Trinity Presbyterian Church is located in Amherstview, Ontario, on the north shore of Lake Ontario, just west of Kingston.
The Trinity Congregation started as the Amherstview Community Presbyterian Church in 1960. After intensive fundraising efforts, the building was completed and dedicated on September 29, 1968. Mr. Jack Snelgrove built the beautiful wooden sanctuary, which was quoted to cost approximately $64,000.00. Rev. Floyd McPhee presided over this change and growth.
Originally, services had been held at the Amherstview Public School until 1970, when the church located on Manitou Crescent West was built and ready for use.
The architecture of the Trinity Sanctuary is unique compared to the architectural forms of the other local churches. The sanctuary is octagonal in shape with an exposed segmented conical roof structure and sits on concrete piers around the perimeter of the space. This form allows for an open space of sixty-five feet in diameter without the need for any other interior columns. The ceiling is made of western red cedar, and that combined with the unique conical shape, has created a striking appearance and outstanding acoustics for musical performances.
In addition to the sanctuary, the building was constructed with a large hall which has been used for many different purposes over the years, including Sunday School, church suppers, garage sales, and the occasional worship service. The facility has also been used for events such as weddings, family reunions, and birthday gatherings.
The Trinity Presbyterian Church was renovated in the early 2000s, which enhanced the accessibility of the building throughout. A new wing was added, along with a new church office, expanded washrooms and a new accessible entrance to the building. The changes to the layout allowed the church to expand its services as a venue for an election polling place or blood donor clinics. The renovations have also allowed for greater accessibility for those within the congregation who may have a mobility impairment.
Since its establishment, Trinity has looked for opportunities to support its community. Trinity Presbyterian Church has collected food bank contributions in the Amherstview. Trinity Presbyterian Church is known for hosting free community dinners.
Trinity church is a growing, God-pleasing community that loves God and neighbours, by reading and studying the Bible, blessing new members, and serving our community. Since 2022, our church has been growing almost double in size than before. We had many new members through official membership ceremonies, and so many people in our congregation have grown in their faith through the Bible reading project. Our Sunday worship services are joyful and spirit-filled. The free Community Meal has grown and is now attended by over 100 people. Our church feels a bright future in God’s guidance. We believe that all of this is God’s gracious providence and love for our church, Trinity. Thanks be to God!