Trinity United Church

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

Worship: Sunday December 21, 2025, 10:45 a.m. Fourth Sunday of Advent

Longest Night Service: December 21, 2025, 7:00 p.m.

We are anticipating two services this Sunday: Advent 4 Morning Service at 10:45 a.m. Longest Night Service at 7:00 p.m. (a joint service with our friends from Good Shepherd Anglican) Please join us for either or both services as you are able. 

We are grateful to Joann Sauve and Mary Ann Koop for cashiering this Sunday. 

We are delighted to share the newest video message from The Right Rev. Dr. Kimberly Heath, 45th Moderator of The United Church of Canada:   Moderator’s Christmas Message: Setting a Place at the Table This Christmas 

We invite the congregation of Trinity United Church to hold St. Mary Magdalene and Good Shepherd Anglican Church in prayer, as both are navigating a time of discernment and transition in response to current challenges. No decisions have been made. We pray for wisdom, courage, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit for the leadership and people of both communities.

We are pleased to announce that Christian Yokosawa has been appointed as our Accompanist at Trinity. We warmly welcome Christian to our staff and extend our appreciation for his service in filling this role on an interim basis since mid-November.

Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for 2026 to our Trinity staff! In keeping with Trinity tradition, we recognize and celebrate our much-appreciated staff members during the Christmas season. On behalf of the congregation, the Ministry and Personnel Committee has presented Christmas cards and gifts to Damber, Irma, Tierney, Héctor, Christian, Kathy, and Samantha. May God’s love and presence bless each of them abundantly.

The worship video from last Sunday, December 14, was uploaded in an unedited form due to technical challenges. Thank you for your patience. We are grateful to our technical team—Harry, Jackie, and Lambert—for their hard work in helping us stay connected with our worship each week.

Many thanks to everyone who shared Christmas cookies and treats during the December 14 service. We also extend our gratitude to the Fellowship Team for their efforts in making this celebration possible.

Heartfelt thanks to Karen Wall for initiating the Christmas Stars Campaign, and to all who helped make it possible. We hold in our hearts and prayers all the names on the stars, both named and unnamed, that their memory may continue to be with us.

Trinity is looking for a co-coordinator to do funeral receptions.  If you feel that you can help with this, please let Ruth Graham or the office know before the end of December.

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.

🎄Outreach Suggestions for Christmas Giving – 2025🎁

1.    Trinity’s traditional mitten tree – Donations of mittens and hats are welcomed at our tree in the narthex.  The schools tell us that there is more need for mittens! 
3.    Giftswithvision.ca – The United Church catalogue has many good ideas for global gifts that can be purchased online. For example, a $50 food basket will be matched for$400 value. $100 will be matched for $900 value for girl power through nourishment, education and protection for girls around the world.

Thank you for considering these ideas as we plan our Christmas giving. 🎁

⭐ CHRISTMAS STARS CAMPAIGN 2025 ⭐ 

Starts Sunday, November 9th  –  Ends Sunday, December 21st  

Purchase your Christmas Star in memory of a loved one or event, to honor someone or something special, or just because… Karen Wall will be in the narthex before and after services from Sunday, November 9th to Sunday, December 21st to assist you with the Stars information form and payment.  PLEASE NOTE: There is no set payment amount for a Christmas Star, give what you wish…

 ⭐ 

CONGRATULATIONS to Lily Hemlow!! Although she missed getting the Provincial U16 Female Indoor 800m Track record by 1 second, she was able to break the 1200m record by 2 seconds. She is currently in the Top Ten in the World in this event. And this gives her 2 Provincial records, so far!!

In our Prayers:

We pray for those facing health challenges:

We hold in prayer Dale, the daughter of Sandi and Eunice, who is currently receiving treatment in Texas, USA. May God surround her with healing, strength, and daily restoration, and grant peace and comfort to her and her family during this time.

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

We pray for Victor Bryll 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 – Sumi as she continues her recovery, for Sumi’s three nieces Ameera, Anupaa, and Anuka, and for Damber’s mother, Dhan, as she faces health issues. Damber and Sumi are grateful for your prayers and support.

From Prairie to Pine Region: Third Sunday of Advent 
Please hold in prayer the following communities of faith: Prairie Vision (Bladur, Cypress River), Winnipeg: Raymond Flett Memorial

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. HOWEVER, DUE TO THE FIRST THURSDAY IN JANUARY FALLING ON NEW YEARS DAY, THE ST. NORBERT SERVICE HAS BEEN RE-SCHEDULED TO JAN. 8 AT 10:30. 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 - Resumes in January

Worship: Sunday December 21 2025, 10:45 a.m. Fourth Sunday of Advent

Longest Night Service: December 21, 7:00 p.m.

Christmas Eve Service: December 24, 7:00 p.m.
Bible Study –  Resumes Monday January 5th – 1:30 p.m. at Trinity
Yoga – Southside Community Group – Resumes in January 
Trinity Walkers:  From Maryann – Even tho 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. See sign up sheets in the narthex for scripture reading, prayers of the people, ushers and greeters. 

Office Hours at Trinity United Church for Christmas Eve, December 24th, will be 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. The office will be closed December 25th, 26th and January 1st.  Regular office hours for Trinity 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)

This Sunday we marked the third Sunday of Advent — the Sunday of joy. It was the service led by our choir. As always, we held you in our hearts, especially those who could not be with us in person.

We know this season can sweep us into a flurry of family gatherings, work commitments, preparations, travel, and care for others. Even when we’re scattered, we remain one in the Spirit, connected by God’s grace and the love we share as a community.

If this recording blesses you, or offers a quiet pause in the middle of a busy week, please consider sharing it with someone who may need a word of peace, a moment of worship, or simply a reminder that they are not alone.

May the peace of Christ find you wherever you are this week.

 Stay warm, stay encouraged, and stay loved.

Worship Link for December 14^th, 2025.

Worship:  Sunday, December 21, 2025, 10:45 a.m.; Regular service, 4^th of Advent.

Scripture to Ponder & Prayer

Fourth Week of Advent  

Texts this week: 

Isaiah 7:10–16 • Psalm 80:1–7, 17–19 • Romans 1:1–7 • Matthew 1:18–25

To Ponder:

Isaiah 7:10–16 & Matthew 1:18–25

A Brief Reflection:

 Friends—I can’t imagine how quickly we’ve arrived at the final week of Advent.

What once felt like a long wait has shortened, and together we’ve journeyed through the weeks of hopes and longings this season. Even December’s unusual weather—days when many of us barely stepped outside—has slowed us down, inviting us to notice what truly matters.

As we move closer to Christmas, we’re reminded that God’s love rarely arrives with fanfare. It does not demand attention or announce itself with power. Instead, love comes quietly. The sign God gives is not a spectacle, but a child—an ordinary, tender sign of hope and renewal. 

That same love meets us in Matthew’s story of Joseph. When Mary is found to be pregnant, Joseph faces fear and confusion. Yet Scripture calls him righteous, not because he understands everything, but because he is loving. He chooses compassion over judgment, mercy over shame. Even before understanding what God is doing, love shapes his response. 

God meets Joseph in a dream and speaks into his fear: “Do not be afraid.” Love reassures rather than pressures. Love invites trust when certainty is missing. Joseph chooses to believe that even in uncertainty, grace is already at work. 

The child is to be named Jesus—“the one who saves.” And in that moment, an ancient promise comes alive: Immanuel—God with us. This is love made visible. God choosing closeness. God entering human vulnerability. God dwelling in the ordinary rhythms of life.

Joseph wakes and acts in love. He does not have all the answers, but he chooses faithfulness. His love is quiet, steady, and courageous.

This is the love Advent points us toward—a love that takes the humble path, shows up in ordinary people and unexpected moments, and makes space in messy and imperfect lives. The Christmas story reminds us that God’s love always makes room for more—and that each of us has a place in God’s unfolding promise.

Let us pray,

Loving God,

            Open our hearts to the quiet ways your love enters our world — not in fanfare, but in the small, human signs of grace we often overlook.

Help us trust that Emmanuel, God-with-us, is already here: working in ordinary people, mending what is broken, and awakening a deeper love than we have imagined.

Shape our steps this week, that the love you give us may become love we offer to the world. Amen.

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

Worship: Sunday December 14, 2025, 10:45 a.m. Third Sunday of Advent

Sunday School 10:45 a.m.

🍪 🍪 COOKIES OF JOY –  The Fellowship committee invites you to bring 1 dozen of your favourite Christmas cookies 🍪  to share at coffee time after Worship on Sunday, December 14th 

We are grateful to Ed & Leslie Johnson and Terry & Nancy DeLong for cashiering this Sunday. 

Scripture to ponder: (see attachment)

*Trinity is looking for a co-coordinator to do funeral receptions.  If you feel that you can help with this, please let Ruth Graham or the office know before the end of December.

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.

🎄Outreach Suggestions for Christmas Giving – 2025🎁

1.    Trinity’s traditional mitten tree – Donations of mittens and hats are welcomed at our tree in the narthex.  The schools tell us that there is more need for mittens! 
2.    Family Hampers – This year, we will be providing hampers for 2 needy families in our area.  This will include food, household items and gifts.  Please sign up at our table in the narthex on November 23, 30 or Dec. 6 . Donations must be in by December 14. 
3.    Giftswithvision.ca – The United Church catalogue has many good ideas for global gifts that can be purchased online. For example, a $50 food basket will be matched for$400 value. $100 will be matched for $900 value for girl power through nourishment, education and protection for girls around the world.

Thank you for considering these ideas as we plan our Christmas giving. 🎁

⭐ CHRISTMAS STARS CAMPAIGN 2025 ⭐ 

Starts Sunday, November 9th  –  Ends Sunday, December 21st  

Purchase your Christmas Star in memory of a loved one or event, to honor someone or something special, or just because… Karen Wall will be in the narthex before and after services from Sunday, November 9th to Sunday, December 21st to assist you with the Stars information form and payment.  PLEASE NOTE: There is no set payment amount for a Christmas Star, give what you wish…

 ⭐ 

From Jo-Anne – Hello, It breaks my heart to have to write this letter, but I have no other choice. Milt and I have to move because of health issues and our cat cannot come with us as pets are only allowed visits. Quirk is a 12 year old spayed female indoor cat, she is healthy and up to date on her shots, friendly and cuddly once she gets to know you. She is best in one cat home. I can be contacted at 204-269-3729, or at jmuldrew@mymts.net (best early in the morning or after 3PM), or I am at the hospital visiting Milt. Thanks very much, Jo-Anne Muldrew.

In our Prayers:

We pray for those facing health challenges:

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

We pray for Victor Bryll who is in hospital 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 – Sumi as she continues her recovery, for Sumi’s three nieces Ameera, Anupaa, and Anuka, and for Damber’s mother, Dhan, as she faces health issues. Damber and Sumi are grateful for your prayers and support.

From Prairie to Pine Region: Third Sunday of Advent 
Please hold in prayer the following communities of faith: Strathclair, Towers Island,  Winnipeg: Windsor Park 

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. HOWEVER JUST FOR THE CHRISTMAS-THEMED SERVICE IN DECEMBER, THE ST. NORBERT SERVICE WILL BE ON TUESDAY DECEMBER 9 AT 10:30AM. 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 – Saturday – 10:00 a.m. on Zoom

Worship: Sunday December 14 2025, 10:45 a.m. Third Sunday of Advent; Fellowship Coffee after Worship

Sunday School: Sunday December 14, 10:45 a.m.

Longest Night Service: December 21, 7:00 p.m.

Christmas Eve Service: December 24, 7:00 p.m.
Bible Study –  Monday – 1:30 p.m. at Trinity
Yoga – Southside Community Group – Wednesday 10:30 a.m. In person and on Zoom
Trinity Walkers:  From Maryann – Even tho 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. See sign up sheets in the narthex for scripture reading, prayers of the people, ushers and greeters. 

Office Hours at Trinity United Church for Christmas Eve, December 24th, will be 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The office will be closed December 25th, 26th and January 1st.  Regular office hours for Trinity 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)

This Sunday we marked the Second Sunday of Advent — the Sunday of Peace — and gathered at the Lord’s Table for Holy Communion. As always, we held you in our hearts, especially those who could not be with us in person.

We know this season can sweep us into a flurry of family gatherings, work commitments, preparations, travel, and care for others. Even when we’re scattered, we remain one in the Spirit, connected by God’s grace and the love we share as a community.

If this recording blesses you, or offers a quiet pause in the middle of a busy week, please consider sharing it with someone who may need a word of peace, a moment of worship, or simply a reminder that they are not alone.

May the peace of Christ find you wherever you are this week.

Stay warm, stay encouraged, and stay loved.

-Trinity United Church, Winnipeg

Worship Link for Sunday, December 7:  https://youtu.be/R61b8HFE2V4

Worship:  Sunday, December 14, 2025, 10:45 a.m.; Choir-Led Service, 3rd of Advent

🍪  🍪 COOKIES OF JOY –  The Fellowship committee invites you to bring 1 dozen of your favourite Christmas cookies to share at coffee time on Sunday, December 14th

 Scripture to Ponder & Prayer

 Third week of Advent

Scriptures this week: Isaiah 35:1‒10; Psalm 146:5‒10 or Luke 1:46b‒55

   James 5:7‒10; Matthew 11:2‒11

To Ponder: Isaiah 35:1–10 & Luke 1:46–55

Time slips by so quickly, doesn’t it? Somehow, we’ve already stepped into the third week of Advent — the week shaped by joy. Not the thin, glittery joy of holiday ads or tidy perfection, but the deep-rooted, God-shaped joy that grows even in harsh places.

Isaiah paints this incredible picture:

“The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad, the desert shall rejoice and blossom.”

Joy shows up where you’d least expect it — in the desert, in a weary heart, in a community longing for healing. It’s the kind of joy that doesn’t deny sorrow but blooms right beside it.

Mary takes up Isaiah’s image and sings it into her own life in Luke’s Gospel:

“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour.”

Her joy is an act of courage. She sings while the future is still uncertain. She sings before anything is easy or neat.

Her joy is rooted in trust — in the God who lifts the lowly, fills the hungry, and keeps promises from generation to generation.

So as part of your spiritual practice this week, pause and ask:

Where is the desert beginning to bloom in me?

Where is God whispering joy — slow, steady, stubborn joy — into my life?

Let’s pray,

God of Joy,

You make deserts bloom and weary hearts rise again.

Open my eyes to the quiet places where joy is growing.

Give me Mary’s courage to trust Your promises

and to let Your joy take root in me.

Send me into the world

as a bearer of Your joy and compassion. Amen.