A Chronological History of Trinity United Methodist Church

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Humble Beginnings – 1962

The story of Trinity United Methodist Church begins in March 1962, when North Port Charlotte was a small but growing community of just 700 homes and 1,250 residents. Sensing a spiritual need in the area, the Florida Conference of the Methodist Church sought to serve this budding neighborhood. They turned to Rev. Alva Soldner, a retired Methodist minister living in nearby Port Charlotte.

Rev. Soldner took up the task of surveying the community, and his findings confirmed what many hoped: there was strong interest in forming a new church. Arrangements were made to hold worship services at the local Community Club, which was shared with the local Lutheran and Episcopalian congregations.

On June 10, 1962, Rev. Soldner led the first worship service, attended by 46 people—a hopeful beginning.

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A Church Is Born – 1962–1963

On November 18, 1962, the dream became a reality as Trinity Methodist Church of North Port Charlotte was officially organized and constituted. That day, 67 individuals became the church's first members. An official board was elected, and a Board of Trustees was formed to guide the new church forward.

Shortly after, on December 28, 1962, the Pastor and Trustees formally applied to the General Development Corporation (GDC) for land on which to build a permanent church. Thanks to Rev. Soldner’s persistent persuasion, GDC gifted the church 4.7 acres of land.

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In early 1963, the Women’s Society of Christian Service was formed on January 7, helping organize much of the fellowship and service work.

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A building committee and an architect were selected. One of Trinity’s members—also a trustee—stepped up to contract the construction of the church for $41,400.

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Milestones followed quickly:

• June 4, 1963: The church received a Certificate of Organization from the Florida Annual Conference.

• September 20, 1963: GDC officially granted the Warranty Deed for the 4.7 acres.

• November 8, 1963: Trinity was incorporated.

• November 17, 1963: The groundbreaking ceremony was held with great enthusiasm.

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Building God’s House – 1964–1977

The cornerstone was laid on February 9, 1964, and on May 24, 1964, the first worship service was held inside the brand-new church building. The space was officially consecrated on November 8, 1964, with Bishop James W. Henley presiding.

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In 1968, a national merger between the Methodist Church and the Evangelical United Brethren Church brought a new identity: Trinity United Methodist Church. As the church grew, so did its needs. A parsonage was purchased on Chicopa Street, and later in April 1972, a new parsonage was constructed on church grounds. Then, on April 17, 1977, ground was broken again—this time for the Fellowship Hall and Educational Wing, expanding the church’s capacity for ministry, education, and community gatherings.

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Faithful Service Through the Years – 2009–2016

Decades of faithful ministry followed. In 2009, Pastor George Dzyndra was appointed to serve Trinity. He ministered with dedication until 2016 and was the last pastor to live in the church parsonage.

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A Season of Growth and Challenge  2016–2022

In 2016, Pastor Daniel "Danny" Chronister began his ministry at Trinity. He brought a renewed energy, working to strengthen the church’s financial health, grow membership, and begin a season of revitalization.

Then disaster struck. In September 2022, Hurricane Ian caused severe damage to the church campus. The storm left Trinity with nearly $500,000 in damages: new roofs were needed on both the church and parsonage, mold had to be mitigated, structural damage repaired, and much of the interior—including flooring, ceiling, and carpeting—had to be redone. Even before the hurricane, Pastor Danny had led a full kitchen renovation in the parsonage.

Due to FEMA delays, the church secured a $480,000 loan from the Florida United Methodist Foundation to begin repairs. As additional needs emerged—like downspouts, baseboards, and structural roof elements—the church launched a Sunflower SONRaiser campaign in Spring 2025, aiming to raise $85,000.

Tragically, while still waiting for some of Ian’s repairs to begin, Hurricane Debby hit in 2024, revealing new leaks and mold in the Fellowship Hall.

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Guiding Through Transitions 2023–2024

After Pastor Danny stepped down on December 31, 2022, Rev. William Palmer served as interim pastor from January to May 2023. He was followed by Rev. Brian Brightly, a retired elder, who served from June 2023 through June 2024.

 

Under his leadership, Trinity:

• Transitioned to a One Team Leadership Governance Model,

• Expanded missional outreach,

• Took two mission trips to Cuba,

• Hosted VBS and an Easter Egg Hunt, and

• Reinvigorated its community presence.

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A New Chapter with Pastor Dottie – 2024–Present

In July 2024, Trinity welcomed its first female pastor, Rev. Dorothy “Dottie” Johns, a retired clergywoman from New Jersey with a heart for inclusion and a deep commitment to community. Affectionately known as Pastor Dottie, she brings with her a breath of fresh air and a clear, compassionate message: “Everyone is welcome here.” At a time when many congregations were grappling with denominational shifts and uncertainty, Pastor Dottie has been leading with grace, warmth, and a renewed sense of purpose.

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But her leadership hasn’t stood alone. Under Pastor Dottie, Trinity’s leadership team has become an unwavering force, playing a vital role in guiding the church forward. Together, they have tackled long-overdue building updates and maintenance needs, making critical improvements to ensure the church remains safe, functional, and welcoming for all.

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Beyond bricks and mortar, this dedicated team has partnered closely with Pastor Dottie to grow the congregation, strengthen our ministries, and revitalize our sense of mission. Their steady leadership, often missing in past seasons, has become a cornerstone of Trinity’s recent renewal. Through their vision, hard work, and faith-filled dedication, Trinity has rediscovered what it means to move forward together—united in purpose and spirit.

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With their support, Pastor Dottie has continued to:

• Expand the Food Pantry program to meet rising community needs,

• Develop a robust Homebound Visitation Ministry,

• Launch and grow a dynamic Youth Program, and

• Deepen the church’s commitment to Missional Outreach.

Even amid financial challenges, the leadership has kept Trinity grounded and forward-moving. Together, they have ensured the church remains faithful to its commitments, including paying apportionments and ministry protection annually.

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Thanks to this collaborative spirit, Trinity is not just surviving—it’s thriving, rediscovering its calling, and actively preparing for a vibrant future.

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Present Day – 2025

Today, Trinity offers:

• One Traditional Worship Service at 9:00 AM every Sunday,

• Weekly Bible Studies,

• A Grief Share program, and

• Opportunities for fellowship and spiritual growth throughout the week.

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In June 2025, a special Rededication Service was held to mark the completion of post-Hurricane Ian repairs. Since Trinity’s 60th Anniversary in 2022 was overshadowed by the storm, this rededication became a powerful celebration of gratitude, renewal, and hope. 

 

Looking Ahead – Toward 2027

The church is now preparing for another milestone: its 65th Anniversary in 2027. With God’s guidance and the unwavering dedication of its members and leaders, Trinity United Methodist Church stands as a testament to resilience, faith, and love in action.