Upcoming Events
La Bohème, Opera Aeterna
Opera Aeterna is bringing a week of exceptional music to Trinity, with multiple performances open to the community. You are invited from May 11–16 for performances of La Bohème at 7:00 PM. Admission is free for members and friends of Trinity, but tickets are required. Email communications@trinityevanston.org for details.
Intergen
Families with children in Kindergarten through high school are invited to our next Intergen night on Sunday, May 17, from 5:00-8:00 PM. The schedule for the night is below.
5:00-6:00 PM | Activities for K-6th Graders & Adult Conversations
6:00-6:30 PM | Dinner
6:30-7:00 PM | Family Worship
7:00-8:00 PM | Hi-League
Confirmation Sunday
On Pentecost Sunday, May 24, Trinity’s youth will affirm their baptism during worship, publicly proclaiming their faith and giving thanks for God’s work in their lives. This celebration is especially meaningful on Pentecost, the day the church remembers the Holy Spirit empowering the disciples and sending them into the world to share the Gospel. You are invited to come celebrate and support these young people as they take this important step in their faith journey and witness the many ways God continues transforming lives within the Trinity community.
Reception of New Members
The life of the church is always growing and renewing. Following the celebration of Confirmation Sunday with Trinity’s youth, the congregation will gather again on Sunday, May 31, to welcome new members to Trinity. Becoming a member is a meaningful step in one’s faith journey. It is a commitment to worship, to service, and to living the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We are thrilled to welcome each new person into our community and thank God for the many ways people continue to be drawn into Christian life.
If you are considering taking a next step in your faith journey—whether through baptism or becoming a member at Trinity—please reach out to Pastor Erik. He would love to have a conversation with you.
Quarterly Council Forum
Stay after worship on Sunday, May 31, to get important updates on all the things happening at Trinity.
Ravinia Festival with SALT
All are invited to an evening at Ravinia with SALT on Friday, July 24. The program, called “On the Movies,” features the Chicago Symphony Orchestra performing various film scores composed by women. Click below for more information about the performance and look for more details soon about purchasing tickets.
Dinner Church
Dinner Church returns on Wednesday, May 6! All are welcome to enjoy good food and great conversation from 6:30–8:00 PM.
Adult Forum: May 3
Caring for People in Difficult Times: A Global Health Perspective
Dr. Kenneth J. Schaefle
Dr. Schaefle has been going to Uganda regularly since 2013, providing medical care as part of a 20-year partnership between Montefiore Hospital in the Bronx and a rural hospital in Uganda. On Sunday, May 3, at 11:00 AM in the Chapel, he will offer thoughts and reflections on the impact of illness and healthcare on patients and families, and the role of faith in providing care in difficult times. All adults are welcome!
More about Dr. Schaefle:
Dr. Kenneth J. Schaefle, MD, is an internal medicine physician and assistant professor of medicine at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, affiliated with Montefiore Medical Center in New York. He provides primary care and is involved in medical education and global health work, including long-term clinical teaching in Uganda. Originally from the Chicago area, he attended Evanston Township High School and Northwestern University before completing medical school at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and residency at Lenox Hill Hospital.
May Soup Kitchen
On Sunday, May 3, Trinity will prepare a hot meal and bagged lunches for St. Paul’s Soup Kitchen. Both food donations and volunteers are needed to help with preparation and serving.
Sign up through the button below to join in! If you plan to donate items, please make sure they are delivered to the downstairs kitchen at Trinity by 8:30 AM on Sunday. If you would prefer to make a monetary contribution, please visit the giving page, write “Soup Kitchen” in the Note section.
Hi-League Albuquerque Trip Fundraiser
Help send our youth out to learn, serve, and share God’s love in Albuquerque!
The Hi-League teens are working hard to serve others this summer—and you can be part of it! Trinity’s youth group is taking a summer service trip to Albuquerque in June. During the trip, the youth will partner with local organizations serving people experiencing hunger and homelessness, supporting refugees, working with the disability community, and more.
Everyone is invited to the fundraiser on Sunday, April 26, after worship. Lunch will be from Smoque BBQ, and the youth will share information about the trip. Click the buttons below to learn more about the trip, make a donation (write “Hi-League” in the Note section), and use the form to RSVP for lunch.
Good Shepherd Sunday with LSSI
This month, we'll be joined by guests from our April Mission Possible organization, Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI). On Good Shepherd Sunday, April 26, the Rev. Kelly Nieman Anderson, Church & Community Manager, and Teri Gens, Senior Director of Development, will share more about LSSI during worship. Pastor Kelly will also be our guest preacher.
LSSI served over 62,000 people last year, providing critical programs including foster care, mental health services, alcohol and drug treatment, affordable senior housing, residential programs for people with developmental disabilities, home care for seniors, and services that help families who have been impacted by incarceration.
Built to Last: Congregational Forum
You are invited to a Congregational Forum after worship on Sunday, April 19, to learn more about the Built to Last: Special Appeal. The Finance Committee will explain the need for mortgage debt reduction, discuss new opportunities for ministry, and answer any questions. In the meantime, learn more about the appeal or submit your commitment online through the button below.
April Soup Kitchen
On Sunday, April 19, Trinity will prepare a hot meal and bagged lunches for St. Paul’s Soup Kitchen. Both food donations and volunteers are needed to help with preparation and serving.
Sign up through the button below to join in! If you plan to donate items, please make sure they are delivered to the downstairs kitchen at Trinity by 8:30 AM on Sunday, April 19. If you would prefer to make a monetary contribution, please visit the giving page, write “Soup Kitchen” in the Note section.
6–12th Grade Lock In
Hey 6th–12th graders! You’re invited to join the Youth Ministry Network of the Metro Chicago Synod for an overnight Lock-In from 10:00 PM on Friday, April 17, until 5:00 AM on Saturday, April 18. The night will be filled with mini bowling, bumper cars, laser tag, go karts, arcade games, and more. Pizza and soft drinks will be provided. The cost is $45 per person, which also includes a $20 arcade card. If you’re interested in attending or would like more information, please reach out to Lauren at lauren.busey@trinityevanston.org.
Easter Worship
Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!
The tomb stands empty, and hope rises with the dawn. In joyful worship with special music from the choir, brass, and handbells at 9:30 and 11:00 AM, we celebrate the victory of Jesus over sin and death and the promise of new life for all. God’s mercy is alive and active, steering us towards courageous, truthful living in worship, in service, and in daily life. Now is the time to step into the light of the resurrection and live the Gospel with joy.
Please join us for Easter breakfast from 8:30–11:30 AM. As a celebration of the hope and promise of Easter, breakfast will support Trinity’s youth programs by raising funds for their summer service trip.
Easter Worship
Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!
The tomb stands empty, and hope rises with the dawn. In joyful worship at 9:30 and 11:00 AM, we celebrate the victory of Jesus over sin and death and the promise of new life for all. God’s mercy is alive and active, steering us towards courageous, truthful living in worship, in service, and in daily life. Now is the time to step into the light of the resurrection and live the Gospel with joy.
Please join us for Easter breakfast from 8:30–11:30 AM. As a celebration of the hope and promise of Easter, breakfast will support Trinity’s youth programs by raising funds for their summer service trip.
Easter Breakfast
Come enjoy Easter Breakfast from 8:30 to 11:00 AM! Proceeds from the breakfast will help fund Trinity’s Hi-League youth group’s summer service trip to Albuquerque in June. During the trip, the youth will partner with local organizations serving people experiencing hunger and homelessness, supporting refugees, working with the disability community, and more. Suggested donation is $10/adult and $7/child. Pay at the door or the church office.
Come hungry and bring friends, knowing that your breakfast helps send our youth out to learn, serve, and share God’s love. Let us know you’re coming through the form below.
Good Friday Worship
Come and stand at the foot of the cross. On Good Friday, April 3, at 11:00 AM and 7:30 PM, we behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. This is not a day of despair, but of holy trust where God’s mercy is revealed in suffering love. Now is the time to remember that even in death’s shadow, Christ is at work transforming lives through the power of His redeeming sacrifice.
Good Friday Worship
Come and stand at the foot of the cross. On Good Friday, April 3, at 11:00 AM and 7:30 PM, we behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. This is not a day of despair, but of holy trust where God’s mercy is revealed in suffering love. Now is the time to remember that even in death’s shadow, Christ is at work transforming lives through the power of His redeeming sacrifice.
Maundy Thursday Worship
On Maundy Thursday, April 2, gather in worship at 7:30 PM to remember the night our Savior shared the last supper and gave us the commandment to love one another. In Word and bread, Christ’s mercy meets us here. Now is the time to step with Jesus toward the cross, receive the Gospel, and be shaped for a life of humble service.
Crossing the Road Together: A Lenten Book Read & Discussion (Part 2)
This year, you may have noticed an unusual and coincidental alignment of sacred seasons on the calendar: Lent beginning with Ash Wednesday, Ramadan beginning around the same time, and Lunar New Year just behind us. These seasons aren’t the same, and we don’t collapse them into one another, but their overlap can gently remind us that we practice our faith alongside many neighbors who are also living into seasons of reflection, prayer, and renewed purpose.
With that in mind, Carl and Donna Johnson invite you to read Why Did Jesus, Moses, the Buddha and Mohammed Cross the Road? by Brian D. McLaren. It’s a thoughtful and accessible book that explores what it means to be Christian in an interreligious world with clarity and humility, deep conviction and genuine hospitality.
If you’d like to join in, read the book on your own during Lent, then gather with Carl and Donna for two lively conversations on Monday, March 16, and Monday, March 30, at 1:00 PM in the Chapel. Please email the church office at office@trinityevanston.org if you plan to attend one or both of the discussions.
Palm Sunday
Worship on Palm Sunday, March 29, at 9:30 AM as we gather to proclaim Christ’s entry into Jerusalem. Wave branches in praise and lift your voices in acclamation, entering Holy Week with hearts open to God’s transforming grace. This is the day to begin the journey toward the cross, trusting that God’s mercy shapes us for courageous and faithful living.
Poster Making Party
Are you ready to stand up in defiance of a government bent on radical exclusion, with its horrendous treatment of immigrants, its massive cuts to social safety nets, and its cruel disregard for the vulnerable communities of our day? If so, come along to the No Kings Rally on Saturday, March 28, at Dawes Park. To get ready, the Faith In Action Committee is having a Poster Making Party at 5:30 PM on Thursday, March 26. Stop by the Gathering Space to make a poster. Even if you can’t make it on Saturday, come make a poster for someone else to hold! Supplies will be provided.
To learn more about how Trinity is stepping out for faith and justice, click here to read a note from Carol Wilson, Faith In Action Committee Chair.
Wednesday Lenten Worship
You are invited to join Wednesday Lenten Worship from February 25 to March 25. Come at 6:30 PM for a soup supper, and stay for Holden Evening Prayer at 7:30 PM in the sanctuary (also available online through Facebook or YouTube). Lent is a season to be formed for courageous and truthful living, a time to experience God’s mercy and presence as you journey toward the cross and the hope of Easter.
On Wednesday, March 25, Church Council will host supper. Come share a meal and join in prayer as we approach Holy Week.
Pizza & Game Night
You’re invited to a Pizza & Game Night on Saturday, March 21. Gather at 5:30 PM for pizza, and then we’ll break out the games!
No matter your age or game preference, come join the fun, share some laughs, and spend a relaxed evening together. Please RSVP by Friday, March 20, so we know how much pizza to order!
BYOB, and we’ll take a collection to help cover the cost of the pizza.
Wednesday Lenten Worship
You are invited to join Wednesday Lenten Worship from February 25 to March 25. Come at 6:30 PM for a soup supper, and stay for Holden Evening Prayer at 7:30 PM in the sanctuary (also available online through Facebook or YouTube). Lent is a season to be formed for courageous and truthful living, a time to experience God’s mercy and presence as you journey toward the cross and the hope of Easter.
On Wednesday, March 18, SALT, Community Care & Community Life will host supper. Come share a meal, meet new people, and discover the welcoming community that gathers around the table.
Crossing the Road Together: A Lenten Book Read & Discussion (Part 1)
This year, you may have noticed an unusual and coincidental alignment of sacred seasons on the calendar: Lent beginning with Ash Wednesday, Ramadan beginning around the same time, and Lunar New Year just behind us. These seasons aren’t the same, and we don’t collapse them into one another, but their overlap can gently remind us that we practice our faith alongside many neighbors who are also living into seasons of reflection, prayer, and renewed purpose.
With that in mind, Carl and Donna Johnson invite you to read Why Did Jesus, Moses, the Buddha and Mohammed Cross the Road? by Brian D. McLaren. It’s a thoughtful and accessible book that explores what it means to be Christian in an interreligious world with clarity and humility, deep conviction and genuine hospitality.
If you’d like to join in, read the book on your own during Lent, then gather with Carl and Donna for two lively conversations on Monday, March 16, and Monday, March 30, at 1:00 PM in the Chapel. Please email the church office at office@trinityevanston.org if you plan to attend one or both of the discussions.
commUNITY pulse: Sing a Better Future into Existence
You are invited to an afternoon of public community singing; learning and singing songs together as a practice of courage, solidarity, and hope. Singing in community steadies our breath, strengthens our bonds, and helps us remember that we belong to one another. It also prepares us for faithful, public, nonviolent witness.
This gathering is non-partisan, and deeply political in the sense that it expresses our vision for a world of peace with justice for all our neighbors, near and far.
Hosted by Trinity Lutheran Church, in collaboration with Chicago Artists for Action and Singing Resistance, this event is open to people of every religious tradition and those with no religious commitments at all who share that vision. No musical background is needed. If you can breathe, you can sing!
A donation will be invited. All proceeds benefit mutual aid networks in Minneapolis-St. Paul.
Accessibility: Seating available. Hearing Loop. Elevator access. All-gender restroom.
Wednesday Lenten Worship
You are invited to join Wednesday Lenten Worship from February 25 to March 25. Come at 6:30 PM for a soup supper, and stay for Holden Evening Prayer at 7:30 PM in the sanctuary (also available online through Facebook or YouTube). Lent is a season to be formed for courageous and truthful living, a time to experience God’s mercy and presence as you journey toward the cross and the hope of Easter.
On Wednesday, March 11, Women’s Book Chat and Men’s Study will host supper. Come share a meal, meet new people, and discover the welcoming community that gathers around the table.
Soup Kitchen
On Sunday, March 8, Trinity will host St. Paul’s Soup Kitchen. You can help prepare and serve a meal for our neighbors. Both food donations and volunteers are needed to help with preparation and serving.
Sign up through the button below to join in! If you plan to donate items, please make sure they are delivered to the downstairs kitchen at Trinity by 8:30 AM on Sunday, March 8. If you would prefer to make a monetary contribution, please visit the giving page, write “Soup Kitchen” in the Note section.
Wednesday Lenten Worship
You are invited to join Wednesday Lenten Worship from February 25 to March 25. Come at 6:30 PM for a soup supper, and stay for Holden Evening Prayer at 7:30 PM in the sanctuary (also available online through Facebook or YouTube). Lent is a season to be formed for courageous and truthful living, a time to experience God’s mercy and presence as you journey toward the cross and the hope of Easter.
Each week, a different Trinity group will host. On Wednesday, March 4, Music Ministries is taking the lead! Whether you love to sing, tap your toes, or simply listen, there’s a place for you here.
Annual Retreat
You’re invited to the Annual Retreat, a welcoming, joy-filled time for people of all ages. Whether you’re new to Trinity or have been part of the community for many years, this retreat offers a meaningful opportunity to grow in faith and build deeper relationships within the Trinity community.
The weekend includes programming for adults with child care/children’s programming provided at the same time. There’s also plenty of time set aside for fellowship, rest, and free time. Be sure to visit The Abbey Resort website to explore the amenities available in addition to the retreat programming.
Click the button below to reserve your spot and learn more, including cost details. Please note that first-time retreat participants receive a 50% discount and that cost should never be a barrier—scholarships are available by contacting Lauren or Paula.
This retreat is a fun, welcoming experience and a wonderful way to connect more deeply with the Trinity community!
Wednesday Lenten Worship
You are invited to join Wednesday Lenten Worship from February 25 to March 25. Come at 6:30 PM for a soup supper, and stay for Holden Evening Prayer at 7:30 PM (also available online through Facebook). Lent is a season to be formed for courageous and truthful living, a time to experience God’s mercy and presence as you journey toward the cross and the hope of Easter.
Each week, a different Trinity group will host. On Wednesday, February 25, Children, Youth, and Family Ministries is bringing the fun! Take a midweek breather and gather your crew at Trinity. Wiggly kids, chatty teens, and grown-ups who would really love a night off from cooking are all welcome. Come as you are—there’s always a seat for you at the table!
Ash Wednesday Worship
All are invited to Ash Wednesday worship as we begin the season of Lent. This service will include the imposition of ashes and Holy Communion.
Ash Wednesday Worship
All are invited to Ash Wednesday worship as we begin the season of Lent. This service will include the imposition of ashes and Holy Communion.
Fat Tuesday Pancake Dinner
You’re invited to enjoy delicious pancakes and fellowship on Tuesday, February 17, from 5:00–8:00 PM. Sponsored by Faith In Action, this year’s Fat Tuesday Pancake Dinner will support ELCA World Hunger. A suggested donation is $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Come hungry, bring friends, and help Trinity step up during a time when food insecurity is very real in our communities and around the world.