125 and very much alive! That’s the overwhelming message coming from Trinity Methodist Church in Douglas as they celebrate 125 years of Christian witness. A year of celebration is planned in the form of both special services and social events. Rev Dr Dee Dee Haines said, “Trinity is a vibrant and active church. It began 125 years ago by meeting the needs of the local community and we are still trying to do that today. We are building a future that is very much rooted in faith and history. But we also recognise that the world is now a very different place than it was 125 years ago. The church is prepared and energised to respond to the shifting culture in which we live. We see this anniversary as an opportunity to source the longevity of its ministry and move forward with a fresh sense of vitality and momentum.” Plans for the coming months include special services with previous Minister of Trinity Methodist Rev David Copley (8th May) and the Samhain celebration of the Celtic New Year (30th October.) The 125th anniversary service will be celebrated on Pentecost Sunday (12th June) led by Rev David Perkins, the current superintendant of the Circuit. This provides a great opportunity to hear this fine preacher before he leaves the Island in July. A Post Guild concert, (7th May 7.30pm) Chamber Orchestra concert (17th July 3pm), outdoor songs of praise and family picnic (14th August 3pm) in Nobles Park are also planned. Sue Collier Chairman of the 125 Committee said, “Our year of celebration supports our key aims of fellowship, community and outreach. Our history is important and this milestone allows us to reflect on that but vitally this also provides us with the opportunity to consider our future. “ This future coincides with the publication of a Revitalisation Plan for the church. Rev Dr Dee Dee Haines said, “It is important that we critically interpret the changing world in which we live and commit ourselves to practising the same kind of ministry that Jesus embodied. We are drawing from our heritage and roots to become a ‘new creation’. We hope people will come and join us on this exciting journey with us as we develop and revitalise, with the help of God, into an emerging 21st century church that aims to “be Jesus in the World. Trinity Methodist church has over 10 groups ranging from the Men’s Java group, sporty church for children aged 7 to 11 years, book club to home groups and noisy church. Services take place each Sunday at 1030 (which include Sunday school.) Everyone will receive a warm welcome and If you have not been to church for many years, we think you will be pleasantly surprised by the changes you will find. “ In addition to the above other special services and events take place throughout the year. Ends