Rev. Dr. Mark Charles

Lead Pastor

Hi! My name is Mark Charles (known to most people as "Charlie") and I’m incredibly honored to serve as the new Lead Pastor here at Trinity. I’m married to Margaret, and together we’ve spent years navigating the joys of leadership, family, and ministry. We are immensely proud of our two children, Eva (21) and Jackson (18), who keep our lives full of energy and purpose. Outside of ministry, you’ll maybe find me completing a long run - I enjoy the challenge of training for marathons. And when I am not doing that you might find me sitting with my guitar or at the piano, playing and singing some of my favorite ballads and songs.

For me, ministry and leadership are all about growth in Christ. When we truly and deeply connect with God's grace, we are empowered to step into our true potential, cultivating deep, authentic relationships that transform our lives, our communities, and our world.

Three words your best friend would use to describe you? Encouraging, faith-filled, steadfast.

Something surprising that not many people would know about you? I’ve finished four marathons and am currently training to run the New York City Marathon this fall in support of "Movember" - a global charity committed to changing the face of men's health.

Favorite sports team(s)? Liverpool F.C. (English Premier League soccer). I also love to support my provincial rugby team from back home, Ulster Rugby, as well as Ireland's international rugby team. Also, I'm in Gainesville now, so I suppose I will always be cheering for the Gators, too 🧡🐊💙

One thing you can’t live without? My daily morning practices, and a great cup of coffee to kickstart the day.

Life Verse? "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.” (Lamentations 3:22-24)

How about the official stuff? I hold a Bachelors degree in Theology (Queens University, Belfast, Northern Ireland), a Masters degree in Mission (University of Manchester, England, and a Doctor of Ministry in Church Leadership Excellence (Wesley Theological Seminary, Washington D.C.). I am also a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) accredited by the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Over the past 25 years, I have served to offer leadership in communities and churches in both Northern Ireland and in Florida.