Dear Friend,
Christmas comes each year whether we are ready for it or not. The arrival of Christmas is God’s good gift that is not dependent on what we do. Christ’s coming did not depend on the human initiative. It was God’s choice to enter our world by becoming one with us in the person of Jesus Christ. Jesus’ mother Mary had to say “yes” to God’s initiative (“Let it be with me according to your word”), just as each of us has to say “yes” to what God wants to do in our lives. But the coming of Christ begins with God taking the first steps toward us, not us taking the first steps.
What do we do in response to God’s coming? We welcome it. Our sermon series for Advent and Christmas is Welcome. During the Sundays of the Christmas season, we will talk about what we do to welcome Christ’s arrival into our lives. Our goal is to help us all get ready for Christmas.
Christmas is a time of giving. During the Sundays of Advent, we will take up offerings for Embrace Florida’s Kids (The United Methodist Children’s Home in Florida’s panhandle) and Children in Crises (a wonderful ministry just down the street from our church buildings). What a great way to welcome the coming of the Christ child—by supporting children in need around us.
Because these past few years have been tough, I am especially looking forward to Christmas. When Christ comes, we are given new beginnings. He says in Revelation 21:5, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Advent and Christmas are the beginning of a new church year.
--Scott
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As many of you know, this is the time we collect our annual White Christmas offering for Embrace Florida Kids, which used to be known as the United Methodist Children’s Home, and Children. Our congregation has always generously supported these ministries because it makes such an incredible impact in the lives of the children and youth it serves.
Most of the kids have suffered incredible heartaches. They’ve been abused and neglected, and they have lived in darkness for a long time – maybe even their whole lives. Some of us reading this may know what it’s like to live in darkness ourselves, but the Bible tells us that it doesn’t have to be that way.
Jesus said that He is the light of the world and that whoever follows Him will never live in darkness. Isn’t that a tremendous gift? And that’s exactly what Embrace Florida Kids and Children in Crisis do for the girls and boys in its care. They provide a lot of light, and it comes in the form of homes, healing, and hope.
Just imagine the kids’ joy when they finally have the chance for a normal childhood – when they get the comfort they get from a warm bed, regular meals, and knowing without a doubt that they are loved and worthy. That’s the kind of light that these organizations provide.
They can’t do it without our help, though. Today, you have a chance to be the light for these very deserving children and youth by supporting this vital ministry. And the best part is that by helping Embrace Florida Kids and Children in Crisis, you’ll be helping these girls and boys discover their own lights so that they can shine brightly for others.
If you’d like to support this year’s White Christmas, you can give online through our website and make note that it is for White Christmas. You may also give through cash or check to the church office. All checks should be made to “Trinity United Methodist Church” with the memo “White Christmas”. Please contact the church office with any questions (850) 862-4169.
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The November TSM worship night will be on Sunday, November 28. Pastor Sam Hays will be speaking about how important is it to have a Christian community! There will also be incredible food and a ton of fun! |
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Parent Bible Study Continues |
Parents of teenagers have many special and specific challenges. TSM hopes to create a safe space where parents and guardians of teenagers can come together to share and learn from one another.
On the first Sunday nights of each month, we'll gather for a meal, discussion, and learning opportunity. We hope you'll find value in this "Teens vs. Parents" study continuing on December from 6 p..m. - 7:30 p.m.
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All ladies in the youth (grade 6-12) are invited to the annual Great Sock Exchange! Attend our 9:45 a.m. Contemporary service and after service, they'll get on the bus and head over to Parlor Donuts for brunch. To participate in the exchange, you need to bring a new pair of socks stuffed with goodies.
They'll be back at Trinity for pick up by 2:00 p.m. If you have questions, contact Assistant Youth Director Melissa Johnson.
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Our Trinity Student Ministry (TSM) is hosting their annual Youth Christmas Party on Sunday, December 12 at 5:30 p.m., and the theme is "Hallmark Country Christmas." Think fireplaces, hot chocolate, and cheesy movies! All students, grade 6-12, are invited to attend!
Make sure you wear your best flannel or country clothing. There will be great food, fun games with BIG PRIZES, and the White Elephant gift game. Everyone will go home with something and have an incredible time!
If you have questions, please get in touch with Matt Hull or Melissa Johnson.
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Last Minute Christmas Shopping |
It's time for last-minute Christmas shopping! All students, grades 6 - 12, are invited to join our Trinity Student Ministry (TSM) at the 9:45 Contemporary service and afterward jump on the bus and have a great lunch together at the Destin Commons.
They'll be making shopping stops at the Destin Commons and Silver Sands Outlets. Students will need to bring money for lunch and shopping. They'll arrive back at the church for pick up at 5:00 p.m.
If you have questions, please contact Matt Hull or Melissa Johnson.
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TSM is so excited to annouce that THE CHALLENGE WEEKEND is official on the schedule!
This will be a 3-day beach retreat hosted at the Island Resort on Okaloosa Island from January 7 - 9. We'll hear some fantastic messages, worship with our band, a collective of local churches, & play by the beach!
The cost for the entire weekend is $110 and covers lodging, food, a t-shirt, and all fees. Students will need to make sure they register by the December 19 deadline to secure a spot!
We can't wait to share this fantastic event with you!
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Join us for our Annual Winter Retreat at Blue Lake!
We are so excited to once again be hosting our weekend-long Elementary Winter Retreat!
Join us for 3 days filled with learning about our Lord, campfires, and lots of fun!
WHO: Current 3rd-5th Graders
WHEN: February 4-6, 2022
$115 for Campers if registered before December 20th
$130 for Campers registered after December 20th
$85 for Adults
Registration opens on NOVEMBER 5th and closes on JANUARY 21st.
Contact Paula Roane at children@trinityfwb.org or (850) 862-4169 for more info.
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Trinity Kid’s Rehearsals
Trinity Kid’s will be rehearsing Tuesday, Nov. 29, Thursday, Dec. 2, 3:45-5:15 pm, and also Saturday, Dec. 4, 9:00-12:00 am in the Sanctuary. We are excited to present our musical JINGLE BELL SING!
Christmas Decorations in the Sanctuary
We are in need of volunteers to help decorate the sanctuary for Christmas.
Wednesday, December 1, at 10:00 am.
Please contact Lisa Simon, music@trinityfwb.org, or call the church office. (850)862-4169
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Trinity Kid's Christmas Musical |
JINGLE BELL BEACH
A CHRISTMAS SINGING COMPETITION
OF PITCH-PERFECT PROPORTIONS
Created by Christy and Daniel Semsen
When: Sunday, December 5, 11:00 am
Where: Trinity UMC Sanctuary
Once again, it’s that time of year when aspiring young vocal groups from all around the country make their way to JINGLE BELL BEACH for the famous JINGLE SING competition. Hosts Sandy and Sonny Pepperminter welcome the final contestants for this year’s competition: The Snowflakes, The Starfish, and The Electrons!
Join us as the competition heats up to tidal wave proportions! The result is a rare “REINDEER RUMBLE!” In their eagerness to win, it becomes clear that one of the contestants is struggling with the real meaning of Christmas. Let us share with you the story of Jesus and the true meaning of Christmas! It is Emmanuel, God with us, and the Good News that Jesus came to be our Lord and Savior.
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By Heaven's Light
Christmas Cantata
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Join our Trinity UMC Chancel Choir as they present "By Heaven's Light," a Christmas Cantata on Sunday, December 12 at 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. Traditional worship services.
"By Heaven's Light" A Christmas Cantata is a worshipful cantata, combining traditional carols, original music, and scripture from the gospels of Luke and Matthew. A Cantata is, quite simply, a composition for the choir that tells a story through narration, solos, and ensemble.
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The Trinity UMC Chancel Bells will be performing along with the Bob Hope Village Chime Choir on Thursday, December 16, at 6:00 p.m. in the Common's Room at Bob Hope Village in Shalimar.
Bob Hope Village
30 Holly Avenue
Shalimar, FL
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VIRGINIA “GINNY” MILLS
by Karen Baker
She’s worn so many hats in her 96 years it would take a three-story Milliner to list them all!!
Born 1925 in Kansas City, Missouri she lived there all of her life until a handsome Army Air Corps pilot swept her off her feet. Raised a Methodist, she quickly converted to Catholicism as she and Rodney raised three sons and a daughter throughout his career in the Air Force, which he joined after coming home from the Burma-China Campaign serving the USA in World War II.
During the war, Ginny served as a Rosie the Riveter in a war factory as a crib attendant and, once married, became a ‘Gray Lady’ serving in hospitals wherever Rod was stationed. While raising their 4 children, she served leadership roles in Cub Scouts, Catholic Ladies Society, PTA President, Officer Wives Clubs and opened numerous AF Base thrift shops while finding time to teach upholstery & refinishing classes, become proficient in sewing all of her her daughters, and her daughter’s doll clothes, golfing and bowling. She did this for years & will appreciate knowing I didn’t forget it because all of her kids and grandkids learned some or all
Upon moving to Ft. Walton Beach after Rodney’s retirement Ginny again led numerous organizations including the Salvation Army, the OKALOOSA County Home Extension, Garnier’s Beach Garden Club, the Ft. Walton Women’s Club, the FWB Chamber of Commerce, Republican Club, and dedicated almost 30 years at her Voting Precinct and 19 years volunteering aT the Okaloosa Tourist Development Council.
Several times a month you will find her dropping off baked goods (her specialty) to Trinity’s “Our Daily Bread” soup kitchen, after following her daughter’s lead by joining Trinity January 2020, transferring membership from SHALIMAR UNITED METHODIST CHURCH and where she now shares her Time, Talents & Gifts!
And if that wasn’t enough, she has been the ultimate hostess serving huge crowds on a regular basis especially at her favorite time of year, Christmas where she still hosts a special Christmas party every year during Advent.
All I can say growing up Blessed with Ginny as my Mother is “It’s a Wonderful Life”!
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Join us for dinner and a movie on Friday, December 10 at 6:30 p.m. We'll be serving spaghetti with a variety of toppings to select from and watch the Christmas classic "Elf".
This is a free family fun event! See you there!
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Christmas Eve Worship Service |
No one expected the Savior of the world to come in the weakness of an infant and the poverty of a stable. And yet, we shout "Glory to God in the highest" because Jesus is Emmanuel - God with us.
This Christmas Eve we'll hope you join us on the most beautiful night of the year lighting candles, singing Christmas Carols, and hearing the incredible story of God's love, given to us through His son, Jesus Christ.
5:00 p.m. - Traditional Worship
7:00 p.m. - Contemporary Worship
7:00 p.m. - Online Worship
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The Sunday after Christmas, December 26, we are having an in-person traditional worship service at 10:00 a.m. and Contemporary online worship service at 10:00 a.m.
10:00 a.m. - Traditional Worship In-Person
10:00 a.m. - Contemporary Online Worship
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Sunday, November 28 • TSM: Friendsgiving @ 6:00 p.m. • MFH
Monday, November 29 • Prayer Warriors @ 11:45 a.m. • Church Library
Monday, November 29 • Nominations Team Meeting @ 6:00 p.m. • C112
Tuesday, November 30 • Tuesday Morning Women's Group @ 6:30 a.m. • MFH (Weekly)
Tuesday, November 30 • Books & Beyond Meeting @ 6:00 p.m. • Burrito Del Sol
Tuesday, November 30 • Books of Psalm Study @ 6:00 p.m. • C112
Tuesday, November 30 • Church Council Meeting @ 6:00 p.m. • MFH
Wednesday, December 1 • Book of Psalm Study @ 10:00 a.m. • C112
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Wednesday, December 1 • Centering Prayer Group @ 5:00 p.m. • Sanctuary (Weekly)
Wednesday, December 1 • First of All Small Group @ 5:30 p.m. • C105 (Weekly)
Wednesday, December 1 • TSM: Wed. Night Bible Study @ 5:00 p.m. • Youth Common Area
Wednesday, December 1 • Chancel Choir Practice @ 6:30 p.m. • Sanctuary
Thursday, December 2 • Men's Bible Study @ 7:00 a.m. • Memorial Fellowship Hall (Weekly)
Thursday, December 2 • Hand Bell Practice @ 5:45 p.m. • Choir Room
Sunday, December 5 • Trinity Kids: Jingle Bell Beach @ 11:00 a.m. • Sanctuary
Sunday, December 5 • TSM: Great Sock Exchange after 9:45 service • MFH
Monday, December 6 • Prayer Warriors @ 11:45 a.m. • Church Library
Monday, December 6 •Trustee Team Meeting @ 6:00 p.m. • C102
Tuesday, December 7 • Tuesday Morning Women's Group @ 6:30 a.m. • MFH (Weekly)
Wednesday, December 8 • Centering Prayer Group @ 5:00 p.m. • Sanctuary (Weekly)
Wednesday, December 8 • First of All Small Group @ 5:30 p.m. • C105 (Weekly)
Wednesday, December 8 • TSM: Wed. Night Bible Study @ 5:00 p.m. • Youth Common Area
Thursday, December 9 • Men's Bible Study @ 7:00 a.m. • Memorial Fellowship Hall (Weekly)
Thursday, December 9 • Hand Bell Practice @ 5:45 p.m. • Choir Room
Friday, December 10 • Dinner & a Movie @ 6:30 p.m. • MFH
For a full calendar of events, click the "Full Calendar" link below.
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Harland & Dawn Bazzell
*Barbara Brewer
Dee Carson
*Warren Curtis
*Will Curtis
Debbie Diemaud
*Bridget Gay
Helmet Gorum
Ray Harvison
Sigrid Bowman Hawkins
Jim Hawkins
Kathy Knight
Mike Johnson
*Mary Ann Lawrence
Lisa Locklear
Travis Poole
Samuel Prince
Bill Reeves
Robert Taylor
*Joyce Stimak
*DiAnn White
*David & Susan Yetter
Karla Vento
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People who are grieving
Farmers & Farm Laborers
Bold = New to Circle of Concern
* = Church Member
Let us care and pray with you! If you or someone you know needs prayer, please complete the Prayer Request form below. The Circle of Concern list is updated and sent out monthly, and individuals are on the list for 4 weeks.
You may also e-mail prayer@trinityfwb.org or communications@trinityfwb.org with any requests or updates.
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