Trinity United Church is beginning a conversation about how it can continue to serve the community as changing patterns of church attendance and community life prompt congregations to reconsider how they operate. The discussion was introduced at the “Looking Back, Looking Forward” event on Sunday, October 4, organized by Reverend Brian Cornelius and the Genesis Cooperative Community of the United Church of Canada.
Approximately 20 people, including members and others with historical connections to the Vankleek Hill church, attended the event.
Cornelius used the event’s historical focus to outline an important conversation ahead for Trinity United.
“The role of the church has changed,” Cornelius said.
He noted that people attend church differently than in previous generations, while some no longer attend at all. As a result, he said, Trinity needs to consider how it can continue its work in 2026 while making effective use of its available resources.
Cornelius said the discussion should involve people with different connections to the congregation, including longtime members, newcomers, those on the margins of the church, and even people from outside the congregation. He said those perspectives can help identify issues that people deeply involved in the church may not see.
The discussions are expected to continue over the coming weeks and months, with those involved in Sunday’s event already committed to participating.
The first half of the event focused on Trinity’s history.
Archival photographs, newspaper clippings, and memorabilia prompted attendees to recall former members and their contributions to the church and community. Music was another significant part of the church’s history, with attendees recalling generations of organists and choir members.
Attendees also recalled how the church served the community beyond Sunday worship. They remembered people playing cards at the church and community groups using the facilities for activities, including square and line dancing.
The current church building dates to 1888, although the congregation itself predates the building.
Cornelius said Trinity has witnessed major changes in the community, from horse-and-carriage transportation to automobiles and from handwritten records to computers and artificial intelligence.
“Change happens,” he said.
While some changes may be welcomed more than others, Cornelius said the values underlying the church’s work remain important, including justice, mercy, grace, compassion, and generosity.
“The values are timeless,” Cornelius said.
He pointed to Trinity’s history, the contributions of previous generations, and its partnership with the Genesis Cooperative as resources for the congregation’s future.
“We’re looking forward to what Trinity United continues to become,” Cornelius said.
