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A Letter from the Creation Care Committee
Dear Trinity Church Community,
As the Artemis II mission members sent pictures of our beautiful blue planet, I was reminded again of how we all share one home. Our home, our planet, is extraordinary
with its unique ability to sustain life for so many creatures. As a spiritual community, we, members of Trinity, are aware of the gift our Creator has given us, and our responsibility to care for all living things.
The Episcopal Church’s Covenant for the Care of Creation is a commitment to practice loving formation, liberating advocacy and life-giving conservation as individuals, congregations, ministries and dioceses. At Trinity, the Creation Care Committee’s mission is to foster a greater awareness and appreciation for all of God’s creation by nurturing and maintaining the landscape surrounding Trinity, as well as provide programs that educate and inspire good environmental practices. We began our committee in 2023.
The committee has hosted numerous programs since its inception. Most recently, in the
Spring of 2025, Creation Care partnered with the French Broad River Garden Club and
the McCullough Institute at UNCA to sponsor Margaret Rinkle, noted author of the Comfort of Crows, and New York Times columnist, Katharine Hayhoe, Lead Scientist of The Nature Conservancy, Kathleen Biggins, CEO of C-Change, and Jeff Chu, author of Good Soil. All these speakers offered different prospectives of our climate crisis, and options for each of us. These programs were free and available to all in our community. Our fall programs began in September with Dr. Maria Whitehead, Vice President and Director of Land for the Open Space Institute. Maria is one of the superheroes in the conservation world. Her most recent project was the establishment of a new state park in South Carolina – the Black River State Park that included 9,000 acres of protected land along the river. Our committee visited the Asheville Botanical Garden that focuses on native plants of the Southern Appalachians for a special tour and picnic lunch. In February, Trinitarian Lang Hornthal, Executive Director of Eco-Foresters, presented an overview of how Hurricane Helene has impacted forest health, and the response to the challenge. In March, Trinitarian, Jennine Hough, art historian and professor, presented “The millennia of art inspired by God’s creation as artists capture, record and interpret the natural world.” In April, the Committee has been invited to visit Monte Gaillard’s garden, discuss native plants, and enjoy lunch. And on May 14 th the church congregation with the Creation Care Committee is invited to a tour of Hickory Nut Gap Farm to learn about regenerative farming and celebrate Rogation Sunday. The Creation Care Committee also hosted numerous workdays organized by Art Garst to maintain our landscape around the church. Maintenance of the trees, especially the inspection and care of our mother tree, the Elm, in our courtyard, is the responsibility of the Creation Care Committee.
We invite all members of Trinity church and visitors to attend any of our meetings or
workdays. We enjoy fellowship, delicious food, and learn how each of us can better
serve our community and our planet.
If you have any questions or would like to be added to our email list, please contact,
Monte Parsons Gaillard – mparsons123@gmail.com.
All are welcome!
Monte Parsons Gaillard
Chair of the Creation Care Committee
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Trinity Art Fair April 25
On April 25 from 10-4, come and enjoy a vibrant community art fair featuring works by more than 35 artists from the congregation. Explore paintings, woodwork, ceramics, stained glass, books, LEGO creations, textiles, jewelry, and more. Enjoy imaginative floral displays from the Trinity Flower Guild, food and beverages, and festive decorations as you browse in Tuton Hall and the church courtyard (weather permitting).
Proceeds benefit Camp Henry scholarships for youth.
Admission is free and open to all. For details, call (828) 253-9361 or email office@trinityasheville.org.
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You're Invited! Something meaningful is happening at Trinity, and we want you at the table. Over dinner, we’ll reflect together on a simple but powerful question: What has God been doing among us — and where is God calling us next? You’ll have the chance to share your perspective on what makes Trinity the community it is today. Join us at one of the dinner gatherings:
Wednesday, April 29, 5:00 p.m.
Wednesday, May 20, 5:00 p.m.
RSVP Here
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Reading the Bible Literately, Not Literally: Upcoming Adult Forum
with Ed Bleynat, Sundays April 12-May 3
The Bible is not one book – it comprises many books written in several different genres. You’ll find poetry, narrative, legal codes, history, personal letters, and more. Every week, we’ll look at Scripture and consider how its literary style, genre, and context help us understand it. We will seek the image of God in all people by immersion in biblical text, such as the prophetic Book of Amos, with its insistence on justice for the poor and disadvantaged, and Paul’s short letter to Philemon, where he urges a man to treat Paul’s friend not as a slave, but as a brother.
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Baptism and Confirmation
April 26
On April 26 we will welcome our bishop, José Mcloughlin, to celebrate the sacraments of baptism, Confirmation, and we will welcome other adults through the rite of Reception and Renewal of Baptismal Vows.
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Supper Club: April 26
Don't miss the last Supper Club of the year, coming up on April 26! Have you been in touch with your group about plans yet?
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Newcomers Soirée
Join Rector Scott White and his wife, Missy Sherburne, for the Newcomers Soirée on Friday, May 8, from 4:30–6:30 PM at their home (400 Kimberly Avenue). This is a wonderful chance to connect with others, meet our staff, and be welcomed by members of our Good Shepherds ministry team. If you're new to Trinity, you should have already received an invitation through email. If you have not received one, please let us know so that we can make sure we have the correct information for you. Email rebecca@trinityasheville.org with questions. We do ask that you RSVP to this event by clicking here. We hope to see you there!
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Trinity Cleaning Day!
Join us Tuesday, April 28, 3:00–5:00 p.m. to help freshen up our kitchen, gardens, and more—supplies, dinner, and water provided. All ages welcome; register here, and contact Debbie Cox at 253-9361 or debbie@trinityasheville.org for details.
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EYC Trip to the Arboretum!
Students in grades 6–12 are invited on our next trip to the North Carolina Arboretum on Sunday, April 19, 2026, from 12:00–3:00 p.m. We’ll leave from Trinity right after the 10:45 service; bring a bag lunch, water bottle, weather-appropriate clothes, and closed-toe shoes. Register here.
| Join us on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. for An Evening with Marie Howe and Bruce Beasley: Readings and Conversations about Poetry and Prayer. Pulitzer Prize–winning poet Marie Howe, Poet in Residence at The Cathedral of St. John the Divine, and acclaimed poet Bruce Beasley will share their work and reflect on how poetry can open us to the language of prayer, faith, and wonder. Free and open to all. Email Amy with any questions: amy@trinityasheville.org. To read more about both poets, click here. | |
Debbie's Upcoming Sabbatical
As she celebrates her 25th year of ministry at Trinity, our wonderful Youth and Parish Life Director, Debbie, will be taking a two-month sabbatical starting in May—a much-deserved time for rest, renewal, and spiritual refreshment. Debbie has poured so much care, creativity, and joy into our community, and we’re excited for her to enjoy this time to recharge. We look forward to welcoming her back later this summer, renewed and ready for the next season of ministry! Learn more about Debbie’s sabbatical on our blog - click here.
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Trinity Men's Retreat
Trinity is hosting a Men's Retreat at Lake Logan September 18-20. We will have a great combination of fellowship, reflection, and fun! We will start on Friday evening and finish up on Sunday mid-morning. $225 for double occupancy (2 beds to a room). Send an email to Chris at jcdecker71@gmail.com with questions or if you’d like to help with planning! Click here to register.
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Introducing the Rector's Blog
We’re excited to share a new feature on Trinity’s website — The Rector’s Blog. This space gathers reflections, sermons (adapted for reading), and other writings from our rector, offering thoughtful insights rooted in our shared life of faith.
We hope you'il take a few moments to check it out!
Click here to read and subscribe.
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VBS Registration Now Open
Join us for a fun-filled week of Vacation Bible School, June 22–26 from 9 AM–12 PM! Children ages 3 (fully potty-trained) through those who’ve just completed 5th grade are welcome. Registration is $45 per child, with a $20 discount for volunteers serving all four days. Volunteer registration is also open—many meaningful roles are available! Come make a difference and be part of an unforgettable week of faith and fun.
Click here to register a child.
Click here to register as a volunteer.
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Poetry Reading with Lee Stockdale
Trinitarian Lee Stockdale is hosting a poetry reading from his new book, Bronxville, on April 30 at 5:30. The event will take place in Tuton Hall with light refreshments served.
Come and enjoy! No registration required. Any proceeds from the sale of his book will go towards the upcoming youth missions trip to Ecuador.
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WNC's AIDS Project: Dining Out For Life
Dining Out For Life, Western North Carolina AIDS Project’s key annual fundraiser, will take place on Thursday, April 30 at participating restaurants across WNC. It is especially important this year as HIV care and prevention face funding uncertainty and increased needs in rural communities.Proceeds support HIV care, prevention, testing, and housing assistance in 18 WNC counties; learn more and find participating restaurants by clicking here.
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Youth Sunday, May 10
Youth Sunday will be celebrated on May 10, at the 10:45 service. All youth are invited to take part in every aspect of worship that day, from reading and ushering to music leadership. Youth who would like to participate should contact Debbie. Youth who would like to play an instrument or sing are encouraged to contact Kevin Seal at kevin@trinityasheville.org.
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Adults:
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Parents in Conversation usually meets in the Clark Room during the Sunday formation hour (9:30–10:30) for informal conversations about life and parenting. All are welcome. Contact the Rev. Amy Peterson with questions
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Reading the Bible Literately, Not Literally: New Adult Forum Beginning April 12, led by Ed Bleynat (April 12, 19, 26, & May 3), this course invites us to explore how the Bible’s literary forms and contexts reveal God’s word and call us to justice and compassion.
Children and Youth:
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Godly Play for children happens during the Sunday formation hour (9:30–10:30) with three classes, serving potty-trained three year olds through fifth-grade.
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Nursery is available starting at 9:15 until after the 10:45 service.
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Children’s Hour Ages 3 to second grade meets at 10:45 in the Undercroft for snacks and worship; children and youth above 2nd grade are invited to join their guardians for Holy Eucharist. Children Hour attendees return to parents after the Peace
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High School (grades 9-12) meets Sundays at 9:30 in the youth area under Tuton Hall, accessible from the same stairway
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Middle School (grades 6-8) meets Sundays at 9:30 in the youth area, accessible via stairs near Tuton Hall kitchen.
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Intercession and Silent Prayer We are called to a more intentional prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Anyone desiring an opportunity to deepen their intercessory and personal prayer life, please join us each Wednesday from 10:45 to 11:15am in the Redwood Chapel. Contact the church office or email sjhgraff@yahoo.com with questions.
Midweek Eucharist Every Wednesday, we offer a midweek worship service at 11:30.
Women’s Bible Study meets Tuesdays at 9:30 in the conference room (and online) to discuss the Scriptures appointed for the upcoming Sunday. Contact the Rev. Amy Peterson with questions.
Bible Discovery with The Rector *No class for the coming two weeks. This will resume April 22.* Explore the great themes of Scripture in a new Thursday Bible Discovery series, “Biblical Themes,” with the Rector on Zoom from 11:00 a.m. to noon. Each week we trace key biblical images, places, and ideas and what they reveal about God and the life of faith. Email rebecca@trinityasheville.org for more info or to sign up.
Trinity Caregivers’ Group meets via Zoom on the second Friday monthly. This group meets in confidentiality. Receive support and share experiences of caring for loved ones with dementia. The next meeting is April 10. Contact Corkie Morrill at corkiemorrill@charter.net or 828-508-8527.
Facilitators Sharon Lechner and Page McCorkle invite you to the Becoming Beloved Community book group. Members discuss the intersection of social and environmental justice with the dominant culture of white supremacy. Upcoming date and books: 4/22 at 6:30 - James by Percival Everett. Email pageconnermccorkle@gmail.com with questions.
The Second Chapter Book Group is a welcoming ladies’ group meeting every even-numbered month on the second Thursday at 10:00 AM in the Clark Room. Contact Barbara Fotinos for details: bfotinos@gmail.com.
The Needlers will meet on Sunday, April 19 in the Clark Room at 4 PM. If you enjoy crafting, be sure to pop by! Email Amy with questions: amy@trinityasheville.org.
AA meetings: Monday–Friday mornings at 7:00 AM, Tuesday & Friday evenings at 8:00 PM, Saturday mornings at 8:00 AM, all in the Undercroft. Al-Anon and Alateen meet Sundays at 5:00 PM in the Youth Rooms; AA for Women meets on Saturdays at 8:30 AM in the Clark Room.
The next Daughters of the King meets the third Sunday of every month. The next meeting is April 19. The mission of the Order is “the extension of Christ’s Kingdom through Prayer, Service, and Evangelism,” lived out through a personal Rule of Life that always includes a Rule of Prayer and a Rule of Service."
The Brotherhood of St. Andrew meets twice a month. Their social meeting is on the fourth Tuesday of the month, and their worship meeting is on the first Sunday of the month. The next meeting is April 28.
The Creation Care Committee's mission is to deepen awareness of the sacredness of creation, tend to the landscape around Trinity with a strong sense of the spirit of the place, and to inspire others to rethink how they can be good stewards to God’s creation. Next meeting April 23 at Monte’s house from 10:30-1 pm for a tour of her garden and lunch; please contact Monte to RSVP at mparsons123@gmail.com. And remember to mark your calendar for our field trip out to Hickory Nut Gap Farm May 14th to learn about regerative farming and celebrate Rogation Sunday.
Literary Ladies Book Club, formerly Monday Night Book Club, now meets at noon on the fourth Thursday of odd-numbered months. We gather in homes, share a potluck lunch, and discuss novels, memoirs, nonfiction, and even poetry chosen together at the January meeting. We love welcoming new members—text or email Erwin Gunnells at 838-216-6282 or erwin2@bellsouth.net to join in.
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Creation Care Corner:
Virginia has become the second state after Utah to pass a bill allowing “balcony solar” — plug and play solar panels that you can buy at a big box store and use like any appliance. The bill passed by unanimous bipartisan vote in the Virginia House. Why not North Carolina next? Learn more here.
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A Note About Our Prayer List
We are honored to partner with our community in praying for those who need to be lifted up to God. Please note that names will remain on the Prayer List for six weeks. If you notice someone has been removed and would like for them to stay on the list longer, please contact Kat - kat@trinityasheville.org.
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Listen to our podcast: 60 Church Street
Subscribe to our podcast on all major platforms. If you missed the Sunday homily or if you just want to listen to it again, this is a great way to do so on-the-go. Click here to listen!
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Check out pics from our community life here at Trinity
We post pictures from our events for you to enjoy! Click here to view our Flickr gallery.
| Parking Sticker Update: If you still need Trinity’s new green parking sticker, please email rebecca@trinityasheville.org with your license plate number and make and model of your car. As a reminder, you do not need this sticker for Sunday worship services, but do need it for parking in our lot at any other time. | Subscribe to Stories That Matter: Trinity has a second blog - Stories that Matter. We invite you to subscribe to it! Click here to view Stories That Matter. When you subscribe, you will be notified when a new post is made to these blogs and when livestream posts are created. It's a great way to stay "in-the-know" here at Trinity. | Community Supported Agriculture: CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) programs are a simple way to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce each week — sign up to receive a CSA box delivered to Trinity for convenient Thursday afternoon pickup. Deliveries will begin on May 7. Boxes are $30 per week, charged weekly with no upfront cost and the flexibility to pause if needed. There is still time to register — email leeseabrook@gmail.com for details. | Church offices will be closed the Monday after Easter | |
Next Sunday’s Lectionary Readings (for 4/19):
Acts 2:14a,36-41, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Luke 24:13-35, Psalm 116:1-3, 10-17
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Volunteer
Check out Trinity’s website to learn more about opportunities to serve the church and world.
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Children and Youth Mentors Needed: Help create a safe, supportive space for youth to learn about Christ. Contact Nanette (nanette@trinityasheville.org) or Debbie (debbie@trinityasheville.org) to get involved.
Lake Logan Volunteers: Join us every Thursday for fellowship and service including painting, repairs, and landscaping. Contact Carlyn (carlynpheil@gmail.com) or Fred (fredfairhead@att.net).
Serve Meals with Church of the Advocate Help serve Sunday meals to the unhoused after the 10:45 AM service at Church of the Advocate. No cooking skills needed. Contact Rev. Mike Reardon (mike@trinityasheville.org).
The Appalachian Regional Ministry partners with churches and leaders in Graham County to support one of our region’s poorest communities. Their next trip is May 6. Join us on monthly trips to Robbinsville to cook, distribute food, and serve alongside local leaders. Everyone is welcome! To get involved, contact the church office for Tom Goodrich’s info.
ABCCM: ABCCM is a significant ministry in our community; our Rector is on the board. Explore the many opportunities to volunteer.
Trinity Cooking Team for Transformation Village Trinity has a team that cooks for Transformation Village, a ministry of ABCCM that provides up to 100 beds for homeless women, mothers, children, and veterans. We need up to ten volunteers. The next day Trinity will serve is April 21. Contact Debbie Cox to let her know you’d like to help: debbie@trinityasheville.org.
Help cook and serve breakfast from 8:00 to 9:30 on Sundays. Tom Griffin and Debbie Cox do most of the work, but help scrambling eggs or flipping pancakes is greatly appreciated! Sign up on the bulletin board in Tuton Hall or contact Debbie Cox at debbie@trinityasheville.org.
| | | | You can donate to Trinity however is convenient for you. Our address is 60 Church Street, Asheville, NC, 28801. Text “trinityavl” to 73256. You can also use the “Give” button on our website. Thank you. | | Trinity Clergy, Staff, and Vestry | | |
The Following Immediate and Ongoing Prayer concerns remain for a period of six weeks
unless they are intentionally renewed by calling the church office.
Immediate Concerns: Laurie Hamilton, Jason Hamlin, Rose Marie Taylor, Mickey Trinite, Mildred, Brittany, & Elizabeth Plant, Robert Woodrich, Mike Sharp, Debbie Wallace, Bill Ackermann, Mason Frisella, Lovie Meriwether, Colleen Williford, Gil Walden, Ann Hauser Garst, and Evelyn Hemphill
For Those Who Have Died: Carol Berry
For Those in Service to Our Country: Lt. Cmdr. Alexander M. Ford (son of John Mark and Charlene Ford), WO. Brendan Gilbert (grandson of Curt Gilbert); Davis N. Graham, Lieutenant J.G. (grandson of Jane Clark), Adrienne Welker, US Navy Band (daughter of Leslie Welker), Gerald Welker, Jr, US Air Force Band (son of Leslie Welker), SN John Work, US Navy (son of Becky & Jack Work), and CPT Crystal Frutchey, NC National Guard (cousin of Jennine Hough)
Birthdays (April 12-18) Spencer Butler, Vera Clay, Meredith Decker, John Dellamanna, Nene Gunn, Thomas Heinitsh, Robbie Hendon, Katherine Hyde-Hensley, Edward J Snyder III, Kathleen Kraynick, Elias Larimer, Judson Mabe, Owen Peterson, Elizabeth Price, Christy Randall, Ella Reynolds, Patrick Schneider, Robin Seal, Sarah Sharpe, Clare Stephens
Anniversaries (April 12-18) Rich & Hope Apolinar, Randy & Vennessa Hagan, Parker & Janet Moore, Joe & Leslie Morris
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Have an an announcement for Friday emails?
If you would like your group's announcement to be included in the Friday emails or the Sunday Times, please email Kat Lomuscio.
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