The Reverend Annette L. Dimond celebrated mass during the 185th anniversary celebration of Trinity United Methodist Church at the Adams Street location where parish churches have stood since 1852. (Photo by D’Arcy Egan)

For 185 years, Trinity United Methodist Church has served its Port Clinton parish and, since 1852, worshipers have had a church on the corner of Second and Adams streets.

Last Sunday, with help from Bishop Tracy Smith-Malone, Reverend Annette L. Dimond, celebrated the anniversary with a combined church service and brunch for parishioners and invited guests.

“It was a wonderful chance to celebrate Trinity’s past and plan for Trinity’s great future,” said Rev. Dimond. “This is the oldest congregation in Port Clinton, although the Lutherans do have the oldest church building.”

Trinity United has had a long tradition of anchoring the Adams Street location in a town with many churches.

“The church members first met at a local home in 1834 for services, about six years after the founding of Port Clinton,” said Rev. Dimond, a Youngstow, Ohio native who has been pastor of Trinity United Methodist Church for the past year. “Then the congregation began to meet at a local schoolhouse, followed by a courtroom at the new Ottawa County Courthouse.”

The first church building was constructed in 1852 on a lot that cost just $200. The building was $1,500, with much of the labor donated by church members, according to a church history diligently developed by Martha Dykes.

The present church is the third to be built on that site, said Rev. Dimond.

“Martha did a wonderful job of preparing the church history, and getting us ready for the 185th anniversary celebration,” said Rev. Dimond. “She worked with local historians and check so many archives and newsletters, and arranging the archives of past ministers.”

“Our church is now forming committees to look at what we call visioning,” said Rev. Dimond. “We have about 125 parishioners, but want to utilize our building for community use, as well. There are so many events and gatherings that could be held here that would benefit the community.”