Trinity United Church

“Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.”  Colossians 3:14 (NRSV)

Here is the Worship Link for Sunday, March 22, 2026:  https://youtu.be/p4Crmtcm2oM

Scripture to Ponder & Prayer
Palm & Passion Week — March 23

Texts this week: Matthew 21:1–11; Psalm 118:1–2, 19–29 (VU p. 837) Isaiah 50:4–9a; Psalm 31:9–16 (VU p. 758); Philippians 2:5–11; Matthew 26:14—27:66 or Matthew 27:11–54 
To ponder: Isaiah 50:4–9a | Matthew 21:1–11

On this day, we stand at the threshold of paradox—where celebration meets suffering, where “Hosanna” soon gives way to cries of rejection. The One who enters Jerusalem in humility is the same Servant described by the prophet Isaiah: attentive to God, steadfast in suffering, and unwavering in trust.

The Servant listens before speaking. This is the first mark of faithful endurance: a heart tuned to God. Before offering words to the weary, the Servant becomes a learner—formed daily by God’s voice. In a world filled with noise, reaction, and quick judgment, this posture of listening is itself an act of deep faith.

Isaiah then draws us into a harder truth:

“I gave my back to those who struck me…
I did not hide my face from insult and spitting.” (Isaiah 50:6)

This is not passive suffering, but courageous faithfulness. The Servant accepts hardship because of obedience.  There is a quiet strength here—a willingness to endure, not because suffering is good, but because God is trustworthy.

And then comes the grounding hope:

“The Lord God helps me; therefore, I have not been disgraced…
who will declare me guilty?” (Isaiah 50:7,9)

The Servant’s confidence is not in self, but in God’s vindication. Human opposition, however fierce, is not ultimate. God’s justice, God’s presence, God’s faithfulness—these endure.
When we turn to Matthew 21, we see this Servant embodied in Jesus. He enters Jerusalem not with power and spectacle, but on a donkey—gentle, intentional, and fully aware of what lies ahead. The crowds shout “Hosanna!”— “Save us!”—yet the path Jesus walks will not be one of immediate triumph, but of suffering love.

This is the heart of Palm and Passion Sunday: the willingness to endure suffering for the sake of love, truth, and faithfulness. Jesus does not avoid the road to the cross. Like the Servant in Isaiah, he walks it with trust in God. His strength is not resistance through force, but resilience through faith.

For us, this raises a deeply personal question:
Do we turn away when misunderstood, criticized, or weary?
Or do we remain grounded listening for God’s voice, trusting in God’s presence, and offering words of life even in difficult moments?

Isaiah reminds us that we are both students and teachers in the life of faith. We listen each morning, and we speak into the lives of others. We are sustained, and we sustain. We receive grace, and we become vessels of that grace.

On this sacred Sunday, we are invited into that same way of being:
to stand faithfully even when the path is hard, to trust God’s justice beyond what we can see, to offer words of life to those who are weary. This is not an easy calling. But it is the way of Christ.

Let us pray…

Gracious and faithful God,
as we walk with Jesus in this holy time of joy and sorrow,
open our hearts to hear your voice.
Give us courage to remain faithful,
trusting that you are near and your justice endures.
Teach us to speak with grace,
bringing hope to the weary and the broken.
Strengthen us to follow Christ
in humility and love,
trusting always in your presence.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

“Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.” Colossians 3:14 (NRSV)

The World Day of Prayer service is set for 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. March 21 at Mary Mother of the Church on Kirkbridge.  The feature country this year is Nigeria.  Please see attachment. 

Worship: Sunday March 22, 10:45 a.m.

We are grateful to Terry & Nancy Delong and Glen & Sandi Fitzmaurice for cashiering this Sunday. 

Scripture to ponder: (see attachment)

Please Note:  Trinity is experiencing problems with our telephone lines and maintenance is ongoing.  If you are not able to reach us by phone, please email the office at tuc@mymts.net  Thank you.

EASTER SERVICES:

April 2 – Maundy Thursday  – TUC is invited to join the GSA service at 6:15 PM 

April 5 – Two Services – Easter Sunday Sunrise Service at 6:45 a.m.  and  our regular Easter Service at 10:45 a.m.  All are welcome to join.     

Trinity Book Sale –   Have you read all your Xmas gift books?  Bring them to Trinity’s book sale/exchange in time for spring break.  (Puzzles also welcome!).  Pay what you please or what you think they’re worth.  Sale will run for 6 weeks, starting now. 

Guess Who’s Coming for Dinner – 6th edition Bidding starts on Sunday, April 19th at 10:15 AM and continues until Sunday, May 3rd at noon, unless we are SOLD OUT with the Buy it Now pricing. 2/3 of your bid price will be tax receipted. eg Bid $60 on a share of a dinner and you receive a tax receipt for $40.

7 Great Choices Presented by your Dinner/Lunch hosts: 

1.Charles and Judy Powell’s Mystery Picnic lunch for 4 guests

2.Leslie and Ed Johnson’s  Canadian fun and games night for 6 guests

3.Ron and Mary Mitchell’s Superb Salmon for 6 guests

4.Karen Wall’s Quiche lunch for 4 guests

5.House Church BBQ and cottage adventure for 6 guests

6.Ken and Elaine Johnson’s Western theme BBQ and fun for 4 guests

7.Susan and Doug Delaney’s backyard BBQ and Pool party for 6 guests

 Questions -Talk with Dale Kendel or call 204 -269-0764

In our Prayers:

We hold in prayer Sandi and Eunice Cull as they grieve the loss of their daughter, Dale. In this tender time, we lift up Eunice’s brother, Joseph Brown, who is in hospital struggling with illness. We pray for his healing, strength, and peace, and for God’s comforting presence to surround the whole family

We pray for Milt Muldrew who is dealing with health issues.

We pray for  Bernice Gregory who is dealing with health issues.

We pray for Connie Fillion who is in hospital dealing with health issues.
We continue to pray for Damber’s family: for Sumi as she continues her recovery and for Sumi’s three nieces, Ameera, Anupaa, and Anuka;  

From Prairie to Pine Region: 

Please hold in prayer the following community of faith:  Glenboro Pastoral Charge

Trinity provides Church Services at the St. Norbert Personal Care Home and the Waverley/Rosewood Retirement Community. We provide a half-hour service at St. Norbert on the first Thursday of every month at 10:30 am and at the Waverley/Rosewood on the second Wednesday of every month at 10 am. If you would like to join us please contact Nancy or Terry DeLong at (204) 254-3450 or nanter1@shaw.ca .

Programs at Trinity: All are welcome to attend

Trinity Yoga on Zoom – Saturday 10:00 a.m.

Worship: Sunday, March 22,10:45 a.m.

Bible Study –  Monday, 1:30 p.m. at Trinity
Yoga – Southside Community Group – In Person and Zoom: Wednesday 10:30 at Trinity
Trinity Walkers:  From Maryann – Even though the weather has changed I am still walking. Contact me if you are interested in having a walking partner. 

Electronics Recycling – Bring your small electronics for recycling – recycle items that fit into the blue box in the narthex. 

Opportunities to serve: There are many volunteer opportunities in the ministry at Trinity. If you are able to offer the gift of time, please let us know. There are opportunities, to serve on committees, to help with one time special events, help serve at funeral lunches and fellowship coffee, to help with technology, read scripture, offer prayers, sing in the choir, to work at bombers games, help with Sunday School and Youth, etc. Please prayerfully consider these opportunities and be in touch with the office (204 269 1632) 

tuc@mymts.net

.  We are grateful for every gift given and appreciate all you do for Trinity. We’re always grateful for enthusiastic volunteers to help with worship and other ministries at our church. If you feel called to lend a hand, please stop by the News Board in the Narthex and add your name to the sign-up sheet. Your generosity truly makes a difference.

Office Hours at Trinity United Church are Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  

The Worship YouTube link is sent out Monday after each service. If you would like a PDF copy of the Reflection emailed to you, please contact the office at 

tuc@mymts.net

“Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.” Colossians 3:14 (NRSV)

Worship: Sunday March 15, 10:45 a.m.

We are grateful to Judy & Charles Powell and Ed & Leslie Johnson for cashiering this Sunday. 

March 14 2026 PIE Day. Please view this link for the newest video message from The Right Rev. Dr. Kimberly Heath, 45th Moderator of The United Church of Canada.

This message is focused on March 14th, which The United Church of Canada marks as National Affirming PIE day.

Link: Crafting Community: Celebrating Affirming PIE Day 2026

Retirement of David Tafelmeyer – After 29 years as the Music Director, Organist and Envelope Secretary, David announced his retirement at Good Shepherd’s Annual General Meeting on February 15. David’s last service will be March 15.  A farewell event honoring David’s many years of service has been scheduled for Sunday, March 15 in the Lower Hall immediately following worship. Good Shepherd would like to extend a warm invitation to Trinity folks to join us, for worship at 9 am and/or the reception immediately following in the Lower Hall. A gift presentation of our appreciation (immeasurable) will take place at the end of the worship service.

David Tafelmeyer has faithfully served both the GSA community and ours whenever needed, and we have been truly blessed by his dedication and the gift of his music. At the same time, we are grateful that Christian Yokosawa has said yes to the request to serve as Accompanist at Good Shepherd Anglican Church beginning March 15, 2026. We look forward to continuing to work together with Good Shepherd in a spirit of mutual cooperation. We give thanks for David’s faithful ministry and wish him every blessing in his retirement.

The World Day of Prayer service is set for 11:00am – 12:30pm March 21 at Mary Mother of the Church on Kirkbridge. The feature country this year is Nigeria. Please see attachment.

In our Prayers:

We pray for the family and friends of Victor Bryll on his passing

We hold in prayer Sandi and Eunice Cull as they grieve the loss of their daughter, Dale. In this tender time, we lift up Eunice’s brother,Joseph Brown, who is in hospital struggling with illness. We pray for his healing, strength, and peace, and for God’s comforting presence to surround the whole family

We pray for Milt Muldrew who is dealing with health issues.

We pray for  Bernice Gregory who is dealing with health issues.

We pray for Connie Fillion who is in hospital dealing with health issues.
We continue to pray for Damber’s family: for Sumi as she continues her recovery and for Sumi’s three nieces, Ameera, Anupaa, and Anuka;  We hold Damber and Sumi and family in prayer on the passing of his mother. 

From Prairie to Pine Region: 

Please hold in prayer the following community of faith:  Beausejour: St. Paul’s Pastoral Charge

Trinity provides Church Services at the St. Norbert Personal Care Home and the Waverley/Rosewood Retirement Community. We provide a half-hour service at St. Norbert on the first Thursday of every month at 10:30 am and at the Waverley/Rosewood on the second Wednesday of every month at 10 am. If you would like to join us please contact Nancy or Terry DeLong at (204) 254-3450 or nanter1@shaw.ca.

Programs at Trinity: All are welcome to attend

Trinity Yoga on Zoom – Saturday 10:00 a.m.

Worship: Sunday, March 15 10:45 a.m.

Bible Study –  Monday, 1:30 p.m. at Trinity
Yoga – Southside Community Group – In Person and Zoom: Wednesday 10:30 at Trinity
Trinity Walkers:  From Maryann – Even though the weather has changed I am still walking. Contact me if you are interested in having a walking partner. 

Electronics Recycling – Bring your small electronics for recycling – recycle items that fit into the blue box in the narthex. 

Opportunities to serve: There are many volunteer opportunities in the ministry at Trinity. If you are able to offer the gift of time, please let us know. There are opportunities, to serve on committees, to help with one time special events, help serve at funeral lunches and fellowship coffee, to help with technology, read scripture, offer prayers, sing in the choir, to work at bombers games, help with Sunday School and Youth, etc. Please prayerfully consider these opportunities and be in touch with the office (204 269 1632) tuc@mymts.net.  We are grateful for every gift given and appreciate all you do for Trinity. We’re always grateful for enthusiastic volunteers to help with worship and other ministries at our church. If you feel called to lend a hand, please stop by the News Board in the Narthex and add your name to the sign-up sheet. Your generosity truly makes a difference.

Office Hours at Trinity United Church are Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  

The Worship YouTube link is sent out Monday after each service. If you would like a PDF copy of the Reflection emailed to you, please contact the office at tuc@mymts.net

“Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.” Colossians 3:14 (NRSV)

Worship Link for Sunday March 8: https://youtu.be/BbMrz29OLv0

Worship:  Sunday, March 15, 2026 10:45 AM; Fourth Sunday in Lent

Scripture to Ponder – Fourth Week of Lent

John 9:35–41 | Symbol: A Coin

Texts this week: 1 Samuel 16:1–13; Psalm 23; Ephesians 5:8–14; John 9:1–41

In John 9, Jesus meets a man who had been blind from birth. Though his eyes are opened, he is rejected by those who believe they already understand God best. When Jesus later finds him, he asks a simple question:

“Do you believe in the Son of Man?” (John 9:35)

The man responds with humility and faith. But those who claimed spiritual certainty remain blind. Jesus says:

“I came into this world for judgment so that those who do not see may see, and those who do see may become blind.” (John 9:39)

This week we hold the symbol of a coin.

A coin represents the economy of our world—trade, value, and power. Today we see nations competing through weapons, economic pressure, and trade wars. Fuel prices rise, the cost of living grows heavier, and ordinary people struggle more each day.

The question we must ask is simple: Who truly benefits?

Often, the answer is no one.

In this passage, the religious leaders believed they possessed the wealth of certainty. Their pride became their blindness. The healed man, however, had no status or authority—only humility. Because he was open, he was able to see what others could not.

Lent calls us to lament, confession, and realignment.

We lament the suffering and divisions of our world.

We confess the ways pride and power shape our choices.

And we return again to God’s way of justice and humility.

In God’s economy, value is measured differently:

Humility is richer than pride.

Peace is greater than power.

Compassion carries more weight than profit.

The healed man simply says, “Lord, I believe.” (John 9:38)

That confession reveals the true wealth of faith.

To ponder this week:

When you hold a coin, remember that the world measures value in wealth and power. Christ invites us into a different economy—one where humility opens our eyes and God’s grace realigns our lives.

Prayer

God of truth and mercy,

Open our eyes when pride blinds us.

Teach us to lament the suffering of the world

and to return to your ways.

Realign our hearts with your justice and peace,

so that we may walk as children of light.

Amen.