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Our Church’s formation began in 1932, during a meeting in a Long Lake living room, an evening marked by the same warm hospitality Trinity is still known for today.

It was springtime in the midst of the Depression, and money was scarce. So scarce that the Northwest Synod of the United Lutheran Church of America discontinued the area field missionary’s office. But that setback didn’t deter a group of believers. They met at the home of Mr. and Mrs. George Blain, believing it was time to form a Lutheran church, especially since the Methodists and Roman Catholics had already planted parishes in the area.

The First Worship

The charter members were truly go-getters, making door-to-door calls to invite others and build momentum for worship. Their first service took place on July 13, 1932, officiated by Reverend Carl Tambert. Train whistles could be heard as congregants gathered in the Odd Fellows Hall above Neilson Hardware Store in Long Lake. It was 100-plus-degree heat, and even during picking season, 18 people showed up, gathering anyway, trusting that God was working through them.

Ministries Take Root

As the congregation grew, so did its ministries. In 1937, the first high school program, Luther League, began.

Then came a turning point: after a fire in the former location, Trinity began worship in a new building on Thanksgiving Day, 1939. The church building was a former Methodist church, purchased by 41 charter members, and moved to its new home on donated property just south of the railroad tracks. The total cost, $872, included moving, repairs, and a new chimney, plus two bottles of Scotch for the man who arranged temporary removal of telephone lines. The sermon that day carried a faithful message: The Church is One Foundation.

Growth and a New Home

In 1946, Trinity became a single parish with more than 60 members, and welcomed newly called pastor Lloyd Zaudtke.

As the church continued to grow, the congregation sold the old church building. With proceeds in hand, and a warranty deed, Trinity broke ground in 1953 at its current site: 2060 County Road 6.

Ministry continued through the leadership God provided:

1956: Dar Vriesman becomes pastor.
1964–1968: Ronald Swenson accepts the call as pastor.
1969–1989: Richard Erickson arrives, Trinity’s beloved and longest-serving pastor — with a steady, decade-long focus, he led the work to complete the above-ground portion of the building, including new spaces for education, worship, choirs, and staff.

Preschool and Expanding Ministry

Trinity’s life wasn’t only about worship, it was about forming disciples and serving the next generation. 1972: Trinity Preschool opened with Betty Harstad as director. 1981: Robert Johnson became Trinity’s first associate pastor. During this era, Trinity counted 703 confirmed and 979 baptized members, evidence of a growing congregation and a strong foundation. 1982: Trinity celebrated 50 years.

Celebrating 50 Years
and Building for Tomorrow

1994–1998: Steve Garland is called as senior pastor.
1998–2012: Kent Grosser becomes senior pastor and oversees a 19,000-square-foot expansion — the Great Hall, classrooms, and a kitchen, helping the church serve more people in more ways. The Sanctuary is enhanced with large windows and an outdoor cross. In 2006, a groundbreaking celebration honors the improvements.
2012–2020: Brian Fragodt becomes senior pastor.
2020: Pastor Fragodt announces his retirement and is replaced by Interim John Strommen.
2021: Adam Butler is called as senior pastor; Ann Fenlason serves as associate pastor.

today and beyond

Today, Trinity’s ministries continue through servant leadership and a devoted staff. We give thanks to God for those who came before us—carrying forward the work of worship, discipleship, and community while preserving what has always defined Trinity: wonderful hospitality, caring community, and service to others.