Intergenerational - Something for Everyone
Newborn to Age 3
Children are always invited in worship however we also offer a free nursery year round so that parents have an opportunity to worship together or alone in worship knowing that their precious one is being cared for. For your convenience baby changing tables are provided in the handicapped stall in each restroom.
Age 3 through 7th Grade
Free Sunday School is offered from September through May. All God’s children are invited forward during Sunday worship for a time with the Pastors after which the children are invited to attend Sunday School. It is in the historical tradition of our church to offer free Sunday School to all who wish to participate. Trinity is also home to the the Children’s Center, a full-day day care option.
8th Grade
During 8th grade students are invited to join in the Confirmation Experience. Confirmation is a rite of passage making a child into a full member in the church with all voting privileges and rights of membership. Confirmation runs from September until Palm Sunday also known as Confirmation Sunday. During the journey the student is invited to examine their faith and belief structure, to name for themselves what they believe, and if indeed they wish to become a member of Trinity Community Church, United Church of Christ. Whether or not a student decides to become a member does not matter – what matters is that through the journey they are provided critical thinking skills to decide for themselves how God works, or does not work, in their life.
Teens and Young Adults
Unlike many other churches, once a young adult is confirmed as a full member of Trinity Community Church they are invited and encouraged to participate as any older adult member would, to become actively involved in worship (through music, as a liturgist, preparing communion, etc.) and in the leadership of the church (serving as all members in the broad variety of leadership positions). Currently several “teens” serve on a number of Church Boards and as Sunday School teachers. They are active in deciding and creating the future of our church.
”Older” Folks, the 20+ Crowd
As with the young adults, all of us older folks, the 20+ crowd are encouraged to participate in all the unique ways that God has given gifts. This includes active participation on Church Boards as well as however the Spirit may move one: participating in worship; starting a new ministry; writing a song in honor of the church’s 125th Anniversary; or… ??? There are also several events geared more toward the “older” audience, namely:
The Red & Wild Ladies of Trinity an informal group of women who meet for fun and fellowship at various times throughout the year. Check out the calendar for an upcoming date.
The Good Fellows of Trinity a very informal men’s group that gathers very periodically - often for pizza and beer. Check the calendar for a future date.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Group meets at Trinity - check our calendar for details. Led by our own Adrian Charniak it is a time for sharing and companionship. This group is open to all grandparents raising grandchildren throughout the western suburban area of Chicago-land.
Intergenerational – All Ages
Trinity is very strong on intergenerational events where folks of all ages are invited to participate and share together. Below are just a few of the intergenerational events.
Annual Church Retreat held at the
UCC Tower Hill Retreat Center along the shore of Lake Michigan in Sawyer, Michigan. A time to relax along the shore of Lake Michigan in modern accomodations complete with unique worship services, bonfires, opportunities for hiking through the woods, swimming in Lake Michigan (for the brave of heart as it is often still very cold in May), and a time to forget about life and relax for a while. All are invited. More details will be forthcoming from the Board of Christian Education as the time approaches.
Christmas Pageant a celebration of Jesus’ birth in song and drama. Ever consider being a Wise Man or Wise Woman – this is your chance! Many positions to fill as the Christmas story is brought to life during the worship service (usually on the third Sunday of Advent – but be sure to check out the Worship schedule under the
Worship Services link.
Talent Show offered usually in March is an all church event. All ages are invited to share a talent – singing, dance, ??? Whatever your talent is – even if it is praying silently – you are invited to participate! Fun for all.
Check our calendar for more details.