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A Brief History of Saint Paul's Parish |
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The church's first worship service was held in the East Naples Shopping Center on December 3, 1967. In 1968, the original church -- now Trinity Hall -- was completed and used for worship services. Both the church building and the large tract of land on which it is situated were donated by Trinity-by-the-Cove Episcopal Church in Naples. As the Parish grew, a Parish Hall -- now called Serson Hall -- was added. Serson Hall now houses Christian Education programs, a choir rehearsal room, a library and church offices. The continued growth of the Parish necessitated new church structure and the first service in the present structure was held in August of 1990. The Rev. Larry Smellie, rector at St. Paul's from 1971-1999, led the parish through most of its development as we know it. Father Smellie, who is now honored as our Rector Emeritus, presently serves as the Bishop's Canon Pastor for the three southern-most Deaneries of our Diocese. |
 Father Smellie and Father Serson at dedication of Serson Hall. |