What to Expect in Worship
We hope you’ll consider visiting us! Here are the answers to some questions you might have about our worship.
What Kind of People Attend Trinity Church?
The people of Trinity Church represent a wonderful mix of races, cultures and ethnic backgrounds. We draw members from a wide geographic circle that starts with Hartford and its immediate suburbs and extends to some 15 towns. We have young and old, singles and families, gay and straight, rich and poor, churchy and not so churchy.
How Do People Dress for Services?
Some people dress up, but many people like to dress informally. There is a lot of variety and this is purely a matter of personal preference.
How Will I Know What To Do During the Service?
As you enter the church’s sanctuary we will offer you a service leaflet which will include everything you need to fully participate in the worship service. We typically stand, if we are able, for prayer and singing hymns and sit at other times. Some people prefer to kneel during times of prayer. You should feel comfortable following your personal practice.
What About Children?
Children are welcomed to worship in the church. Please feel free to let your kids be themselves during the worship service. All are welcome as they are, including kids! If you’d like to step out of the service with your child and are in search of a quiet space, a Parents Room is open to you. It can be found at one end of the hallway outside the doors at the rear of the sanctuary. Art supplies and toys for young children can be found there.
Children over the age of 2 1/2 years are encouraged to participate in the Godly Play story during the first part of the service (the Liturgy of the Word). This takes place in the Godly Play Room, typically on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Sundays of the month.
What About Communion?
At Communion time, the congregation is invited to come forward to stand or kneel at the communion rail in front of the altar and receive the consecrated bread and wine. Episcopalians believe that by the power of the Holy Spirit the bread and wine contain the real presence of the Body and Blood of Christ. The wine can be received directly from the cup or by dipping the bread. We also offer both consecrated grape juice (from a minister of communion in the side aisle) and gluten free wafers (from the priest).
You do not have to be an Episcopalian to receive Communion in an Episcopal church. If you prefer not to receive Communion, you are invited to come forward to receive a personal blessing from the priest, signaling your preference by crossing your arms across your chest.
Passing of The Peace
The Passing of the Peace at Trinity is a cherished and time-honored tradition, serving as a beautiful expression of community and fellowship. It is a moment when the congregation is invited to step beyond the individual and embrace one another in the shared peace of Christ. This sacred practice fosters a spirit of unity, reminding us that, as members of the body of Christ, we are called to extend love, compassion and goodwill to all. Whether through a handshake, a warm hug, or a simple gesture of kindness, the Passing of the Peace strengthens the bonds of our spiritual family and brings the worship service to life in a profound and meaningful way. It is a beloved part of our liturgy, where the joy of God’s peace is shared and our hearts are reminded of the deeper connection we hold with one another.
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Does It Matter If I Believe or What I Believe?
Your faith or lack of faith – your religious background or lack of religious background – all of this makes no difference in your welcome to Trinity Church. Each week we welcome those worshipping with us for the first time with the words "Whoever you are and wherever you are on your journey of faith, you are welcome here and we're glad you're with us." And we mean it. Our members come from a wide variety of backgrounds.
Hearing Assistive Devices
Hearing assistive devices are available for those desiring them. Please speak to an usher.