Trinity-First United Methodist Church, El Paso

Trinity-First United Methodist Church traces its roots to the late 1800s as Methodist activity grew with new railroads, businesses, and neighborhoods. One early effort was the Union Sunday School, opened in 1881 in a small adobe building. That same year the Trinity congregation laid its first cornerstone. In 1979, Trinity United Methodist and First United Methodist merged to form the present church.

The present church building was completed in 1939 and designed by the architectural firm Trost & Trost, led by Gustavus A. Trost. Built of stone and brick, the structure reflects Spanish Renaissance architectural influences. Arched openings, decorative details, and a tower above the entrance shape its appearance. Some stained-glass windows inside were moved from earlier church buildings, preserving parts of the congregation’s history.

Inside, the church has a traditional sanctuary with rows of wooden pews facing the pulpit and chancel. Stained-glass windows add color and natural light, while the open layout allows large gatherings for services and events. The church also helped establish Providence Memorial Hospital in 1946 and opened an early preschool in 1952. Today the congregation continues to hold regular services and community programs.