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OUR HISTORY EXPLORE ABOUT TRINITY WHAT WE BELIEVE STAFF MEMBERSHIP LIFE EVENTS CONTACT The History of Trinity Lutheran Church Our Beginnings Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church of Watertown originated as Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Götaholm Congregation in 1858 with 23 charter members. They purchased three acres of land on the shore of Swede Lake, just south of town, for $10 per acre. Not long after, the congregation moved to Watertown to a site in the middle of our current cemetery, and then moved to its present location in 1890. In 1948, funds for a new organ were raised as the church celebrated its 90th Anniversary. But on Monday, June 7, tragic news flashed over the wires... "Götaholm destroyed by fire". Smoke and fire poured out of the bell tower like a chimney, and eventually the tower collapsed. When the fire was finally extinguished, what remained of the altar and the bell itself were found in the smoldering rubble in the church basement. The Parish Hall that sat across the street served as a meeting place for all activities, including services, and ground breaking was held on August 1, 1948. A general contractor was hired for the project and construction workers who had been hired were housed in the homes of church members during construction. Volunteers also spent many hours a day working to rebuild the church building. The name change to Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church was ratified at the annual meeting of 1949. The last Swedish service was held on January 1, 1949, marking the end of an era. This was no longer a Swedish church, but the Church of the Lord, extending the call and invitation to worship to all nationalities. The cornerstone of the new church was laid on May 8, 1949 and by Christmas of that year, the congregation was worshiping in the new sanctuary, only 19 months after the disastrous fire. And on February 5, 1950, the new organ was finally dedicated. Of course, the old church building and the devotion of the people who rebuilt it will not be forgotten. A special reminder of the former building can be found in the cross, candelabras, vases and book rest that we still use on our altar today. These items were made from the metal bell that was in the church at the time of the fire. Over the years, additions have been added to the building, including an Education Wing and Chapel in the 1970s. The chapel was dedicated in 1984 as Nylunda Chapel, in honor of another Swedish settlement church on nearby Lake Mary. When Nylunda Evangelical Lutheran Church closed, its congregation donated their church furnishings to Trinity, where they were used faithfully in our chapel for many years. Most recently, in 2014, our congregation completed an expansion of our current facility which included an elevator, new office space, air conditioning, and a new gathering hall, in order to enable the congregation to move forward In the light of Christ. Our Past Mission When Götaholm/Trinity first began, they helped start new churches in the area, such as congregations at Moores Prairie, Buffalo, Waverly, Maple Plain, Lyndale, and Nylunda. More recently, in May of 1969, the congregation helped start Faith Lutheran Church in Waconia. Through its history, Trinity has not only served to start mission churches but has had several pastors who have served as missionaries throughout the world. Pastors have arrived at Trinity after serving in Nepal, Tanzania, and Japan. In addition, fifteen sons or daughters of the congregation have gone on to become Lutheran pastors. And the mission of the church is not relegated only to previous pastors. Most notable is Ethel Akins from Trinity who served in China and Taiwan from 1921 until her death in 1980. In the mid to late 1990s, youth trips to Queen Louise Home for Children in St. Croix were organized for the purpose of doing service projects, mostly painting and light maintenance, although they also did arts and crafts and played games with the children at the orphanage as well. In the years to follow, Trinity also organized several medical mission trips to Jamaica. To this day, Trinity supports both local and global outreach efforts through the work of the Evangelical Church in America. Our Current Mission As Trinity moves forward, we continue to explore new ways that we can reach out with the good news of new life in Jesus Christ, both locally and globally.

BOOK CLUB EXPLORE ADULT MINISTRY BIBLE STUDIES MINISTRIES SMALL GROUPS Trinity Book Club The Trinity Book Club gathers to discuss books that are chosen from suggestions by the group. New readers are always welcome. All are invited to join us for fellowship and engaging conversation each month. Email Diane Johnson to be added to the Trinity Book Club email list for notifications on upcoming books and meeting locations. Check out our upcoming book selections: July Date: Monday, July 11, 6:30 pm Book: The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel August Date: Monday, August 1, 6:30 pm Book: Beautiful Country by Qian Julie Wang September Date: Monday, September 12, 6:30 pm Book: The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah October Date: Monday, October 2, 6:30 pm Book: Chasing Fireflies by Charles Martin November Date: Monday, November 7, 6:30 pm Book: State of Wonder by Ann Patchett December Date: Monday, December 5, 6:30 pm Book: The Winners by Fredrik Backman

CAPITAL CAMPAIGN EXPLORE WAYS TO GIVE GIVE ONLINE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN TRINITY FOUNDATION MISSION SUPPORT Keep Shining Beyond the Campaign Over the past fifteen years, Trinity has faithfully undertaken three capital campaigns that led to the construction of our building addition and renewed energy for our ministries. In 2024, we reached a major milestone worth celebrating: Trinity has completely paid off the debt for our building addition. What an incredible accomplishment made possible by the generosity, commitment, and shared vision of this congregation. As we celebrate this achievement, we also look ahead with gratitude and hope. We encourage the congregation to continue their generous support of the Building Improvement Fund, just as they have in the past. Your gifts ensure that Trinity remains a safe, welcoming, and functional space for our congregation and the wider community. This continued support is not only an investment in our building, but in our shared mission to serve, grow, and uplift others. Thank you for your faithful generosity. Gifts can be given online or by contacting Financial Secretary, Gail Cassidy at gcassidy@trin.org or 952-955-1891. GIVE ONLINE Capital Campaign History In 2013, Trinity embarked on a three-year capital campaign called, “In Christ, New Light”. This campaign raised over $681,000 and launched the building addition that included a new elevator, new gathering hall, new offices, better handicapped accessibility, and air conditioning for the entire facility. In 2016, Trinity engaged in another three-year capital campaign called, “Shine Where You Are” to continue debt reduction on the building addition. This campaign raised over $667,000, almost as much as the first campaign! Finally, in 2019, Trinity held a third campaign which raised over $382,000 under the theme, "Shine On and Share God's Light!" Through all of these campaigns, Trinity took a leap of faith in building a facility that would help us reach our goals of becoming a new kind of church that would not only help members connect their faith with their every day lives, but would also help the congregation reach out to the community in stronger ways.

LENT & EASTER EXPLORE WORSHIP DETAILS ONLINE WORSHIP MUSIC BULLETINS WORSHIP VOLUNTEERS Lent at Trinity During Lent, Trinity will be using a series from Church Anew. The series theme is Unbound: Longing for Wholeness . Together we'll explore the idea of the opposite of being bound is being whole. Our world is filled with things that hold us captive. These things that bind us prevent us from living the whole, abundant life that God has promised us. Through the stories of regular people encountering Jesus, and being drawn to the wholeness that Jesus provides, we can learn about our own longings and be drawn into wholeness. Worship Ash Wednes day Wednesday, February 18 Worship at 7:00 pm ~ Onsite & Online The Season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. We’ll gather to hear a word of hope and peace, even as we are reminded of our limited lifespan here on earth: “Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” Lenten Midweek Services Wednesdays, February 25, March 4, 11, 18, 25 Light meal from 5:30 - 6:30 pm Worship at 7:00 pm ~ Onsite & Online We will be gathering each Wednesday evening for prayer, music, and a message from one of our faithful Trinity members on the theme of "Unbound: Longing for Wholeness. Join us for these services each week and feel free to come early for a light meal served by our Confirmation students in the Fellowship Hall. Holy Week Palm Sunday, March 29 9:00 am Worship ~ Onsite & Online Maundy Thursday, April 2 7:00 pm Worship ~ Onsite & Online Good Friday, April 3 7:00 pm Worship ~ Onsite & Online Easter Sunday, April 5 9:00 am Worship ~ Online 9:00 & 10:30 am Worship ~ Onsite Prayer Practices for Lent Contemplative Practices for Lent Through the Church Anew theme, Unbound: Longing for Wholeness , you are invited to explore a contemplative practice for Lent. Written by former Trinity member Rev. Susan Engholm, this unique resource guide offers weekly reflections and prayer practices. Try out this meaningful opportunity to slow down, create space, and discover where God is leading you. Booklets will be availalbe in the narthex and the Welcome Center or you can downloaded a digital version by clicking the button below. 2026 LENT PRAYER PRACTICES Events Palm Sunday Continental Breakfast Sunday, March 29 10:00 - 11:00 am Join us for a Continental Breakfast on Palm Sunday, March 29 in the Fellowship Hall as we shout “Hosanna!” and launch into Holy Week. Easter Egg Hunt Palm Sunday, March 29 10:00 am Families are invited to grab your baskets and head to Trinity to search for treat-filled eggs that remind us of the new life we receive in Christ. Meet in the Trinity parking lot for a short message before the big hunt! Drive Thru Prayers Monday - Friday, March 30-April 3 7:30 - 8:30 am During Holy Week, Trinity will be offering prayers and free coffee to morning commuters driving by the church. All are invited to stop by the Trinity parking lot for a cup of coffee and a prayer to start your day.

EMPLOYMENT EXPLORE ABOUT TRINITY WHAT WE BELIEVE STAFF & COUNCIL MEMBERSHIP LIFE EVENTS CONTACT Article Title Rio et rem autat et dia et eosaecuptate sim nobistiandel maiore dolor as secus in et illam repudis veniti omnihillam qui omnia volupta tincte ipsae ni ne ea id que nimaiorem. Et harchil invenih iliquae rferum quunt molum ius il eostiurent et volorerio tessequodi occum ea quaecus, volum saniae essitisti aut volupta tiisiti busdam abo. Nempor minci non res arumet aut que non explam qui aut esequam quis sit ant fugitate et ant que dites mi, quam re et quae core omnis velit volest, accatem num quo expe voloriberi re et quaspit, comnis cus am faccusam quatus. Explandisti accatiunt. Ipsam, omnistintum dipsum aut aliquaecum latiore nduntio quo modiossimus, eaquatis sequae venist, nemodipit volupta vit, tendaeri re, nusamusaped que ne net eicimin iendis mossi di ut que ex et, vidunture num et ium vollo venda dici doluptio dolupient, sus, sitia doluptatat quati voles solorehenit que net am cum fugias evella pratemporum iur?

MEMBERSHIP EXPLORE ABOUT TRINITY WHAT WE BELIEVE STAFF MEMBERSHIP LIFE EVENTS CONTACT Becoming a Member of Trinity We are glad that you are interested in being a member of our faith community. Although membership is not necessary to participate in the life of the congregation, including worship, communion, children’s ministry, and other activities, it is a wonderful way to feel more connected to and invested in the life of the church here at Trinity. Our membership process meets you wherever you are on your faith journey, connects you with the community of Trinity, and helps you find ways to live faithfully and change lives in our community. Simply follow these steps toward church membership at Trinity. Step 1: Learn about Trinity Participate in worship, either onsite or online Visit with people you know wh o are members Explore the Trinity website for the many ways you can connect with others Step 2: Learn about what it means to be a member Visit with a church council member or any congregational member Visit with the pastor or a staff member Learn more about the details of participating in the life of the congregation through worship, learning, serving, giving, and inviting Step 3: Fill out a form and become a member Complete a Membership Form either online or by downloading a printed copy below. Once we receive your completed form, we will contact you about welcoming you "officially" into the congregation! ONLINE MEMBERSHIP FORM DOWNLOAD FORM

EASTER GARDEN EXPLORE ADULT MINISTRY BIBLE STUDIES MINISTRIES SMALL GROUPS Easter Garden Sale Order deadline: March 22 You can purchase a plant from the Trinity Easter Garden Sale to adorn our altar on Easter morning and then enjoy it at home all season long! Plants will be available for pick up following our Easter Sunday worship services on April 5. Easter Lily: $15 Tulips: $14 Hyacinths: $14 Daffodils: $14 Chrysanthemums: $16 Geraniums: $16 Begonias: $17 Hydrangea : $26 Boston Fern Hanging Basket: $32 ORDER ONLINE DOWNLOAD ORDER FORM Paper order forms are also available at the Trinity Welcome Center near the church office. Drop off order form and payment to the church office by March 22.

YOUTH CANOE TRIP EXPLORE YOUTH MINISTRY CONFIRMATION YOUTH GROUP BWCA CANOE TRIP SCHOLARSHIPS Boundary Waters Youth Canoe Trip For many years, Trinity has had a tradition of taking High School Youth to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in northern Minnesota every summer. These annual trips are led by competent adults and are designed to allow youth to experience the wild places of the earth. The ultimate goal is to help them open their hearts to God's great, green creation, as well as learn about the importance of caring for God's good earth when they return back home! The Boundary Waters youth canoe trip details and registration are typically available each spring. Check back here for more information as summer draws near.

BAPTISM EXPLORE CHILDREN'S MINISTRY BAPTISM SUNDAY SCHOOL VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL FIRST COMMUNION Baptism By water and the Holy Spirit we are reborn children of God. In baptism, God brings the newly baptized into a new relationship with God. That person then becomes part of God’s story of bringing light, life, and love to the whole world. Since baptism brings the newly baptized into the fellowship of the Church, baptisms usually take place at one of the regular worship services of the congregation. We baptize people of all ages at Trinity, although most of our baptisms are for infants. In addition to parents being involved, sponsors are also named who take on the role of supporting the baptized person in the years to come. Church membership of the parents is not required for a child to be baptized at Trinity. There is no fee for baptisms to the congregation or the pastor. To arrange for a baptism, please contact the church office at 952-955-1891 or trinityoffice@trin.org . Cradle Roll – Birth to 3 years old As soon as children are baptized at Trinity, they are placed on our "Cradle Roll" and begin to receive support from the very beginning as a part of our congregation's faith formation ministry. Specifically, this means that they begin receiving monthly mailings sent directly to their home that contains stories, prayers, and other support so that the whole family can grow in their faith together.

YOUTH GROUP EXPLORE YOUTH MINISTRY CONFIRMATION YOUTH GROUP SCHOLARSHIPS High School Youth Group Grades 9 - 12 Trinity High School students in Grades 9-12 are invited to attend Youth Group events. This is a great way to hang out with friends, build relationships and see the many ways God is at work in our lives. Students can also be a part of planning new activities as the year rolls on. Feel free to invite your non-Trinity friends as well! Upcoming & Ongoing Events Youth Group Trip to Valleyfair Friday, June 13 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Trinity's Youth Group is going to Valleyfair! Youth in grades 6th-12th (2024-2025 school year) and friends are invited to come along. Transportation will be provided. Cost is $30 per participant. Register today and get ready for a day of fun at Valleyfair! Questions? Please contact Mary Gallus at maryrgallus@live.com . SIGN UP FOR VALLEYFAIR Fellowship of Christian Athletes Breakfast Third Wednesday of the Month (during the school year) 7:00 am Trinity hosts the local chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) for a time of faith and fellowship before school once a month. FCA is a High School organization that focuses on serving communities by engaging, equipping and empowering athletes through the transforming power of the gospel. They are committed to Jesus Christ and His Word through Integrity, Serving, Teamwork and Excellence. High school youth from all area churches are invited. Check out our UPCOMING EVENTS page for other Youth Group events and activities. Questions about Youth Ministry? Contact the church office at trinityoffice@trin.org .

PASTORAL TRANSITION EXPLORE ABOUT TRINITY WHAT WE BELIEVE STAFF MEMBERSHIP LIFE EVENTS CONTACT Trinity's Pastoral Transition Welcome to our pastoral transition page. Trinity Lutheran Church is currently in a season of discernment as we seek a new permanent pastor to lead our congregation. We are walking this path in close partnership with the Minneapolis Area Synod of the ELCA. Central to this process is our Ministry Site Profile (MSP)—a comprehensive "roadmap" that defines who we are today and articulates our vision for the future. This essential document serves as our primary introduction to the Synod and to the candidates who may one day call Trinity home. Trinity Lutheran Church MSP Summary Call Committee Corner The Call Committee Corner serves as a dedicated space for the committee to provide the congregation with regular updates throughout the process of calling a new pastor. June 2026 Update: The Call Committee is currently in a season of discernment and have begun the process of gathering and reviewing nominations for pastoral candidates. We are thankful to everyone who has submitted nominations and appreciate the thoughtful participation and support from the congregation. We are also grateful for the guidance and partnership of the Synod as we move through this important process together. Please continue to keep the Call Committee, our congregation, and future candidates in your prayers as we seek God’s wisdom and direction in the weeks ahead. May 2026 Update: The Call Committee met with Pastor Jen Collins recently to review the process for calling a new pastor. The Minneapolis Area Synod is currently working to match our Ministry Site Profile (MSP) with potential pastoral candidates. We have concluded the nomination process and are moving into the next phase of discernment. We ask for your continued prayers, patience, and support as we move forward together in this season of transition. Trinity Call Committee Rachel Blackketter Terri Gens Tom Lindberg Richard Murray Gina Phearman Jake Rosholt Have questions? If you have thoughts or questions regarding the pastoral transition, please reach out to the church office.

EASTER GARDEN Online Order Form Order deadline: March 22 Click on an image below for more details about each item. Online payment with Credit/Debit card is required with this order form. If you would prefer to pay with cash or check, please download the order form on the main Easter Garden page and turn it in to the church office with your payment. < MAIN EASTER GARDEN PAGE We don’t have any products to show here right now.