A story of faith from Esmerelda Friedman:

My family and I have been attending Trinity for a little over a year. We normally attend the 9 AM service, and I'm grateful to have the opportunity this morning to tell you a little of our story and dream about the things God has in store for this place.

Prior to coming to Trinity, my family attended church, but would not say that we felt welcome. Many of you may understand what I mean, and if you do, feeling unwelcome does not help a person grow in faith.

When we first came to Trinity, it was clear from the beginning that Trinity was a place where we would be accepted. Our first day here, one of our members immediately approached us and showed us this great affection. He showed us around, gave my daughter a kid's bag for the service and encouraged us to come back. When we did come back, he remembered us. He even knew my name. Since that time, that feeling of welcome has turned in to feeling that Trinity is truly our church home.

Our daughter Mary loves coming to church on Sundays. She received communion for the first time here at Trinity, and every Sunday, that is still her favorite part of the service. Our marriage of almost eight years was blessed here at Trinity, and I sang with the band at the 9 AM service. I also started attending Mom's group every Monday here at Trinity, and those women are some of the best prayer warriors to have on your side, and some of the best women to laugh and cry with.

Many of you have probably felt the same way. My experience is not unique, but I was not alone. Right now there are thousands of people in The Woodlands looking for a place to feel welcome and accepted. Right now, someone is saying a prayer to God asking to bring him to a place just like this.

This is my dream for Trinity: That we become even more active in bringing to this place, all those who feel unwelcome in other places, all those who for whatever reason feel unaccepted. That we not only stand on the corner and cast out our net, but we go in to the community and proclaim the good news that God is working in this place. That people know that at Trinity Episcopal Church, they will be welcomed as brothers and sisters, and find a place for their faith to grow.

May God continue to bless us all, and may we have the courage to be a blessing to others, Amen