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The Foundation: Thirteen Faithful Souls
On Tuesday, April 24, 1956, thirteen members of Mt. Olive Baptist Church gathered at the home of Mrs. Ray Garrett with a vision to organize a new mission. Originally calling themselves the “Christian Workers” and later the “Volunteer Baptist Missionary Movement,” these founders relied on prayer and shared trust as they met in various homes.
We honor the original thirteen who planted the seeds of our church: A. Calloway, Jetty M. Chick, A. Garrett, Bertha Hayes, Joseph Norman, Solomon Patillo, E.C. Robinson, Edith Robinson, H. Ross, W. C. Ross, Edward Waller, Rovenia Williams, and Bobbie Wilson.
Their persistence led the group to rent the Eureka Lodge/Masonic Temple at 2014 Dwight Ave, where they first adopted the name Trinity Baptist Church.
The Official Organization: Becoming First Trinity
On June 8, 1956, Reverend L. W. Pryor of Antioch Baptist Church met with the members in their new home to provide counsel. He was joined by a council of local leaders, including Reverends Avery Aldridge, Isaac Epps, J.C. Curry, Matthew Montgomery, C.R. Neal, Gordon Robertson, and Reverends Booth and Robinson.
On June 15, 1956, the church was officially organized as First Trinity Missionary Baptist Church. The Articles of Faith and the Church Covenant were established as their guide, and local ministers volunteered their time to preach until a permanent shepherd was found.
Honoring Our History: A look back at the building that housed our mission before the vision of our current sanctuary became a reality.
Rev. Grady L. Bennett, Jr. 1963-1968
In March 1963, First Trinity welcomed its second leader, Reverend Grady L. Bennett Jr. A graduate of Morehouse College and Gammon Theological Seminary, his arrival was celebrated with a week-long installation featuring prominent clergy from across Michigan.
Under Reverend Bennett’s leadership, the church entered a season of spiritual and financial renewal. He focused on leading souls to Christ and liquidating church debts, all while fostering a devoted prayer life within the congregation. His vision for the future included purchasing land on Center Road for a new sanctuary—property that would later provide the funds to modernize our current church home. Reverend Bennett concluded his five-year tenure in 1968 to serve the Flint community as a civil servant, leaving a legacy of progress and obedience to God’s will.
Rev. Dr. Frank O. Hockenhull 1969-2012
In January 1969, Reverend Dr. F.O. Hockenhull began a 43-year journey that would redefine First Trinity. A Detroit native and a "Master Teacher," he was known for his deep theological knowledge and a belief that every conversation was a "mini-sermon."
Under his vision, the church's footprint expanded significantly. He oversaw the 1975 addition of the $250,000 Educational Wing and the 1989 dedication of our current $700,000 sanctuary. Visible from I-69, the building's architecture was intentionally designed by Dr. Hockenhull to represent the Bible, featuring three stained-glass windows for the Trinity and four pillars for the Gospel writers.
His commitment to biblical stewardship culminated on October 31, 2010, when the congregation celebrated the burning of the church mortgage. This milestone ensured the church remained debt-free for future generations. Dr. Hockenhull served First Trinity faithfully until his passing on March 16, 2012, leaving behind a soaring legacy of spiritual and physical growth.
Rev. Ezra L. Tillman Jr. 2014-2023
In May 2014, First Trinity welcomed Pastor Ezra L. Tillman, Jr., a leader dedicated to spiritual growth and community service. During his nine-year tenure, Pastor Tillman modernized the church’s business operations and enhanced the Worship Services by upgrading the Music Ministry with new instrumentation.
He instilled the philosophy that "Christ is the message, Ministry is the mission," encouraging the congregation to view themselves as servants of the Lord. His leadership extended far beyond the pulpit; he received local, state, and national recognition for his tireless advocacy and dedication to the community during the Flint Water Crisis. In 2023, He was called to a new assignment.
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Honoring Our Past, Welcoming our Future
While our leaders have changed throughout the decades, our foundation remains the same. Under the leadership of our Pastor, Dr. Ronald L. Bobo Sr., First Trinity continues to be a light in the Flint community—a place where history is honored, and the future is met with faith.
Whether you are a lifelong member or a first-time visitor, there is a place for you in our story! We invite you to learn more about our leadership and how we are carrying this 70-year mission forward today.