History

How Trinity Began

The beginnings of Trinity Church can be traced to the spring of 1965 when 17 people, with the backing of the Presbytery of Southwest Florida, met at the Venice Garden's Recreational Center. They were encouraged to become a "mission church" under the leadership of The Reverend William Arnot.

On April 24, 1966, this mission outreach formally became an organized congregation of the United Presbyterian Church, USA. With Reverend Arnot as the organizing pastor, twelve individuals became charter members.

In 1967, The Reverand Robert Mills became the first installed pastor. The next year, with the assistance of the Southwest Florida Presbytery, six and one half acres of land was purchased at the present site, 4365 State Road 776, Venice, FL. The first church building was dedicated on March 22, 1970.

The Reverend John G. Parrett was called as the second installed pastor in June, 1973. Pastor John, his wife Evelyn, and their three children came from Astabula, Ohio. Reverend Parrett began a prosperous ministry that extended over 21 years, three subsequent building expansions, and a six-fold increase in membership. Reverend Parrett retired on April 23, 1994 and was named Pastor Emeritus by the congregation.

A new chapter in the life of Trinity started on March 31, 1996. The Reverend Dr. Charles J. Wiggins was called as the third installed pastor. A native of suburban Philadephia, "Pastor Chuck" as he has come to be known, came from metro NYC, where he had been pastor of the Westminister Presbyterian Church in Berkeley Heights, New Jersey. Under his leadership, Trinity has seen an increase in educational programs, Mission Giving, Stephen Ministry Outreach, and an active Community Assistance Ministry.

In 2004, Trinity Presbyterian underwent its fifth building expansion program which included an educational wing and The Community Life Center. The $2.5 million project was completed and dedicated in 2005.

A Contemporary service was added to the Sunday morning worship schedule in 2010. Christ-centered, Biblically based, Spirit-led Trinity continues to grow.