Trinity is a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and has served in the small rural community of Mt. Morris, in northwest Illinois, since 1846.
Initially named the First Evangelical Lutheran Church of Mt. Morris, it was fully organized in 1853 with the adoption of a constitution, signed by 28 members. The name was changed to Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in 1921. This is our third building, which was dedicated in 1954. The first building, dedicated in 1856, was the first Lutheran church in Ogle County.
A Story of Perseverance
Trinity has endured times of turmoil and hardship, including the pastor and entire church council resigning in 1866, as well as years when bills were not paid, and two quarantines that caused Easter services to be canceled: In 1925 for smallpox and in 2020 for COVID-19.
Trinity has also been richly blessed with faithful and inspiring pastors, vibrant lay leaders, devoted members, and a strong thread of gifted musicians and artists who have helped write a joyful faith story.
And since the start, it’s been a story of service to others. We remain committed to serving God and serving all people through local and global ministries.
Here is the history of Trinity, documented by Pastor Phil Schroeder through 1996 to commemorate the 150th anniversary, and notes from 1997 through 2020 in celebration of the 185th anniversary.
