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Dear companions,
In this coming Sunday’s epistle reading, St. Paul writes to the church in Corinth: “When I came to you, brothers and sisters, I did not come proclaiming the mystery of God to you in lofty words or wisdom. For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and him crucified.” In the following lines, Paul differentiates between the wisdom of this world and the wisdom of God. The wisdom of God is often not lofty, but simple; it is not ostentatious but secret and hidden. It is not understood by the rulers of this age, but is made present to those in weakness and suffering. And though the gifts of the world often escape the grasp of the believer, we are offered something far greater–the gifts of the spirit.
These gifts of the spirit and paradoxical wisdom are so often made present in the materially poor. Those who have been forsaken by the powers of this world are indeed gifted by the spirit. While this may not always be immediately evident, we are told as Christians that we come to a fuller knowledge of Christ through our relationship to the poor, the dispossessed, and the maligned.
At Trinity Church, we have the immense gift of sharing space–physical, material, and spiritual–with a ministry that prioritizes the lived experience and witness of the materially poor. Our arrangement is unique. Indeed, it is not always easy. But ultimately our partnership draws us nearer to the Kingdom of God.
I offer my thanks for your continued support in our ministry together. Without the good people of Trinity, Church of the Advocate would simply not be functional. May we continue to grow closer to the Kingdom together.
In thanks,
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James in the Suburbs: New Adult Forum for Lent
with April Joy Fordham
February 22—March 29 During Sunday Formation Hour, 9:30-10:30
Do you consume God's blessings, or do you share them? Most Christians are consumers. We are obsessed with knowing the right theology and following the right set of rules in hopes that God will bless us. Yet, no matter how much God blesses us, we are still looking for more. Our belief that God created us in God’s own image and likeness demands us to see all human beings as those to whom we owe honor and service. James says our faith without works is dead and the Book of James helps us understand how faith frees us for service. Being the hands and feet of Jesus is a response to the grace offered, a “yes” to being created in God’s image. In such light faith, says James, says their faith is alive. Trinitarian April Love Fordham is an ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church (USA) and the author of numerous books, one of which is “James in The Suburbs.” Join April for an exploration of the Book of James and how it leads us from grace to service.
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Calling All Artists for the Trinity Art Fair
Calling all Trinity Artists! Register to participate in the Trinity Art Fair taking place in Tuton Hall and the Chapel Garden on April 25, 2026. There will be space for 35 artists. Proceeds support scholarships for our parish youth to attend Camp Henry at Lake Logan this summer. Register Here. For more information, contact Marie Woodard, mariecp1111@gmail.com.
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EYC Bowling Trip Rescheduled to February 15
Join us for our next Episcopal Youth Community (EYC) event: an afternoon of bowling and arcade fun for grades 6–12 at AMF Star Lanes Sunday, February 15. The $20 cost covers 1½ hours of bowling, $10 in arcade games, lunch, and a drink; Contact Debbie with questions
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Supper Club
The next Supper Club is coming up February 15! If you have any questions about it, contact Rebecca (rebecca@trinityasheville.org).
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Shrove Tuesday Pancake Dinner
Celebrate Shrove Tuesday with our Annual Pancake Dinner in Tuton Hall on Tuesday, February 17, at 6:00p. Enjoy pancakes, sausage, and bacon prepared by our Trinity Men as we gather before Lent begins—$6 per person, no registration needed! Children can enjoy crafts, games, and a pancake race, with nursery care provided. Trinity Men of all ages are invited to help cook and clean up; email Debbie Cox at debbie@trinityasheville.org if you’d like to lend a hand.
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Wednesdays in Lent
Starting February 25, take a midweek pause with opportunities for worship and reflection.
Daytime Opportunity:
The Holy Eucharist at 11:30 AM with Guest Reflections (Feb 25 – Tim Owings; Mar 4 – Christy Randall; Mar 11 – Beth Chestnut; Mar 18 – John Kramp; Mar 25 – Ragan Sutterfield), followed by lunch and Q&A in Tuton Hall; $6 suggested donation, no registration.
Evening Opportunity:
For the Living of These Days, a simple dinner and conversation with Scott and Amy Return at 5:30 PM in Tuton Hall. Each week we’ll learn from a saint of history how their faithful witness speaks to the challenges of our own time.
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Rotary Blood Drive
Give the gift of life at Rotary Blood Drive on Thursday, February 19, from 11:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Sign-up details coming soon.
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Choral Evensong
Join us on February 22 at 5:30 PM as we celebrate choral evensong for the First Sunday of Lent. The service will be led by our Chancel Choir and will feature works by J. S. Bach, Paul Smith, Thomas Tallis, and Henry Purcell's exquisite "Hear My Prayer, O Lord."
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Spaghetti Fundraiser
Support our youth mission trip to Ecuador at a delicious Spaghetti Fundraiser on Wednesday, February 25 at 6:00 p.m.! Thirteen youth and three adults are heading to Ecuador, and your meal helps make their journey possible. Enjoy spaghetti, salad, drink, and dessert for $15 per person as we gather for good food, fellowship, and to send our mission team out with love and prayers.
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Lenten Devotions
Daily Devotions Sent by email on Weekdays
We are blessed to have devotions written by members of the Trinity community for the season of Lent. These devotions will be shared daily, and will also be posted to our website. If you would like to be on the email list to receive these devotions, please email rebecca@trinityasheville.org.
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Intercession and Silent Prayer During Lent
In Lent, we are called to a more intentional season of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Anyone desiring an opportunity to deepen their intercessory and personal prayer life during this season, please join us beginning on Ash Wednesday and each Wednesday thereafter from 10:45 to 11:15am in the Redwood Chapel. Contact the church office or email sjhgraff@yahoo.com with questions.
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Guided Retreat: Inner Peace in Friendship with Jesus
Join Fr. Mike for a collaborative four-week retreat with both Trinity and Church of the Advocate titled “Inner Peace in Friendship with Jesus.” The retreat is a twenty-four day journey taken in the midst of our daily lives. Prayers are offered four days per week, with each week leading us more deeply into our companionship with Jesus. In addition to daily prayer, retreatants will journal about their experiences in prayer, and come together as a group once per week to engage in spiritual conversation about the insights, joys, and challenges we are each working through in our personal retreats. This retreat is informed by the Ignatian tradition. It is a significant commitment. Expect to spend at least 30 minutes in prayer each day. All participants will receive a journal, as well as a copy of daily prayers and reflections that will guide our time together. We will join together every Monday from 1:00-2:00 PM in the Redwood Chapel beginning March 2nd through March 23rd. We will gather for an orientation on February 23rd at 1:00 PM.
If you are interested in participating in this retreat, please email Mike at mike@trinityasheville.org.
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Altar Flower Dedications
Each week, altar flowers add beauty to worship and offer a special way to honor loved ones or celebrate meaningful moments. After the service, the flowers are shared with homebound members and others who could use a bright spot in their day. Available dedication dates are May 17, August 9, September 13, October 25, and November 8, 15, and 22. To reserve a date, please contact jan@trinityasheville.org
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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.
| | Upcoming Events and Notes | | |
Book Launch for Nancy McCorkle
Come join us for a Book Launch Party for Nancy McCorkle’s debut novel The End of the Sidewalk on February 10, 5:30 - 6:30 PM, Tuton Hall. Please come and celebrate with us! Refreshments will be served. RSVP to nkmccorkle@gmail.com
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Amy's Occasional Book Club is Back!
All are welcome – and those attending the women’s retreat are specifically encouraged – to join! Amy has chosen a recent novel that intersects with the themes of this year’s retreat. Contact her with questions! Zoom attendance will also be available.
- Thursday, February 26, 6:30-8:00 (Clark Room) Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy (RSVP here)
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Music at Trinity Concert: Rescheduled for March 28
Due to travel delays, the Music at Trinity Concert has been rescheduled for March 28 at 7:00 PM. It promises to be a joyful evening of music for two trumpets and organ, featuring Brad Ulrich (Western Carolina University), Paul Merkelo (principal trumpet of the Montreal Symphony), and our own Dr. Kevin Seal on organ. Admission is free.
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Four Families Outing
Diocesan Family Snow Tubing: Bundle up and join families from across the diocese for snow tubing this Sunday, February 8, from 3:00–6:00 p.m. in Hendersonville. Register here.
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Register for Family Spring Break at Lake Logan
Families are invited to spend a spring break weekend at Lake Logan, with time for rest, outdoor play, and prayer together. Two sessions are offered, March 18–20 and April 8–10, with lodging and meals included. Learn more and register here.
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Refugia Faith: A Trinity Women's Retreat
Registration is full -- email Amy to be added to the wait list. Join us for our annual Trinity Retreat at Lake Logan, March 20–22! Author Deb Rienstra will guide us as we explore “Refugia”—places of resilient new life—in faith and nature. Enjoy teaching, music, small groups, rest, and local heritage. Scholarships are available and donations welcome. Questions? Contact Rev. Amy at amy@trinityasheville.org
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Adults:
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Exploring the Episcopal Experience: Adult Forum meets Sundays at 9:30 AM, January 4–February 15. Led by the Rector, this class introduces Episcopal history, worship, and theology, and is ideal for both newcomers and long-time members. This class is held during Sunday Formation Hour, 9:30-10:30.
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Parents in Conversation 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.
Children and Youth:
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Goldy Play for Children: Usually, During Sunday formation hour (9:30–10:30) with three classes, serving potty-trained three year olds through fifth-grade. Classes meet downstairs.
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Nursery is available starting at 9:15 until after the 10:45 service for infants through three-year-olds who are not yet potty-trained.
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Children's Hour: Ages 3 through 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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Middle School: (grades 6-8) Usually meets Sundays at 9:30 in the youth area, accessible via stairs near Tuton Hall kitchen
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High School: (grades 9-12) Usually meets Sundays at 9:30 in the youth area under Tuton Hall, accessible from the same stairway
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Midweek Eucharist Every Wednesday, we offer a midweek worship service at a new time, 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 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. Support and share experiences caring for loved ones with dementia. The next meeting is February 13. 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 dates and books: 2/25, 3/11 at 6:30 - Migrant God: A Christian Vision for Immigrant Justice by Isaac Samuel Villegas; 3/11 - Isaac will be joining us for a discussion about the book and any other questions you may have—email them to pageconnormccorkle@gmail.com; 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. The next meeting February 12 — The Correspondent by Virginia Evans. Contact Barbara Fotinos for details: bfotinos@gmail.com.
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 2/15. 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 last Tuesday of the month, and their worship meeting is on the first Sunday of the month. The next meeting is February 24.
The Creation Care Committee invites everyone on February 19 at 9:30 AM in the Clark Room to hear from Lang Hornthal, Executive Director of EcoForesters, who will share insights on how Hurricane Helene has affected forest health and how professionals are rising to the challenge. Discover the threats posed by wildfires and invasive species, and learn what you can do to make a positive impact on our forests. A big thank-you to Lang—and yes, coffee and treats will be served!
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Parking Sticker Update
Our red parking stickers are expiring soon. Parking stickers are not needed on Sundays. If you come to the church office for ministry on days other than Sunday, please stop by the church office on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday to request a sticker.
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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 February 11. 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 2/17. 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. Paul Hatfield 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: Nyla Saylor, Laurie Hamilton, Jason Hamlin, Neal Owings, Rose Marie Taylor, Lynn Marie Kramp, Mickey Trinite, Rody & Ann Sherrill, Mildred, Brittany, & Elizabeth Plant, and Maggie Stranges
For Those Who Have Died: Doris Bruger
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)
Birthdays: McLain Allen, Ann Bottomy, Sarah Butrum, Sophie Pippin, Elizabeth Seal, Elsa Thomas, Connie Wilson, Hayden Couvillion, Shirley Anne McCullough, Joe Sechler, Carol Stevenson, Kip Warlick, Don Weidemann, Ryan Hogan, Stace Horine, Polly Jenkins, Robert McWithey, Erik Thingvoll, Finn Schram, Scott Best, Susan Sudimak, Alice Hensley, Jeff Howden, Evie Wrenn
Anniversaries: Gil & Sheila Walden
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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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