Trinity UMC
Historic Trinity United Methodist Church in Fernandina Beach, Florida.
When and Where We Worship, Learn about the Trinity Experience, Our Mission, Our 200 Year History, and Our Pastor, Granardo Felix. Download our Trinity newsletter PDF
Discover Links to View Our Sermons on Facebook; Read About Upcoming Events and Activities; See What We're Reading at Trinity; Our Grace & Gratitude Mission; and when the Holy Spirit moves you, send a donation to Trinity.
Come to a Sunday 11:00 AM service, watch us on Facebook; Call our office, send an email, or use our online form to send us a note. We're here for you.
Trinity Basics
Worship Services
When and Where do we Worship?
What Time do We Meet?
11:00 AM Every Sunday
Trinity United Methodist Church
Where is Trinity United Methodist Church?
715 Ash St
Fernandina Beach, Florida 32034
When do Services End?
12:15 - 12:30
Trinity Basics: Worshiping
The Trinity Experience
"Lord, guide our steps, fill our hearts with love, and let Your presence be felt in every word spoken and every note sung. May our time together at Trinity Methodist Church be a reflection of Your grace and a testament to the power of community. Amen."
Picture this: voices lifted, music fills the air, vibrating with joy and spirit. People caught up in the rhythm of praise. The preacher, powerful and passionate, delivers a sermon that stirs the soul. Amidst the fervor, there's a sense of community, of belonging, of shared faith. It's not just a service; it's an experience, a celebration of heritage, resilience, and the presence of the divine.In the heart of a traditionally black United Methodist Church, the atmosphere crackles with energy and devotion. As congregants gather, there's a palpable sense of anticipation, a collective eagerness to connect with the divine and with each other. The music, rich with history and tradition, weaves a tapestry of sound that uplifts and inspires, reverberates through the sanctuary.Amidst the pews, there's a vibrant tapestry of humanity. The preacher, anointed with passion and purpose, delivers a sermon that speaks to the trials and triumphs of the community, weaving scripture with personal testimony.Throughout the service, there's a spirit of inclusivity and acceptance, a recognition that everyone is welcome at the table of grace. There's a sense of communion—not just with the divine, but with each other. Hands clasp in prayer, voices rise in song, and hearts beat as one, bound together by a shared faith and a shared journey.
Trinity Basics: Our Mission
The Trinity Mission
The mission of Trinity is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. We proclaim the good news of God’s grace and by exemplifying Jesus’ command to love God and neighbor, thus seeking the fulfillment of God’s reign in the world.
Trinity Basics: CORPORATE BREAKTHROUGH PRAYER
The Trinity Corporate
Breakthrough Prayer
God, please breakthrough and open doors to new hopes, dreams, and possibilities for our church and in our own lives, and we will surrender and faithfully follow Christ onto the open road adventure of Your new and unknown future. May Your will be done. Amen!
Trinity Basics: Church History
Trinity's 200 Year History
When Fernandina was recognized as a township in 1807, it was not yet the historic city of Fernandina Beach. Life was hard, and slavery was prevalent in the South. The Methodist presence in Florida began with the 1821-1822 conference, assigning Elijah Sinclair to the Georgia-Florida area. This marked the start of Methodism in Northeast Florida, with circuit riders preaching in homes near Trinity’s current location.Trinity has been an integrated church since 1822. During the Civil War in March 1862, Rev. Mr. DeForest officiated at the church. After the war, a white clapboard church was built in 1868/1869 on the current parking lot site. Trinity served the African-American community, with members becoming key figures in Nassau County as postmasters, teachers, pharmacists, and more.On June 5, 1869, Joseph and Celia Emerson sold the land for Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church for $100. The deed stipulated it be used for worship. The current brick sanctuary, built in 1891, saw many members volunteer their labor.A Boston newspaper in 1891 noted the church’s vibrant congregation and spirited singing. The Rev. January Felder, who witnessed the original deed, led the church then. By 1892, the present red brick building was completed, funded by freedmen and women. Unique features included curved pews and stained glass windows from Philadelphia.From 1900 to the mid-1960s, the church grew, adding a parlor and bathrooms before 1950. Attendance peaked with up to three services featuring live music. However, by the 1970s, attendance declined. A major restoration project, completed in 2000, revived the church with support from the State of Florida, Memorial Methodist Church, and community leaders.Despite roof damage from hurricanes in 2017, Pastor Granardo Felix’s arrival in 2018 spurred membership growth and a successful building campaign. The church raised funds for roof and interior restoration, completed with an insurance award and member contributions.Throughout its history, Trinity has been blessed by God and remains committed to making disciples. Today, our diverse congregation shares a common goal of deepening our relationship with Christ and spreading His love.
Trinity Basics: Our pastor
Reverend Granardo Felix, Pastor
Pastor Granardo Felix is a dedicated and compassionate leader serving at Trinity United Methodist Church. With a deep commitment to spiritual growth and community service, Pastor Felix has been instrumental in fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment at the church.He is a licensed local pastor and has over 20 years of experience in ministry. Pastor Felix is known for his inspiring sermons, community outreach programs, and his ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life.He was honorably discharged from the Army. He has been married for over 18 years to Dr. Mishonda Felix. Together they have 5 children.Under his leadership, Trinity United Methodist Church has seen significant growth in both membership and community engagement.Pastor Felix is also actively involved in various charitable activities and initiatives aimed at helping the less fortunate. He is an active board member of Habitat for Humanity, which provides affordable housing for those that qualify. His vision is to create a supportive and loving church community that reflects the teachings of Jesus Christ.In his free time, Pastor Felix enjoys music and sports which further enrich his connection with the community he serves.
Trinity Today
Discover Links to View Our
Live and Recorded Sermons
Songwriter, Composer, Singer, and Guitarist David Parks and Bass Guitarist Ray Hetchka performed a heartwarming acoustic session of David's songs and personal recollections from 7 - 8:30 PM. The first of 6 sessions for 2025, it was a warm, wonderful evening.
Sermon: 'Fertile Ground',
Scripture: Matthew 13:1-13
With Sis Lona Smith
Matthew 13:1-13 tells the Parable of the Sower to a large crowd gathered by the sea. In the parable, a farmer scatters seeds, which fall on different types of ground—path, rocky, thorny, and good soil—each producing different results. Jesus explains that parables reveal truth to those who are open to it but conceal it from those who are not.
Sermon: 'Only What You Do for Christ Will Last',
Scripture: Colossians 3:23-24
With Pastor Granardo Felix
Colossians 3:23-24 encourages believers to work wholeheartedly as if serving the Lord rather than people. It reminds them that their ultimate reward comes from God, as they are serving Christ. Pastor Felix reframes this as "Only What You Do for Christ Will Last". Wealth & beauty fades, careers come to an end, and human praise is fleeting. Serving others, showing kindness, living according to God's principles—has eternal value.
Sermon: 'What's Your Motive?',
Scripture: Matthew 6:1-4
With Pastor Granardo Felix
Matthew 6:1-4 teaches about giving to the needy with humility and sincerity. Jesus warns against performing acts of charity for public recognition, urging instead that generosity be done in secret. God, who sees what is done privately, will reward such acts. The passage emphasizes genuine kindness over seeking praise from others. Pastor Felix frames the question as "what's your motive?" when you're doing good for others.
Sermon: 'The Call to Faithfulness',
Scripture: Isaiah 6:1-8
With Pastor Granardo Felix
The prophet Isaiah has a vision of God, seated on a high throne, with His robe filling the temple. Seraphim with six wings surround Him, calling out, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty.” Their voices shake the temple, filling it with smoke. Isaiah, overwhelmed by his unworthiness, fears for his life. A seraph touches his lips with a burning coal, cleansing his sin. Then, God asks, “Whom shall I send?” Isaiah responds, “Here am I. Send me!”
Sermon: 'Church, It's Time to Wake Up',
Scripture: Matthew 26:40-41
With Pastor Granardo Felix
Sermon: 'Are You Dressed Right?',
Scripture: Matthew 22:10-14
With Pastor Granardo Felix
Sermon: 'No Condemnation in Christ Jesus',
Scripture: Romans 8:1-4
With Pastor Granardo Felix
Sermon: 'Fan into Flames the Gift in You',
Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:6-7
With Pastor Granardo Felix
Sermon: 'Where is Jesusl',
Scripture: Luke 2:41-44
With Pastor Granardo Felix
Sermon: 'The Greatest Epiphany of All',
Scripture: Matthew 2:10-12
With Pastor Granardo Felix
Sermon: 'The Character of God',
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 14:40
With Pastor Granardo Felix
Sermon: 'I Know the Plan for You in 2025',
Scripture: Jeremiah 29:11
With Pastor Granardo Felix
Sermon: 'We are Blessed! Let's Live Blessed!',
Scripture: 2 Peter 1:2-4
With Bro. Roschnell Brown, Lay Servant
fourth sunday of advent
Sermon: "The Indescribable Gift"
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 8:1-4; 2 Corinthians 9:15; Isaiah 9:6
With Rev. Dr. David Allen Jr.
third sunday of advent
Sermon: "The Joy Formula"
Scripture: Philippians 4:4-7
With Rev. Dr. Elston Perry
Second sunday of advent
Sermon: "Preparing the Way of The Lord"
Scripture: Luke 3:1-6
With Pastor Granardo Felix
First sunday of advent
Sermon: "There Will Be Signs!"
Scripture: Luke 21:25-36
With Pastor Granardo Felix
Dear Online Congregation,We are working hard to improve the audio and video quality of our Sunday services. This will take some time. Please be patient with us during this process. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.
Events and Announcements
(Send new or revised Events, Announcements, and On-going Events for coming months to communications@trinityfb.org)
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Ecumenical Services Calendar for 2025
| Event | Date | Location | Presiding |
|---|---|---|---|
| "Ashes to Go" on Ash Wednesday | March 5, 1:00-2:00 | Downtown Locations | |
| Lenten Worship Services Theme: Wild, Bright Hope | Wednesdays at Noon on the dates and locations below: | ||
| . | March 12 | First Presbyterian | Rev. Tiffany Gulama |
| . | March 19 | St. Peter's Episcopal | Rev. Charlie Charles |
| . | March 26 | St. Michael's Catholic | Rev. Granardo Felix |
| . | April 2 | Memorial UMC | Father Eric Stelzer |
| . | April 9 | Trinity UMC | Rev. Rachel McElwee |
| Liturgy of the Palms on Palm Sunday, 10:30 | April 13 | Courthouse Steps on Centre Street |
Every Sunday: Morning Worship @ 11:00 AM in the Sanctuary.
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Every Wednesday: "Sweet Hour of Prayer" for the community in the Trinity sanctuary 11:00 AM - Noon.
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Every 4th Sunday of the Month: Birthday coffee hour after Worship Services in the Sanctuary.
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Third Monday of the Month: Hope House; Interfaith Dinner Network @ 410 South 9th St; 4 pm.
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Every Tuesday: Prayer Shawl Ministry; 10:30 'til Noon in the Sanctuary.
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Every 4th Tuesday: Trinity Men at the downtown Fernandina Beach Library; 6 - 7:30 PM; [No meeting in December]. Meetings to resume in January.
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Every Other Wednesday: Strength Through Recovery in the Sanctuary; 6 pm 'til 8 pm on an ongoing basis or changed by the program leadership.
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Every Thursday: Bible Study @ 10:30 in the parlor.
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2nd Saturday of Every Month: Mobile food give away at the Martin Luther King Recreation Center @ 1200 Elm Street; 8 am 'til 10 am.
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Every 4th Sunday - Coffee Hour (with cake and donuts) and Fellowship following the 11:00 Service.
['Sweet Hour of Prayer' is briefly paused. Check back for updates.]
Missions and Programs
Grace & Gratitude
Grace and Gratitude Overview
Trinity is Working Closely with Grace & Gratitude Sober Living to Support Clients in Recovery
Grace and Gratitude Sober Living, led by Henry Green, supports clients recovering from drug and alcohol addiction. Clients are expected to work, remain sober, and attend church and a 12-step program. They must also have a desire to work toward independent living.
Trinity UMC, at our Fernandina Beach Ash Street church, offers Bible study, hobby classes (crocheting, painting, crafts), and lessons on mental health, life skills, budgeting, and self-care. Graduates receive bedding, with quilts donated by the Amelia Island Quilt Guild (contact: Patsy Troxell, a member of Trinity UMC). Richard Ballard, also a Trinity UMC member, manages Trinity’s program and serves on the local homeless coalition board.
Upcoming Study and Dates
Bible studies happen every two weeks. Here's our latest schedule (keep in mind that our dates often change due to circumstances beyond our control).
Feb 26 – Dr. Felix testimonial, Last Abraham study
Mar 12 – Client Testimonial, Isaac & Jacob study, Roschnell B.
Mar 26 – Client Testimonial, Isaac & Jacob Study, Roschnell B.
Apr 9 - Testimonial, Joseph Study, Nancy S.
Apr 23 - Testimonial, Joseph Study, Nancy S.
Ecumenical Lenten Worship Services
Lenten Schedule | 2025
2025 Ecumenical Lenten Worship Services
May we all unite in praying that during this Lenten season, God will work through all of our churches to turn people's hearts to God through repentance and grace.Trinity will hold a devotional or penitential service on March 9 incorporating the imposition of ashes at this service.
Upcoming Ecumenical Lenten Services
March 12 - First Presbyterian with Rev. Tiffany Gulama preaching.March 19 - St. Peter's with Rev. Mark Charles preachingMarch 26 - St. Michael's with Rev. Granardo Felix preachingApril 2 - Memorial with Father Eric Stelzer preachingApril 9 - Trinity with Rev. Rachel McElwee preachingApril 13 - Liturgy of the Palms on Palm Sunday @ 10:30 on the Courthouse Steps on Centre Street
Donate to Trinity
Donate to Trinity
“Lord, as we give to Trinity Methodist Church today, bless these offerings to further Your work. May they uplift hearts, nurture souls, and strengthen our community. In Your name, amen”
Contributing to Trinity United Methodist Church feels fulfilling for many reasons. Being part of this community provides a sense of purpose, as individuals can see the positive impact of their efforts on those around them. This includes helping the church's outreach programs, supporting worship services, and engaging in fellowship activities.These contributions foster a sense of belonging and connection, as members work together toward shared goals, reinforcing values of compassion, generosity, and faith. Furthermore, each contribution strengthens the church's ability to support both the congregation and broader community, ensuring that Trinity United remains a vibrant, nurturing space for spiritual growth.
What We Are Reading at Trinity
The NSRV Bible
The NSRV Bible, or New Revised Standard Version, is a modern English translation of the Christian Bible. It aims for accuracy and clarity, drawing from the best available ancient manuscripts.
Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version Paperback; available at Amazon for $5.99. Click here to order.
We're reading Dynamic Prayer and Open Road, and they're both available at the Trinity sanctuary, or at Amazon.
Dynamic Prayer, a 28 day experiment is also available on-line at Amazon. Click here to order.
OPEN ROAD: The Adventure of a Breakthrough Prayer Initiative (The Greatest Expedition) is also available on-line at Amazon. Click here to order.
We're reading "Tarry Awhile" by Selina Stone.
The book is rooted in the traditions of Pentecost and the British Black Church, highlighting the spiritual and cultural significance of these institutions.
"Tarry Awhile" invites readers to consider the significance of taking a moment to pause and reflect in the midst of life's fast pace, drawing on the rich heritage and faith practices of the British Pentecostal Black Church community.
Tarry Awhile: Wisdom from Black Spirituality for People of Faith: The Archbishop of Canterbury's Lent Book 2024 is also available on-line at Amazon. Click here to order.
We're reading Surprised by Jack: An Introduction to the Life and Works of C. S. Lewis; Paperback
Surprised by Jack follows the journey of C. S. Lewis from atheism to belief. The book recounts the people, books, and events that helped in molding both parts of his life. It also explains how, in spite of a number of obstacles, he became one of the greatest writers and scholars of his day, as well as the greatest defender of the Christian faith in the twentieth century.
Surprised by Jack will also include an outline and review four of Lewis's greatest apologetic works, Mere Christianity, The Screwtape Letters, The Abolition of Man, and The Weight of Glory.
Surprised by Jack is available on-line at Amazon for $10.01: Click here to order.
Contact Us
Reach out to us by mail, phone or email:
Trinity United Methodist Church
715 Ash Street, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Sis. Sha Baker
Executive Secretary to the Pastor
Email: exec-admin@trinityfb.org
Call: (904) 310-9620
Or, reach out to us with this form:
Dear leaders, members, and friendsAs we step into a new year, may God’s grace, wisdom and strength empower you for the journey ahead. Here are key points to highlight as you lead with purpose and vision in 2025:Renewed Vision and Purpose
Embrace fresh insights and renewed purpose as you lead, inviting God to guide every step. Seek clarity in your mission, staying grounded in the goals that will make the greatest impact for your communities.Strength and Resilience
The challenges ahead will require resilience, and with God’s help, you are equipped to overcome. May you find strength in faith, leaning on God and each other in times of need.Compassionate Leadership
Lead with empathy and compassion, modeling the love of Christ in every interaction. Let kindness and understanding guide your relationships, encouraging those around you to grow and flourish.Commitment to Innovation and Growth
This new year brings opportunities for growth and positive change. Embrace innovation and be open to new ideas, trusting that God will bless your efforts to adapt and evolve.Unity and Collaboration
May this year bring stronger bonds and unity among leaders and congregants. Seek to build meaningful collaborations and partnerships, recognizing the strength that comes from working together.Spiritual Renewal
Let this be a time for spiritual renewal, allowing God to fill your heart and mind with peace and wisdom. Make space for prayer, reflection, and worship, keeping your faith at the center of all you do.Faithful Service and Gratitude
Approach each day with a spirit of gratitude and a commitment to faithful service. Recognize the blessings around you and use your gifts to uplift and inspire those you serve.May this new year be filled with abundant blessings, fulfilling work, and joy in the journey. We hope to work with you in some capacity in this new year. Continue to pray for us as we pray for you.Granardo Felix, Pastor
Trinity United Methodist Church
904-887-2434
Please give a description of your current ministry:
We are a growing congregation, about 60+ people. Everyone is involved in some way within all levels of ministry. We are a diverse church consisting of black, white, Hispanic, young, old, male, female. We encourage our members to go and make disciples by serving locally. We volunteer our time mentoring, tutoring, and serving the homeless. We also have a weekly prayer service created to bring awareness of God’s healing power no matter what struggles life my bring.
What roles do you play?
My role is that of spiritual leader, overseeing all functions and responsibilities of our church as detailed within the Book of Discipline.
My tasks include:
a) Word and ecclesial acts:
(1) To preach the Word of God, lead in worship, read and teach the Scriptures, and engage the people in study and witness.
(a) To ensure faithful transmission of the Christian faith.(b) To lead people in discipleship and evangelistic outreach that others might come to know Christ and to follow him.
(2)To counsel persons with personal, ethical, or spiritual struggles.(3)To perform the ecclesial acts of marriage and burial.
(a) To perform the marriage ceremony after due counsel with the parties involved and in accordance with the laws of the state and the rules of The United Methodist Church. The decision to perform the ceremony shall be the right and responsibility of the pastor.(b) To conduct funeral and memorial services and provide care and grief counseling.
(4)To visit in the homes of the church and the community, especially among the sick, aged, imprisoned, and others in need.(5) To maintain all confidences inviolate, including confessional confidences except in the cases of suspected child abuse or neglect, or in cases where mandatory reporting is required by civil law.
b) Sacrament
(1) To administer the sacraments of baptism and the Supper of the Lord according to Christ's ordinance.
(a) To prepare the parents and sponsors before baptizing infants or children, and instruct them concerning the significance of baptism and their responsibilities for the Christian training of the baptized child.(b) To encourage reaffirmation of the baptismal covenant and renewal of baptismal vows at different stages of life.(c) To encourage people baptized in infancy or early childhood to make their profession of faith, after instruction, so that they might become professing members of the church.(d) To explain the meaning of the Lord's Supper and to encourage regular participation as a means of grace to grow in faith and holiness.(e) To select and train deacons and lay members to serve the consecrated communion elements.
(2) To encourage the private and congregational use of the other means of grace.
c) Order:
(1) To be the administrative officer of the local church and to assure that the organizational concerns of the congregation are adequately provided for.
(a) To give pastoral support, guidance, and training to the lay leadership, equipping them to fulfill the ministry to which they are called.(b) To give oversight to the educational program of the church and encourage the use of United Methodist literature and media.(c) To be responsible for organizational faithfulness, goal setting, planning and evaluation.(d) To search out and counsel men and women for the ministry of deacons, elders, local pastors and other church related ministries.
(2) To administer the temporal affairs of the church in their appointment, the annual conference, and the general church.
(a) To administer the provisions of the Discipline.(b) To give an account of their pastoral ministries to the charge and annual conference according to the prescribed forms.(c) To provide leadership for the funding ministry of the congregation. To ensure membership care including compliance with charitable giving documentation requirements and to provide appropriate pastoral care, the pastor, in cooperation with the financial secretary, shall have access to and responsibility for professional stewardship of congregational giving records.(d) To model and promote faithful financial stewardship and to encourage giving as a spiritual discipline by teaching the biblical principles of giving.(e) To lead the congregation in the fulfillment of its mission through full and faithful payment of all apportioned ministerial support, administrative, and benevolent funds.(f) To care for all church records and local church financial obligations, and certify the accuracy of all financial, membership, and any other reports submitted by the local church to the annual conference for use in apportioning costs back to the church.
(3) To participate in denominational and conference programs and training opportunities.
(a) To seek out opportunities for cooperative ministries with other United Methodist pastors and churches.(b) To be willing to assume supervisory responsibilities within the connection.
(4) To lead the congregation in racial and ethnic inclusiveness.
d) Service:
(1) To embody the teachings of Jesus in servant ministries and servant leadership.(2) To give diligent pastoral leadership in ordering the life of the congregation for discipleship in the world.(3) To build the body of Christ as a caring and giving community, extending the ministry of Christ to the world.(4) To participate in community, ecumenical and interreligious concerns and to encourage the people to become so involved and to pray and labor for the unity of the Christian community.
What was the most challenging thing you faced in ministry during the last year?Answering questions about the denomination's disaffiliation process was very challenging because of misinformation. Many leaders had wrong information about whether pastors would be made to do something against their morals. Our congregation felt that we would continue to serve our community while leaning not to our own understanding but following God's plan for our ministry. We weren't distracted but focused on staying United Methodist and the vision of "making disciples for the transformation of the world".What ministry or personal challenges do you anticipate this year?From a ministerial standpoint I am evolving to the next level of leadership. The first six years encompassed focusing on the aesthetics and the financial stability of our church. We were extremely blessed in years past to accomplish total renovation of our sanctuary, inside and out, with a surplus of funds designated for future projects.The next five years we are planning to build our leadership with a strong focus on polity and structure. Due to growth, we have plans to expand our church by purchasing a multipurpose building for administrative office space, and ministries for children and young adults.What was the most rewarding part of ministry in the past year?Seeing God add people to our ministry was very rewarding in 2024. We placed our trust in God, while making prayer apart of our daily plan. Also, having monthly meetings with my mentor Rev. Dr. Mark Charles of Memorial UMC keeps me focused and connected. I am extremely grateful that Pastor Charlie includes me in liturgical opportunities whenever ecumenical services arise with other churches and faiths in our town. I feel, I would not have gotten the chance to learn as much about our community of faith had I not been the Servant Leader of Trinity UMC.Where do you see the Holy Spirit working in the life of your church?I see the Holy Spirit working in our Strength Through Recovery ministry. We were the only UMC in Florida to receive a five thousand-dollar Grant for evangelism. We have partnered with a non-profit organization named Grace and Gratitude House for Sober Living. With the grant we provide edifying projects that promote and build spiritual character for the men and women clients we serve.I see the Holy Spirit working in our prayer shawl ministry. Our shawls are now sent all over the world blessing people from all economic and socioeconomic backgrounds.I see the Holy Spirit in our Hope House Ministry that feeds 80-100 homeless and hungry people a week within our community.I see the Holy Spirit in the eyes of our young children when we invite them to participate in our Vacation Bible School for a full week in the summer.I see the Holy Spirit when we visit the nursing home to share communion with the elderly.I see the Holy Spirit working in our mentoring ministry for at risk boys when they become graduates and move on in life becoming productive citizens.Lastly: I am humbled by this opportunity to continue to serve within the UMC. There is still more to learn, and there are many opportunities to share the grace of God’s with His people.
Trinity’s 7 Year Ministerial Leadership Accomplishments
Although Trinity has done well as it pertains to earlier goals of accomplishing unifying the people and the community at large by preaching and teaching God’s Word.We also have been successful in our goals of hosting community events, receiving community awards, giving back to our community, and making disciples for the transformation of the world:Trinity was the recipient of the 2019 Preservation Award (For the renovation of our sanctuary)Trinity was the winner of the 2024 Wesleyan Evangelism AwardTrinity hosted Vacation Bible School (2022- present)Trinity hosted community Tours of our Church (2022-present)Trinity hosted 2 UMC Bishop visits in (2023- 2024)Trinity hosted Community Healing Services (2020-2022)Trinity hosted events supporting persons dealing with substance abuse through our partnership with Grace and Gratitude House for Sober Living (2024-present)Trinity actively training Local At-Risk Children (2018-present)Trinity hosted yearly ecumenical services with Local Churches (2022-present)Trinity has hosted several weddingsTrinity has hosted Several BaptismsTrinity has hosted Several Food Drives through our partnership with Farm Share and Barnabas. (2018-present)Trinity has created a Ministry of Love and Support for Any need, via our Prayer Shawl ministry. (2018-present)Trinity hosted World-Renowned Pianist Victor Santiago Asuncion (Concert 2023)Trinity hosted World-Renowned Music Group The Drifters (Pentecost Sunday 2023)Trinity hosts our Pumpkin Patch Ministry Yearly (2014-present)Trinity hosts our Newly formed Trinity Men (2024-present)Trinity hosts Newly Formed Women’s Group (2024-present)Trinity has plans on hosting a ministry for the grieving (2025)Trinity hosts feeding the hungry with our community partners at Hope House (Many Years)Trinity hosts noon-day Wednesday prayer service (2024-present
3-5 Year projected Vision for Trinity UMC
1) In support of all the achievements and blessings above that God has bestowed upon Trinity this year God has blessed us with an opportunity to achieve what I feel is OUR next Vision.The next 3-5 years we have been praying for the opportunity to purchase the property next door. It is a beauty salon that we believe will be able to provide the necessary space needed for the level of ministry, this goal/ vision is a NEED and NOT a WANT!Trinity has no office space for the administrative offices within our church. We also have no fellowship hall or kitchen for gatherings or fellowship. We have no space for private consultations or our ministerial planning. Lastly, we have no space for our children to grow and achieve spiritual development that well ensure their place of honor within our community.God has sense blessed us with the opportunity for first refusal rights for the property next door to our church. Because of community relationship building the owner of the beauty salon has agreed to let Trinity have first position to submit an offer when and if they decide to sell their property. This agreement has been signed and recorded with the city of Fernandina Beach. Next, we must open a savings account with the United Methodist Foundation.2) Developing a relationship with the United Methodist Foundation is paramount. This is the foundation within the UMC that funds projects for buildings and has support for grant opportunities.By opening an account with UMF we can begin our relationship with a financial institution that will enable us to benefit from the resources needed to access the funding to move forward with procuring the assets needed to server our community. This will be done in January.Additional plans that currently have funds designatedFunding is in place to start electrical upgrades within sanctuaryFunding is in place to start upgrade for speakers in sanctuaryFunding is in place to start window upgrade for parsonage.Funding is in place to start to fix problems in our church and parsonageLeadership / Vision for Trinity UMC Trinity is establishing itself as a leader within the district as well as the conference.Trinity has been able to build its pastoral leadership from quarter time to part time.Trinity is currently exploring building its pastoral leadership from part-time to full-time.Trinity has the vision to establish the structure needed to move forward with strengthening its youth ministry.Trinity has Lay Servant leadersTrinity has Lay Speaker leadersTrinity has retired elder leadersTrinity is seeking to build youth leadership.Pastoral Goals:1. Increase Congregational Engagement“We want to increase congregation participation and engagement in church services by 20% over the next 6 months. To do so, we plan to engage more of our community and organize more bible study groups.”2. Enhance Worship Experiences“For the following three months, I’ll strive to improve my church’s worship services by introducing new musical instruments, themes, and sermon topics. I will also train a few volunteers to lead prayers and songs.”3. Create a Culture of Generosity“I will foster an atmosphere of generosity in my congregation by the end of 7 months. I want to be able to encourage their church members to donate money and other resources for the good of those in need.”4. Strengthen Ties with Local Communities“In the next 6 months, I’ll initiate conversations and build relationships with four local community organizations. This will help me reach out to new individuals needing spiritual guidance and strengthen our church’s presence there.”5. Expand Youth Programming“I hope to expand the church’s youth programming by planning at least three-monthly activities. I will also develop relationships with local businesses and organizations to assist in creating an engaging environment for our teens.”6. Foster Servant-Leadership Model“I’ll create three opportunities next month to foster a servant-leadership model within my congregation. That means I will actively seek ways to serve, show humility, and lead by example.”7. Improve Church Communications“I will improve the church’s communication by developing a comprehensive digital marketing strategy, launching an email newsletter, and increasing our social media presence. I aim to reach a larger audience over the 5 months ahead.”8. Grow Financial Stewardship“I want to increase the amount of financial stewardship by 10% over the next 8 months. I will create a set of classes on budgeting that our church members can attend and invest in their personal financial growth.”9. Deepen Spiritual Connections“By the end of this quarter, I will have made a point to deepen my spiritual connections with 10 church members. I also have plans to go on the spiritual retreat “Walk to Emmaus” within in the UM conference. I’ll list each member I plan to connect with and write down the date, time, and type of interaction for each meeting.”10. Expand Bible Study Group“I want to double the size of my Bible study group and bring in new members by the end of the year. I will create an online presence for the group by setting up a website and social media profiles to reach out to more people.”11. Promote Mental Health Wellness“I’ll make an effort to improve the mental wellness of my congregation for three months by organizing meditation sessions for members in need and proactively engaging with them to address any mental health or grief issues they may be facing.”12. Increase Volunteerism Opportunities
“I want to coordinate and host three volunteer projects within my church community over the following year. I plan to contact local charitable organizations to identify areas of need, recruit volunteers for each project, and arrange the necessary resources.”