When Tom Board first became a Christian, Trinity Wilmette invited him not only to belong, but to grow. Bible study and adult education opportunities turned his casual faith into a deeper trust in God. Today, Tom helps others grow in their faith. He reminds us that Trinity Wilmette changes lives by nurturing faith at every stage. Your generosity ensures that our church continues to foster spiritual growth for others who are yearning for meaning.
Take a moment to read Tom’s story, and then use your generosity to transform lives.
Grace and peace,
~Brian C. Smith
Senior Pastor
A Personal Reflection by Tom Board
About six weeks after my baptism at Trinity in 1995, I was asked to follow up weekly with visitors to the church and shepherd those interested to membership. As a new Christian, I loved the opportunity to meet those seeking God and describe to them life at Trinity and in the Methodist Church.
But this experience also showed me that I was not well-schooled in the Christian faith. I was confident answering questions about John Wesley, but not so about Jesus. But I was fortunate that Trinity has a strong program of adult Christian education and faith development. I took the plunge and committed to finding deeper faith.
Within just a few years, I had participated in several group studies of the Bible and, within its books, learned of the story of God’s plan of salvation for all people and Creation. This profound discovery of God’s love, grace, and the Good News of Jesus, transformed my casual Christianity into a confident and steadfast power both against the troubles I face, and as bedrock for my resolute hope in God’s ultimate victory over all injustice. My life is buoyed and rejoices in God’s forgiveness, mercy, and grace.
Since those early days, I have both continued my pursuit of the Christian faith and I have become a leader of group studies myself. I relish the opportunity to study together with others and eagerly anticipate the moment when a person discovers a new facet of our amazing God who loves us and yearns to draw us closer. We Christians should never stop learning about God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.
I have received boundless grace through Trinity, and I feel deeply that our church can bring comfort and hope to everyone who comes through its doors. That is the heart of my support for our church.
