Beneath the vast Colorado sky stands Trinity Baptist Church. It is a testament to faith and community. Trinity Baptist Church’s story began in the spring of 1913. Reverend Tillmore led the charge. He was the pastor of St. John’s Baptist Church in Colorado Springs. Twelve adults and two children formed the initial congregation of Trinity Baptist Church. Sister Green suggested the name “Trinity”. The congregation accepted it.
The first worship service of Trinity Baptist Church took place on the 300 block of Costilla Street. Trinity Baptist Church then moved to the 500 block of West Colorado Avenue. In 1921, Trinity Baptist Church acquired property at 832 South Nevada. Reverend M.M. Purdue served as pastor. Trinity remained at this location for 66 years. During those years, Trinity’s Choir achieved a notable first. It became the first Negro group to broadcast an “Easter Cantata” in Colorado Springs. Trinity was also the first Black Baptist Church to have a live television broadcast. The facility was renovated to accommodate growth and change.
From 1921 to 1961, many men of God graced Trinity’s pulpit. These included Rev. M.M. Purdue and Rev. S.S. Smith. Others were Rev. Johnson and Rev. W.C. Sample. Also among them were Rev. Bryant and Rev. Lindsay. Rev. Holloway, Rev. Hughes, and Rev. Gandy also served. The list continues with Rev. Edwards and Rev. K.D. Shroud. Further pastors were Rev. I.E. Allen and Rev. N.J. Jeltz. Rev. C.M. Jones and Rev. Lyons also led. Rev. S.S. Smith returned, followed by Rev. Hill. Rev. Doanes, Rev. Evans, and Rev. Williams completed the list.
In 1961, Reverend L.W. Harvey became Trinity Missionary Baptist Church’s pastor. Under his leadership, Trinity became a Colorado Corporation. Trinity Baptist Church continued to grow. A new building fund began with a 1000-dollar donation. In 1982, Trinity acquired its present location at 617 E. Fountain Boulevard. The groundbreaking ceremony occurred on July 20, 1986. On April 5, 1987, the congregation walked to their new home. They had spent 66 years at the old location. Members and friends generously filled the new church. They provided a baptismal pool and pews. Kitchen equipment and other items were also donated. Rev. Harvey faithfully served until 1993.
Reverend Asa Banks led Trinity during an interim period. Reverend George Duncan then served as pastor. He served from 1993 through 1996. During his tenure, the church marquee was purchased and erected. Reverend Jim Dotson and Reverend Orion Flournoy served as interim pastors. In October 1998, God called Rev. Dotson to become pastor.
Reverend Jim Dotson’s installation occurred on January 4, 1998. In March 1998, Rev. Harvey became Pastor Emeritus. Under Pastor Dotson’s leadership, many visions came to fruition. The mortgage was paid off. A Fellowship Hall was added. Renovations to the existing building were completed and paid for. Trinity purchased adjacent properties. In October 2017, Pastor Dotson retired.
Reverend Bobby L.L. Jackson became Trinity’s pastor on June 3, 2018. He worked with the community. He helped the church acquire a new van. Improvements to the building included a new church wall. Additional renovations also took place. In March 2022, Rev. Jackson was called to Journey Bible Base Church of God and Christ.
Today, Trinity Baptist Church seeks its next leader. The congregation anticipates God’s guidance for the future. Trinity Baptist Church stands as a beacon. It is a testament to community, faith, and perseverance.