The Tower________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Vol. 16, No. 6 Trinity United Methodist Church, Iron Mountain, MI www.imtrinity.org October 2016

Pastor’s PonderingsCrisp mornings, warm afternoons, blue skies,

and a panorama of changing colors tell us that summer is coming to its end. A new season is emerging. We see it in the return to two worship services on Sunday mornings. We hear it in the beautiful music of the choir and the children’s singing. We smell it in the cinnamon roll sales that will begin soon. We feel it in the energy and excitement that swirls through our building as we prepare for this Charge Conference, for the Mini-Fair, for Sunday School, and Youth Group activities. We taste it as we gathered for a chili cook-off! A new season…and a time to look back and reflect on how we are doing and where we are going.

We have enjoyed a variety of celebrations this year…the first Sunday in May was our second Annual Endowment Fund Celebration. We have been blessed by the extravagant generosity of people who loved this church enough to entrust us with money that is being used for many good and faithful purposes. The first Sunday in July was a Ministry Celebration and the first pig-roast ever here at Trinity. What a treat it was to welcome so many people who were called and inspired to serve in congregational or missional ministry, here and elsewhere, by and through the faithfulness of this Trinity UMC.

We, of course, are also facing challenges. We grieve the loss of people who have died. We miss people who have moved away. Our worship attendance has decreased. We wonder…where did all the children go? Why don’t people in their 20’s and 30’s come to church anymore? We have not yet had any new membership commitments made this year. There are people who are curious about what it means to be part of our Community of Faith…but will they follow through with the membership process? What about the disagreements we have had over projects and missions? Have we grown in love and respect for

each other…in spite of differing opinions? Or are there fences to be mended, bridges to be built?

The Finance Committee and Church Council took a long look at our financial situation late last year and decided to do things differently this year…hoping to communicate more clearly the challenge of maintaining our current operations. Overwhelming generosity in financing the pew restoration project has created a beautifully renewed Sanctuary but…we continue to borrow money in order to pay our regularly scheduled bills. We were not able to meet all of our financial obligations in 2015…Will we be more fruitful in this area in 2016? If not, then what do we do next?

Yes, the autumn of the year is a chance for us to reflect on our fruitfulness in serving God this past year and to consider the harvest of our efforts. We have set Goals for ourselves, based on our Vision Statement (page 12), which is the guide for us in faithfulness to God as a Community of Faith. These are the tasks that plant the seeds of God’s grace and nurture the fruits of the Sprit, bringing us to this harvest time.

We have a plan. We have a list. And most importantly, we have the inspiration of God’s story through the life and death and resurrection of Jesus to guide us and reassure us that we are indeed fully approved as laborers for Christ.

I pray that we use these last months of 2016 to continue celebrating God’s grace among us and…to more fully understand the challenges that we face. May we be blessed with insight and guided by compassion. As God presents us with opportunities for growth and change and renewal and transformation….may we have the courage, the energy, the willingness to follow Jesus faithfully. Lovingly. With trust and eternal hope that God’s will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. (excerpts from Pastor’s Report for the Sept. 18, 2016 Charge Conference)

Pastor Geri

…actively invite…

Mini-Fair Bazaar and Luncheon, Saturday, October 15 from 10:30 to 1:30

Be sure to mark your calendar for this great event. Everyone from Trinity is asked to participate.

Your home-canned goods (jams, jellies, relishes, etc.), cookies, cakes, pies, candies, and baked goods always add to the Country Kitchen being a big success. If you knit, crochet, or do needlework, these items are in big demand.

The Joy Crafters have been busy working on all kinds of crafts, including jewelry, cards, Christmas decorations, and needlework. Maybe you are crafty, also, and would like to donate to this project.

Check around your home for good, used items that you can contribute to the Resale Shop.

We’ll also have frozen homemade raviolis, spaghetti sauce, and soup for sale.

Lunch is served from 11:00 to 1:00, and donations are always welcome. Please sign up when the list comes around.

The menu includes hot sandwiches, a salad bar, an assortment of pies, and beverages.

Nuts and Rada knives will be for sale.We welcome cash donations, too. Keep Saturday, October 15 open for a fun-

filled day!

Ruth Circle will be starting a book study on November 9 at 9:30 a.m. on the book, Broken and Blessed: God Changes the World One Person and One Family at a Time, by Jessica Lagrone. It’s a study of the families of the book of Genesis. If you’re interested in this study, please call the office, 774-2545, by October 10.

We’re collecting clean plastic grocery and bread bags. A container will be in the Gathering Room on Sundays. The rest of the week, it will be at the bottom of the stairs leading into the Fellowship Hall.

United Methodist Women’sPotluck Luncheon

Thursday, November 3 at noon.All women of the

church are welcome.

Harvest Pies, November 13: Harvest time is a great time to start baking pies. Our annual pie sale to help support the North Dakota mission team will be moving to November 13, just in

time for hunting season and Thanksgiving. If you like to bake pies, please consider making a pie or two for us, and if you are not a pie baker, you can support us by buying pies between services or after the second service on November 13. Any questions? Please contact team leader Diana Hunt at (906)282-4718.

Reminders for United Methodist Women…The Marquette District UMW Annual Celebration is Tuesday, October 4 at Camp Michigamme. Guest speaker is Renèe Deroche, Executive Director of Camp Michigamme. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. Central time.

The Detroit Conference UMW Annual Celebration and Business Meeting is Saturday, October 22 at First UMC/New Hope Church in Marquette. Speaker will be Vicky Crystal Prewitt, morning anchor at WLUC-TV. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. Central time. See more details across the hall from the church office.

UMW Potluck Luncheon here at Trinity, Thursday, November 3 at noon. All women of the church are welcome!

Chili Cook-Off The Chili Cook-Off after Charge Conference

was a great time for those who came to it. Nine different chilis were offered up. Your basics were popular. There was one that had noodles; another, bratwurst. There was a vegetarian and a black bean chili I overheard a lot of conversation about. Plenty of good corn bread and zucchini bars for dessert. The cook-off yielded a tie for Nathan Ruble and Blair Daugherty—our winners! Nathan stated that his chili definitely did NOT have any squirrel meat in it…can you believe that?!?!? Thanks to everyone who helped with making this a special event. --The Stewardship Committee

Serving in Worship in OctoberOffering Counters:

October 2October 9 Tami & Mary Slagle, & Joyce TrevillianOctober 16October 23October 30

Liturgists: Projection System Operators:October 2 8:00 a.m. Dean Laitinen

10:30 a.m. Nathan Ruble Greg Hunt

October 9 8:00 a.m. Lea Varda10:30 a.m. Drew Champagne Dean Laitinen

October 16 8:00 a.m. Elaine Moore Jon Harry10:30 a.m. Jill Noyce Cameron Mulka

October 23 8:00 a.m. Nathan Ruble Kyle Shemanski10:30 a.m. Scott Ritsema Maddie Ryan

October 30 8:00 a.m. Kyle Shemanski10:30 a.m. Jennifer Rietveld

Ushers: Marvin & Carolyn Harry, & Michael & Charlene Hunt

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...exploring the life-changing message of Jesus...

Preacher’s Corner: The preaching for October will continue to focus on the concept of Servanthood. What does it mean to be Servants in Christ? We have already explored some of the ‘lists’ that the Apostle Paul offers in his letters to Timothy. We all work our lists, but over time they can become mechanical and dreary. It’s the stories that we read in the Gospel of Luke that remind us of the heart and soul of servanthood. We’re not here just to ‘get ‘er done.’ No, the miracles and parables and teachings of Jesus illustrate the power of hope and courage and patience. Those are the qualities of Christian servanthood that keep our actions fresh and innovative and inspired with love for God and God’s people. Do come to Sunday worship, 8:00 and 10:30, in order to be blessed by the Words of God for the People of God. Thanks be to God!

October 2, 2 Timothy 1:6-10, 14; Luke 17:7-10 Working it Out

October 9, Jeremiah 8:18-9:1; Luke 16:10-15Authority Issues

October 16, Jeremiah 31:27-34; Luke 20:45-21:4Proper Compensation

October 23, 1 Timothy 1:12-13; Luke 15:1-10Appointed to Service

October 30, Romans 14:13-21; Luke 9:1-6Holy Spirit Servanthood

Eat, Stay, and Pray—Community Prayer Service, Wednesdays, 5:45 to 6:15 p.m. This is an ecumenical prayer opportunity in the Sanctuary. A chance to pray to God. To listen for the Spirit of God. To be together in the hope of Jesus Christ. It will be open to our community meal guests and available to all the folks at Trinity who are not able to make it to church on Sunday mornings…and for anyone who wants a chance to pray in community during the week. If Sunday morning worship is a chance to get closer to God, then check it out and see what God can do on Wednesday nights!

…connect with others…October Birthdays and AnniversariesPlease pray for them on their special day.Oct. 3 Michael Hunt, Paul Paupore

4 Julie Phillips5 Henry & Joyce London6 Zola Hilyard7 Matt Wiedemeier, Guy & Joyce Yuhasey8 Scott Trevillian, Chris & Sherri Champagne

Tony & Megan Flaminio9 Mark & Kyle Shemanski

10 Ezra Hilyard, Tim Swanson, Beverly Wright11 Jon Nord, Kayle & Jennifer Ahola

Eugene & Beulah DuCharmeJohn & Joyce Erickson, Bill & Marie Uren

12 Tim Driscoll, Karen PauporeMonica Rietveld

13 Stephen Hodgins14 Matt & Jennifer Gauthier15 Vincent Cavalieri

Bob & Mariann Waldbillig16 Becky Person, Zoe Reddinger19 Tony Flaminio, Brigid Kennedy

Pamela Smart22 Peter Daugherty, Debra Grailer23 Laura Fortner24 Donna Poquette28 Katie Kennedy, Raeanne Wilcox29 Hannah Allen30 James Carefelle, Tom Slagle31 Derek Fortner

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Hospitalized since our last issue: Diana Hunt

Congratulations to Adam and Heather Hayes on the birth of twins, Gus Jeffrey and Bella Beverly, on August 15. Grandparents are Steve and Jan Davidson.

“I would like to thank the congregation and Pastor for their cards and prayers during this difficult time.” –Larry Marlett

“Many thanks to the congregation, Pastor Geri, and Sally for all the prayers for our family.” –Beulah DuCharme

“Thank you to everyone for all the cards, gifts, calls, and prayers when my mother died.”—Sally Verley

“Dear Geri & UMC members: I know for many, many years how important Trinity was to both my Grandma Joyce and Grandpa ‘Hoagie.’ My grandma had so many close friends in your congregation, and I

know just how special her memorial was at your church when she passed. Many blessings to all of you, and thanks for all you do.” –Mark and Natasha Hoaglund

“Marge, Sally, and Trinity family: Thank you so much for the beautiful baby bonnets for Gus and Bella! They are such as blessing in our lives, and we can’t wait to have them baptized in the church this winter.” --Sincerely, Adam, Heather, Sophia, Gus, and Bella Hayes

College Student Outreach Fall has arrived, and another year

of college has started. Please contact Jen Gauthier, 221-2840, or Moira Cowling, 774-5130, with the current addresses of students in our congregation. We have had great success with this program and hope to continue again sending messages and packages of goodies throughout the year. Our goal is to make our college students aware of the fact that their Trinity United Methodist Church family is thinking of them.

We will be printing the students’ birthdays in the bulletin and Tower, so anyone can send a card or note to wish them “Happy Birthday.” We know that this can be a lonely time for the kids being away from home. Simple notes telling them you’re thinking of them and are praying for them could brighten their day! Many kids have a hard time finding a church at college, so we want to keep them close and make them feel loved.

Below are birthdays and addresses of some of our college students:

Jade Driscoll, January 23, CMU, Larzelere 321, 203 W. Bellows St., Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858.

Brock Grenier, May 12, 625 Algoma Blvd., North Scott Room 482, Oshkosh, WI 54901.

Cole Grenier, June 20, 1912 Longyear, Apt. 37, Marquette, MI 49855.

Adrianne Laurila, February 25, 323 Village Dr., Apt. 505, East Lansing, MI 48823.

Gino Mariucci, May 23, 1836 E. 7th Ave., Norway, MI 49870.

Kassidy Schaut, December 12, 213 E. High St., Ishpeming, MI 49849.

Barbie Slagle, June 10, 239 Spalding Hall, Marquette, MI 49855

...mature as disciples...

Sunday School ReportBy Cindi Strehlow, Sunday School Superintendent

The 2016-2017 Sunday School year kicked off on September 11 with a celebration party in the downstairs “campfire room.” We served some fun treats and let the kids catch up with friends they haven’t seen over the summer.

This year, Sunday School starts at 9:00 instead of 9:15. This will allow more time for the children to have a light breakfast and juice, and still have enough time to get to their classrooms for a complete lesson. At 10:00, the children meet with Adam Ryan and Drew Champagne in the sanctuary to sing Camp Michigamme-style songs. This is the second year Adam and Drew have been singing with the kids in the sanctuary, and there are a few members of the congregation that have been coming to church early to listen to the kids sing these songs! Adam and Drew encourage anyone who wants to sing along to grab a song book and sing along with the kids. This is another great way to bring the generations of our church together.

Jill Noyce is the new teacher for the 2nd and 3rd grade classroom. The other teachers remain the same—Kathryn Bilgreen for Pre-K to 1st, Kristy Ryan and Jen Gauthier for 4th and 5th grades, and Adam and Drew are combining the middle school and high school classes.

There will be a sign-up sheet for anyone who wants to take a Sunday or two leading Junior Worship. Someone will always be available to lead Junior Worship, but this is a great opportunity for any parents (or anyone else) to take part in the fun of Junior Worship.

The Sunday School classes will be hosting coffee hour every other month throughout the year, and there will be other events to be scheduled, such as the Christmas program.

I’m sure looking forward to another great year with the youth of our church!

Christian Education Committee ReportBy Rev. Tracy Blagec, Chairperson

Christian Education is the teaching ministry of the church that provides study resources for adults, supports the Sunday School program, and assures a fun and safe atmosphere for children. There seems to be no definitive answer for how long we have been without this committee, but in 2016 we have one. The

committee was eager to get organized and planning and held our first meeting on December 14, 2015.

The goals set at that meeting were to survey the congregation to ascertain interests, and using the church vision statement and responses from the “Cultivating Goals” sessions held in 2015, offer diverse opportunities for learning that are informational, experiential, and multigenerational, and to increase member participation in those opportunities.

In February the committee: Kathryn Bilgreen, Tracy Blagec, Jill Noyce, Cindi Strehlow, Jennifer Rietveld, introduced itself to the congregation and shared the current activities available for children, youth, and adults.

In March we planned an outing to the Tri-City Movie Theater and Maple Creek Restaurant for a viewing and discussion of the movie “Risen.” Twenty-eight church and community members viewed the movie and nine participated in a lively discussion.

The adult Sunday School class completed a study of the book, “Revival,” about the life and teaching of Methodism’s founder, John Wesley. An exciting and well-planned and organized Vacation Bible School was held in June. This day provided fun, fellowship, and an opportunity for our children and their friends to feel God’s love and learn about Jesus. Sunday School went on hiatus for the summer, but has resumed this fall for all ages. While no formal studies are taking place, we informed the congregation about the many books that are available for check out in the church library and encouraged each of them to study on their own, or just read a good book.

At this writing, fall is kicking in and Christian Education activities, outings, and Bible studies are being planned for the very near future. We hope you will consider joining us for many of them.

Church Charge Conference was a blessing. Rev. Elbert Dulworth affirmed our posture as a mission-oriented church. Joyce Erickson was affirmed as a Certified Lay Speaker. Business items went smoothly. Thanks to all who attended and helped. Copies of the Charge Conference packet are in the office.

The earth has yielded its increase; God, our God, has blessed us. Psalm

67:6

…transform our community…

Light at the Inn—Rotating Shelter for the Homeless

Maybe you saw the article in the Daily News, September 21…yes, the opportunity for the churches of this community to offer hospitality to those without shelter is getting closer and closer. An information meeting was held for Trinity UMC people on Monday, September 19. Those who were there agreed that the following information is very helpful in understanding how this will work:• The name of the organizing group is ‘Light at the Inn,’ and they have their own insurance, budget, financing, by-laws, and committees.

• This is NOT a year-round mission. Cold months only.

• There are eight different churches (as of right now) in Iron Mountain, Kingsford, Norway, and Niagara who are providing lodging and food for the homeless from around 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., one week at a time. The guests will NOT be in the church buildings during the day.

• Trinity will host guests twice between November and March, one week at a time. Sunday, November 20 will start the first week at Trinity. Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, down the street, will open the shelter with the very first week, starting on Sunday, November 13.

• Trinity will not be asked for any money.

• The security measures are spelled out clearly and will include breathalyzer, search of belongings, the involvement of the local law enforcement agencies to determine if there are ‘wants & warrants,’ or listing on the Sex Offender Registry.

• Kristy and Cindi will find volunteers for the shelter from a pool of people who want to help, not just from the Trinity congregation. All volunteers will be trained and possibly have background checks.

If you have additional questions, suggestions or want to volunteer, please contact Cindi Strehlow, 221-1094, or Kristy Ryan, 282-8726.

Christmas Mission Opportunities: It’s not too early to think about celebrating the birth of

Christ with special, once-a-year missions. In the past, Trinity UMC has done the following:

1. Rung the bell for The Salvation Army. The money stays local.

2. Collected for the Shoe Box Ministry for children at Spirit Lake Ministry Center in North Dakota.

3. Adopted families here in the Kingsford/Iron Mountain area. All we need is someone (you?) to organize,

announce, & help people to be part of any or all of these! Is God moving you to share Christmas in any of these ways? Contact Pastor Geri, 774-2545.

Meal Program ReportBy Cindi Strehlow and Pam Smart, Chairpersons

Our meal program has received a huge blessing this year with the Feeding America truck. Chris Langer has worked tirelessly on this, and her hard work really shows with the amount of food we’ve gotten from this truck! We’ve been able to have fresh vegetables and fruit at the meals several times, among other things we normally wouldn’t serve.

We continue to serve approximately 125 meals each Wednesday. Jennifer Rietveld has formed a team now, and Moira Cowling has been taking care of the months with five Wednesdays. Some of the guests that come to eat have been going to the Wednesday night prayer service, and some have been coming to Sunday morning worship.

Many thanks to the volunteers who help out with our meals! We’re doing a great job reaching out and being God’s servants to our community.

October’s Mission of the Month is the World Communion Special Offering through The United Methodist Church

Around the globe, countless gifted and qualified people face financial obstacles that hinder them from preparing for the vocation God has given them, especially youth and young adults. For ethnic students who will be the first generation in their families to attend college, or for those people of color who haven’t historically had access to resources that make higher education possible, the road toward education has often been unwieldy. What would it look like if the church today imitated Jesus’ affirmation of the full dignity and God-given potential of all women and men—especially those who’ve historically been assigned to the world’s margins? The World Communion Special Offering helps to provide scholarships for national and international graduate students whom God has gifted to learn and to serve.(Continued on page 7)

Mission of the Month (Continued from page 6)As a small child, Mary Grace Galapon labored as

a housemaid in exchange for food and clothing. Yet, allowed to attend church, she found hope. As a member of The United Methodist Church, your giving to the World Communion Special Offering has allowed this deaconess of the Mindanao Philippines Annual Conference, to pursue an education that is now changing her community as she works to eliminate poverty. Mary Grace’s work, and the impact of hundreds more like her, are possible because you give.

Will you please give generously to this World Communion Special Offering, in order to make education and vocational impact possible for more students like Mary Grace? Will you equip gifted and qualified students from around the globe to become the world-changers God created them to be?

Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” And because the people of The United Methodist Church believe that all of God’s children have been created and gifted to build the kingdom Jesus ushered in, we’re resourcing them to do just that. Because of your giving to this special offering during the month of October, the most powerful took to change the world is in more hands.

Minutes of the Church Council Meeting, September 19, 2016Roll Call: Chris Langer, Janis Nord, Terry Barnes, Jack Noyce, Emily Ritsema, Scott Ritsema, Lucy Shampo, Ruth Carlson, Blair Daugherty, Paul Grenier, Pastor Geri Hamlen, Adam Ryan, Kristy Ryan, Cindi Strehlow, Lea Varda.

The meeting was called to order at 6:37 p.m. Pastor Geri opened the meeting with the TUMC Verse of the Week: 1 Timothy 4:10a (NRSV). Council members were asked to share their insights, questions, and/or understandings with each other throughout the meeting. Pastor Geri invited Council members to think about attending the Vital Church Initiative, October 19, 2016 in Gladstone. The program is in line with a 2017 Cultivating Goals for God.

Agenda reviewed. Terry moved to accept agenda as written. Adam seconded. Agenda accepted.August 2016 minutes reviewed. Adam moved to accept minutes as written. Lucy seconded. Minutes accepted.

Committee ReportsFinance – Terry made a motion to suspend payments of the Common Budget and Mission & Conference of the Apportionments to help pay down General Fund bills and Revolving Loan. Lucy

seconded. Motion defeated by a vote of 7 to 5, 2 abstentions.

Treasurer’s Report – Jack made a motion to take $885.34 of the Sprague Fund to pay General Fund. Chris second. Motion passed.

Nominating Committee - Not all Committee chair openings have been filled for 2017.

Trustees – Estimates for Fellowship Hall and other areas needing floors waxed are in the works. Replacing the lighting in Sanctuary almost finished. Hearing devices repaired and working better.

Staff/Parish Relations Committee – Met with District Superintendent and voted for Joyce Erickson to renew her as a Lay Person for the Charge Conference.

Stewardship Committee – A chili cook-off was held September 18. Pledge Drive for Giving Goal cards are being discussed for a future time.

Endowment Committee – Received money for the Micki Debelak Memorial Fund.

Worship Team – Summer worship went well. The pews are back in. Discussion about Advent season has started.

Program ReportsSunday school – Classes started two weeks ago with a little cake celebration. Classes have a new start time of 9:00 a.m. There have been a few new students. Encourage everyone to invite youth to Sunday school.Meal Program – Going great with the extra food supplies keeping grocery bills low. Approx. 142 meals served. Some of the dinner guests are helping put away tables and chairs and attending the prayer service.

United Methodist Men – Car Care Clinic is coming up September 24 at Grace United Methodist Church in Norway.

United Methodist Women – Currently operating without a chairperson. Lucy reported on the fall UMW activities. Oct.4 District Annual Meeting at Camp Michigamme and Oct. 15 UMW Mini Fair here at Trinity.

Coffee and Connection Time - It is going fine. Not making lemonade anymore. It went well at first, but had a lot left over the last few times. There are plans to make it again next summer.

Christian Education – No report

Feeding America – Billing issues straightened out. There have been requests to have another truck this fall. No funding for an additional truck.

Camp Michigamme – Plans to organize a group to help take outdoor tents down and store them for winter.

The Health Cabin updated with much-needed improvements. Scott and Happy refinished the floors in Grace Hall. The focus for next summer is to begin making repairs on the Iron Mountain Cabin.

Youth Group – The group has not started meeting yet. Looking forward to an October start date.

Pastors Time -Invitations were sent out for the New Membership class. Received six responses. Pastor invited Council members to stop in during the class and introduce themselves, and share a few words with the group. Sally requests committee and program reports for the Tower.Vital Church Initiative – Approximately four Council members showed interest in attending the event. Emily has also expressed interest in attending.Rotating Shelter Feedback: Fourteen people attended the meeting, September 19, 2016.Adam made a motion that the Council feels the collective invitations for the Rotating Shelter through scheduled meetings, person-to-person with coordinators, flyers, articles in Tower and bulletins constitute adequate opportunity for the congregation to get their questions answered. This information satisfies the concerns of the June minutes and the adequate involvement in the final decision for our church to be used as a rotating homeless shelter. Emily seconded. Motion passed.

Old Business – None

New Business – None

Communication – Pastor mentioned the many thank-you cards received from families for the funeral services during their time of grief.The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.Next Council meeting October 17 at 6:30 p.m.

Minutes of the Church Council Meeting, August 15, 2016 Roll Call: Lucy Shampo, Ruth Carlson, Joyce Erickson, Adam Ryan, Paul Grenier, Tracy Blagec, Nathan Ruble, Blair Daugherty, Chris Langer, Scott Ritsema, Kristy Ryan, Cindi Strehlow, Jack Noyce, Terry Barnes, Janis Nord, Pastor Geri, and Lea Varda.

The meeting was called to order at 6:31 p.m. Pastor Geri opened the meeting with the scripture reading Hebrews 12:14-15.

Agenda reviewed. Terry moved to accept agenda as written. Lucy seconded. Agenda accepted.

Minutes of the July 18, 2016 meeting were reviewed. Chris moved to accept the minutes as written. Jack seconded. Minutes accepted.

Cultivating Goals for God 2017: Terry made a motion to accept the 2017 goals as written. Ruth seconded. Goals accepted. Goals will be published in the Tower and bulletins. Council is looking to the Charge Conference for a vote of support of the goals.

COMMITTEE REPORTSFinance – Treasurer – Jack made a motion that a recommendation from the Finance committee to designate $5,000 of the remaining Bleecker Funds to pay Camp Michigamme scholarship funds as they come due. Lucy seconded. Motion passed. July giving exceeded operational expenses, and the amount of $2,000 was paid to the revolving credit loan. To avoid year-end push to cover TUMC financial obligations, a 2nd September giving campaign is being planned. A Fourth Quarter Rally campaign was discussed, if needed.

Nominating Committee – Continuing to seek people to serve on committees. The committee will look to Council approval for those people who sign on to committees after the September Charge Conference.

Trustees – The committee reports that TUMC will continue with Church Mutual for insurance. The asbestos abatement was successful. The new tile is in the sanctuary and choir loft. The pews will be arriving in one to two weeks. The lighting in the sanctuary is being updated. Kitchen drainage issues are cleared up. There is some masonry work around the foundation of the storage shed that will be repaired.

Staff/Parish – Janis reports paperwork and class for the Personal Protection class for children and vulnerable adults is set for Friday, Aug. 19, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. at Trinity. Another class will be offered Oct 1, 2016 in Gladstone, MI prior to the start of the Learning Fair. This is something we need to keep track of in the office so that nursery workers are up to date. Some discussion about requiring Sunday School teachers to be certified also. More research is being done.

Stewardship – A chili cook-off will be held Sunday Sept. 18, 2016 following the Charge Conference. The Committee plans to meet August 25 and to develop more details.

Endowment - No report

Worship – Worship flexibility continues with the absence of the pews. The Methodist roots sermons winding down. Servanthood sermons planned for Sept/Oct. Membership - Joyce passed around a sheet of names seeking Council’s help in providing some input of those listed who have not actively participated in the community of faith here at Trinity since September

2015. Letters will be sent to them and a list submitted at Charge Conference on Sept. 18.

PROGRAM REPORTSSunday School – Cindi. Sunday school begins 9:00 a.m. September 11. An acolyte group of youth will begin again. Adult SS hasn’t yet decided what time to meet.

Meal Program – Cindi. Take out meal requests have increased. When calls come in for the meal being served, callers will be informed that takeout meals may or may not include same food being served. Hoping this will encourage folks to attend the meal. Takeouts will be available at 5:30 p.m.

United Men in Ministry – Scott. Fall Car Care Clinic September 24, 2016. Location uncertain, possibly at Quinnesec UMC. Seeking a volunteer to take phone calls and set up appointments.

United Methodist Women – Lucy. UMW General Luncheon September 8, 2016. Preparing for fall activities. UMW president position available.

Coffee & Connection – Bonnie reports everything is going fine. Lemonade consumption is declining so lemonade will continue through August and then back to just coffee in September.

Christian Education- Tracy. Based on Goals for 2017 that the Church Council worked on in July, Christian Ed is working on planning small group style basic Bible studies throughout the year on the order of Bible 101 or the Bible for Dummies in order to ease fear or intimidation. Committee has identified potential facilitators for these studies and will be talking to them to ascertain their interest. Sometime after Labor Day, an intergenerational viewing and discussion of the movie The Young Messiah here at church. Hoping to coordinate with the youth group and make this a “movie style” experience. September will also have the opportunity to tour the Iron Mountain Cemetery, learning about its history, different burial practices, and traditions.

Feeding America Truck – Chris. The next Feeding America Truck will be at TUMC Saturday, August 20. Volunteers are very much appreciated. Two generous monetary donations have made it possible for some paper products, soap, and shampoos to be handed out, as well. Funds will be sought out to provide for the spring Feeding America Truck. The weekly food truck continues to help many programs like the Wednesday meals and in the future the Rotating Homeless Shelter.

Camp Michigamme – Adam. Summer camp sessions have been going great! TUMC is very active with the camp. Dean Adam Ryan assisted by Pastor Geri at Elementary Camp. The youth enjoyed the addition of

the platform tents. Tents will be up through fall camp season and stored away for winter. Kristy Ryan and Ron Fike from Gwinn heading up the Missions Camp. Mission camp has grown in numbers of campers and projects. Pastor shared a letter from Camp Michigamme expressing appreciation and gratitude for the financial support for the “Home in the Woods” with the platform tents.

Youth Group – Kristy. Many of the youth have been busy with the different mission experiences this summer. Youth group meetings will resume in September.

Pastor’s Time – Received affirmation of using the Sanctuary for

funerals now that the new floor is in. Brother’s Keeper Fund is very depleted. This will

be the Mission of the Month for September. Pastor has counted 13 people/families who have left

the church since January 1. Requested that Bob W. make an estimate of how this might impact the giving in 2017.

There are people who want to join the church but it has not been possible to schedule them during these summer months. Maybe in the fall.

Passed around a ‘Hunger Knows No Season’ pamphlet with info about Food Pantries and Community Meals in the area.

The Wednesday night prayer meeting is continuing to draw people. Some people have even been giving gifts of money that are being deposited to the General Fund for operating expenses.

Tower deadline is coming soon… Charge Conference is Sunday, Sept. 18. All are

welcome!Old Business – Sales tax question continues to be considered.

New Business – NoneCommunication—None was mentioned.Terry made a motion to adjourn. Nathan seconded. Meeting adjourned at 8:18 p.m.

Minutes of the Trustees Meeting,September 12, 2016Present: Blair Daugherty, Betsy Trumbell, Lucy Shampo, Jack Noyce, Jon Harry, Pastor Geri Hamlen.

Blair called the meeting to order.Pastor Geri opened with a prayer.

Jon moved to approve the minutes from the 8-8-16 meeting. Lucy supported. Motion carried.

OLD BUSINESSJon checked with Fahrner Asphalt to see if it was OK to put off the parking lot work for a year, and they did not think it was a problem. It was questioned whether we could fill the sinkholes before winter as they could fill with ice and pose a problem. We will check with Bill Uren who worked for MDOT to see if this could be done.

Brooks Electric replaced the ceiling lights at the front of the sanctuary with LED lights.

NEW BUSINESSJanis Nord and Betsy did the parsonage inspection. Everything is in great shape. A new light bulb is needed under the microwave. Pastor Geri will take care of this. Two fluorescent lights in the basement work intermittently. Blair will check into replacing these with new fixtures.

Some of the hearing aids have not been working. Betsy will bring all of the hearing devices to the Music Tree tomorrow to have them check the batteries.

Jack reported that vandalism was recorded on our security cameras. At 12:40 a.m. on August 20 three people got out of a car and dumped cooking oil on the stoop by the parking lot single door. The IMPD are investigating this. The officer saw the security tape and Jack gave him a thumb drive of that part of the tape. Larry Marlett cleaned up the oil.

We have room for one more camera on our security system. It was suggested that we could use this extra camera inside the Church when the homeless shelter gets started.

The Fellowship Hall and hallways need stripping and waxing. Betsy will get bids from Tri County Maintenance and PSI.

Blair reported on the latest elevator inspection. The inspector recommended that a panel be raised. He said it was not mandatory, but was a safety issue that should be done sometime. Blair will get quotes for this from Otis and Thyssen Krup.

The bill for the pew refinishing is paid. Additional money received for adopting a pew will be applied to the Sanctuary floor. A few pews are left for adoption.

PASTOR’S TIMEPastor Geri requested that an updated list be given to Sally at the end of each of our meetings to indicate what

has been done or added to our to-do list. Betsy will take care of this.

The Charge Conference is Sunday after church. Jon offered to bring zucchini bread.

Lucy moved to adjourn. Jack supported. Motion carried.

Submitted by Betsy Trumbell, Trustee Secretary

           .

Trinity United

Methodist Church

808 Carpenter Ave.Iron Mountain, MI 49801 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

October 2016

Trinity United Methodist Church808 Carpenter Ave.Iron Mountain, MI 49801-4704Vol. 16, No. 6, October 2016THE TOWER is published 10 or 11 times a year by Trinity United Methodist Church for distribution to its members and friends.Pastor………………………………...Rev. Geri HamlenChoir Directors…………...Greg Hunt & Emily RitsemaOrganist…………………………………...…Sue Saxon Pianist…………………………………...… Jean LarsonCustodian…………………………………Larry MarlettNursery Attendants……………………………………... Sally Verley, Ian Driscoll & Kane DriscollSecretary…………………………….……..Sally Verley Sunday Worship………………….….8:00 & 10:30 a.m.Sunday School, age 3 to high school….……...9:00 a.m.Sunday School for adults……………………..9:15 a.m.

Nursery Available Each SundayOffice Hours……………..Mon.-Thurs. 8-4; Fri. 8-noon Website…………….………………. www.imtrinity.org Phone 774-2545 ………………………...Fax 774-3123Email………..………………imtrinityumc@gmail.com

Non-Profit OrganizationU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDIron Mountain, MI 49801

Permit No. 81

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The Men of Prayer meet on the last Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. In October, they’ll meet here at Grace UMC in Norway, and in November at Abundant Life Church. The children have VBS. The women have circles. Men need something, too! Come and check it out. We’ll compare notes on life and where God is working things out. Prayer time will then be followed by Holy Communion. Come and see what it’s all about. For more information, please call Scott Ritsema, (906)282-4549.

Our Vision StatementTrinity United Methodist Church

actively invites people to explore the life-changing message of Jesus,

connect with others, mature as disciples, and be sent to transform our community