Trinity Presbyterian Church

Trinity Presbyterian Church. A beacon of faith and community. It has a fascinating story, doesn’t it? Let’s journey back to 1882. A man named Bill Crawford built the Bethel Community Chapel. This humble chapel, initially Cumberland Presbyterian, also served Methodists and Baptists. It became the foundation for what would become Trinity Presbyterian Church. Fast forward to the 1980s. Grace Presbytery saw the potential of the Highland Village and Flower Mound area. With support from various Presbyterian bodies, they purchased land in 1983. They called Dr. Bob Hanson as organizing pastor in 1986. The first services were held in the historic Bethel Chapel. Trinity Presbyterian Church officially organized in 1987 with 103 charter members. Dr. Hanson led the church until 1999, when Reverend Frank Ehman took the helm. Reverend Ehman served until his retirement in 2015. He was honored with the title “Pastor Emeritus”. Over the years, Trinity saw other pastors come and go. Reverend Marta Ukropina joined as the first associate pastor in 2006. Reverend David Ukropina became Director of Christian Education in 2010. Both Ukropinas later moved to Oregon to continue their ministries. Trinity hired its first full-time youth director in 2010. Lisa Reece served as Director of Christian Education from 2015 to 2017. She then accepted a call to First Presbyterian Church in Bonham. Reverend Jake Clawson became Solo Pastor in 2017. Reverend Kelly Staples joined as Associate Pastor of Family Ministry in 2019. Trinity Presbyterian Church continues to thrive. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and community. It has seen pastors come and go. Yet, its core values remain strong. It’s a legacy built upon the foundations of a simple chapel, and the vision of those who saw the potential for a vibrant community of faith.