Trinity MCC Church - Gainesville, Florida

Pastoral Ponderings

We had a wonderful weekend together at Trinity MCC.  From the fabulous show by Vickie Shaw on Friday, all the way through our Membership Class on Sunday afternoon, we enjoyed wonderful fellowship, celebratory worship, and the gentle movement of Spirit. Thanks to all of you who helped make it all happen and thanks to those of you who participated.  It takes all of us working and participating together as we spread the message of God’s inclusive love.

 Lent begins this Wednesday and we will hold our annual Ash Wednesday service on Wednesday at 7:00PM.  I recommend participation in Ash Wednesday worship as a marker for us at the beginning of this season of cleansing during which we make room for God to restore us to fullness and wholeness in our bodies, minds and spirits.  Be here Wednesday and 7 and see what God will do.

 If you missed church on Sunday, please go to the church’s website and watch my sermon.  You will here important information about a process on which we will embark over the next months.  Please do watch the sermon so you will be prepared to participate as we continue to discern what God’s plan is for the future of our church.  The web address is www.mccgainesville.com.  We are also present on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/trinitymccgainesville?fref=ts.

 Remember this coming Sunday is our monthly potluck and board of directors meeting.  Bring a dish of your favorite food with enough to share for our time of food and fellowship.  The board meets in open session, so you are welcome to attend and participate in the discussion.  That’s this coming Sunday, March 9.

 Now for something fun.  During my training last week, I learned about a new idea that I hope we can try on.  You’ll be shocked as many were this morning.  Please, bring your cell phones, Ipads or tablets to church.  When you arrive here, check in.  During the service when you hear something you like or something that moves you, Facebook it, tweet it, or do whatever you do on social media.  We want the world to know we’re here and that wonderful and exciting things are happening here.  It may sound crazy – and let’s try it on.  I look forward to seeing your posts.

 There are several changes in our service for the first Sunday in Lent.  Come join us and see what God will do as we embark on this season of preparation for what God will do among us.  We’re all in this together.

Very Fondly,

Rev. Dr. Jim Merritt

Pastor