Trinity Lutheran Church

On a crisp San Diego morning in 1897, Trinity Lutheran Church embarked on its journey. Missionaries from the synod established the church. The early members of Trinity Lutheran Church didn’t have their own building. They first held services at the “Holt House”. They also used a Seventh Day Adventist Church for worship. In 1902, Trinity Lutheran Church acquired its first building. It was located at Ocean View Drive and Dewey Street. This served as their home until 1941. The congregation then moved to a larger facility at 20th and F Street. This new location boasted a historic altar from Norway. Dating back to 1725, the altar was a remarkable piece of history. Trinity Lutheran Church treasured it. They even refurbished it in 1997 to celebrate the church’s centennial. Their time at 20th and F Street ended in 1959. Highway 94 construction led to the demolition of the building. Trinity Lutheran Church found its current home at 7210 Lisbon Street on December 29, 1959. The church continued to grow. In 1972, during its 75th anniversary, a grand 17-rank pipe organ was dedicated. More buildings were added over time. Messiah Memorial Hall became part of the complex in 1996. This addition marked the 10th anniversary of the merger between Trinity and Messiah Lutheran Churches. This union created a stronger, unified congregation at Trinity Lutheran Church. The story of Trinity Lutheran Church also involves Messiah Lutheran Church’s beginnings. In 1948, Reverend Kurt Brink started a Lutheran ministry in Logan Heights. The initial congregation consisted of just one little boy. This child had been baptized by the pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church. Services initially took place in a home on Imperial Avenue. Teachers from Grace Lutheran Church volunteered. They even provided transportation for the children. Construction of a new church began in 1949 at 31st and Clay Streets. Over 100 volunteers from San Diego’s LCMS congregations contributed to the project. The new building, completed with furnishings, cost only $15,000. Years later, in 1994, Rev. Gary Harms served as interim pastor for both Messiah and Trinity Lutheran churches. Discussions of a merger began. In 1996, Messiah Lutheran held its last service. The congregation then joined Trinity Lutheran Church. Today, Trinity Lutheran Church stands as a testament to its rich history. It continues to serve the community through its food pantry and various ministries. It is a place where history and faith intertwine.