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NORTON - A major celebration is in store this weekend for members of Trinitarian Congregational Church.

The congregation will mark its 175-year history during Sunday's 10 a.m. service and at a following luncheon.

"It'll be a real birthday celebration," said member Dorothy Freeman, who organized the festivities.

Members and invited guests will first attend the worship service that will recognize the day, then will gather in Fellowship Hall for a potluck brunch amidst balloons and decorations, and a giant birthday cake for dessert.

"We are making it festive," Freeman said. Invited guests include Wheaton College President Ronald Crutcher, Norton selectmen, and officers of the town's historical society.

They will join in the commemoration of a church whose roots date back to the 1800s. The Trinitarian congregation was organized on March 7, 1832, when its members separated from the Unitarian Congregational Church.

The original meetinghouse was built in 1833, and the steeple was added in 1849.

A major renovation was undertaken in 1882, and that structure served the congregation until the 1960s, when the building was expanded to add new classrooms, a pastor's study, a dining area and parlor, and a fellowship hall.

Although Trinitarian's 175th year began in March 2007, the congregation decided to wait until the conclusion of the year to celebrate the birthday.

In addition to Sunday's events, the congregation is also selling commemorative plates made locally and selling at the church office for $15.

A member of the United Church of Christ denomination, Trinitarian Congregational Church has a vision statement that says its purpose is to build relationships through fellowship, provide Christian education and youth programs, support missions locally and abroad, and become a vibrant part of the community.

The church is located on Route 123 at the corner of Pine Street near the Wheaton College campus.