What if church didn’t start with a sermon—but with a song, a smile, and a circle of ukuleles?
That’s exactly what’s happening every Wednesday at Trinity United Methodist Church in Bowling Green, Ohio. In the Sunday School room just steps from the sanctuary, joyful music fills the air as children, adults, and retirees gather for Trinity Strings of Faith—a Fresh Expression of church that builds community and shares the Gospel through song, fellowship, and faith.
“We came together with open hearts, ready to learn and grow… discovering the joy of making lovely sounds with our instruments.”
This ministry isn’t flashy or complicated. It’s beautifully simple, deeply relational, and completely replicable. And it’s striking a chord with its community in ways few traditional programs can.
It All Started with a Strum
The Trinity Strings of Faith began in March 2024, sparked by a small group of beginners eager to worship in a new way. Peer-led by church member Susan Montgomery, the group learned beginner-friendly chords and strumming patterns using well-loved hymns, carols, and spirituals.
This wasn’t just about music—it was a response to something deeper. Leaders at Trinity UMC noticed a growing number of people—especially older adults, spiritual seekers, and newcomers to the area—longing for a place to belong. Not necessarily a worship service, but a safe, joyful community where they could explore faith and connection.
Enter: the ukulele.
“The ukulele is a small but mighty instrument that brings people together through the joy of music.”
Meeting Real Needs in a Playful, Powerful Way
Bowling Green is a vibrant town with a diverse population—college students, young families, retirees, and those seeking meaning in an ever-busier world. And while traditional church models remain important, many people need different on-ramps to spiritual community.
Trinity Strings of Faith offers exactly that. Participants don’t need musical experience or church backgrounds. They just need curiosity, community, and a bit of courage to show up. Some arrive at 12:30 PM for extra beginner support. Others join at 1:30 for the main session. Everyone is welcomed with warmth and laughter.
“This is a great time of fellowship, fun, and laughter!”
Thanks to a $1,000 GO Grant from Bishop Jung and the West Ohio Conference of the United Methodist Church, the group now provides ukuleles in different sizes, folding music stands, and special-topic workshops. No one is turned away for lack of funds or experience.
“This grant will allow them to remove cost barriers and help everyone feel welcome and equipped to participate.”
And the music doesn’t stay in the church walls. The group has already begun performing at church services and community outreach events, becoming a living example of how worship can move beyond the sanctuary.
In a world hungry for connection and authenticity, Trinity Strings of Faith reminds us that church can be simple, joyful, and deeply relational. By meeting people where they are—with music, laughter, and love—this Fresh Expression is creating space for spiritual growth and genuine community. It’s a model any church can try, no matter the size or budget. Sometimes, all it takes is a few chords, an open door, and the courage to try something new.
Snapshot of a Fresh Expression of Church
What is the Fresh Expression called?
Trinity Strings of Faith
Where is it?
Bowling Green, OH
Who is it for?
Trinity Strings of Faith is for anyone seeking community, creativity, and connection—whether or not they’ve ever been to church or picked up an instrument. Open to all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels, it’s a welcoming space where faith and fellowship come to life through music.
What do they do?
Trinity Strings of Faith gathers weekly to learn and play well-loved Christian songs on the ukulele, building confidence, community, and joy through music. They share their gifts by performing at worship services and outreach events, using music as a bridge to faith and connection.
Who is the Pioneer?
Susan Montgomery, a dedicated church member who guides the group with encouragement, musical support, and a passion for building community through worship and creativity.
Where can I learn more?
