Friends,

 

I know we are all so very grateful that Hurricane Matthew's impact on Florida was less than what we were warned of in last week's forecast. Still, there was considerable and tragic damage left in its wake, in parts of the southeast U.S. but especially in Haiti. So, we've decided to change this week's Mission Box and will be seeking your generous contributions to benefit United Methodist Committee On Relief (UMCOR). UMCOR, a ministry of the United Methodist Church, works globally to alleviate human suffering and is already on the ground in Haiti providing emergency supplies, food, health kits, and other assistance. The Mission Box offering will be equally divided between support for the SE Atlantic region of the U.S. and Haiti. Of course, if it's your preference, you also have the option of specifically designating your gift to benefit Haiti or the SE Atlantic region. 

 

Here in Florida, the Disaster Recovery ministry of our Conference is currently assessing the need for assistance and where volunteer teams will be needed. For example, my friends in Orlando worshiped together this past   Sunday  and then drove to Brevard county to help tarp roofs. I also have friends in Ormond Beach who, because their church was without power, worked in their communities to remove debris and fallen trees. The body of Christ at its very best! We'll let you know what volunteer opportunities might come Trinity's way.

 

This week in worship I will continue our series  Losing Ourselves On Purpose with a message titled "Forgiving From The Heart" from Matthew 18:21-35. Forgiveness, which is sometimes as difficult for us to receive as it is to give, is always necessary for us to let go of past hurts and to have hope for a future better than our present circumstances. Psalm 32 tells us, "The one whose wrongdoing is forgiven, whose sin is covered over, is truly happy!" It is good news, indeed, that God forgives us. So, too, must we forgive from the heart. See you   Sunday!

 

Grace and peace,

Aaron

 

PS - I want to remind you about our meal packaging event next   Wednesday, October 19th, from   5:30-7:30 pm  in the Worship Center. Come help us package 30,000 meals to benefit the people of Honduras. Also, we are collecting candy for our fall community outreach event on   October 30th, The Great Pumpkin Harvest. Drop off your donations outside the Children's Ministry office.