Trinity Church in the City of Boston

What are services like?
We believe that there’s no single “right” way to worship God, and our services vary in worship style and language. Whether in the ebullience of a 9 AM Sunday service packed with families or the tranquil beauty of our 6 pm Eucharist, the atmosphere in our sanctuary is both joyful and reverent. One visitor described us as “warmly Episcopalian.” Most of our Sunday services contain the basic elements of Scripture readings, preaching, common prayer, and shared Eucharist (Communion). Other formats, such as our Compline and Evensong services, follow the outlines of worship from the Liturgy of the Hours, the daily rites of prayer developed in early Christian monastic communities. Music is a vital part of our worship, and most services offer the opportunity both to listen and to take part in singing songs of prayer and praise. Don’t worry if you feel like you don’t know what to do. Pick up a service leaflet on your way in; it will provide guidance on how to follow along. And if you have any questions, just ask your neighbor!

What is the community like?
We’re really sort of a mix: families with kids, students and young professionals, retirees, fifth-generation Bostonians and first-generation Americans meet together weekly to worship. We have a strong commitment to LGBT, racial, and gender equality which makes itself known both directly (through groups, events, and sermons) and indirectly (through our tendency to seek out members of marginalized groups for leadership roles). Our identity is fairly fluid, constantly being enriched by the new people who come into our doors. At the same time, our church history, embodied in the gorgeous building entrusted to us, anchors us through the generations. “Trinity looks like a wealthy dowager church, but its vibe is definitely an urban family parish.” --Ship of Fools Mystery Worshipper Should I dress up? Only if you like! The 6 pm and 8 pm services tend to be informal (lots of shorts and t-shirts in the summer) and the Sunday morning services a bit more dressy (jeans outnumbered by suit jackets, with many of our parishioners in more formal attire), but there is no dress code for any service. How do I meet people? Please join us for coffee and conversation between the 9 and 11:15 services, or for a simple supper between the 6 and 8 pm services. There are a number of other ways to get connected: try saying hi to anyone wearing a green name button, or introducing yourself to the priest in front of the Baptistry (the small room to the right of the altar) after a service. We hold several programs throughout the year specifically for newcomers, such as Compass, Connect, and Inquirer’s Class. Outside of worship, attending one of our classes and lectures or volunteering for one of our many service opportunities is a good way to build new relationships. Are children welcome? What resources do you have for them? Absolutely. The 9 am service tends to draw families, with church school every Sunday at 10 from September through early June, and a professionally staffed nursery for the smallest children. But children are welcome and encouraged to participate fully at all services, including in Communion. Do you charge money? For sightseers touring our stunning architectural and artistic treasures, we ask for a $7 fee to help defray the cost of keeping the building open. There is no charge for attending a service or using the sanctuary for private prayer, although we do collect an offering during each service. This tradition goes back to some of the earliest forms of Christian worship and represents our giving back freely to God what God has so freely given us. Please feel free to participate as you are able and willing.

What if I'm not a Christian?
You are welcome here no matter what your background is or where you are on your spiritual journey. Whether you are looking for a new church home or simply curious about our offerings, we are happy to have you, and we encourage you to participate in all aspects of our worship.