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The Beloved Community at The Trees Newsletter
An Episcopal faith community exploring together what a life of faith "outside of a church" may be.
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1701 Pleasant Green Road, Durham, NC 27705.
Look for the sign by the mailbox. When you arrive, you'll find a winding driveway. We will have signs along the way to direct you to our gatherings. |
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THIS WEEK AT THE BELOVED COMMUNITY |
Wednesday, October 15 Thursday, October 16 Sunday, October 19 - Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost 3:00 PM - Religious Trauma Support Group 4:45 PM - Gathering and Time for Prayer 5:00 PM - Worship with Eucharist Each week during our worship gathering we will have a lectionary discussion. If you are interested in exploring the lectionary readings ahead of time, we’ve put together a list of resources, including podcasts, websites, and blogs. They are found on our "This Week” page.
6:00 PM - Shared Meal of soup & bread
Keep up with all that's going on with The Beloved Community at The Trees with our online calendar. |
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1701 Pleasant Green Road, Durham, NC 27705. Look for the sign by the mailbox. When you arrive, you'll find a winding driveway. We will have signs along the way to direct you to our gatherings. |
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Bring a device and save paper: |
At The Beloved Community at The Trees we are committed to being as environmentally friendly as possible. We will have a sign when you enter with a QR code for you to access the order of worship. You can also view the order of worship ahead of time, here. |
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Each week at The Beloved Community at The Trees we have a lectionary discussion as part of our time together. If you are interested in preparing ahead of time, below are some links to resources you may enjoy. |
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Religious Trauma Recovery Support Group 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month, 3:00 - 4:30 PM Meeting this week!
Religious trauma occurs when a person’s religious experience is stressful, degrading, dangerous, abusive, or damaging. Traumatic religious experiences may harm or threaten to harm someone’s physical, emotional, mental, sexual, or spiritual health and safety. You are invited to join us as we gather weekly to discuss personal experiences of religious trauma and learn together about healing.
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Parents, Families, & Friends of Queer Youth Support Group
2nd and 4th Sundays of each month, 3:30 - 4:30 PM
This group is offered for anyone who considers themselves family or friends of a queer youth. The purpose of this group is to explore together what the bible actually says about being queer, how to be supportive family, and how to process your own experiences someone who loves a queer youth. |
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In the Margins; A Transgender Man's Journey with Scripture Zoom Book Study Wednesdays from 7:00 - 8:30PM October 1 - October 22 Led by Rev. Phillip Bass
October 1 - Introduction - Chapter 2
October 8 - Chapters 3-5
October 15 - Chapters 6-8
October 22 - Chapters 9 - Conclusion Father Shannon Kearns is familiar with liminal spaces. He’s lived in them his whole life. And while his experience as a transgender man has often made it difficult for him to fit in—especially in the context of Christianity—it has also shaped his perspective in important ways on complicated, gender-transgressing aspects of theology and Scripture.
In the Margins weaves stories from Shannon’s life into reflections on well-known biblical narratives—such as Jacob wrestling with the divine, Rahab and the Israelite spies, Ezekiel and the dry bones, and the transfiguration of Jesus. In each chapter, Shannon shows how stories have helped him make sense of his own identity, and how those same stories can unlock the transformative power of faith for those willing to listen with an open mind and stand alongside him in the in-between. |
You can look ahead to what we will be studying in 2025 here.
Below are some other formation opportunities offered locally:
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THE BELOVED COMMUNITY BLOG |
Our latest post is from Anthony Bishop. In his blog post, Anthony shares his "Mediation on Hope." You can read his post here. |
5TH SUNDAY OUTREACH - ST. JOSEPH'S BREAKFAST MINISTY |
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At The Beloved Community at The Trees, we focus on outreach ministries on each 5th Sunday. The next 5th Sunday falls on November 30. We have chosen St. Joseph's Breakfast Ministry for our November 5th Sunday Outreach.
"St. Joseph's provides breakfast Monday through Friday every week to anyone needing a hot breakfast. It is available to anyone, no questions asked. $193.00 covers the cost for 1 day of meals. You can donate through the Beloved Community by check , PayPal, or ChurchTrac both accessible on our website. Remember to designate the donation for St. Joe's Breakfast Ministry.
We also encourage volunteering our time. They need volunteers at 6:30AM to open and start the coffee, at 7AM to cook, and at 8AM to serve the meal and clean up afterward. Of note, on Wednesday mornings, Fresh Start Durham brings a shower trailer to St. Joseph's to provide free showers. Towels, soap, and shampoo are provided. St. Joe's also keeps a community closet to provide fresh clothes and toiletries.
As you can see, there are many opportunities to have a positive impact in our community." - Anthony Bishop
You can learn more about St. Joseph's Breakfast Ministry here. |
SERVICE OF LAMENT FOR GUN VIOLENCE |
On Wednesday, October 29, we will hold a special Service of Lament for Gun Violence at 7:00 PM.
A recent study from Johns Hopkins reports that in the United States in 2023, 27,300 people died by firearm suicide, 17,927 died by firearm homicide, 463 died by unintentional gun injury, and an estimated 604 were fatally shot by law enforcement. In addition, an average of more than 200 Americans visit the emergency department for nonfatal firearm injuries each day.
We lament violence of any kind, but especially gun violence, as it continues to be a plague upon our nation. You are invited to join us as we offer prayers of lament to God for the ongoing gun violence in our nation and world.
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Each Sunday, we gather for a simple shared meal following our worship. This time of gathering together around a table has been fundamental in our building The Beloved Community. Starting on Sunday, September 7, we will return to soup and bread for our meal.
If you would like to provide a meal for the community, you gift would be appreciated. To do so, simply view our online calendar and select "Community Meal" for the Sunday that you would like to provide our meal. You'll then be taken to short registration page that will let us know that you will be providing our meal for that Sunday.
Don't worry if the kitchen isn't your favorite place. You can purchase a meal for the community and turn in your receipt for reimbursement. Just ask Phillip or anyone from the Finance Team for more information. |
The Beloved Community at The Trees has a rich spiritual life and we continually include new practices into our community. We are now praying the Rosary at 4:45pm each Sunday. During this time we will pray for our community, those gathered, those on our prayer list, and our gratitudes. If you've never prayed the Anglican Rosary before, don't worry. We will show you how!
If you are unable to join us, but would like to pray the rosary prayer, you can find it here. |
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Diocesan Safe Church Trainings Resume in November
After a brief hiatus earlier this year, online diocesan Safe Church trainings will resume in November. Please note the diocese no longer schedules individual trainings at congregations, but congregations are welcome to sign up as a group for a diocesan Zoom training and take the training together at their church. Individuals are also welcome to sign up.
The current Safe Church training schedule is: |
Beginning Sunday, September 7, we will begin using the Narrative Lectionary. "The Narrative Lectionary is a four-year cycle of readings. On the Sundays from September through May each year the texts follow the sweep of the biblical story, from Creation through the early Christian church.
The texts show the breadth and variety of voices within Scripture. They invite people to hear the stories of Abraham and Sarah, Moses and the prophets, Jesus, and Paul. Listening to the many different voices within Scripture enriches the life of faith."
Each Sunday, we will have someone "set the scene" for us. This introduction to our readings will help us better understand that context of the readings. If you would like to volunteer for a Sunday, please email revphillip@belovedcommunitydurham.org. You can find the upcoming lectionary readings here. |
WAYS TO SUPPORT OUR MINISTRIES |
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For a small community, we have a lot going on! The Beloved Community is an active place, and we are grateful for all the gifts we have received thus far. We've managed to do a lot in a short amount of time, and we have no plans to slow down.
Since our mission is to offer a safe and affirming place for those healing from religious trauma, we never want anyone to feel that they must give financially or otherwise. However, we also recognize that volunteering to support our ministries can be a way for some to heal. With that in mind, if you feel called to help out, below are a few ways you could do so. Prepare the weekly bulletins Prepare the weekly newsletter Donate a Community Meal (see the article above) Record our weekly attendance in the Register Lead a 1st Sunday Lectionary Discussion Organize a Social Gathering Organize a 5th Sunday outreach Join the Flower Team Join the Music Team Organize our Lending Library Lead a Formation Offering "Set the Scene" for a Lectionary Discussion Wash the napkins from our Community Meal Help set-up or tear down our worship space
If you would like to volunteer for any of these ministries or have ideas about other ways you'd like to contribute to the work of The Beloved Community, please email Phillip at revphillip@belovedcommunitydurham,org. |
During our weekly worship gathering, we set aside time to remember those who are in our prayers. It is our practice to name them individually and to remember them communally. In addition to this practice, we will be adding an ongoing prayer list to our order of worship for those who appreciate having the names recorded for their prayer practices between worship gatherings. If you would like to add yourself or someone else to the prayer list, please contact us at welcome@belovedcommunitydurham.org. You are welcome to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable. Only the person's first name will be included in the order of worship.
This week we remember Anthony, Gregory, Kerry, Maureen, Nikki, and Patty. |
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AN INVITATION TO FOREST BATHING
As the crickets' soft autumn hum is to us, so are we to the trees as are they to the rocks and the hills. -Gary Snider Please join me this autumn in spending time among the trees to listen, to nestle, to turn off the voice in our heads, to allow time to nurture ourselves and our connections to the earth and all her creatures.
Forest Bathing Walks
September Sunset Walk
October
Giving Thanks Walk
Limited Mobility Walk Weekday morning in the St Philip's Church Courtyard Email me if you're interested
Hello friends, I hope this email finds you well. I am looking forward to sharing this healing, restorative practice of Forest Bathing - healing for our souls and for the earth - with friends old and new this fall.
I am Elizabeth Newman, a long time resident of Durham and hiker on the Eno and New Hope trails. I am certified as a Forest Bathing Guide through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy. I generally guide walks at The Trees in Durham, and I am also glad to guide a private group for you at The Trees or in another location. Please contact me if you'd like to schedule a walk with a group of friends, family or colleagues.
All are Welcome: These walks are most suited for people ages 12 to 92. If you have someone younger you’d like to include please email me to learn more about Forest Bathing and let’s consider whether it’s a good fit.
Forest Bathing: Forest Bathing is a time of healing and nurturing soothed by the sounds and sights of the natural world. This practice allows you to slow your pace, your breath and your mind in an easy, restful time among the trees. As your guide, I will offer simple invitations for ways to help you connect with your senses.
Forest Bathing is not a hike with a destination in mind or a naturalist exploration focused on information.
No skill is required.
If you want to learn more about the history of Forest Bathing, check out the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy website: ANFT And, please let me know if you have any questions about what our time together Forest Bathing will be like.
Payment: I gratefully appreciate donations to The Trees in any amount. The money donated will be used for work to preserve and nurture the land. You can donate online here, or you are welcome to bring cash or check to the event. Thank you for helping us support the land and all the beings living in this beautiful place.
Location: The Trees - 1701 Pleasant Green Road. The Trees is a retreat center on 50 beautifully wooded acres. Look for the number on the mailbox and the gravel driveway. For information about reserving The Trees for a meeting or retreat go to the website: The Trees
Arrival Time: plan to arrive a few minutes early to get situated. We'll be together in the woods for two hours. You may want to plan to stay a few minutes after our walk to tour the beautiful mid century modern house that is now a retreat center.
Trail Description: We will walk on a trail with roots and rocks to our gathering spot. From there you can move over the woods, down a trail or stay put as you prefer for each of the invitations we move through during our time together.
Facilities: there is a bathroom available and will be within walking distance during our time in the woods if needed
Weather: I will plan to carry on with the walk in light rain, however, if the forecast is for heavy rain or thunder I will reschedule the walk. I'll be in touch on the day of by text if we need to cancel.
Cancellations: please email me if you need to cancel. On the day of the event, please send a text to cancel: 919-949-7258.
Dress and Supplies: Dress for being comfortable sitting outside. Bring a water bottle and bug spray. You may want to spray before driving over. No other supplies are needed.
Special Requests and Mobility Limitations: it's my hope that everyone is able to participate comfortably in our walk. Please let me know if you have special requests or mobility limitations.
Please let me know if you would like me to take your name off my mailing list.
I hope to see you among the trees.
Warmly, Elizabeth Newman ForestWays Forest Bathing 919-949-7258 |
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On Saturday, December, 6 from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. The Rev. Rhonda Lee will be in conversation with The Rev. Dr. Lauren Winner about her recently-published book, "Suicide and the Communion of Saints," and about death and grief and love and community at St. Joseph's Episcopal Church.
St. Joseph's is at 1902 West Main Street in Durham, between the Whole Foods shopping center and Ninth Street.
The event is free of charge.
The Beloved Community at The Trees will be reading Rev. Lee's book in April 2026 as a part of our Formation Series. |
As we are starting to form a community, we are hoping to put together a directory to make contacting one another outside of our gatherings easier. If you would like to be included in the directory, please send your preferred name, email address, phone number, pronouns, mailing address, and a photo (or whatever combination you are comfortable with) to welcome@belovedcommunitydurham.org. We have a few of our community already in the directory. A copy of the directory can be found on our website. |
We rely on your gifts to offer the ministries of The Beloved Community. Although we strive to keep our overhead low, we do face financial responsibility. Your financial donations support our weekly meals, our formation opportunities, supplies for our healing ministries and worship, etc. If you would like to contribute to the ministries of The Beloved Community you can do so via cash or check donation, as well as through PayPal.
Check donations can be mailed to: The Beloved Community at The Trees 1701 Pleasant Green Road Durham, NC 27705 |
ChurchTrac Donations: You may make a donation directly into our account through ChurchTrac. Donations made through ChurchTrac can be done via credit/debit card or an ACH bank transfer. |
We are grateful for our sending parish, The Church of the Nativity, Raleigh. Nativity supported The Beloved Community through prayer, shared ministries, and financial oversight for our first year.
We are grateful for the use of The Trees, graciously provided to us at no cost by St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, Durham. We also give thanks to St. Philip’s for the gift of flowers. Each Sunday, St. Philip’s shares their flowers with The Beloved Community so that we too may enjoy the beauty of God’s creation.
We also acknowledge that we gathering on the ancestral territory of the Eno, the Tuscarora, the Occaneechi, and others. |
1701 Pleasant Green Road
Durham, NC 27705
USA
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