Click here to find out more about the online Falling in Love with Earth Retreat on October 2nd from 9:30 AM to noon.
Click here and here to learn how our Diocese is celebrating Creation Care Season (September 1st - October 4th).
Click here to read a Pastoral word from Presiding Bishop Michael Curry on 20th anniversary of Sept. 11 .
Click here for more information on and to register for the online "Alive in the Spirit" Retreat with the Rev. Dr. Margaret Bullitt-Jonas on June 12, 2021.
Click here for more information on and to register for Climate Emergency Webinars in May.
Click here to view Trinity Episcopal Church's Easter Memorials.
Image by Gini George @Pixabay
This is the night! Join us at 8:00 PM EST.
Diocesan Facebook Watch:
https://www.facebook.com/EpiscopalWMA
Diocesan YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/DiocesewmaOrg
Diocesan Facebook Watch:
https://www.facebook.com/EpiscopalWMA
Diocesan YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/DiocesewmaOrg
Holy Week at Trinity
Click here for more details.
Click here to read about "Pray, learn, act, advocate": MA bishops declare climate emergency.
What do you long for most?
What is most precious to you?
What do you want more than anything else?
What is most precious to you?
What do you want more than anything else?
These may sound like strange questions to ask during Lent, a season usually associated with self-denial, not desire. But Lent calls us back to our deepest longing, our desire for closer union with the Love that created us and that longs to be set free among us.
This morning retreat, conducted online, will invite us to explore our own desires, as well as the desires of the One “to whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hid.” Our time together will include presentations and guided meditation, with options for solitary reflection or for small group conversation.
Please bring a candle and matches, if you can. For the periods of free time, you may wish to have a Bible, Prayer Book, journal and/or art supplies nearby, or a warm coat so that you can head outside.
This online retreat is co-sponsored by The Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts and The Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts, and open to the faithful - lay and ordained - of both.
About the Retreat Leader
The Rev. Dr. Margaret Bullitt-Jonas serves as Creation Care Advisor in the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts, and as Missioner for Creation Care in the Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts and in Southern New England Conference, United Church of Christ. Her latest book (co-edited) is Rooted and Rising: Voices of Courage in a Time of Climate Crisis. Her Website: RevivingCreation.org.
This morning retreat, conducted online, will invite us to explore our own desires, as well as the desires of the One “to whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hid.” Our time together will include presentations and guided meditation, with options for solitary reflection or for small group conversation.
Please bring a candle and matches, if you can. For the periods of free time, you may wish to have a Bible, Prayer Book, journal and/or art supplies nearby, or a warm coat so that you can head outside.
This online retreat is co-sponsored by The Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts and The Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts, and open to the faithful - lay and ordained - of both.
About the Retreat Leader
The Rev. Dr. Margaret Bullitt-Jonas serves as Creation Care Advisor in the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts, and as Missioner for Creation Care in the Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts and in Southern New England Conference, United Church of Christ. Her latest book (co-edited) is Rooted and Rising: Voices of Courage in a Time of Climate Crisis. Her Website: RevivingCreation.org.
REGISTER FOR THIS RETREAT EXPERIENCE
Share the event URL:
http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?
Share the event URL:
http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?
LENT @ Trinity
Click here for more info.
Online Fellowship
Zoom Meditation: Wednesdays at 7:30 - 8:00 PM
A time to share quiet prayer and a guided meditation to balance our week
Zoom Bible Study: Fridays at Noon: February 26th - March 26th: The Psalms
Click here for more details.
Zoom ROMEOs: 1st Fridays at 12:30 pm
30-Hour Famine: February 26-27
Click here for more info.
Photo Credit: Holly Mindrup @Unsplash.com
Webinar on February 25 @ 5:00 PM
REGISTER here
You are invited to join in an illuminating conversation between Bishop Douglas Fisher, Bishop Alan Gates, and Building Bridges champion, retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel John Paradis, when they will discuss the multifaceted reality of the veteran experience, as well as potential ways to involve the rest of us in bringing greater health to veterans.
The Building Bridges Veteran Initiative, now expanding into the Diocese of Massachusetts, was founded by the Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts five years ago to create veteran communities which enable the trust and camaraderie inevitably lost when soldiers and military personnel come home. Now nine communities strong, convening weekly and monthly around the luncheon table, Building Bridges has become a critical part of 400 western Massachusetts veterans’ lives. One of the tenets of the initiative is that the suffering experienced by veterans is not that of a separate population, but is a reality affecting all of us, and for which we are all responsible.
The Building Bridges Veteran Initiative, now expanding into the Diocese of Massachusetts, was founded by the Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts five years ago to create veteran communities which enable the trust and camaraderie inevitably lost when soldiers and military personnel come home. Now nine communities strong, convening weekly and monthly around the luncheon table, Building Bridges has become a critical part of 400 western Massachusetts veterans’ lives. One of the tenets of the initiative is that the suffering experienced by veterans is not that of a separate population, but is a reality affecting all of us, and for which we are all responsible.
Lt. Col. John Paradis
USAF (RET)
John Paradis, a retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel, and Public Affairs Officer, held the following posts: 44th Missile Wing (missile launch officer); Air Force European Broadcasting Squadron, American Forces Network (director of operations); U.S. Air Forces in Europe (media relations officer); 16th Special Operations Wing (chief of public affairs); Defense Information School (journalism and public affairs instructor); U.S. Strategic Command (chief of media and operations); 56th Fighter Wing (chief of public affairs); Air Combat Command (deputy director of public affairs).
After his retirement, John served as Executive Assistant to the Director / Public Relations Manager for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and as Deputy Superintendent, Soldiers' Home in Holyoke between 2013-2015. He lives in Florence and writes a monthly column for the Hampshire Gazette.
USAF (RET)
John Paradis, a retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel, and Public Affairs Officer, held the following posts: 44th Missile Wing (missile launch officer); Air Force European Broadcasting Squadron, American Forces Network (director of operations); U.S. Air Forces in Europe (media relations officer); 16th Special Operations Wing (chief of public affairs); Defense Information School (journalism and public affairs instructor); U.S. Strategic Command (chief of media and operations); 56th Fighter Wing (chief of public affairs); Air Combat Command (deputy director of public affairs).
After his retirement, John served as Executive Assistant to the Director / Public Relations Manager for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and as Deputy Superintendent, Soldiers' Home in Holyoke between 2013-2015. He lives in Florence and writes a monthly column for the Hampshire Gazette.
"PHOTO CREDIT: Stacy L. Pearsall
Lay Preaching Academy
Feb 14, 21, 28
Mar 7, 14, 21
Feb 14, 21, 28
Mar 7, 14, 21
This winter we will be offering a six-week Zoom seminar for new or relatively new lay preachers. The sessions will be offered on Sunday afternoons from February 14 - March 21, from 1 pm to 2 pm. There is a limit of twelve participants, so signing up early is encouraged.
FACILITATORS
The facilitators of these gatherings will be Canon Rich Simpson who is on the Bishop's Staff, The Rev. Megan McDermott, Priest Associate at Grace Church in Amherst, Mr. Craig Hammond, a member of St. John's, Northampton and our diocesan lay evangelist, and Ms. Rachel "Jac" Essing, a postulant for the vocational diaconate. We do not consider ourselves "expert" preachers but each of us speak with our own voice, shaped by our own experience. We anticipate this seminar to be more conversational and not a series of lectures. We hope those who participate will come willing to learn and take some risks for the sake of the gospel.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, TO APPLY
Please email Canon Rich Simpson for more details and to apply, at rsimpson@diocesewma.org. We ask that all applicants have a conversation with their clergy and/or senior wardens before that. If we have more than twelve sign up we'll start a waiting list for next time.
The facilitators of these gatherings will be Canon Rich Simpson who is on the Bishop's Staff, The Rev. Megan McDermott, Priest Associate at Grace Church in Amherst, Mr. Craig Hammond, a member of St. John's, Northampton and our diocesan lay evangelist, and Ms. Rachel "Jac" Essing, a postulant for the vocational diaconate. We do not consider ourselves "expert" preachers but each of us speak with our own voice, shaped by our own experience. We anticipate this seminar to be more conversational and not a series of lectures. We hope those who participate will come willing to learn and take some risks for the sake of the gospel.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, TO APPLY
Please email Canon Rich Simpson for more details and to apply, at rsimpson@diocesewma.org. We ask that all applicants have a conversation with their clergy and/or senior wardens before that. If we have more than twelve sign up we'll start a waiting list for next time.
Epiphany Sermon Series: February 7 & 14
LAST SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY
February 14, 2021
Sermon offered by The Rev. José Reyes, Missioner for Hispanic / Latino Ministries.
Vimeo URL
https://vimeo.com/509521021
Download Text
February 14, 2021
Sermon offered by The Rev. José Reyes, Missioner for Hispanic / Latino Ministries.
Vimeo URL
https://vimeo.com/509521021
Download Text
FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY
February 7, 2021
Sermon offered by The Rev. Meredyth Ward, Urban Missioner and founding Director, Walking Together.
Vimeo URL
https://vimeo.com/506265477
Download Text
February 7, 2021
Sermon offered by The Rev. Meredyth Ward, Urban Missioner and founding Director, Walking Together.
Vimeo URL
https://vimeo.com/506265477
Download Text
Join us as we pray and discern the work of justice in our time and place.
Come, meet others who are passionate about the issues.
Listen to the Word, discern how the Spirit is calling the Church to action.
Come, meet others who are passionate about the issues.
Listen to the Word, discern how the Spirit is calling the Church to action.
Saturday
January 23rd
9:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Keynote Speaker:
The Reverend Stephanie Spellers
About Our Speaker: Stephanie has served as Canon to the Presiding Bishop for Evangelism, Reconciliation and Stewardship of Creation since 2015. She is the author of several books, articles and resources focused on embracing emerging cultures and Episcopal traditions, including Radical Welcome and The Episcopal Way (with Eric Law), and her newest work, The Church Cracked Open: Disruption, Decline, and New Hope for Beloved Community. She is a former Episcopal Church Foundation fellow.
She graduated from Episcopal Divinity School with a Masters of Divinity; Harvard Divinity School with a Masters of Theological Studies; and Wake Forest University with a Bachelors in Religion, where she began organizing for justice and peace.
She graduated from Episcopal Divinity School with a Masters of Divinity; Harvard Divinity School with a Masters of Theological Studies; and Wake Forest University with a Bachelors in Religion, where she began organizing for justice and peace.
Cost
There is no cost for this online event; however, we invite you to make a $10 donation to Human To Human.
Human to Human is a collaboration of good works begun by the Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts, but the safe spaces we create are not limited to our church buildings themselves. They are in the communities where we are located.
MAKE A DONATION
There is no cost for this online event; however, we invite you to make a $10 donation to Human To Human.
Human to Human is a collaboration of good works begun by the Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts, but the safe spaces we create are not limited to our church buildings themselves. They are in the communities where we are located.
MAKE A DONATION
Epiphany Sermon Series: January 17, 24, & 31
FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY
January 31, 2021
Sermon offered by The Reverend Jennifer Gregg, Missioner for Servant Leadership and founding pastor of Cathedral of the Beloved in Pittsfield.
Vimeo URL
https://vimeo.com/503643669
Download Text
January 31, 2021
Sermon offered by The Reverend Jennifer Gregg, Missioner for Servant Leadership and founding pastor of Cathedral of the Beloved in Pittsfield.
Vimeo URL
https://vimeo.com/503643669
Download Text
THIRD SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY
January 24, 2021
Sermon offered by The Rev. Christopher Carlisle, Executive Director, Building Bridges Veterans Initiative.
Vimeo URL
https://vimeo.com/501030277
Download Text
January 24, 2021
Sermon offered by The Rev. Christopher Carlisle, Executive Director, Building Bridges Veterans Initiative.
Vimeo URL
https://vimeo.com/501030277
Download Text
SECOND SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY
January 17, 2021
Sermon offered by The Rt. Rev. Douglas J. Fisher, Bishop.
Vimeo URL
https://vimeo.com/498407852
Download Text
January 17, 2021
Sermon offered by The Rt. Rev. Douglas J. Fisher, Bishop.
Vimeo URL
https://vimeo.com/498407852
Download Text
Two New Diocesan Trainings
to License Lay Worship Leaders
January 7 @ 7:00 PM | January 28 @ 7:00 PM
The Rev. Meredyth Ward, our Urban Missioner in Worcester, and the Rev. Jane Griesbach, Deacon at St. Francis Holden, will offer two Zoom trainings to interested laypersons who want to learn how to lead the Daily Offices, in particular Morning Prayer. This is for brand new persons or can be a refresher for folks who are being called on more often during the COVID-19 pandemic.
IMPORTANT:
Each training is limited to 20 people. Register using the buttons below.
This is an online event. You will receive the link to the event content in your order confirmation email, and in a reminder email before the event starts.
REGISTER FOR January 7 REGISTER FOR January 28
IMPORTANT:
Each training is limited to 20 people. Register using the buttons below.
This is an online event. You will receive the link to the event content in your order confirmation email, and in a reminder email before the event starts.
REGISTER FOR January 7 REGISTER FOR January 28
Epiphany Sermon Series: January 6 & 10
FIRST SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY
The Baptism of the Lord
January 10, 2021
Sermon offered by The Rev. Dr. Richard M. Simpson, Canon to the Ordinary.
Vimeo URL
https://vimeo.com/496241126
The Baptism of the Lord
January 10, 2021
Sermon offered by The Rev. Dr. Richard M. Simpson, Canon to the Ordinary.
Vimeo URL
https://vimeo.com/496241126
THE EPIPHANY
January 6, 2021
Sermon offered by The Rt. Rev. Mark M. Beckwith, Missioner for Spirituality and Leadership.
Vimeo URL:
https://vimeo.com/496237152
January 6, 2021
Sermon offered by The Rt. Rev. Mark M. Beckwith, Missioner for Spirituality and Leadership.
Vimeo URL:
https://vimeo.com/496237152
Click here to register for this event. We will send out the zoom link the day before our gatherings. For more information, please email one of the facilitators: Maggie Sweeney (magsween10@yahoo.com) or Harvey Hill (revharveyhill@gmail.com).
The Bishop's Christmas Message
(premiering on Facebook & YouTube
on the morning of December 23rd)
Click here to view the video on YouTube.
Click here to view the video on Facebook Watch.
Click here to download from Vimeo.
Click here to view the video on Facebook Watch.
Click here to download from Vimeo.
Bishop Fisher is collaborating with Global Visions and Assoc. Inc. to produce several Advent meditations that may be shared with our congregations. These videos include music and footage that invite meditation and run 8-10 minutes in length. Expect delivery each Tuesday at 8:00 AM via email, Facebook and YouTube.
First Advent Video Features:
The Rev. Dr. Valerie Bailey Fischer and
The Very Rev. Tom Callard
The Rev. Dr. Valerie Bailey Fischer and
The Very Rev. Tom Callard
Click here to watch the first video.
Second Advent Video Features:
Allison Bird Treacy and The Very Rev. Jim Munroe
Allison Bird Treacy and The Very Rev. Jim Munroe
Click here to watch the second video.
Advent 3 Reflections: Craig Hammond, Kathy Clausen and Bishop Doug Fisher
Click here to watch the third video.
Advent 4 Reflections: The Revs. Megan McDermott, José Reyes and Bishop Doug Fisher
The Creation Care Leadership Circle is introducing Good News Gardens to Western Massachusetts this spring. The idea originated at Plainsong Farm and then was modified and embraced by the Episcopal Church's Evangelism and Creation Care Teams.
This program will equip congregations across our diocese – and their individual members – to 1) grow and give healthy food; 2) reflect on connections between scripture, faith, food and gardening; and 3) learn about and influence food systems and policies that affect society as a whole. Grace Church in the Berkshires is already modeling through Gideon’s Garden how growing and giving healthy food can transform lives. We will collaborate with area partners to spread the good news through gardening
Join us on Monday, December 14th at 5:00pm for a brief 30 minute presentation, followed by a time for questions. We’ll share the vision for Good News Gardens and share with you how you, your parish, and your community can be part of it!
This program will equip congregations across our diocese – and their individual members – to 1) grow and give healthy food; 2) reflect on connections between scripture, faith, food and gardening; and 3) learn about and influence food systems and policies that affect society as a whole. Grace Church in the Berkshires is already modeling through Gideon’s Garden how growing and giving healthy food can transform lives. We will collaborate with area partners to spread the good news through gardening
Join us on Monday, December 14th at 5:00pm for a brief 30 minute presentation, followed by a time for questions. We’ll share the vision for Good News Gardens and share with you how you, your parish, and your community can be part of it!
Interested in starting a Good News Garden?
Zoom Interest Meeting on December 14th @ 5:00 PM
Zoom Interest Meeting on December 14th @ 5:00 PM
This online retreat is co-sponsored by The Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts and The Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts. Open to all at no cost.
In these tumultuous times, what better way to welcome Jesus than to set aside a quiet morning to make room for his birth in our hearts and minds? During this Advent Quiet Day, we will step away from our daily tasks and concerns so that we can listen with full attention to the Spirit’s movement within us. Our intention will be to awaken to the divine Presence being given to us, moment by moment, breath by breath. Our time together will include presentations and guided meditations, with options for solitary reflection (indoors or out) or small group conversation.
Please bring a candle and matches, if you can. For the periods of free time, you may wish to have a journal or art supplies nearby, or a good warm coat so that you can head outside. Together, let’s create a space for Jesus to be born again in our lives. This online retreat is open to all, free of charge.
Please bring a candle and matches, if you can. For the periods of free time, you may wish to have a journal or art supplies nearby, or a good warm coat so that you can head outside. Together, let’s create a space for Jesus to be born again in our lives. This online retreat is open to all, free of charge.
The Rev. Dr. Margaret Bullitt-Jonas
The Rev. Dr. Margaret Bullitt-Jonas serves as Missioner for Creation Care in the Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts and Southern New England Conference, United Church of Christ. Her latest book (co-edited) is Rooted and Rising: Voices of Courage in a Time of Climate Crisis. Her collection of daily meditations for Advent and Christmas, Joy of Heaven, to Earth Come Down, calls us to a practice of prayer grounded in reverence for the earth and to intentional living in harmony with the natural world. Her Website: RevivingCreation.org.
(Photo: Robert A, Jonas)
The Rev. Dr. Margaret Bullitt-Jonas serves as Missioner for Creation Care in the Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts and Southern New England Conference, United Church of Christ. Her latest book (co-edited) is Rooted and Rising: Voices of Courage in a Time of Climate Crisis. Her collection of daily meditations for Advent and Christmas, Joy of Heaven, to Earth Come Down, calls us to a practice of prayer grounded in reverence for the earth and to intentional living in harmony with the natural world. Her Website: RevivingCreation.org.
(Photo: Robert A, Jonas)
DOWNLOAD EVENT FLYER
Registration URL:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUtdOqqj0oHdWJ3HMBGD5ERiuWXu3e9VdN
Register to Receive ZOOM link
Registration URL:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUtdOqqj0oHdWJ3HMBGD5ERiuWXu3e9VdN
Register to Receive ZOOM link
Click here to view the schedule of Diocesan Convention Week Events.
The Bishop's Address to the Diocesan Convention
Click here to download.
Click here to download.
WMA Deacons Lead "A Call To Prayer For Our Country"
Monday, November 2nd at 7:00 PM
YouTube URL: https://youtu.be/EvM31kFhJNo
Facebook URL: https://www.facebook.com/EpiscopalWMA/posts/2725296264348973
Facebook URL: https://www.facebook.com/EpiscopalWMA/posts/2725296264348973
Praying for an End to Gun Violence: A Service of Lament, Hope and Resolve
Tuesday, October 27 @ 5:00 PM
Click here for more details.
Tuesday, October 27 @ 5:00 PM
Click here for more details.
A Pastoral Message From Bishop Fisher
September 30, 2020
September 30, 2020
Click here to view.
Back to School Blessing
Know someone who needs a Back To School Blessing? This 20-minute prayer video was produced by Christ Church Cathedral for our diocese and led by our deacons and bishop. Listen to short reflections about this unusual school year and pray for teachers, students and families.
Spring/Summer 2020
ZOOM Chats are opportunities to share what’s been working well and not so well while we have been sheltering at home. These chats are hosted by Sarah Prevelige, and facilitated with Cindi Scrimgeour and Laurel Pirelli.
ZOOM Bingo is an opportunity for Trinity members of all ages to have fun together. Households may play as a team or as individuals. We will be doing a classic 5 x 5 card array with a Free space in the center. (Numbers are 1-75)
There are lots of different free bingo print sites including:
Print Bingo.com
Bingobaker.com
dltk-cards.com
ZOOM Family Game Night are opportunities to invite your friends to join Trinity families for a game of FIBBAGE or other online games. The Zoom code can be found in the parish email.
ZOOM Bingo is an opportunity for Trinity members of all ages to have fun together. Households may play as a team or as individuals. We will be doing a classic 5 x 5 card array with a Free space in the center. (Numbers are 1-75)
There are lots of different free bingo print sites including:
Print Bingo.com
Bingobaker.com
dltk-cards.com
ZOOM Family Game Night are opportunities to invite your friends to join Trinity families for a game of FIBBAGE or other online games. The Zoom code can be found in the parish email.