Worship, Fellowship, & Support Groups Updated

Please Check with the office and our calendar at: calendar.yahoo.com/trinityindiana for changes in meeting times.

*Trinity has started a NEW Faith, Family & Fun Group that will begin meeting on Nov 8. This group is for families with children of all ages. This group has evolved from the POPs group, that will be disbanded at this time.

• Trinity's Adult Choir meets each Thursday at 7PM.
• Trinity's Bell Choir meets each Thursday at 6PM.
• Caregivers of Older Adults meets the 3rd Wed every month at 3 PM
• NEW! Circles Group is meeting Thursdays 5:30 pm
• Elizabeth Black Quilting Circle meets each Tue of the month at 8 am
• NEW! Faith, Family, & Fun (former POPS) meets the second Saturday each month @ 6 PM
• God's Merry People meets each Sunday during the Sunday School Hour 9:45am
• Good Samaritan Class meets each month
• Happy Homemakers meets on the first Thursday of each month at noon
• Trinity's Praise Band meets each Sunday at 6:30PM.
• Prayer Shawl Ministry meets the second Tues of each month at 2pm
• Trinity hosts informational Senior Programs and Luncheons on the second Wed of each month at 11 am, please pre-register.
• Trinity Volleyball is meeting each Tue at 7pm
• United Methodist Men have a breakfast the first Saturday of each month at 8 am
• United Methodist Women meet the first Tue each month at 2 pm

Keep Your Family Safe During the Holiday Season

(From the Adult Caregivers Group)

Each year, fires occurring during the holidays injure 2600 people and cause more than $930 million in damages. Keep yourself and those you love safe over the holidays. Review these tips for using electrical products safely during the holidays according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

*Before decorating, read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions concerning installation and maintenance of all decorative electrical products.

*Use lights and other electrical decorations certified by a recognized, independent testing laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratory (UL).

*Use lights labeled for outdoor use only outdoors.

*Inspect cords and wires; cracked, frayed, or bare wires may cause electrical shock or start a fire.

*Do not mount or support light strings in a way that might damage the
cord’s insulation. Never nail or staple light strings or extension cords.

*Unplug any decorations before replacing lights bulbs or fuses.

*Never connect more than three light strings together. Strings with screw-in bulbs should have no more than 50 bulbs connected together.

*Do not overload extension cords.

*Keep all extension cords and light strings clear of snow and standing water.

*Use caution when decorating near power lines, especially if using a ladder.
*Never use electric lights on a metallic tree.

*Do not allow children or pets to play with electric decorations.

*Turn off al decorations before leaving home or going to bed.

*Plug outdoor lights and decorations into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs).

*Make sure all of your smoke and fire detectors have fresh batteries!

Please join us for our next meeting on Wednesday, December 17th at 3 p.m. If you have any questions or need assistance before our next meeting, call the church office at 724-465-2015.

December Worship Schedule

8:30 and 11:00 AM Sunday Worship
1:30 PM Sunday, Korean United Methodist
5:00 PM Saturday Worship (casual)
7:00 PM WED Worship Resumes Jan 7th, 2009

***

Sat December 6 – Hanging of the Greens, 5:00 pm, Covered Dish Dinner 5:45 pm, Decorate the church 6:15 pm.


Sun December 7 – Second Sunday of Advent; Treasures for Children & Angel Tree Donations

Sun December 14 – 11:00 am - Children & Youth Christmas Musical
“Medan the Stable Mouse”

Sun December 21 – Fourth Sunday of Advent;
6:00 p.m. Lessons and Carols, Reception Following

Wed December 24 – Christmas Eve Candlelight
Early and Family Service – 5:00 pm
Evening Service – 7:00 pm - Nursery Available
“Midnight Service” – 11:00 pm - No Nursery

Thur December 25 – Annual Christmas Dinner 1 pm

Sun December 28 – 9:30am “Sweatshirt Sunday” and the
“Blessing of Gifts” (Cookie Reception Afterward)

Missions and Volunteer Opportunities Dec, 2008

Pastor George has addressed the topic of "Christmas Gifts with a Purpose" in his monthly letter.
***
Anyone who may be baking Holiday cookies, please consider donating a few dozen to the church for the many receptions, parties, and Christmas Dinner this month.
***
Come and help us decorate the church for the Christmas Season. Worship @ 5 on Sat, Dec 6. Covered dish dinner @ 5:45. Decorating @ 6:15!
***
Our sanctuary project is getting underway in early January. If you have not recieved a letter about supporting the Sanctuary Project, please feel free to leave a donation in an offeratory envelope. Be sure to make a notation on the envelope and/or check.
***
The Children's Sunday School and Youth are sponsoring families through the Angel Tree and Treasures for Children Campaigns. Please consider donating to one of these great causes.
***
Adults are needed to assist with our children and youth programs! We also need nursery workers. Contact Mary, Dawn, or Jude to find out more.
***
Pointsettias are available for purchase through Dec. 7th. The cost is $7 each and will be a part of the Poinsettia tree in the sanctuary until after the Christmas Services.
***
New Orleans 7 - An After-Easter Event! More details coming in the January ECHOES. (Can't wait? Contact George or Larry for more information.)
***
UM Memebrs will be travelling to Russia to share God's message of Hope and Love with orphans near the Arctic Circle! If you are able to donate a few dollars to help us purchase some special Christmas presents, please send a check to:

WPA Conference
Russia VIM - Orphans
1204 Freedom Rd
PO Box 5002
Cranberry Township, PA 16066

Please Make the check payable to "WPA Conference". and denote "Russia Orphans" in the memo line. You will recive a reciept in the mail.
***
Diane Miller is sending an invitation to all of you to help in the town of Dulac, LA. This is a town that has been ravaged by Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Gustav, and Ike! They are forming a work trip March 20-28, 2009. The cost will be $350/PERSON. If you are unable to go, please consider sending along financial support for those who can go, but may not be able to pay. Contact: Diane Miller @ 724-652-9182
***
Summer Camps are coming fast than you think! Please consider a donation of a campership this Christmas!
***
Help will be needed @ the annual Trinity Christmas Dinner (1pm on Dec. 25)! Contact Dawn if you are wanting to help!

Youth Newsletter Dec.

Treasurers For Children Campaign

On Sunday, December 7th we will gather right after the 11am service for lunch and then we will head off to Wal-Mart to shop for the area kid’s that we are supporting this year. We will then return to Trinity and separate, package, and wrap the gifts. We should be done by 5pm at the latest for those who have play practice. If you have questions or to signup see P.J.

TIME TO REGISTER FOR SUMMER CAMP!
• Camp Allegheny• Jumonville• Wesley Woods

The United Methodist Church offers extraordinary camping facilities andover 140 events from children to seniors. Our mission is to provide a safe,enriching camp experience in the presence of God's glory. Visit the websitesfor each of our locations: Camp Allegheny (near Somerset), Jumonville (near Connellsville) and Wesley Woods (near Titusville).For additional information, contact the Conference Camping Department:Email: umcamp@wpaumc.org Phone: 800-886-3382, ext. 232Register online now! A full listing of summer events is a click away. Summer camp can change your life.


Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign

On Saturday, December 13th we will be at the Indaina Mall at the K-Mart entrance ringing the bell for the salvation army. You will be asked to signup for a two hour time slot in groups of two. Signups will be available in the youth room starting in mid November. We once again invite our college folks to come back and lend a hand. If you have questions see P.J.


YouthChristmas Party & Movie Night

On Sunday, December 21st we will gather at 2pm for our annual Christmas party. Pizza and pop will be provided and youth are asked to bring a snack to share. Youth are also asked to bring a $5 wrapped gift to exchange during one of the games. We will also be watching The Muppet Christmas Carol on the big screen. We will be done by 8pm. See P.J. if you have ?.

Evangelism Committee Memory Verse Challenge

Each Month, Our Evangelism Committee has Challenged the Congreation to Memorize a Bible Verse. Can You Rise to the Challenge?
*****
Ask and you will recieve; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.
Matthew 7:7 TEV

Children's Announcements Dec 2008

Christmas Cookie Baking Party Sunday, December 7
Early Elementary Sunday School (First, Second and Third Graders)
Noon to 2:00 p.m.
Begins with a light lunch at the Porter’s Home
We will make cookie plates for Trinity Church’s shut-in members!
Please phone Mrs Porter at 724-465-2314 to let her know you are coming.

***

Children’s Advent Party
Saturday, December 13th at noon
(immediately following dress rehearsal for Medan the Stable Mouse)
Join us for lunch, crafts, games, and fun during this very special season!
Help us to plan by calling the church office at 724-465-2015 for reservations.
Adult volunteers are always welcome!

***

Medan the Stable Mouse (Script by Karen W. Gazzillo and Rev. Charles Higgins) presented by the children and youth of Trinity United Methodist Church on Sunday, December 14, 2008 at the 11:00 service.

***

Early Elementary Sunday School Class News!
Our class was able to collect $40 for our fall mission project. This has been
forwarded to the church. It will be used buy bed nets as part of the "Nothing but Nets” campaign to help reduce the incidence of malaria in Africa.

***

Creekside UMC Living Nativity

The living nativity is annual event for the Creekside United Methodist Church. This is their seventh year offering the event. Please join them on Friday night, December 19 and Saturday th night, December 20th promptly at 7 p.m. It all starts with the angel appearing to Mary and after the performance, every one is invited to move into the church for fellowship and refreshments.

The event is free and open to the public. There will be an opportunity to
make a donation for those in the area that are in need of assistance.
If you aren’t familiar with Creekside, don’t worry. Luminaries will light
your path to the church

***

TIME TO REGISTER FOR SUMMER CAMP!
• Camp Allegheny
• Jumonville
• Wesley Woods

The United Methodist Church offers extraordinary camping facilities and
over 140 events from children to seniors. Our mission is to provide a safe,
enriching camp experience in the presence of God's glory. Visit the websites
for each of our locations: Camp Allegheny (near Somerset), Jumonville (near Connellsville) and Wesley Woods (near Titusville).

For additional information, contact the Conference Camping Department:
Email: umcamp@wpaumc.org Phone: 800-886-3382, ext. 232
Register online now! A full listing of summer events is a click away.
Summer camp can change your life.

***

Youth Newsletter Nov/Dec 2008

Wesley Woods Retreat

Once again it is time for the Indiana District Youth Retreat. It will be held Friday, November 7th to Sunday, November 9th. The cost of the event is $75. If you want to go and need financial assistance see P.J. We will be leaving for Wesley Woods on Friday at 5pm. Please signup by Sunday, November 2nd.This event is always a fun time. We spend our time worshiping, playing games, and enjoying the wonderful food at Wesley Woods. The Guitar Hero contest will once again be happening and the Kareoke machine will be in full operation. If you have never been to this event it is a must do. Contact P.J. if you have questions. Remember you are encouraged to invite your friends. The person who invites the most friends will receive $50 off of their retreat reservation. All reservations must be in by November 2nd.

Drug Prevention Reality Tour

On Wednesday, November 12th at 6pm we will meet at the Indiana County Courthouse for the Drug Prevention Reality Tour. This is a lively portrayal of what happens if you are addicted to drugs. From what addition does to you, to your family, and to your friends. It even looks as the consequences of using drugs. There is no cost for this event and parents are welcome to attend. Signup with P.J. or in the youth room by Sunday, November 2nd if you want to attend.

Silver Ring Thing

The Silver Ring Thing program will be on Saturday, November, 15th at 6:30pm at the CMA Church in Indiana. This is a really cool concert like event that gives you the option of saying to God and the world that sex is a God given gift and you are willing to wait until marriage to experience it. So come on out and see what it is all about. The event is $5 online and $8 at the door. Financial scholarships are available. See P.J. if you are going or need a ride.

Leadapalooza!

Do you want to be a youth leader? If so then join other youth from around our annual conference for the this years Leadapalooza. We will leave from Trinity at 8am on Saturday, November 15th and head from Greensburg, Pa. We will be home by 3:30pm. There is no cost for this event. Just signup with P.J. by November 2nd, and show up on the 15th.

Salvation Army Thanksgiving Meal Prep

On Wednesday, November 26th we will be gathering with the folks from the Salvation Army at the Elks to help prepare for their annual Thanksgiving Meal. More information will be available but mark your calendars now to be at this mission event.

Treasurers For Children Campaign

On Sunday, December 7th we will gather right after the 11am service for lunch and then we will head off to Wal-Mart to shop for the area kid’s that we are supporting this year. We will then return to Trinity and separate, package, and wrap the gifts. We should be done by 5pm at the latest for those who have play practice. If you have questions or to signup see P.J.

Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign

On Saturday, December 13th we will be at the Indaina Mall at the Bon-Ton entrance ringing the bell for the salvation army. You will be asked to signup for a two hour time slot in groups of two. Signups will be available in the youth room starting in mid November. We once again invite our college folks to come back and lend a hand. If you have questions see P.J.Youth

Christmas Party & Movie Night

On Sunday, December 21st we will gather at 4pm for our annual Christmas party. Pizza and pop will be provided and youth are asked to bring a snack to share. Youth are also asked to bring a $5 wrapped gift to exchange during one of the games. We will also be watching The Muppet Christmas Carol on the big screen. We will be done by 8pm. See P.J. if you have ?.

Evangelism Committee Challenge Nov 2008

Each Month, Our Evangelism Committee has Challenged the Congreation to Memorize a Bible Verse. Can You Rise to the Challenge?
*****

As a father has compassion for his children,

So the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him.

Psalm 103:13 (NIV)

Free Flu Shots!!!

October 19, 2008
1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Three Locations:
Blairsville High School
Indiana High School
McCreery Middle School (Marion Center)

Adult and pediatric doses available.
Offered by the Indiana County Community Emergency/Disaster Planning Committee's Health and Human Services Subcommittee. The distribution of these flu shots is an opportunity to test the county's Points of Dispensing System (PODS) for mass distribution of medications to county residents during a pandemic flu outbreak or other emergency event.For more information, call the Institute for Healthy Living at 724-357-8088.

Mission and Volunteer Opportunities October, 2008

• SOCK IT TO ME~! Good Samaratian Class is seeking donations of NEW socks for men, women, and children. Place donations in the box in Bishop Hall by Oct 31.
• Donations and Volunteers needed for Halloween Candy Ministry Oct 31, 6-8 pm. Contact Mary.
• Trinity Youth- In need of Adult Volunteers and Sunday School teachers! Contact PJ or office!
• Nursery Caregivers needed for Church Conference Oct 24, 5-8(?) Contact office
• Volunteers needed for Kids Night Out! Wed 6:30-8.
• NOLA VI - Coming in Nov! Contact the church to volunteer your time, financial support, or items that may be needed. Any Questions contact Larry Butterbaugh or Pastor George
  
• UM Women/ Missions Committee- Seeking Items for Health Kits for emergency situations.
• Higher Education Committee- Requesting names and addresses of college/abroad students and servicemen and servicewomen to send correspondence.
  ***SPRING MISSION: Sending small items to send in care packages such as snacks, individually packed drink mixes, and toys. Please remeber that these will be mailed, so lightweight/commercially sealed packages are especially welcomed. There will be boxes placed in Bishop Hall, packing date APRIL 20 after 11AM service. We have about 30 students. Suggested items from previous years:
  cereal (hot or cold)
  granola bars
  hard/chewy candies
  flavored coffee or tea
  soup mix
  dried fruit snacks
  powdered drink mixes/individual drink mix
  cookies/crackers
  Notes from congregation!
  Donations to cover shipping costs
  
• Elizabeth Black Quilting Circle - Every Tue Morning 8 am - Quilting for others in need
• ICCAP Food Pantry Distribution - Second Tue of each Month
• Shut-In Care - Contact George if you would like to spend quality time caring for Trinity's homebound.
  
• CAMPERSHIP CONTRIBUTIONS: You are invited to help send young people to a summer camp experience. Your gift helps to defray the cost of for Trinity Church campers to attend Camp Allegheny, Jumonville, and Wesley Woods. Kindly Mark your donation: Trinity Camping Fund
  
• NEW Prayer Shawl Group - Meeting the second Tue of each month - Knitting, Crocheting, or Sewing! Patterns and Yarn available. Contact Beverly Clawson.
  
• VIM Training Classes - See Discipleship/Learning Blog

Worship, Fellowship, & Support Groups

Please Check with the office and our calendar at: calendar.yahoo.com/trinityindiana for changes in meeting times.

• Trinity has started a NEW Faith, Family & Fun Group that will begin meeting on Nov 8. This group is for families with children of all ages.

• Litergical Dance Team, come and dance in the name of the Lord! Practice at 5:30 pm Sundays.
  
• Trinity's Adult Choir meets each Thursday at 7PM.
  
• Trinity's Bell Choir meets each Thursday at 6PM.
  
• Trinity's Praise Band meets each Sunday at 4PM.
  
• Parents of Preschoolers (POPS) meets the second Saturday each month @ 6 PM
  
• God's Merry People meets each month
  
• Happy Homemakers meets each month
  
• Elizabeth Black Quilting Circle meets each Tue of the month at 8 am
  
• NEW Prayer Shawl Ministry - First meeting Tue Feb 12th - meeting second Tue of each month - Knitting, Crocheting, or Sewing! Patterns and Yarn available. Contact Beverly Clawson.
  
• Caregivers of Older Adults meets each 3rd Wed at 3 PM
  
• Young Adults of Trinity Meet each month with a dinner
  
• Good Samaritan Class meets each month
  
• Trinity Volleyball is meeting
• Trinity Softball is meeting
• NEW! Circles Group is meeting Thursdays 5:30 pm
• United Methodist Men have a breakfast the first Saturday of each month at 8 am
  
• United Methodist Women meet the first Tue each month at 2 pm
  
• Trinity hosts informational Senior Programs and Luncheons on the second Wed of each month at 11 am, please pre-register.
  
• Yoga Classes have been started by the Korean Methodist Women, you are invited to attend Mon Wed & Fri 9 am to 10:30 am. Please Bring your own mat/towel to sit on.

General Announcements

• The picture directories are available in Bishop Hall. They are labeled. Additional copies are available for $8.

• Please update your email with the office. Also, if you know of former congregation members that should be removed from the mailing list, please contact Dawn.

• 100 Anniversary Items for sale, contact the office for listing.

• Liturgists and Ushers needed each month.

Confirmation Announcements

Confirmation Classes will begin again for all those entering the 7th grade. Meetings are held on the first and third Sundays @ 4:30 PM - Meals included! Contact Mary, George, or Jude for info.

Welcome to all the New Confirmands!

Evangelism Committee Memory Verse Challenge

Each Month, Our Evangelism Committee has Challenged the Congreation to Memorize a Bible Verse. Can You Rise to the Challenge?

*****

Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

I Corinthians 15:58

Employment Opportunities

In House Employment

Nursery Caregivers Needed. We can help you get your clearances. Contact the Office @ 724-465-2015

Other Employment Opportunities

Summer Camp Counselors and Staff needed at several camps. Contact the Office @ 724-465-2015

Individual Needed... To help with residential housekeeping -mopping floors, washing windows, vaccuuming -every three weeks. Contact the Office for more information @ 724-465-2015

Discipleship and Learning Opportunities for October, 2008

• "Woman, Know Thyself - Your Personality and Why God Created It" will be held at Victory Christian Assembly @ 9:30 on Sat Nov 1. Cost is $10 and includes lunch @ Trinity. Call 724.463.8877 to RSVP before Oct 29.

• Growing Spirits and God's Merry People are hosting a faith-sharing class. EVERYONE is welcomed to join. During Sunday School (9:45am)

• Church Conference Oct 24th 5-8(?)pm - Lay Leadership Training, Dinner, Worship & Conference. Everyone is welcome to attend. Childcare is available, call office to reserve space and make sure nursery is well staffed.

• September Bible Study Classes "Living Fully, and Dying Well," Starting in October and "Slightly Bad Girls of the Bible." Beginning Sept 15th
  
• Adult Caregivers Group Would like you to know some Danger Signs for Caregivers:
  

1. You feel you’re handling everything by yourself, yet what you’re doing just isn’t enough.
2. You don’t seem to have any time or place to be alone.
3. You feel uncomfortable about going away, even for a few hours a day.
4. There isn’t anyone around to help, or so it seems.
5. Your family is getting impatient. They don’t understand how hard it is.
6. Missing work, or much of the time spent at work is spent worrying.
7. You think it would be selfish to think of yourself.
8. You feel sad, lonely, or anxious.
9. Getting angry at the person you’re taking care of.
10. Feeling stretched economically, emotionally, or physically.

If you are a family caregiver, you may devote a great amount of time and energy to caring for a loved one. Caregiving can be stressful and stress can lead to health problems for the caregiver. Often caregivers ignore their own needs, or they simply don’t know where to turn for help and information.

Have you experienced any of the signs listed? If so, you may want to consult your physician. There are also resources in the community that can help. Please feel free to join us here at Trinity Church -Normal Meeting time 3rd Wed each month 3 pm

• Lay Speaking Certification Classes Are Resuming this fall! Check the schedule @ www.indianawpaumc.org
  
• Wednesday Evening Worship! We sing, pray for others, and are currently involved in a study of the entire Bible. Join us at 7 pm for this time of song, worship, studying and healing.
  
  

Children's Announcements for October, 2008

* KNO will resume Wednsedays beginning September 10th 6:30 to 8 PM! Join us for crafts, food, fun, and friends! Halloween Party Oct 29th! (Dress like an athlete)

* Candy Ministry OCT 31 6-8

* Christmas Musical Rehearsal - Sundays @ 5 pm

* Annual Learn to Use Your Bible Sleepover! NOV (TBA) (3rd grade Bible Gift given Oct 12)

* Creekside UMC has invited our youth ages 1 to 12 to join them at their "After School Special" Nights 5:30 pm to 7 pm the first and third Thursday Each Month. There will be a meal, crafts, stories, games, and singing! They will be divided into two age-approriate classes, but parents are asked to stay with children 5 and under. Will break for the summer.

* Creekside UMC has SPANISH CLASSES for children! Contact the church for more details!

Youth Announcements for October, 2008

CHECK OUT PASTOR JUDE's LETTER each month at www.trinityumcindiana.org/Youthpastor

• Youth Group for all ages will meet @ 4 pm until further notice.

• Remember that everyone is invited to join the Praise Band at 6:30 pm and the NEW Litergical Dance team at 6 pm (note the time change until further notice).

• Youth Sunday School NOW includes the 6th grade

• Corn Maze event is cancelled due to dodgeball event

• GET WELL LAUREN E.!!!!! You are in our prayers.

• All special youth events will remain open to all youth grades 6 - 12/college

• Youth Council will begin to meet on a regular basis at 7:30-8 pm the first Sunday of each month

• Remember that Grace hosts an after school program each Wed from 3pm - 5pm
  

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• Youth Dodgeball Event - Oct 11
• Bike Outing - Oct 12
• Halloween Party - Oct 26, 7pm , Thomas' House
• NOLA Work Trip - Nov
• District Retreat @ Wesley Woods - Nov
• Salvation Army Thanksgiving Dinner- Nov
• Annual Conference @ Leadapalooza- Nov
• Silver Ring Thing -Nov
• Reality Tour @ Kittanning Hospital
• Treasures for Children Campaign
• Ringing the Bell for Salvation Army
• Christmas Party
  

* Scholarships available