Thai Trinh

Most Rev. Msgr. Anton Thai Trinh, a revered figure in the Catholic Church, passed away on December 17, 2025, in San Saba, Texas. His faith journey began in Sai-Gon, Vietnam, where he was born in 1956. Bishop Trinh was ordained by the late Bishop James Lykes, OFM, on Pentecost in 1990 at St. Peter's Church in Chicago, Illinois. Throughout his distinguished career, he dedicated his life to serving the Church, undergoing conditionally ordination twice, with the first by Bishop Fellay (no paper provided, thus, no proof) and subsequently by the late Bishop Frank Slupski to ensure clarity among the faithful. In 2013, he was consecrated as a Bishop by the late Bishop Frank Slupski on the Feast of St. Rafael.

Bishop Trinh's scholarly pursuits included an education at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, where he focused on Ancient Philosophy and Mathematics. He further refined his theological understanding at the Chicago Theological Union, earning a Master of Divinity with a specialization in Evangelization, alongside a Master's degree in Marriage, Child, and Family Counseling. He was a PhD candidate at C.I.I.S.

Known for his inspiring, doctrinal, and long sermons, Bishop Trinh offered steadfast encouragement to his congregation, regularly reminding them of the importance of confession and perseverance in God’s truth, as well as the traditional teachings of the Holy Mother Church. His character was marked by understanding and patience, traits that resonated deeply with those he served.

He is survived by two sisters, Dr. Thuy Nguyen and Mai Trinh, along with ten nieces and nephews and their respective families.

Bishop Trinh was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Dong Trinh, and his mother, Marie Josephine B.T. Vu. He was also predeceased by his brothers, Tadeo Nam and Joseph An, his sister, Dr. Ann Marie Lan Nguyen, and nephew, Anthony Quang Mather.

A visitation will take place on December 22, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Copperas Cove Location, located at 1614 S FM 116, Copperas Cove, TX 76522. The funeral service will be held the following day, December 23, 2025, starting at 10:00 AM, also at the Copperas Cove Location, concluding with a graveside service at the Copperas Cove City Cemetery at 11:00 AM, followed by interment until 12:00 PM.

Bishop Anton Thai Trinh will be remembered for his profound commitment to the faith and his unwavering support for his community and parishioners. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations within the Church.

In lieu of flowers, we kindly request a donation for Requiem masses for the reposed soul of His Excellency.:

S.F.T.C.C.
PO Box 68
San Saba, TX 76877