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.

FOUNDATION EXPLORE WAYS TO GIVE GIVE ONLINE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN TRINITY FOUNDATION MISSION SUPPORT Trinity Foundation The Trinity Lutheran Church Foundation manages a fund that is used to award annual scholarships to High School graduates who are about to continue their formal education on a college and university level. These scholarships range $300 to $1,000, depending on the monies available and the number of students that apply. The funds from the foundation are also used to help with special projects that the church wants to take on that are above and beyond our annual budget.

SCHOLARSHIPS EXPLORE YOUTH MINISTRY CONFIRMATION YOUTH GROUP SCHOLARSHIPS Trinity College Scholarships Each year, the Trinity Lutheran Church Foundation offers several college scholarship opportunities to Trinity’s graduating seniors. DOWNLOAD 2026 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION Return your completed application to the Trinity Lutheran Church office by May 1, 2026. Paper copies can be dropped off during office hours or you can submit your application as a Google Doc (preferred) to trinityoffice@trin.org . Note: You will receive email verification upon receipt of your application. If you do not receive an email after a day or two, please contact the church office to make sure your application was received. The Trinity Foundation Scholarship The Trinity Foundation awards one or more graduating seniors this scholarship based on academic accomplishments, community service, and a personal essay about his/her experience at Trinity Lutheran Church and what they have learned that will help them be successful in the future. Trinity Preschool Scholarship Trinity Preschool was a beloved addition of Trinity Lutheran Church from 1975 to 2018. This scholarship awards a current Trinity Lutheran Church member that is graduating from high school and furthering their education at a post secondary college, particularly to study in the field of education/teaching. Elsie Sandquist Memorial Music Scholarship In memory of Elsie Sandquist, Trinity Lutheran Church's Organist/Pianist from 1964-2001, this scholarship was created to financially help a current Trinity member that is graduating from high school and furthering their education at a post secondary college. The recipient will have a love for music. Bergstrom Family Memorial Scholarship This scholarship is given to one or more Trinity seniors to perpetuate the memory of the Bergstrom family and commend involvement in our church and community. Frank Kaduk Memorial Scholarship The Frank Kaduk Scholarship is given to perpetuate the memory of Frank Kaduk, who was active in the faith formation of children at Trinity through teaching, enthusiastic support, and meaningful children’s messages. This scholarship will be given to a student who has shown an active interest in Trinity over the years. Preference will be given to those interested in pursuing a degree in education. C. P. Thompson Scholarship The C. P. Thompson Scholarship is given to assist a student who is pursuing a career in ministry and to commend involvement in the Trinity Lutheran Church and the community. This scholarship may be given to an eligible student who plans to pursue a career in Christian ministry.

ADULT MINISTRY EXPLORE ADULT MINISTRY BIBLE STUDIES MINISTRIES SMALL GROUPS Trinity Ministries for Adults Adult Ministries at Trinity Lutheran Church offer opportunities to gather together for learning, service, outreach, prayer, and fellowship. As we continue to learn what God's grace and forgiveness means in each of our lives, these opportunities help us to strengthen our relationship with God, foster our relationships with each other and create a feeling of belonging and connection with those we share these moments with. Check out our UPCOMING EVENTS page for more details on these opportunities.

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

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 .

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL EXPLORE CHILDREN'S MINISTRY BAPTISM SUNDAY SCHOOL VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL FIRST COMMUNION Vacation Bible School 3 years old – 4th grade Each summer, kids are invited to a fun-filled week of Vacation Bible School at Trinity Lutheran Church. Through music, games, snacks, Bible stories, science explorations and discussion, kids will grow in their relationship with God. VBS teaches kids about God in a way that they will understand. They will have fun, feel safe, build relationships with others, and learn that God loves them. Thanks for a great week of VBS this summer! See you again in Summer 2027 for Vacation Bible School at Trinity! Questions about Vacation Bible School? Contact Children's Ministry Coordinator, Chelsea Farniok at cfarniok@trin.org .

MUSIC EXPLORE WORSHIP DETAILS ONLINE WORSHIP MUSIC BULLETINS WORSHIP VOLUNTEERS Worship Music Trinity's worship music is thoughtfully considered to reflect the church season and biblical theme each week. A variety of choirs, vocalists and worship bands present special music throughout the month. Special ensembles are also used throughout the year and for special occasions. We encourage anyone with an interest in sharing your gifts of music during worship to be a part of Trinity's music ministry. Worship Choir For teens through adults Worship Choir will sing during worship several times throughout the year. Rehearsals will take place for 3 to 4 Wednesdays before any given singing commitment. Handbell Choir For teens through adults Handbell Choir will play during worship occasionally throughout the year and rehearse as needed prior to those dates. Worship Bands For teens through adults Worship Bands lead worship on one Sunday of the month. Sunday School Singers All children who participate in Sunday School learn music as a part of their faith formation experience. Periodically they share their gifts at worship on Sunday mornings. Would you like to share your musical gifts? If you are interested in participating in any of the choirs, bands or ensembles, please contact Hannah Rosholt, Music Ministry Coordinator at rhosholt@trin.org or call the church office at 952-955-1891.

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.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL EXPLORE CHILDREN'S MINISTRY BAPTISM SUNDAY SCHOOL VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL FIRST COMMUNION Vacation Bible School 3 years old – 4th grade June 15 - 18, 2026 5:30 - 7:30 pm Optional Family Dinner: 5:00 - 5:30 pm VBS ONLINE REGISTRATION This summer, kids are invited to a fun-filled week of Vacation Bible School at Trinity Lutheran Church. Join us for Rainforest Falls VBS, where we will explore the nature of God—discovering who God is and how much he loves us! E ach evening will include a Bible story, singing, prayer, games, snacks, explorations, friendships, and more! Who: Children who are 3 years old (by 9/1/2025) - Grade 4 (2025-2026 school year) Where: Trinity Lutheran Church When: Monday, June 15 - Thursday, June 18, 2026 Time: 5:30 - 7:30 pm (Optional Family Dinner: 5:00 – 5:30 pm) Cost: $20 per child, $50 max/family (payment to Trinity Lutheran Church) Registration Deadline: Please register by June 1. To guarantee a VBS T-shirt, register by May 1! Registration & Payment Options You can register for VBS online (click the button above). You have the option to pay online after registration via Trinity's secure online giving site or, if you prefer, you can pay by cash or check to the church office at your convenience. Volunteer Opportunities There are many opportunities to help out with VBS. We'll need volunteers to help prep items before VBS as well as lots of helpers during the event itself. Adults and youth in 5th Grade and older are invited to volunteer. Sign up to be a VBS volunteer by emailing Chelsea Farniok at cfarniok@trin.org . Questions about Vacation Bible School? Contact Children's Ministry Coordinator, Chelsea Farniok at cfarniok@trin.org .

CALENDAR See our UPCOMING EVENTS page for specific event descriptions. You are seconds away from getting this done. 🤩 
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MEMBERSHIP FORM Household Information Name of person completing the form Email for form confirmation Address City / State / Zip Code Main Phone Number of adults joining Trinity Number of children joining Trinity Adult(s) joining Trinity Adult #1: Name Preferred Name Maiden Name (if applicable) Adult #1: Gender ... Adult #1: Birthdate Adult #1: Place of Birth Adult #1: Marital Status ... If Married, Wedding Date Wedding Congregation Adult #1: Last Church Affiliation ... If "Other" to Last Church Affiliation Church Transferring From Adult #1: Baptized ... Baptism Date Baptism Congregation Adult #1: Confirmed ... Confirmation Date Confirmation Congregation Adult #1: Email I would like to receive Trinity's email updates. * Yes No Cell Phone Adult #2: Name Preferred Name Maiden Name (if applicable) Adult #2: Gender ... Adult #2: Birthdate Adult #2: Place of Birth Adult #1: Marital Status ... If Married, Wedding Date Wedding Congregation Adult #2: Last Church Affiliation ... If "Other" to Last Church Affiliation Church Transferring From Adult #2: Baptized ... Baptism Date Baptism Congregation Adult #2: Confirmed ... Confirmation Date Confirmation Congregation Adult #2: Email I would like to receive Trinity's email updates. Yes No Cell Phone Child(ren) joining Trinity Please list in order from oldest to youngest. Child #1: Name Preferred Name Child #1: Gender ... Child #1: Birthdate Child #1: Place of Birth Child #1: Current Grade in School ... Child #1: Current School Attending Child #1: Baptized ... Baptism Date Baptism Congregation Child #1: First Communion ... First Communion Date First Communion Congregation Child #1: Confirmed ... Confirmation Date Confirmation Congregation Child #2: Name Preferred Name Child #2: Gender ... Child #2: Birthdate Child #2: Place of Birth Child #2: Current Grade in School ... Child #2: Current School Attending Child #2: Baptized ... Baptism Date Baptism Congregation Child #2: First Communion ... First Communion Date First Communion Congregation Child #2: Confirmed ... Confirmation Date Confirmation Congregation Child #3: Name Preferred Name Child #3: Gender ... Child #3: Birthdate Child #3: Place of Birth Child #3: Current Grade in School ... Child #3: Current School Attending Child #3: Baptized ... Baptism Date Baptism Congregation Child #3: First Communion ... First Communion Date First Communion Congregation Child #3: Confirmed ... Confirmation Date Confirmation Congregation If more than three children are joining Trinity, please provide the same information in the box below. Stewardship Supporting Trinity helps those who participate in the programs of the congregation and is rewarding to the individual(s) who give. Please indicate below how you would like to make your financial contribution to Trinity Lutheran Church. I would like to give using weekly envelopes. Please have envelopes sent to my home address. I would like to give electronically. I can do that at www.trin.org/give. I am already set up to give and don’t need to make any changes. I am not sure at this time how I would like to give/contribute. Please contact me. SUBMIT Thank you for your interest in joining Trinity Lutheran Church. We will be in touch with you soon. < BACK TO MEMBERSHIP PAGE