chapter 12. For a copy of the Reading Schedule click here: https://mcusercontent.com/31f1ff6e86fdaf99cb3a10f4e/files/69c82ad4-fdda-47fa-958a-a17d936fab63/Bible_Study_Gospel_of_Matthew.June_July_2020.01.pdf Please note: Unscrupulous people have contacted parishioners claiming to be Mother Judith and asking for money. Mother Judith's only email addresses are [email protected] or [email protected] and her phone number is (716) 949-8194 . She never asks for money! Please do not respond to any other email addresses or phone numbers. If you have a question about whether a request is REALLY from Mother Judith, please contact her first at these email addresses/phone number before sending any money. Thanks. For the weekly announcements, click here. New Rector Search: Next Steps An important part of the search for a new rector is identifying who we are and what we as a parish are called to be. Ordinarily, we would gather that information at a parish-wide meeting. Since that is not possible, we will be hosting a series of Zoom meetings where we can discuss and reflect on these topics. For those without access to Zoom, we will schedule two in-person meetings sometime in July after we have received permission from the diocese to reopen. Members of the Vestry and Chairs of the Search & Profile committees will facilitate these meetings. For a copy of the questions to respond to by mail or email click here. The Zoom meetings will be held on: Thursday, June 25 from 7:00 to 9:00 PM: Meeting ID: 857 8399 5482 Password: 753634 Telephone: 929-205-6099 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85783995482?pwd=dkE5SHNoUVJHTXdXdTE0VGc2a25qQT09 Sunday, June 28th from 4:00 to 6:00 PM: Meeting ID: 823 0182 9874 Password: 094136 Telephone: 929-205-6099 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82301829874?pwd=TG9oLzd3WituQnp0ajcybmpDL2lNUT09 Wednesday, July 1 from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM: Meeting ID: 889 0515 8309 Password: 365669 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88905158309?pwd=dVpmY1JhajN6RWpTZmEzQ3NnOERBdz09 The four areas we will cover are:
1. What ministries are most important to what Trinity is called to be? 2. What is one important change or new ministry you would like Trinity to initiate within the next 3 years in each area? 3. What do we need to do now to prepare for this change or new ministry in each area? If you are unable to participate in any of the meetings, please provide written answers and send them to [email protected] by July 15. Your input, whether in person or written, is necessary for the success of our search and I encourage you to participate in these discussions. Thank you! Ginny Starkis, Senior Warden Community Dinners
e-blast Meditation: Father's Day June 17, 2020 John O'Donohue's "Blessing for a New Father" captures, I think, the dreams and hopes, burdens and gifts. that all fathers experience in different ways as their children grow, and as they see their sons become fathers: As the shimmer of dawn transforms the night Into a blush of color future with delight, The eyes of your new child awaken in you A brightness that surprises your life. Since the first stir of its secret becoming, The echo of your child has lived inside you, Strengthening through all its night of forming Into a sure pulse of fostering music. How quietly and gently that embryo-echo Can womb in the bone of a man And foster across the distance to the mother A shadow-shelter around this fragile voyage. Now as your behold your infant, you know That this child has come from you and to you; You feel the full force of a father’s desire To protect and shelter. Perhaps for the first time, There awakens in you A sense of your own mortality. May your heart rest in the grace of the gift And you sense how you have been called Inside the dream of this new destiny. May you be gentle and loving, Clear and sure. May you trust in the unseen providence That has chosen you all to be a family. May you stand sure on your ground And know that every grace you need Will unfold before you Like all the mornings of your life. Trinity Church in partnership with the United Parish of Upton and the Clergy of Milford & Hopedale will come together in a Service of Prayer and Song to celebrate JuneteenthFriday June 19, 2020 4 PM Live-streamed from United Parish of Upton Here is a link to the service: https://youtu.be/G6zw8mJAZds Juneteenth is a holiday that commemorates the end of legalized slavery in the United States. It recalls how the states of Louisiana and Texas heard the news that President Abraham Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. Slavery continued in those two states for more than two years after the proclamation was signed because the word had yet to travel there. Texas and Louisiana finally got the good news on June 19, 1865 that legalized slavery in the United States of America had ended. We worship in thanksgiving for the enduring vision of those first Freedmen and the generations of African Americans whose affirmation of the dignity of every human being has itself been an act of resistance. We pray for forgiveness for our own complicity in social injustice, and we renew our commitment to the freedom that is possible only when justice and peace are joined through the grace of our compassionate and merciful God For a copy of the service leaflet click here. General Order No. 3 The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property, between former masters and slaves and the connection heretofore existing between them, becomes that between employer and hired labor. The Freedmen are advised to remain at their present homes and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts; and they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere 9 AM SUNDAY - MORNING PRAYER via ZOOM A Celebration of our Fathers Ministers of the Liturgy: The Rev. Judith Lee Dave Clinkman, Dwight Kee, Kevin Kepler, Steve Ketcham, Wayne Stochaj https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82256827302?pwd=Z0E3ZlpXY0hIRFdIZHN0ZnltdXNlZz09 Meeting ID: 822-5682-7302 Password: 546896 If you cannot access through your computer, you may participate by telephone. Telephone: 929-205-6099 For the Morning Prayer leaflet, click here. We will hold Morning Prayer at 9 am every Sunday in June.. June 29th: Prayers for Social Justice Next Steps: Moving Forward God of the present moment, God who in Jesus stills the storm and soothes the frantic heart; bring us hope and courage as we wait in uncertainty. Bring hope that you will make us the equal of whatever lies ahead. Bring us courage to endure what cannot be avoided, for your will is health and wholeness; you are God, and we need you. - from A New Zealand Prayer Book The diocese has developed a set of checklists for preparing to re-open our buildings. The Vestry will develop a strategy based upon these checklists for worship, the office, small groups, and community groups, including disinfecting the sanctuary and church building. When we have protocols for meetings, gatherings, and office operations, we will submit our plan to the Dean for review. When the Dean has approved the plan, it will be sent to the Bishop for review. With the Bishop's approval, we will implement our plan. Until then, we will continue with online Sunday Morning Prayer. The service will include music and we will explore safe ways to gather outside. Thank you to everyone who completed the survey. of your views about what is necessary before we return to worship. Your Vestry has reviewed your responses and they have been very helpful in developing a strategy for going forward. The Bishops of the Dioceses of Massachusetts and Western Massachusetts issued a joint Letter with guidelines for our churches. Click here to read the guidelines. Parish Zoom Events: We have a new Summer Schedule: ZOOM Bingo on Sundays at 3 pm & Game Night on Tuesdays @ 7 - We'll resume in September Zoom-Chats: Mondays @ 7am & Wednesdays @ 8 pm: Every Other Week: Mondays:June 29, July 13 & 27, August 10 Wednesdays: June 24, July 8 & 22, August 5 & 19 Wednesdays @ 10 am: Morning Prayer & Fellowship via ZOOM - We'll continue weekly https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88905158309?pwd=dVpmY1JhajN6RWpTZmEzQ3NnOERBdz09 Meeting ID: 889-0515-8309 Password: 365669 Telephone: 929-205-6099 Fridays @ Noon: Lunch & Bible Study: The Gospel of Matthew - We'll continue weekly https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87474952317?pwd=UkdpQTNuNmtxVkhtYlZkVGVDVkZOQT09 Meeting ID: 874 7495 2317 Password: 097331 This Friday we will continue our discussion of the Gospel of Matthew, Chapters 6 through 9 For a copy of the Reading Schedule click here: https://mcusercontent.com/31f1ff6e86fdaf99cb3a10f4e/files/69c82ad4-fdda-47fa-958a-a17d936fab63/Bible_Study_Gospel_of_Matthew.June_July_2020.01.pdf Until further notice, Magee will be in the office on Monday and Thursday to do essential work. Mother Judith is working remotely and is available by email and by phone, and she is checking phone messages regularly. Beginning this week, she will be taking Tuesdays off. Thank you to everyone who participated in the Trinity Parade for Graduates last Sunday. We did not put out a general call for participation because we wanted to surprise our graduates and their families. So the parade included only Vestry members and some teachers who had worked with the graduates from the time they were very young Thank you to Ann Marie Lockwood for orchestrating the parade, and to Wayne Stochaj for arranging the photos and designing the banner, along with Lisa Ruggiero. It looks like this may be a new Trinity tradition, so watch for the invitation next year! See the photos on our Facebook page and our website under Events/Celebrating our Graduates Please note: Unscrupulous people have contacted parishioners claiming to be Mother Judith and asking for money. Mother Judith's only email addresses are [email protected] or [email protected] and her phone number is (716) 949-8194 . She never asks for money! Please do not respond to any other email addresses or phone numbers. If you have a question about whether a request is REALLY from Mother Judith, please contact her first at these email addresses/phone number before sending any money. Thanks. For the weekly announcements, click here. New Rector Search: Next Steps An important part of the search for a new rector is identifying who we are and what we as a parish are called to be. Ordinarily, we would gather that information at a parish-wide meeting. Since that is not possible, we will be hosting a series of Zoom meetings where we can discuss and reflect on these topics. For those without access to Zoom, we will schedule two in-person meetings sometime in July after we have received permission from the diocese to reopen. Members of the Vestry and Search/Profile committees will facilitate these meetings. The Zoom meetings will be held on: Thursday, June 25 from 7:00 to 9:00 PM: Meeting ID: 857 8399 5482 Password: 753634 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85783995482?pwd=dkE5SHNoUVJHTXdXdTE0VGc2a25qQT09 Sunday, June 28th from 4:00 to 6:00 PM: Meeting ID: 823 0182 9874 Password: 094136 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82301829874?pwd=TG9oLzd3WituQnp0ajcybmpDL2lNUT09 Wednesday, July 1 from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM: Meeting ID: 889 0515 8309 Password: 365669 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88905158309?pwd=dVpmY1JhajN6RWpTZmEzQ3NnOERBdz09 The four areas we will cover are:
1. What ministries are most important to what Trinity is called to be? 2. What is one important change or new ministry you would like Trinity to initiate within the next 3 years in each area? 3. What do we need to do now to prepare for this change or new ministry in each area? If you are unable to participate in any of the meetings, please provide written answers and send them to [email protected] by July 15. Your input, whether in person or written, is extremely important to the success of our search and I encourage you to participate in these discussions. Thank you! Ginny Starkis, Senior Warden Community Dinners Thursday June 25th Grab n Go Meals 4:30- 6 pm
We distributed 40 meals on May 28th, and donated 10 meals to the Food Pantry. We will distribute meals prepared by Oliva's from the parking lot at Trinity on the last Thursday of the month throughout the summer: June 25th, July 30th, and August 27th. If you can volunteer to help with setting up and taking down the tables, distributing meals, and bring leftover meals to the Food Pantry, in June, July, or August, please contact Glen Peterson. We will certify Community Service credit. We plan to continue arranging for meals to be delivered to our frontline workers once a month, and to distribute meals from Trinity monthly. Our purpose is to support our local small restaurants and frontline workers as well as to provide for our neighbors. We continue our strong partnership with the Food Pantry and with other local churches and community organizations. Please contact Glen Peterson if you are able to help in any way. To contribute to this project, please send your check payable to Trinity Church with Community Dinners on the memo line or donate directly to Hopedale Unitarian Parish, who is managing the funds for this project, by going to https://hopedaleunitarian.org and pressing the Donate button. Please let Mother Judith know if you would like to participate in distributing meals. Prayer List Please send Magee the names of people you would like to be on the Prayer List. Our policy has been to remove names after 4 weeks, but we want to be sure we follow the wishes of families and friends. Our prayer list is included in the weekly announcements . Pledges Thank you to all of you who have been sending in your pledges. Our deposits are being made on a different schedule these days, so there may be a delay in seeing the record of your payment. Some of you are facing financial stress: if so, please give what you can; if not, please give a bit extra to support those who cannot. How to keep up with Trinity news: All notices, videos, and links can be found at www.trinitychurchmilford.org Our diocesan website offers links to online worship in our diocese. https://www.diocesewma.org/ Worship from the National Cathedral is available online every Sunday at 11:15 am. https://cathedral.org/ Third season of The Way of Love with Bishop Michael Curry podcast began on May 5th. Click here. Habits of Grace: An invitation for you, from Presiding Bishop Curry A new video meditation will be posted on Mondays through May. Click here to view the latest. Mission Matters: News from the Episcopal Diocese of Western MA latest issue can be found here. Meditation for June 11, 2020The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. [Matthew 9:37] This year, we are perhaps more ready than in prior years to hear Jesus’ call to go out. Summer weather and blooming gardens show the renewal of life all around us. We celebrate our young people graduating from one phase of life to another. We are going further from home and visiting with more people. We are growing weary of virtual visits and we have no more closets to clean. Thousands of people of all ages, races, and ethnicities are walking together, some in silence and some in song, calling for a new way of living. We are having heart-opening conversations with people we have known for a long time, without knowing the truths of their lives. This year, we are perhaps more ready to see the hunger all around us: physical hunger caused by famine and economic collapse, spiritual and emotional hunger caused by neglect. In the light of our faith, we see more darkness and we see more hope. Our faith gives us a fearless compassion and an unshakeable resolve to use the gifts that God has given us to go out and feed the hungry, clothe the naked, free the captives, heal the broken-hearted. We are sending our young people out to a world that is perhaps different from the world we had hoped for them, but it is a world full of life and hope, a world with so many paths to explore, so many mysteries to discern, so much beauty to see with joy and wonder, so much that is unfinished. Let us heed Jesus’ call: The kingdom of heaven has come near. [Matthew 10:7] God asks, “Who will go for me? Who will extend my reach? And who, when few will listen Will prophesy and preach? And who, when few bid welcome, Will offer all they know? And who, when few dare follow, Will walk the road I show?” John L. Bell and Graham Maule, The Wild Goose of Iona Quoted in Celtic Daily Prayer, p. 487 9 AM SUNDAY - MORNING PRAYER via ZOOM A Celebration of our Graduates College Graduates: Jacqueline Masse & Elaina Chambers High School Graduates: AJ Cook, Liam & Rory Crisfield, Brandon Kee, Lorenzo Morese, Grace Prevelige, Betsey Scrimgeour Eighth Grade: Harrison Philips & Anthony Ruggiero https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82256827302?pwd=Z0E3ZlpXY0hIRFdIZHN0ZnltdXNlZz09 Meeting ID: 822-5682-7302 Password: 596896 If you cannot access through your computer, you may participate by telephone. Telephone: 929-205-6099 For the Morning Prayer leaflet, click here. We will hold Morning Prayer at 9 am every Sunday in June. June 14th: Prayers to honor our graduates June 21st: Prayers to honor our fathers June 29th: Prayers for Social Justice Next Steps: Moving Forward Almighty God, who has created us in your own image: Grant us grace fearlessly to contend against evil and to make no peace with oppression; and, that we may reverently use our freedom, help us to employ it in the maintenance of justice in our communities and among the nations, to the glory of your holy Name. Amen. The diocese has developed a checklist for preparing to re-open our buildings. The Vestry will develop a strategy based upon this checklist, including disinfecting the sanctuary and church building. When we have completed the requisite cleaning and we have protocols for meetings, gatherings, and office operations, we will submit our plan to the Dean for review. When the Dean has approved the plan, it will be sent to the Bishop for review. With the Bishop's approval, we will implement our plan. Until then, we will continue with online Sunday Morning Prayer. The service will include music and we will explore safe ways to gather outside. Thank you to everyone who completed the survey. Your Vestry has reviewed your responses and they have been very helpful in developing a strategy for going forward. The Bishops of the Dioceses of Massachusetts and Western Massachusetts issued a joint Letter with guidelines for our churches. Click here to read the guidelines. Parish Zoom Events: |
AuthorMother Judith Lee Archives
July 2021
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Trinity Episcopal church
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Weekly scheduleSUNDAY
9:00 am — Holy Eucharist Rite II 10:00 am — Coffee Hour community THURSDAY 4:00 pm — Community Meals (Grab 'n Go) |