“They’re Here!” Rummage 2026: The 51st Annual Trinity Rummage Sale
“For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building.” 1 Corinthians 3:9
Either love it, hate it, or simply tolerate it, rummage is here. It begins with pods in the parking lot and cars lining up to donate their no longer needed or wanted items no matter the weather. Like the post office, "Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion" of taking people’s donations. Then comes the days when trolleys, wagons, grocery store shopping carts (borrowed, I presume?), and other ways to carry stuff for the process of bringing what’s in the pods into the church building. Fine men’s clothing to the second floor. Glassware, dishes, toys, fine women’s clothing and more clothing to Pierce. Artwork to the Thomas room. Jewelry finds a home in the library. “This and That” to another space upstairs.
There are people all over the parish building sorting, hanging, pricing, organizing, gossiping, and preparing for the many, many people who come through our doors to find their treasure from someone’s donation. Then the sales begin. First are those who know that this is a rummage sale in Princeton, so they pay $10.00 to get first dibs on the “good stuff.” Then come others seeking something they do not know yet but will know it when they find it. Then, on Saturday comes the bargain of all bargains, 50% off. On this day, some of those most in need come through the doors looking for the necessities which they cannot afford in a store or online. All the proceeds of the weeks-long ministry are used to support organizations, local and international, that Trinity Church has partnered with. None of the proceeds go to the church.
It is inspiring because many of the people sorting, organizing, and tagging are in their 80s, 70s, and some youngsters in their 60s. There are people with canes, back braces, rollators, and crutches. As they sort, they talk about their latest doctor’s appointment or who is a good podiatrist or a good pain management doctor. And of course, church gossip. Many are parishioners and some are not. Some are members of Trinity for 40 years or more and others have been here a few weeks. Some have worked on rummage for many years and for others, it is their first time.
By Saturday evening, all will be gone, cleaned and ready for Sunday, thanks to these workers and our committed sextons, Enrique Ramirez and Roberto Melgoza. Blessings and gratitude to all.
“Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” Matthew 25:40