Eight families from the Swedish settlement in Powell Valley, two miles east of Gresham, came together on January 23, 1899 and organized the Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Saron Congregation. Before the end of the year a decision was made to build a church. The result was a white frame building 24x36, with an 8x8 tower. The language of the church was Swedish. English became a reluctant option in 1916, and it was not until 1938 that it became the sole language of worship.
Growth was slow but steady. In 1921 it became apparent that Gresham was the better location. The present site was donated by a member. When the church basement was dedicated in 1933 the congregation changed its name to Trinity. The education building was added in 1954 and the mortgage was paid off in 1965. In 1984, when the congregation celebrated its 85th anniversary, the sanctuary was enlarged, and a new kitchen, library and classrooms were added.
From the guide to the Trinity Lutheran Church, Gresham, Oregon, Records, 1899-2012, (Pacific Lutheran University)
