Our History

A legacy of faith and community, built over decades of love, truth, and commitment to Jesus Christ.

star confetti with 150 year badge
La Trinidad United Methodist Church

150 Year gala Celebration

Saturday, May 2nd, 2026
6 PM to 11 PM

Spurs Practice Facility

Spurs Lane, San Antonio, TX 78284

Celebrating a milestone that echoes across generations: 150 years of sacred service, cultural preservation, and steadfast love for San Antonio's westside.

Our upcoming fundraising gala is a moment to honor the past and invest in the future.

Individual ticket pricing and sponsorship opportunities are coming soon!

Founded in 1876

Having deep roots of love and community within these church walls

Join us as we reflect on our rich history and look forward to our future.

historical portrait of La Trinidad church
historical portrait of La Trinidad church
historical portrait of La Trinidad church
Renovated La Trinidad church building
Renovated La Trinidad church building
Renovated La Trinidad church building
Congregation seated in a church during a service
Congregation seated in a church during a service
Congregation seated in a church during a service
large group of people in one room
large group of people in one room
large group of people in one room

Faith, Culture, and Community

La Trinidad is more than just a church

For over 150 years, La Trinidad has been more than a church; it has been a civic cornerstone and cultural sanctuary, guiding generations through worship, education, and social action.

From the early days of civil-rights advocacy and bilingual ministry to modern partnerships in health, education, and social service, La Trinidad continues to shine as a lighthouse of hope and transformation. Its members, inspired by Matthew 5:14–16, remain “the light of the world,” committed to loving God, serving neighbor, and building a just and compassionate community.

As we celebrate our 150th Anniversary, La Trinidad looks ahead with Vision 2040 - renewing sacred spaces, preserving our history, and equipping new generations to lead through faith, learning, and service.

image of the top of La Trinidad church building
image of the top of La Trinidad church building
image of the top of La Trinidad church building

A Faithful, Generational Church

Our top 10 defining milestones

1876

Founding as a Mission to Mexican-Americans

Founded in 1876 by the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, in San Antonio, La Trinidad United Methodist Church is one of the earliest Hispanic/Latino Methodist congregations in the United States, established to serve the West Side through a lasting ministry of faith, inclusion, and community service.

1901

Establishment as a Growing Hispanic-Latino Methodist Congregation

As immigration to San Antonio increased, the church saw steady growth, responding to the needs of the Mexican-American community through worship, education, and outreach.

1904

Spanish-Language Book of Discipline Preservation

La Trinidad preserved one of the earliest Spanish-language editions of the Methodist Book of Discipline, reflecting its commitment to Spanish-speaking congregations.

1910

Founding of Cooper Academy

The church established Cooper Academy to provide education for children in the local community, showing its early commitment to learning and development.

1958

Growth into a Bilingual Congregation

La Trinidad transitioned from Spanish-only services to a bilingual ministry, welcoming both English- and Spanish-speaking worshipers.

1983

Expansion of Community Outreach Ministries

The church expanded food assistance, youth programs, and community partnerships to serve families on the West Side of San Antonio.

2005

Development of Historic Church Archives

La Trinidad developed one of the most complete archives of Hispanic Methodist history, preserving documents, photos, and artifacts.

2016

140th Anniversary Celebration

The congregation celebrated 140 years of continuous ministry, honoring past leaders, members, and community impact.

2022-2023

Major Gym & Facility Renovations

The church completed major gym and facility renovations to improve safety, accessibility, and community use.

2026

150th Anniversary & Vision 2040

La Trinidad celebrates 150 years of faith, culture, and community while launching Vision 2040 to guide its future ministry and community impact.

Milestone

1

Out of 10

Milestone

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Out of 10

join our celebration!

Be a part of the history as La Trinidad celebrates it's 150th anniversary. What an amazing ceremony to join! Contact us to find out more details.

Serving hearts are wanted and utilized everyday within La Trinidad! Whether it be to serve on staff, or making an impact within our church in other areas, please reach out to see where you can start serving today.

methodist flame and cross
methodist flame and cross
methodist flame and cross