THE HISTORY

The Development of a Landmark

It all began with a small group of Germans who met on March 4, 1882, to discuss the possibility of organizing a Christian congregation in the Utica area.  It was their desire that God’s grace be preached to the people of this community.  By His grace that desire has been carried forward for 128 years by 22 pastors, 121 day school teachers, a dedicated staff of lay people who have served in many of the different capacities in the many fine organizations and programs that are all part of the Christ-centered, vibrant ministry of Trinity’s congregation.

In 1882, 24 members signed pledges to purchase the site located on Van Dyke and Grant Place (now Deshon Street) in order to build a church and a temporary school.  On August 20, 1882, that building was completed and dedicated to the glory of God.

That small group of hardy Christians grew, and in 1905 a new brick church, that seated 450 worshipers, was built.  By 1932, 50 years after its humble beginnings, Trinity had grown to more than 600 souls and added two school buildings.

By 1957, the congregation numbers had again risen to 1,900 souls.  As the church grew, so did the school, and expansion become necessary.  In 1955, additional classrooms were added and in 1956, and a beautiful building with a seating capacity of 700 was dedicated to the glory of God.

During the years 1957 to 1982, God again blessed Trinity with fantastic growth.  The addition of seven classrooms, remodeling of six others, construction of a research center and multi-purpose room were necessary to serve the growing needs of our thriving day school program.  Confirmed membership had reached over 2,300 by 1981.

In June 1987 the total soul count reached 3,800, and it was again necessary to grow and expand the facilities.  This was the most recent renovation and addition to Trinity. This building project included the expansion of nave seating along with the renovation of the church interior and chancel area.  A new spacious foyer, narthex, and atrium were also added to the church building.  The new two story classroom wing added much needed centralized offices for the staff as well as twelve new classrooms, and a band and choir practice area.

Now with Trinity’s congregation numbering over 4,000, all this change is evidence of the Lord’s hand in blessing Trinity in its 127 years of existence.