What to Expect
If you've never been to an Anglican Church, you may feel as though you'll "stand out" if you don't do "the right thing". Rest assured, God is not interested in whether we stand or sit at the right time.
Your heart is what matters.
Some Basics
The principal weekly worship service is called The Holy Eucharist. In other types of churches, this service is known as The Lord's Supper, Holy Communion, or Mass. We usually refer to the worship service as the liturgy and we use the Green Book - The Book of Alternative Services. The printed bulletin you are handed as you enter the church contains the pages used during the service and church announcements. The people assembled for worship are the congregation, and ordained ministers (priests) who lead worship are collectively called the clergy.
Sitting, Standing, and Kneeling
Generally we sit to listen, stand to sing or pray, and kneel during communion and when we confess our sins. This isn't an exact science, however—our worship bulletin or the priest always gives clear directions when it is time to sit, stand, or kneel.
What books will we use?
The readings that are normally found in The Bible and the liturgy that is found in The Book of Alternative Services . Everything you need to know is in there. Hymns sung by the congregation are in the blue hymnals in the pew racks (with directions for which book and page listed in the bulletin).
Can I take communion?
At Trinity Church, all baptized Christians are welcome to receive the bread and wine of communion, no matter what your religious affiliation or background. Those wishing to take communion will be guided by the ushers pew by pew to the altar. When you approach the altar, kneel at the altar rail, place your right hand over your left hand palms up to receive the wafer from the priest. The priest is followed by the chalice bearer and you may then take a sip from the chalice. It is also fine to let the chalice pass you by if you only wish to receive the bread. If you do not feel comfortable receiving communion, you can come forward and simply receive a blessing from the priest by just kneeling at the altar and placing your crossed hands on your chest.
Will I have to introduce myself?
Some churches have visitors introduce themselves in front of the entire congregation. No worries—at Trinity Church you are welcome to come in and sit quietly without having to speak publicly! There is a point during the service that we pass a sign of peace to one another. You are invited to stand and shake hands with those around you, simply saying, "Peace." There is no expectation that you introduce yourself; you are free to remain completely anonymous. We would love to get to know you, however, so please feel free to tell us as much or as little about yourself as you wish.
Do I have to give money?
Visitors may let the offering plate pass by. There is no expectation for you to give money if you visit the church. As the plate comes your way, simply pass it along to the person next to you. If you do wish to give, a small token of a few dollars is completely acceptable to put into the plate.
Come in. The easiest way to see what Trinity Church is like is to visit. We have visitors all the time—some return and end up becoming regular members of the church; some find another church; some feel that church isn't what they need at that point in their lives. Whatever your background, wherever you are in your walk of faith, come and see what we offer.
Sunday Morning at 8:30 a.m. - Eucharist
Sunday Morning at 10:00 a.m. - Holy Eucharist
Wednesday Morning at 10:00 a.m. - Holy Communion followed by Bible Study
Christian Education is available every Sunday at 10:00 for all children from pre-school to Grade 8.
Choir rehearsal every Sunday at 9:30 a.m.
Light refreshments are served in the parish hall after each 10:00 am Sunday service.