Trinity's History

Trinity is member of the Presbyterian Church (USA). The PC(USA) has over 10,000 congregations and over 1.7 million members in the United States. Trinity was founded in the 1950's in San Carlos. Several dedicated pastors have led Trinity's congregation. William Summerscales was Trinity's first installed pastor. He was followed by Robert Clapham in 1961. John Shriver was installed in 1972,  Edward Ewart in 1979, Mary Graves in 1996.  And in 2019 Mary Graves and Kurt Heineman was called to lead Trinity as Co-Pastors.


Over the years Trinity has built a reputation for caring about people of all ages. The church started with mostly families with young children.  At that time Trinity Presbyterian Nursery School was founded by Rosemary Smith, who served as Director for 40 years.  She retired in 1998 and Jamie Holden took over as the new Director of this co-op nursery school which serves approximately 150 families. Jenny Waddell is serving as the current Director. 

Trinity has also built a reputation for having a strong music program with strong choirs for all ages and great instruments like the pipe organ and many octaves of bells.  It is led by staff and gifted volunteer leaders. Worship is a highlight with superb preaching, liturgical art, increased use of electronic media and creative engagement of all ages. Youth programs for elementary, middle and high school age students attract young people throughout the community, especially for the Youth Mexico Mission Trip during spring which involves dozens of adults and high students in fundraisers and the trip itself to build houses with Amor. Adults are offered a variety of study experiences, mostly through small groups what were launched with 40 Days of Purpose in 2004.  

The majority of the congregation is involved at Trinity in various ways, from serving coffee to preaching in worship. Dedicated Elders, Deacons, Team Leaders, advisors, teachers, and other servants form policy, lead ministry teams, teach our youth, and care for our congregation.  Ministry team members are the backbone of all programs and events. Even with our rich history, we are still surprised at what happens when we are willing to be lead by the Spirit in ministry.