Dear Church,

In September of 2019, I retired from 45 years in the airline industry; just in time for COVID. As a cradle Episcopalian, I had always wanted to return to my church roots and I began “auditioning” various Episcopal Churches in the area. My first visit to Trinity was the very day Trinity held the big outdoor reception for Amy. I thought, “Boy, these people really know how to celebrate God!”

Even when I learned that this didn’t happen every Sunday, it made no difference, I had fallen in love with the church, and everyone was so welcoming and caring. I became a church member a few weeks later, and it has been one of the best decisions of my life.

I wanted to do more and a few months later, I joined the Altar Guild and it has been joyous! There is far more to learn and know than I ever expected. It took me a month to stop calling the Chalice a “goblet.” Altar Guild members are involved in all three Sunday services plus funerals, baptisms, and weddings. The set-ups for each type of service are unique to that service. We also do prep-work on Saturdays.

The leaking roof above the Altar Guild sacristy was recently repaired, and soon the sacristy itself will be undergoing a needed renovation. We will be packing and moving all service items to various locations in the church. We think the renovations will take about 10 days.

Becoming a member of the Altar Guild has been a personal blessing, so much so, I wanted to continue to contribute, so on Thursdays I help out at Lake Logan and at the reception desk when needed.

We would love to have more Altar Guild members. If you would like to become an Altar Guild member, please reach out to Jane Exner or Ada Jo Foley. We know you would find the contribution of your time to be very rewarding. For me, it is an honor to play a part in helping the clergy deliver a wonderful service.

With deepest gratitude and appreciation,

Bill Brackney

Do you have something wonderful to share? An interesting story? Celebrating a momentous occasion? Please reach out to Nanette by email: nanette@trinityasheville.org to be featured in your own edition of Stories that Matter.