Frequently Asked Questions

What's going on here?

Where is Trinity Located?

6215 196th St SW, Lynnwood, WA 98036. Get directions.

Where should I park?

Parking is easy and accessible. Trinity has two large lots on the West and North sides of the building, with designated handicapped spaces near the main entrance. All entrances are clearly marked and fully accessible for wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers.

When are the main office’s hours?

Monday: 8 AM – 1 PM
Tuesday thru Thursday: 8 AM – 3 PM
Friday: Closed

What is being built on Trinity’s property?

The Lynnwood Neighborhood Center is being built by Volunteers of America Western Washington. This innovative, multi-use hub will offer services, programs, and space for all generations—right here on Trinity’s property. Learn more at voaww.org/lnc.

Can I donate items to support the community?

Yes! Trinity collects donations for our Neighbors in Need ministry. We welcome new or gently used clothing, travel-size toiletries, and non-perishable food. Items can be dropped off at the main office during office hours.

How can I give to support Trinity’s mission?

Gifts of all sizes make a difference in the life of this community. You can give online, by mail, or in person during worship. Recurring giving is easy to set up and helps sustain Trinity’s ministries year-round. Give now or visit tlcs.church/stewardship to learn more.

How do I contact a pastor?

Pastor Hector Garfias-Toledo can be reached at PastorHector@tlcs.church or call the office to connect or schedule a meeting.

How long are worship services?

Typically a little over an hour. View recent services.

What can I expect in worship?

Services include scripture, prayer, music, preaching, and Holy Communion—thoughtfully designed to welcome all, whether in person or online. Explore more about worship.

What should I wear?

Come as you are! You'll see a range of styles—from jeans and t-shirts to dresses and button-downs. There's no dress code or expectation.

When should I arrive for worship?

Music begins about five minutes before the listed start time. Arriving a few minutes early lets you settle in and connect.

Where should I sit?

Anywhere you like! Many enjoy sitting up front for a closer view, and families with children are welcome throughout the sanctuary. The Pray-Ground up front is especially designed for young children, with nearby seating for adults. See below for other ways children are invited to participate in worship.

Who can receive communion?

At Trinity, Christ’s table is open to everyone. No exceptions. Children are welcome to receive communion at their caregivers' discretion. Those not receiving communion are invited to come forward for a blessing—just cross your arms to indicate that. To explore communion education, contact David Greenlee.

Where should my kids go during worship?

Children are not only welcome in worship—they’re an essential part of our community! We know that kids wiggle and make noise, and that’s okay. We offer several ways for children to participate meaningfully, whether for the whole service or just part of it:

Pray-Ground: A soft-space near the front of the sanctuary where young children can engage with worship in hands-on ways.
Young Worshipper’s Message: Each Sunday, just before the sermon, children are invited forward for a special word of grace and reflection created just for them.
Sunday School: On the first and third Sundays during the school year, children are invited to attend Sunday School following the Young Worshipper’s Message. They return to worship in time to participate in Communion with the congregation.
Communion Participation: Children are invited to gather around the altar during the communion liturgy and witness the sacred meal up close. Those who commune may receive the elements; others may receive a blessing.
Worship Leadership: Older children and families are encouraged to take part in worship leadership. Roles include acolyte, crucifer, guiding host, and scripture reader. Contact Kelly Apling for more information.
Busy Bags: Available at the entrance to the sanctuary, filled with quiet activities and worship-themed items.
Infant Care Room: A quiet enclosed space with a view into the sanctuary, comfy seating, and quiet toys, available for those who need a little break.

Families are welcome to move between spaces as needed. Children’s joyful presence in worship—whether laughing, crying, playing, or singing—is a gift to the whole community.

How do I watch worship online?

Services are livestreamed weekly on YouTube. Join a few minutes early to center yourself. Services are available to view later, too.

How do I get more involved?

There’s a place for you here! Start by filling out a Connection Card if you haven’t already—this helps us get to know you and follow up in meaningful ways.

If you're ready to dive in more deeply, our Involvement Form is the next step. You can indicate your interest in areas like serving in worship, greeting and ushering, serving with Neighbors in Need, joining a mission trip to Mexico, or exploring music, learning, or justice ministries.

Not sure where to begin? Let’s talk! We’d be glad to help you find a place that fits your gifts and passion.

How do I receive the weekly email or stay updated on events?

Trinity’s weekly email includes updates on worship, events, and opportunities to get involved. Sign up here or contact the church office to be added to the list.

Do I need to be Lutheran to participate?

Not at all. People from many backgrounds call Trinity home, whether the church side or one of our schools. Whether you’re deeply rooted in a different tradition, returning to church after time away, exploring faith for the first time, or simply looking for high quality childcare and preschool—you are welcome here.

Are there opportunities for youth and teens?

Yes! Middle and high school youth are invited into connection, leadership, service, and learning through gatherings, trips, and special events. Reach out to David Greenlee to learn more or get connected.

How does Trinity provide care during times of crisis or need?

Care is central to life at Trinity. Whether you're experiencing a personal crisis, walking through grief, or simply navigating a tough season, you're not alone. Our Care Team—including pastors and trained lay leaders—offers support through:

Critical Care for emergencies like accidents, hospitalizations, or end-of-life situations (available 24/7 via our emergency pastoral care line).
Counseling Care for life transitions, baptism, pre-marital counseling, or spiritual direction.
Short-Term Pastoral Care, including visits during illness, support through transitions, prayer follow-up, and communion for those unable to attend worship in person.
One-on-One Care from Stephen Ministers—trained listeners who walk alongside individuals during challenging times.

To receive care or learn more, call the church office at 425-778-2159. In a life-threatening emergency, always call 911.

How do I learn about weddings, baptisms, or membership?

Reach out to Carl Setzer to begin the conversation—whether you’re exploring baptism (for yourself or a child), preparing for marriage, or interested in becoming a member. Carl can help with logistics and connect you with a pastor.

Can I hold my event at Trinity?

Yes! Trinity’s flexible spaces are available for concerts, recitals, community gatherings, and meetings. Contact Don Boelter to learn more about availability, facility guidelines, rates, and setup options.

What is Trinity's Mission & Focus?

Trinity’s shared focus is building up and joining in God’s mission as one to nurture, love, and serve all. That calling is lived out through our core values of service, inclusion, meaningful relationships, communal worship and learning, and multi-generational ministry. These values shape the way we worship, learn, serve, and grow together as a community of faith.

What kind of church is Trinity?

Trinity Lutheran Church & Schools is a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), and a member of the Northwest Washington Synod. We are rooted in Christian tradition, committed to radical welcome, and have been a Reconciling in Christ (RIC) congregation since 2005, affirming LGBTQIA+ individuals and celebrating the full diversity of God’s people.

What does 'Reconciling in Christ' mean?

Being Reconciling in Christ means that we publicly and intentionally welcome people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, races, ethnicities, and backgrounds into full participation in our community. We work toward equity, justice, and inclusion in all areas of congregational life and leadership.

Where can I learn more about what Trinity believes?

Trinity’s beliefs are rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ and expressed through our commitments to inclusion, justice, and community. These beliefs come to life through six Core Ministries that guide our mission and help shape every aspect of our worship, learning, care, and outreach. Visit our What We’re About page to learn more.

What are Trinity’s Core Ministries?

Trinity’s life together is shaped by six Core Ministries, each rooted in our purpose and impact: to effect healing and transformation in the community. These ministries—Care, Service & Justice, Discipleship & Faith Formation, Worship & Hospitality, Outreach & Community Engagement, and Schools—guide how we live out our faith in daily life.

What’s the difference between the Preschool and the Child Development Center (CDC)?

Both schools offer nurturing, high-quality early childhood education, but they serve different needs:

Trinity Lutheran Preschool provides part-day classes during the school year for children age 3 (by December) through Pre-K. Classes are three hours long and designed to foster creativity, curiosity, and early literacy in a fun, play-based environment.
Trinity Lutheran Child Development Center (CDC) offers full-day, year-round, licensed childcare for children from 6 weeks through Pre-K. In the summer, school-age children are also welcome. The CDC focuses on age-appropriate learning and social development grounded in developmentally appropriate practice.

How do I schedule a tour?

We’d love to show you around! Contact the appropriate program director directly to ask questions or set up a visit:

Preschool: Joelle Dudak – preschool@tlcs.church | 425-771-8433
CDC: Nanette Erban – cdc@tlcs.church | 425-771-5393

Is there financial assistance for childcare or preschool?

Trinity is committed to making early childhood education accessible. Limited financial assistance may be available for qualifying families. Contact the program director for more information.

New Here? Welcome!

Worship at Trinity

Trinity Preschool

Three-hour classes (9 AM - Noon) during the school year for ages 3 through Pre-K. Engaging curiosity and imagination in a literacy-rich environment that prepares children for Kindergarten.

Trinity Child Development Center

Year-round, full day, licensed childcare for children 6 weeks to Pre-K, plus summer programs for school-age kids. Hands-on, developmentally appropriate activities foster growth and Kindergarten readiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's going on here?

Where is Trinity Located?

Where should I park?

When are the main office’s hours?

What is being built on Trinity’s property?

Can I donate items to support the community?

How can I give to support Trinity’s mission?

​How do I contact a pastor?

Join Trinity's Mailing List

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Get in Touch

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Trinity is a Reconciling In Christ Congregation

reconcilingworks.org

Trinity
Preschool

Trinity Child
Development Center

How do I contact a pastor?

Trinity is a Reconciling
In Christ Congregation