A powerful preacher and teacher of the Word. That’s how many describe Reverend Trey Thomas. He leads Saint John Missionary Baptist Church today. But its story stretches far beyond his tenure.
Saint John Missionary Baptist Church. A cornerstone of Houston’s Third Ward. Its history is rich and deep. It began humbly in 1899. Reverend Gilbert Green and Reverend Hilliard R Johnson founded it. A small building near Calhoun Avenue and Live Oak Street housed the first congregation.
A pivotal moment came in 1901. Reverend James B Bouldin purchased land on the 2100 block of Broadway. That’s Bastrop Street today. He briefly served as pastor. Reverend Johnson’s return in 1901 marked another chapter. He led until 1915. A significant split followed with him and hundreds of members leaving.
They didn’t go far. Around the corner on Gray and Bastrop Streets. There they continued services. This is the current location of Saint John Missionary Baptist Church on Dowling Street. Four pastors followed Reverend Johnson until 1924.
Then came Reverend Nathaniel C Crain. He arrived in 1925 from Louisiana. A dedicated leader he fostered significant growth. Sunday school classes thrived. Baptist Training Union and missionary societies flourished. A kindergarten school opened its doors. The church’s growth exploded after World War II. A larger building became necessary.
James M Thomas a prominent African-American architect designed a masterpiece. A three-story Gothic Revival structure with twin towers. A bell announced Sunday services and funerals. This building reflects the distinct style of African-American church architecture of that era.
Reverend Crain’s long tenure ended in 1973. Several pastors followed. In 2013 Saint John Missionary Baptist Church received well-deserved recognition. It was designated a historical landmark.
The church continues to thrive. Reverend Thomas’s leadership has ushered in a new era of spiritual growth. Membership has increased. Saint John Missionary Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith. It is a beacon of community and a living legacy. It’s a place where the power of prayer and the strength of community intertwine. A symbol of resilience. A place of worship that has witnessed history unfold within its hallowed walls.