We grew up in the Methodist Church, so when the church we had attended for many years voted to disaffiliate, we knew it was time to find a new church home.

The first Sunday we visited Trinity, nearly 2 years ago, we were overwhelmed by the generosity of love we received. Before the service even started, the Senior Pastor sat down in the pew with us, introducing himself and sharing a little about the church. A sweet member sitting nearby invited us to attend her Sunday School class. And it comes as no surprise to any of you that the music took our breath away.

The atmosphere in the sanctuary is so reverent; and the chiming of the Trinity is a reminder of why we are here, to stop and listen and soak up God’s presence.

All of this drew us in and renewed our faith in the church as a loving family. Shortly after that, we transferred our membership and jumped in with both feet.

As Christians, we need to give back. It’s part of recognizing that everything belongs to God. He blesses us with so many gifts, it’s only natural to give some back. We need to practice giving without expecting recognition or reciprocity, truly giving back to God.

We were made aware of Dave Ramsey about 25 years ago. We read his book, Financial Peace, and agreed with many of the principles, but it didn’t really change us until we took a class and continued the journey in a small group. During that time, we committed to thoughtful, planned giving. By planning our gifts, there is always a line item in our budget for giving. In planning our giving, we want to support organizations where we see God at work. We see that here at Trinity UMC. We follow up our gifts by volunteering our time and talents to several of the ministries at Trinity. What a tremendous blessing you receive when you see the impacts that your gifts make possible.  

Any financial advisor will tell you that your home is your biggest investment. As such, it needs to be cared for and maintained to safeguard that investment. Trinity is our home. In serving on the Board of Trustees, I am working with a team of folks passionately committed to preserving this beautiful church, while keeping it updated and safe for all who use it.

As part of our witness, we have the privilege of serving on the Engagement Team. This team promotes the feeling of home (unity) by planning and participating in events geared to make members feel appreciated and visitors feel welcome.

In volunteering at community events held here at Trinity, it is humbling how respected this church is by members of the community as a beacon of light, welcoming all and affording beautiful surroundings for their gatherings.

I would ask you to consider how you can help protect this house we are blessed to have as our church home so it can continue to be a blessing to all of us and the surrounding community. The parable of the talents in Matthew’s gospel stresses the importance of investing and increasing our talents. Growing the church strengthens our own faith as well as increasing Trinity’s ability to welcome others into our HOME.  

Put a line item in your budget for giving. Consider Trinity in your giving – you can see God at work through all of the ministries and community outreach. Follow up your gifts by attending, volunteering, and watching your gifts multiply into blessings for others.

May you experience the same joy we have as you give back to the Lord for all the good things He has done for you.