Trinity Cheltenham facts for kids
Trinity Cheltenham is a large Anglican church located in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England. It is known for being an Evangelical and charismatic church. This means it focuses on sharing the Christian message and believes in the active work of the Holy Spirit.
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About Trinity Cheltenham
The church was first called "Trinity" when it opened, then "Holy Trinity," and later went back to its original name. It is part of the Church of England, which is the main Christian church in England. Trinity Cheltenham is also a big supporter of the New Wine network, which helps churches grow and develop. With about 1,000 members, it is one of the largest churches in the United Kingdom.
Where to Find Trinity
The main church building is on Portland Street in Cheltenham. Trinity Cheltenham also owns other buildings nearby. These include Trinity House and Trinity Fusion, which are located behind the church on Trinity Lane. The church offices are in Winchcombe House.
Church Leaders
Trinity Cheltenham has a team of leaders and staff who help run the church. Many volunteers also help with different activities and events.
- Reverend Andrew Blyth - Lead Pastor & Team Rector
- Reverend Tim Grew – Pastor & Team Vicar
- Hils Grew - Pastor
- Reverend Nick Stott - Pastor
- Reverend Simon Fellows - Pastor & Curate
- Nicki Blyth - Women's Ministry
- Liz Lang - Churchwarden
- Barry Lambert - Churchwarden
Trinity's History
Trinity Church started in 1824 because the main Parish Church in the town center had too many people. The first minister was Reverend Francis Close. He was also the Rector of Cheltenham and later became the Dean of Carlisle Cathedral. The Dean Close School was named after him. Reverend Charles Simeon gave a speech at the church's opening.
By 1976, Trinity Church was almost going to close. However, with the help of a retired missionary named Canon Lawrence Totty, things slowly started to change. The church began to grow again and reach out to the community. This growth continued under two more vicars, Reverend John Risdon and Reverend Paul Harris.
In 1994, Mark Bailey became a pastor, and the church building was greatly improved. In 2000, the church bought Trinity House, a three-story building right behind the church.
As more people joined, the church needed more space. By the end of 2004, they started holding several services every Sunday. In 2005, the 'Trinity Growth Project' began, and most of the staff moved to offices in Winchcombe House. In 2008, the church bought the Fusion Building next to Trinity House. In 2009, they renovated the main church building to hold almost 650 people.
Andrew Blyth became the Lead Pastor and Team Rector in 2017.
What Happens Today
Besides Sunday services, Trinity Cheltenham offers many activities during the week. These include the Alpha Course, 'King's Table', and small 'Life groups'. There are also special activities for children, young people, and students. More than 1,000 people now attend the church regularly.
In 2022, the church received a grant of £35,000 over three years. This money came from the Diocese of Gloucester’s LIFE Development Fund. It helps run a new program called Spear. This program aims to help young people discover their talents and find jobs.
