Trinity Church of the Nazarene

Did the original altar cross of Trinity Church of the Nazarene witness another church’s demise? Here we stand before Trinity Church of the Nazarene, a testament to faith and community. Its story begins in 1887, not within these walls, but in the home of Reverend James C. Dorsey. He, a former missionary to the Dakota Territory Indians, held the first Episcopal Church service for his Takoma Park neighbors. As the community grew, so did the need for a larger space. Services moved from homes to Birch Hall, then to Union Chapel. Finally, thanks to Mrs. L. S. Thornton’s generosity, land was secured for a permanent church. Trinity Church of the Nazarene, then known as Takoma Parish, held its first service on November 26, 1893. A fascinating detail emerges. The altar cross, alms basin, and other sacred vessels weren’t newly crafted. They were salvaged from a demolished church in Northwest Washington D.C. Imagine those sacred objects, silent witnesses to another congregation’s history, finding new life at Trinity Church of the Nazarene. In 1896, the church gained independence as Takoma Parish, with Reverend George H. Johnson as its first rector. Years later, in 1941, the name officially changed to Trinity Parish. Time marched on, bringing the need for a new building. Construction began in 1936, and the new church opened its doors in 1937. The old Joash Service tradition helped settle the church’s debt. The tradition was revived again later for the Parish Hall, completed in 1950. The 1960s brought significant social shifts, reflected in the evolving demographics of Trinity Church of the Nazarene’s congregation. It transitioned from predominantly white to predominantly African American. Under its current Rector, Trinity Church of the Nazarene has expanded its outreach programs, including house church, children’s programs, aid for the homeless, and even a men’s chorus. Today, Trinity Church of the Nazarene embraces a diverse tapestry of cultures. It stands as a beacon of welcome, inviting all to find their spiritual home within its walls.