September 2025
GREETINGS FROM PASTOR ELISABETH
The definition of faith we find in the Letter to the Hebrews is my favorite over and above all other definitions I’ve read in theological treatises.
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of
things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1)
Simply put, faith is believing in that which we do not yet see. By faith, we envision our hopes realized, and pray believing in God’s providence: that God will provide.
Faith is not static, it is dynamic! By faith we actively hope, trust and pray.
We hope and trust that God always cares for us, and that God’s healing hand offers us healing in body, mind, and spirit.
Entrusting our lives to God’s providential care is a daily challenge. Many responsibilities call for our attention throughout the day. Diversions and distractions vie for our attention as well. In the hubbub of daily life, it is all too easy to neglect spending time with God.
Meister Eckert was a monk who lived during the Middle Ages. He is also considered a mystic. His writings guide us closer to God. In his own words, he describes our lifelong endeavor of finding God.
“Above all else, know this: Be prepared at all times for the gifts
of God and be ready always for new ones. For God is a thousand
times more ready to give than we are to receive.”
According to Meiser Eckert, our faith deepens when we stop “doing” and simply “be.” How might we become better attentive and alert to God’s Presence in our lives? How might we slow the fast pace of everyday living, to seek those moments when our life reflects God’s wisdom: “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)?
Wishing You God’s Peace,
~Pastor Elisabeth
August 2025
Greetings from Pastor Elisabeth,
The arts play an important role at Trinity United Church of Christ. Many of our beautiful banners were created by Marilyn Robberts, a former church member who passed in 2010. Fred Robberts, current church member and retired art teacher, also created art along with his wife, Marilyn.
In August, you will see Marilyn’s handiwork in two banners hung at the front of church in the chancel area. They are two of a set of four banners created for our current liturgical season called “Trinity” or “Ordinary Time.” As the longest church season, it begins with Trinity Sunday and extends to Advent. In this season, believers focus on growing their life of discipleship, in Christ.
The first banner is entitled “Creation.” This banner reminds us that small beginnings spark great things!
This banner shows seeds planted in rows, seeds beginning to sprout, and seedlings with
small leaves and roots taking hold. Some plants are blooming. The morning sun is shining . . .
The second banner is entitled “Grace.” Images in this banner
“show what mother nature provides . . . bright sunlight, gentle rain, rich soil, pollinating bees &butterflies; earthworms to keep the soil loose & fertile; ladybugs which help eliminate destructive insects. The rainbow symbolizes God’s promises: we can rely on God’s gifts.
How fitting that Marilyn drew upon themes of nature! Our spiritual growth is indeed like tending a garden. When we cultivate a deeper spiritual life, we become more and more rooted in faith and spirit-filled discipleship.
Finally—just as God supplies the sunshine, the soil, and the rain—the Holy Spirit works within us and among us creating a beautiful garden.
Wishing You God’s Peace, ~Pastor Elisabeth
Italics: excerpts from a written description of the four Trinity banners written by Marilyn Robberts