Dr. W. Harrison Trotter, senior pastor at Morning Star Christian Church in Pasadena, has announced his retirement after serving 15 years in his clerical position. He and his Pasadena-based family have been affiliated with MSCC for the past fifty-five years. The church has been continuously incorporated in Pasadena since 1958.
“The greatest gift I have ever received is having Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord of my life. He has created an incredible plan for my life, which led me to the position of Senior Pastor of Morning Star Christian Church,” said Dr. Trotter.
Before becoming pastor, Dr. Trotter proudly served as Associate Minister, Youth Minister Coordinator, Bible Study Teacher, member of the Men’s Chorus and teacher of the New Members Class at MSCC. With an easily understandable teaching style, he presents the word to diverse congregations using research and humor.
He has been able to continue his ongoing evangelism at additional churches in Pasadena, Altadena and Los Angeles. Dr. Trotter also held the position of Assistant correspondence Secretary of the Baptist Ministers Conference and participated in the Pasadena Clergy Community Coalition.
Previously, he united with Upper Room Christian Church of Los Angeles, serving faithfully in many aspects of the church. In 1995, he was licensed and ordained and served as President of the Youth Usher Board and later the Senior Usher Board. His interest in the lessons of the Bible led him to become a Sunday School Teacher, and eventually, he assumed the position of Sunday School Superintendent and Associate Minister. Dr. Trotter was also called to the prison ministry to minister to inmates in city jails and in local prisons.
He is a United States Army veteran who served two years in Vietnam, where he received the Purple Heart, a Bronze Star for Bravery and the Army Commendation Medal with a “V” Device.
Dr. Trotter retired from active employment at the 7-Up Bottling Company, where he worked for 28 years, advancing to the position of Delivery Supervisor. Additionally, he and his wife, First Lady Ranza Trotter, an active church member, administrative director and leader of the women’s ministry, have also owned successful childcare and educational facilities in the Los Angeles area for many years.
During Dr. Trotter’s leadership, Morning Star Christian Church has engaged in several spiritual and community projects. He revitalized the Youth Department, where the children and young adults now participate in “Sunday On the Steps,” “Praise Dance,” “Children’s Church,” and the innovative program of “Gospel Rap.”
MSCC’s 501c-3 status has enabled it to partner with Youth Build, a program in which youth work in the construction field while earning a high school diploma.
Dr. Trotter attended Pasadena City College, UCLA Anderson School of Business Management and Bethany Christian College. He went to Bible Believers Christian College and Seminary, where he received his BA and Doctorate Degrees in Theology. He continues his calling and education through many lectures, seminars, conferences, and revivals.
MSCC has formed a search committee that is “prayerfully seeking a full-time pastor who is called by god and equipped to preach and teach the word of God effectively.” Applicants may download the application for consideration at the MSCC church website.
DEETS
- Morning Star Christian Church, services each Sunday at 10:00 am
- 1416 North Mentor Avenue, Pasadena, 91104
- MSCC Website
