Legend holds that the Dogwood Tree was once very large and because its wood was strong and sturdy, it provided building material for a variety of purposes. According to the story, it was the Dogwood Tree
that provided the wood used to build the cross on which Jesus was crucified.

Because of its role in the crucifixion, it is said that God both cursed and blessed the tree. It was cursed to be small forever, so it would never grow large enough to be used again as a cross for a crucifixion. Its branches would be narrow and crooked, which makes it no good for building. At the same time, however, the tree was blessed so it would produce beautiful flowers each spring, just in time for Easter.

To remember God’s promise to the tree, it is said He gave it a few traits so that whoever looks upon it will never forget. For example, the petals form the shape of a cross. Upon close examination, the blooms of the tree always have four petals. The middle of the dogwood flower is a tight grouping that resembles a crown of thorns. And the tips of each of the petals are indented, as if they bear a nail dent. There are even colors in the petals that bring to mind the drops of blood that spilled during the crucifixion.

The Legend of the Dogwood Tree. Happy Easter!

By Weldon Tisdale, Trinity Woods Chaplain

In the Bible, Jesus is often referred to as the Passover Lamb. Let’s explore why this analogy is significant as we enter the Lenten Season in preparation for Easter:

1. ORIGINS OF THE PASSOVER:
The concept of Passover originates from the book of Exodus. During the time when the Israelites were enslaved in Egypt, God instructed them to celebrate the Passover as a memorial of their deliverance. In Exodus 12, God commanded the Israelites to take an unblemished one-year-old lamb and sacrifice it during the Passover feast. The blood of this lamb was to be applied to their doorposts, signifying protection from death. The Passover commemorated God’s grace in sparing the Israelites from the final plague that struck Egypt, where the firstborn of every household died. The blood on the doorposts allowed death to “pass over” their homes.

2. SYMBOLISM OF THE PASSOVER LAMB:
The lamb sacrificed during the Passover served as a substitute. Its innocent blood protected the Israelites
from death. This sacrificial provision pointed forward to the coming of Jesus Christ, who would be the ultimate and perfect Lamb of God. Just as the Passover lamb’s blood shielded the Israelites, Jesus’ blood would provide salvation for all humanity.

3. JESUS AS THE LAMB OF GOD:
John the Baptist recognized Jesus as the Lamb of God. In John 1:29, he declared, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” Isaiah 53:7 also prophesied about Jesus: “He was brought as a lamb to the slaughter.” Jesus willingly sacrificed Himself on the cross, shedding His innocent blood. His death became the ultimate Passover sacrifice. By accepting Jesus as the Lamb of God, we can be saved from spiritual death. His sacrifice offers redemption and eternal life.

4. NEW CREATION AND SPIRITUAL LIFE:
Jesus’ sacrifice goes beyond physical deliverance. He is the Passover Lamb who brings about the true exodus. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus initiates a spiritual new creation. He raises His people from spiritual death to spiritual life. As the Lamb of God, Jesus fulfills the symbolism of the Passover lamb, providing salvation for all who believe in Him.

In summary, Jesus’ role as the Passover Lamb signifies His sacrificial love, redemption, and the opportunity for humanity to escape spiritual death through faith in Him.

By: Bonnie Polak, VP of Philanthropy and Community Engagement and Editor

Meet Elizabeth Bartlett or, as many people call her, “Mama Bear.” Elizabeth has taken a small gesture, a teddy bear and an encouraging note, and made a profound impact. If you have never heard of the Trinity Bears (or the Manor Bears, as they used to be called) it is a great ministry and service brought about by the passion and heart of one very special lady.

When Elizabeth moved to Trinity Woods in 2009, she was inspired by a group of women who also lived here that made quilts for people who were sick. “This group of ladies were so impressive. Some of them had trouble with their eyesight, some couldn’t sew but they all found a way to be part of the effort.”

In 2010 Elizabeth started making special little bears for the people living at Trinity Woods. She
originally started making them for the birthdays of residents of the Holliman Center and now she focuses her efforts on residents who are in the Trinity Woods Health Center.

When asked why she spends her free time making stuffed bears, she says, “When someone moves to the Health Center, their life really changes and I think people tend to do better when they know other people care about them.”

When Elizabeth first started her passion project, it was just a team of two – she and her late husband Lynn. Now, nearly 15 years later, there is a team of 20 helpers who cut, draw, stuff, sew and deliver the bears to Health Center residents.

Elizabeth says that over 5,000 Trinity Bears have been given out to residents since they started. The bears mean so much to recipients that, even after they leave the Health Center, they or their families often keep their bears as mementoes of the care that was shown to them. She has even shared her pattern and program with people across the country. “A Health Center family member from Alaska once asked if she could start making bears in her community,” said Elizabeth. “I happily gave her the pattern and told her how I did it.”

Each bear is made by hand with a handwritten scripture and note of encouragement. Elizabeth hopes the Trinity Bears legacy goes beyond just individual interactions and contributes to a stronger, more connected community.

If you are interested in getting involved with this group of volunteers, please contact Irene Brown, Trinity Woods Life Enrichment Coordinator, at ibrown@trinitywoodstulsa.com or 918.346.6614.

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

February is the month most often associated with love. We start seeing cupids and hearts in the stores and begin thinking of what to give the one we love. Valentines become available in January for sending to loved ones in February. This is a good month to think about what real love is. There are three kinds of love.

*Eros – This is erotic love. It is the first stage of a romantic relationship. It can be felt when you don’t even know the person who is the object of this love. It is a physical love centered on self.
*Philos – This love is based on a friendship between two or more people. It is based on give and take. It is a love that is centered on self but also others. This is “brotherly” love.
*Agape – This is totally selfless and unconditional love. It is love given without expectation of receiving any benefit in return. This is Spiritual love, and it is the highest form of love.

God is love. Here are examples of God’s Agape love:
*God demonstrated His agape love. Even though we were not worthy of His unconditional love, He sent His Son to die as a sacrifice for our unworthiness. We do not deserve His love, but He loves us anyway. Romans 5:8

*Jesus loves me in the same way that God the Father loves Him. He wants me to feel secure in that love. Jesus wants me to love others in the same way He loved me. John 15:9-13

*I am certain that nothing will ever tear me away from God’s love. Nothing in this life or the next, nothing seen or unseen, not even my own fears or worries, absolutely nothing can separate me from God’s love. That’s indescribable love.
Romans 8:38-39

*God is love. The Bible says that when I live in this love, I live in God and God lives in me. I have seen the ability to love others grow in me. Because I love God, I can love other people. I love because God loved me first. 1 John 4:16,19

*Allow the love of God to overwhelm your life this month and the rest of 2024 and then watch how your love for God and self will extend to loving others.

True love, that is deep, abiding love that is impervious to emotional whims or fancy, a choice. It’s a constant commitment to a person regardless of the present circumstances.
Mark Manson

By Lupina Fry, Wellness Nurse

The month of February is famous for the celebration of Love. It’s a time to celebrate relationships with family, friends, spouses, and connections that make life worthwhile. We spend time finding the right gift to show our appreciation of those relationships. However, we often forget one of the most important relationships—the one we have with ourselves. If we don’t take care of ourselves, we can’t serve those we love.

Love Your Heart month is an opportunity to care for yourself. One of the first and easiest ways to do this is to be aware of what you eat. Food is, after all, important medicine. Eating well-balanced meals with an eye toward fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, avoiding red meats in favor of fish and
chicken, is essential to protecting your heart. Avoid excessive sweets as well as fatty and fried foods. Choose healthy oils for cooking and in your salads and avoid using butter and excess salt.

Getting enough exercise may be a bit more of a challenge but easy to achieve simply by walking. The American Heart Association suggests you participate in 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. A good test of whether the activity is moderate, is to try the “walkie-talkie” test. If you can talk while exercising but are unable to sing, that’s considered a moderate activity. A good 30–40-minute moderate intensity workout a few times a week can include a brisk walk, dancing, swimming, or yoga. If exercise
isn’t already part of your routine, start slowly and work steadily towards that 150-minute goal.

Sufficient sleep, exercise, healthy food, friendship, and peace of mind are necessities, not luxuries.” Mark Halperin

Lastly, make sure you know your numbers. It’s important to be aware of your cholesterol levels, your weight, and your blood pressure. Make sure your blood pressure is under control. High blood pressure is known as the “silent killer” because it can exhibit no symptoms and still damage your heart, arteries,
and other organs. Check your blood pressure often and work with your doctor to make improvements. When armed with knowledge about your health, you can make the improvements needed to love your heart and enjoy a healthier you.

Trinity Woods is a Mission Driven Organization and has one purpose. Our reason for being is clear – we serve the Trinity Woods family in the spirit of Christ. Every year we search for people who are willing to dedicate themselves to advancing our mission by serving on the Board of Directors.

Board members are expected to commit their time, talent, and treasure:
*The time commitment involves committing to prepare and participate in a monthly meeting of the full board.
*The talents of the board member are called upon as they offer their expertise through involvement in committee work.
*The treasure acknowledges the responsibility of board members to include Trinity
Woods as they make decisions about their charitable giving.

We encourage the Trinity Woods community to submit nominations to the Governance Committee. If you wish to nominate someone, you must fill out the Nomination Form and submit by Friday, February 19, 2024. Every nominee that is submitted will be reviewed, if they are not selected for this year, the committee maintains a list of prospective board members for future consideration. To receive a Nomination Form, contact Heidi Garrett, at 918-346-6671 or hgarrett@trinitywoodstulsa.com.

By Welden Tisdale, Chaplain

As we embark on a new year, may we each take time to examine our lives in full – physical, mental, social, financial and probably most importantly, spiritual. It is the spiritual aspect of our existence that has the tendency and ability to strengthen and bring purpose to every other dimension of our existence. Without a firm grasp of who we are as spiritual beings our lives will bounce along with no true direction.

For Trinity Woods, spirituality and wellness are woven deeply throughout the fabric of the community, connecting residents with a sense of “belonging.” The common ground and relationships fostered help heal broken hearts, soothe the mind, bring warmth and caring relationships, and even have an impact on individual health. We call this aspect of the dimensions of wellness – Spiritual Wellness.

Spiritual Wellness, simply defined, is being connected to something greater than yourself and having a set of values, principles, morals, and beliefs that provide a sense of purpose and meaning to life, then
using those principles to guide your actions.

Different stages of life bring different needs, and things we did not have time for while managing careers and family can become more important. Many times, we may have put off spiritual wellness not realizing its importance to an overall healthy lifestyle.

At Trinity Woods there is a strong focus every day for community members and employees to practice the seven dimensions of wellness. Putting spiritual practices into place as we embark on a new year will go a long way toward helping you age well in mind, body and spirit.

Finding meaning and purpose may be a lifelong process that evolves based on unique circumstances, individual experiences and global events. Along with the other dimensions of wellness, a person’s
level of spiritual wellness often fluctuates throughout their life. It is natural to experience a variety of emotions along the path to spiritual wellness – both positive (hope, forgiveness, acceptance, joy) and negative (doubt, fear, disappointment, conflict).

Spiritual wellness has the power and capability to make our decisions and choices easier, ground us during periods of change and give us the resiliency to survive with grace and inner peace in the face of
adversity. Having a spiritual element in our lives may even help us heal when suffering from a physical or mental condition. Again, take time to examine your spiritual wellness and prepare for a totally healthy 2024.

by Alison McMillan, Wellness Director

As we ring in 2024, and reflect on our experiences and what we leaned int he previous year, me might find things we want to change moving forward. Whatever it is, you’re not alone in this desire for change!

According to a Forbes survey in October this year, almost 62% of respondents feel pressure or the desire to set a resolution. However, if you’ve ever set a resolution, you may know that they don’t always pan out. Research suggests that 23% of people quit their resolution within the first week and 43% quit by the end of January, with a whopping 9% of people following them through to completion.

However, I’m here to keep you from letting the numbers scare you away from trying a resolution this year! There are a lot of good ways to make positive and constructive resolutions to grow yourself this year and to ensure that you have the best success in achieving your goals.

First, evaluate the reason for setting a resolution. Is it something you are doing out of actual desire and is there a need for change, or is it something you feel obligated and pressured to do? By ensuring that this is a genuine desire and need for change, you are more likely to stick with it rather than give up due to lack of motivation to meet your true goals.

Next, set a S.M.A.R.T. goal – S: Specific, M: Measurable, A: Attainable, R: Relevant, and T: Time-Bound. By following this formula, you are setting yourself up for success. Having a vague immeasurable goal makes it harder to see your progress and be motivated and celebrate wins. You want to ensure the goal is not too ambitious; setting an unattainable resolution is only setting yourself up for failure. Like my father always says, “How do you eat an elephant?… One bite at a time!” Break the resolution up into attainable achievable pieces and take it one step at a time. Also make sure the resolution has an end goal. Having a timeline gives you the chance to look at your successes and reevaluate areas if needed.

Then write it down! Put it on paper, on a calendar or in a planner, and share it with your friends and family. Writing it down help make it more tangible than letting it float in the back of your head, and sharing your goals with your friends and family helps set up an accountability network of support.

Finally, allow yourself to be imperfect. You are only human! You are bound to fall off a wagon or miss a step but get back up and keep trying. There is no ‘failure’ here, there is only opportunity to learn from the moment and try again.

And remember, the purpose of a resolution is personal growth and change for the better. Enjoy the journey, celebrate each win along the way, and keep positive and keep going!

“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” C.S. Lewis

By: Steve Dickie, CEO

January is the perfect time to count the blessings of last year and envision the promise of the year ahead. Last year we faced unprecedented challenges, we have emerged stronger, more cohesive, and with a renewed sense of purpose. The year ahead will bring significant change along and renewed commitment to our mission of serving the Trinity Woods family in the spirit of Christ.

Building strong, lasting relationships with our residents and employees has been a cornerstone of
our success, and we remain committed to excellence and growing this amazing community. Staying relevant in today’s every-changing world requires a deep commitment to quality customer service and employee well-being. Trinity Woods conducts ongoing inquiries among residents and employees to learn how well we are doing. In the last 12 months here is what the data has revealed:

*In recommending Trinity Woods to friends and family, 84% of 274 respondents rated the
community as good or excellent.
*Regarding Trinity Woods employees, 97% of 269 respondents rated the staff as good or
excellent.
*Regarding the overall dining experience, 82% of 225 respondents rated the Dining experience
as good or excellent.
*The Employee Satisfaction Survey revealed that 93% of employees (104 respondents) see
themselves working here a year from now.
*Regarding job satisfaction, 89% of 104 respondents said they feel appreciated for the job they
do.

The Board continues its search for the next CEO which will start a new chapter. Additionally, the
Board is beginning the process for a new campus master plan which will include the best way to
gate the community and possible uses for the Dartmoor properties.

As we embark on this journey into the future, we can face these new challenges with confidence.
Our collective strength, adaptability, and unwavering commitment will propel us forward. We
will turn challenges into opportunities and emerge stronger than ever before. The road ahead is
promising, and we stand ready to write the next chapter of our organization’s success story

Trinity Woods is pleased to announce the promotion of Crystal Creekmore as the newest member of its executive leadership team. In her new role as Vice President of Human Resources, Crystal will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of human resources management, including talent acquisition, employee development, performance management, payroll and employee relations.

“When Bill Peterson notified us he wished to retire, we knew that Crystal would be the right person to succeed him,” said Steve Dickie, CEO. “Crystal has served the Trinity Woods team for five years and shown her ability to create a positive and inclusive environment. Crystal is well-positioned to lead Trinity Woods in creating a workplace that attracts, retains, and develops top talent.”

in Human Resources. Her passion for fostering a culture of collaboration and employee engagement makes her a natural fit for Trinity Woods mission and values.

“I am honored to serve the Trinity Woods team and contribute to the continued success of the organization,” said Crystal Creekmore. “I am excited to step into this role and I am grateful to Bill and the others on the Leadership Team for this opportunity. I know I can help create an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute to the company’s growth.”

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11).

Christmas means many things to many people according to their backgrounds, ages, and interests. For born-again believers, it means that God loved them, regarded their lost condition, and did something about it by giving the best gift ever. Our Savior was laid in a manger for His cradle (Luke 2:7). He came to experience everything man must experience, “yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:15), and then die on our behalf on the cross (Hebrews 9:28). One day He will return and be crowned King of kings with every knee bowing and every tongue confessing that He is Lord (Philippians 2:9–11).

Therefore it is important for a Christian to have a right Christmas! Here are some ingredients to include in our celebration: A right Christmas includes making room for Jesus. The innkeeper reminds us of those who have no room for Him. We should be sure our hearts are not so full of other things that there is no
room for Him this Christmas. A right Christmas includes worship and the grace of giving. We should take time for special worship today, and give, as God gave His Son. We should also follow the example of the wise men who “fell down, and worshiped Him, and . . . presented unto Him gifts” (Matthew 2:11). A right Christmas includes telling others. The shepherds “made known abroad” what they had seen and heard (Luke 2:17). What an opportune time we have at Christmas to tell others its real meaning!

Were the angels mistaken when they talked about peace on earth and good will to men (Luke 2:14) since we have so much hurt today? No, the angels were not mistaken: the peace God offers is for those who will trust His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, as Savior and Lord.

I’m Dreaming of a Right Christmas

By Irene Brown, Life Enrichment Coordinator

As the Christmas lights and music start to arrive, our thoughts turn to the many happy gatherings that December brings. At Trinity Woods, the happiest gathering of all is Christmas in the Woods. This year, this annual campus-wide celebration will take place on Thursday, December 7th from 6 to 8 p.m.

Over the years this has become an honored tradition among residents, families, and employees. In addition to great food at several venues, there will be horse drawn carriages, live music, and the beautiful living nativity. Christmas in the Woods wouldn’t be complete without a candy shop and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. We are also bringing back by popular demand the huge Christmas train display. New this year will be a light tour of Owens Park!

“This event is the core of who we are as a community and brings people together in a special way,” said Steve Dickie, CEO. “Trinity Woods community members, families, friends, and employees are all encouraged to attend this event. That is sure to put us in the holiday spirit!”

Christmas in the Woods is more than just a tradition; it’s a testament to the enduring power of family, nature, and the magic of the holiday season. In a world that often rushes through festivities, this cherished tradition encourages us to slow down, connect with one another, and rediscover the simple pleasures that make Christmas truly special. So, this holiday season, consider stepping away from the noise and immersing yourself in the enchantment of Christmas in the Woods.

We ho, ho, hope you can make it! To purchase an admission wristband, visit the Crestwood Concierge or Holliman Center Receptionist –$13 members, $16 guests, and $8 children ages 3-12. Children under 3 are free. For more information call 918.346.6614.

By Bonnie Polak, VP of Philanthropy and Community Engagement

In an increasingly fast-paced and interconnected world, where differences abound and personal space is often compromised, a culture of courtesy is more essential than ever. Courtesy, defined as polite behavior and respectful manners, is the glue that holds a community together. It promotes positive interactions, fosters understanding, and ensures a harmonious coexistence among people from diverse backgrounds. This article delves into the significance of cultivating a culture of courtesy and its impact on society.

In October Trinity Woods Board members, employees and residents gathered together with facilitator Kay Collier McLaughlin to refresh and affirm the Trinity Woods Culture of Courtesy we all agree to work and live by. The day was full of open discussions on how best to be a good neighbor and support a healthy community. Participants walked away with a better understanding of how to disagree with someone respectfully by engaging in a discussion instead of a debate and listening to others point of view.
“The most important legacy that I will leave behind at Trinity Woods is a strong organizational culture,” said Steve Dickie, CEO. “We understand that everyone has different backgrounds and experiences, and it is important to respect that. I want to personally thank everyone who committed the time to complete this important work.”

An important take away along with the eight behaviors of a healthy culture was the addition of Galatians 5:22-23: “…the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” Encouraging each other to reflect these attitudes and attributes was a consensus for everyone. These changes were reaffirmed by the Member Council and Board of Directors.

The Culture of Courtesy is not a mere nicety but a fundamental building block of a thriving community. It is the foundation upon which respect, empathy, trust, and social harmony are constructed. We know this is a collective responsibility to foster these values and ensure that they remain a driving force in our interactions with each other. In a world that is constantly evolving, the culture of courtesy is a timeless and invaluable treasure that we must cherish and preserve.