January Planning Retreat

On Saturday, January 18, a group of Trinity staff, board members, and other lay leaders met for a day to
review Trinity’s ministries and progress with regards to our mission and vision. Those attending the retreat included:  Pastor Tracey, Pastor Amber, Melissa Kramer, Savannah Jewell, Ryan Wynkoop, Norma Singley, Gloria Thompson, and Steven Flowers.  The theme of the retreat was Seasons.  We inventoried all of Trinity’s ministries and programs and evaluated their season of life.  Here are some of the more significant discussions and decisions:

• To provide a twice yearly appreciation and training for all Sunday morning hospitality teams (ushers, coffee cart, and greeters).  Our effectiveness in welcoming Sunday worship visitors plays a critical role in our church and ministry growth.  We want those on the hospitality teams to be well-equipped for their roles and know that their ministry is appreciated. 

• Changes to our annual Back-to-School Bash to make this a more effective and relational ministry.  To hear about these changes and the reasons for them, join us in the GREAT Room immediately after worship on Sunday, March 29, when Melissa Kramer will lead our first 15 on the 5’s.  Moving forward, we will offer a fifteen minute gathering in the GREAT Room after worship each time there is a fifth Sunday of the month to highlight a change or something new that is happening at Trinity. We recognize that we now live in an information-overload culture and it’s hard to keep up with Eblasts, newsletters, announcements, etc.  So this will give us a brief opportunity to meet face-to-face and even have some Q&A. lease grab a hot beverage and join us in the GREAT Room on March 29.
• Increased use of our GREAT Room.  This year’s Fat Tuesday event will take place in the GREAT Room as will the Good Friday Service and Easter Brunch.  Have you noticed the scrolling announcements in the GREAT Room each Sunday morning?  When you stop in to get your hot beverage, check out the video screen.  It highlights events in our church and also includes discussion starters for those who gather in this space to connect with one another.  Always encourage visitors to check out the GREAT Room.  It’s a wonderful space for fellowship, hospitality, and information about Trinity.
• We will be exploring how to develop a more effective marketing strategy for Trinity.  Although we are a friendly congregation, we have many introverts and need a little boast to help us spread the word about our ministries and reach more people.
• Finally, we recognize the significant need for someone to take the lead with a Meal Ministry at Trinity.  We would like to provide meals to those who may be ill, grieving, have had a baby, etc., as well as serving at Brianna’s Hope (at Grace UMC).  We also need a “point person” for funeral luncheons.  While many people are happy to provide food if asked, we need one individual to take the lead in coordinating these various “meal ministries” that make such a dramatic difference in people’s lives.  If you are interested in exploring this ministry, please talk with Pastor Tracey or contact the church office.