Sunday Services
9:10 am Family Service
"Trinity was the first church we visited that didn't say ‘hand me your child, and you go in here’ pointing to the sanctuary."
Our Family Service, often called just “the 9:10” is a kid-friendly celebration of music, ceremony, story, and communion that has grown through the years to become one of the most popular services at Trinity.
For what ages is the Family Service geared?
From infants to elementary school–age children, the Family Service has something to offer. The youngest children can participate as much or as little as they like: gathering on the rug to listen to The Story, coloring prayer cards, or simply holding their parents’ hands. If they need to walk around, sleep, cry, or be held—that is fine with us. We want children to discover that church is a safe place where they can learn about God, be themselves, and make friends. Older children can take a more active role and help in running the service, assisting the celebrant with such tasks as lighting the candles, presenting the offering, and bringing up the Eucharist.
What happens at the service?
While the structure of the service is informal and child-focused, it is rooted in an Anglican tradition of biblical lessons, confession, and shared communion. Simple rituals provide a spiritual experience that kids and adults can share in a meaningful way. The service begins with a welcome and song. Then the children gather in a semi-circle on the floor to hear a Bible story.
We celebrate the Prayers of the People: Kids draw their personal prayers—thanks for flowers, rainbows, pets, family, and more—on cards, which the celebrant shares with the congregation. Next, everyone receives a small, smooth “confession stone.” These remarkable rocks can absorb all one’s sins and sadness, as well as our regrets and mistakes. Finally, we share the sacrament of Holy Communion, and as always, all are welcome at God's table at Trinity Parish.
Is there music?
The Trinity Contemporary Band provides live music with an up-tempo, gospel beat and a joyful feeling that gets everyone singing. At the end of the service simple instruments are distributed to the congregation and everyone gets to join-in the “joyful noise.” Words to the songs are projected on the wall, so there’s no excuse for not joining in!
What happens after the service?
We share refreshments, and families take the time to catch-up with old friends and make a few new ones. At 10:00am, many children then go on to attend our Sunday school program. Their parents can continue to socialize, attend the 10:00 a.m. Rite II service with choir and sermon. or often have the opportunity to attend periodic faith formation and discussion groups, such as Episcopal 101, Love & Logic Parenting, Unplug the Christmas Machine, and Lenten Preparation.