Frequently Asked Questions
1) What kind of church is Trinity?
Trinity Parish is part of The Episcopal Church, which is part of the worldwide Anglican Communion. We are distinguished by our unique liturgical tradition from the Book of Common Prayer, our history of being a bridge between the Catholic and Protestant traditions, and our desire to be broadly inclusive, comprehensive in our theology, and accepting of all people.
2) What is worship like at Trinity?
Our hope is that you experience worship at Trinity as an experience of holiness and beauty, through the music, the prayers, the actions of the liturgy. If you’re coming from a Protestant background, it might feel a bit formal at first – but warm and inviting, and hopefully not rigid or stuffy. If you’re coming from a Roman Catholic or Orthodox background, it will feel mostly familiar with its liturgical forms, its sacramental emphasis, and the roles of deacons, priests, and bishops.
3) What if I am not baptized?
You’re still welcome here! And, if you desire to be baptized, we would love to talk to you about how to go about that! Baptism is the sign of God’s loving embrace of us, and our full inclusion in Christ’s body, the Church.
If you have been baptized in another Christian church (Roman Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox), your baptism is recognized in The Episcopal Church. We do not re-baptize those who have already been baptized.
4) Am I welcome to receive Holy Communion?
Everyone is welcomed to the table at Trinity Parish. Just as Jesus ate with outcasts and sinners and welcomed all people into his circle, so we welcome all without judgment or prior requirements. If Communion is a new experience to you, please speak to one of our clergy who will be happy to talk with you about its meaning and how to participate.
5) How long does a Sunday morning service last?
Our 8 am service has a small congregation and it lasts about 40-45 minutes. There is organ music, but no choir or singing. Our 10:30 am services lasts about an hour and ten minutes normally. There is a choir and congregational singing. You are invited to join us for coffee and light refreshments in the Parish Hall after both services.
6) What about my children? What do you have for them?
Children of all ages are always welcome at Trinity. They may stay with their parents in worship if you and they would like. We also have a nursery for infants and young children on the lower level with professional childcare. And for children from ages 3-6 we offer the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, a program of spiritual formation based on Montessori principles. There is also a children’s area in the main church where children and parents can hang out during worship without worrying about wiggles and giggles. You can learn more about these options from our Minister to Children and Families.
7) How do I become a member of Trinity Parish?
It all begins with showing up! Come, worship with us. Feel free to join in fellowship at our coffee hour following the service or at other times. Once you decide to become a member, we just need to be sure that we have your baptism in our records, a Letter of Transfer if you’re coming from another Episcopal Church, and that you desire to participate as an active worshipper and contributor to our shared life.
8) What other questions do YOU have? Send us a note below.