The Trinity United Methodist
Church began in 1873. It began as a part of the Gilbert Academy (now
known as Sager-Brown). At first, services were held in the school
house of the Academy. Aided by Dr. Godman, the president of Gilbert
Academy, finances were raised to build a church in 1882. The last
renovation of the original building occurred in 1935.
By the 1960's, it was evident
that a new building was needed and a fund was started for a new church.
Under the guidance of Rev. Louis Streams, a new church was planned.
Although the ground-breaking occurred under his pastorate, the church was
completed when Rev. Roger D. Lathan was pastor in 1974. A new organ
and pews were purchased. The first service in the new church was
Thanksgiving Sunday, November 24, 1974. The Consecration Service
was held exactly one month later.
When Rev. Henry Gage arrived
in 1976, he urged the congregation to pay off the church debt as soon as
possible. Through the inspired giving of the members, the last note
was paid off at the end of 1977. The dedication service was held
3 years later, on November 23, 1980.
In 1982, a bell tower and prayer
room were donated by the Gibbs family. For years, the bell from the
old church had sat in the hall of the church. It was now properly
returned to a bell tower.
Source: Trinity’s 120th Homecoming Anniversary Book |
