History of the Congregation

Life in the Church

Life at Trinity was very busy. Many Sunday School classes were formed for all ages. Some of these classes were organized into various women’s groups, which met socially and to raise funds for church and parsonage expenses, as well as for mission projects. These ladies also participated in the planning of church bazaars, dinners and social functions.

Activities held at church included a dartball league, Boy Scout and Brownie troops, a married-couples group, a volleyball team which played in a city league, and more recently, other small social groups open to the neighborhood, including carnivals, and hot dogs and s’mores on the sidewalk. Religious groups have included: Bible and book studies, Faith Focus Forums, youth and confirmation classes, Vacation Bible School and Good Friday Camps.


Social Principles and Mission

John B. Edwards fostered a movement toward abolition of slavery and equal rights during the 1800s. Later, in the early 1900s, the Women’s Christian Temperance Union fought against drinking, drug abuse, and gambling, all of which had harmful effects on family life. To this day, Methodists do not permit gambling and drinking. 

Trinity has always felt a calling to reach out in mission. Clothing collections have been appreciated by local families, mission schools and organizations such as the Salvation Army and Rescue Mission. In the 2000s, winter wear has been collected and distributed by the church to the Rotary Club and the Oswego Human Concerns Center, and school supplies have been collected for local children. Clothing and household items are gathered through donations and are sold inexpensively through our Nu2U Sales.

The Trinity Sewing Group has created stuffed lambs named “Wesley”, which have been given to residents of local nursing homes. Some of these lambs were sent to New York City after 9/11 to be given to area elementary school children. During the pandemic the group has made cloth masks for church and community members.

We collect non-perishable food for the Human Concerns Center and for school children, and donate 10% of fundraiser profits to local charities. Trinity generously supports United Methodist Conference special offerings and ministries.

We are an open, friendly congregation which welcomes anyone to attend our services and activities.