Once upon a time, a bomb threat became a high point. That’s the spirit of Fourth Presbyterian Church. It stands at 340 Dorchester Street. This church is a beacon of resilience in South Boston.
Fourth Presbyterian Church was founded in 1870. It has a rich history of serving its neighborhood. The church exists between two housing projects. This location fits its mission to serve the community. They touch the lives of over 650 people monthly.
When Burns Stanfield became pastor 25 years ago the church faced challenges. A redevelopment grant was expiring. But this spurred creativity not despair. Burns constantly tried new ideas. Some of those ideas stuck for a long time.
In 2006, Fourth Presbyterian Church received a bomb threat. The hateful message used racial and gay epithets. It threatened the church with violence. But the congregation decided to hold services anyway. Attendance soared. Friends from synagogues and Black churches joined in solidarity. Local politicians showed their support. The community declared that hate did not represent South Boston.
Burns felt like they weren’t alone. The bomb threat transformed into deeper community union. It became an opportunity to show how welcoming they truly are.
Fourth Presbyterian Church is all about being together. Food is a means for community building. They prepare serve and eat together. The church feeds 200 people lunch every day. This started during the pandemic. Schools were closed. Students needed free lunches. The state asked them to expand their summer meals program.
The church also hosts many programs. These include book studies and choir practices. Everyone is welcome to participate. You don’t need to be a member. They welcome neighbors from different religious backgrounds.
Fourth Presbyterian Church has a small parking lot. It fits up to six cars. Street parking is also available. It is free between 10am and 6pm. The church is near Andrew Station on the red line. It is also on the 10 bus route. The church is wheelchair accessible.
Kids are welcome in services. They can participate in all elements. There is also a Kids’ Church for younger children. Fourth Presbyterian Church affirms LGBTQ+ people. They ordain queer individuals. They officiate same-sex weddings.
The church has faced other challenges. These include rising building costs. They also dealt with the deaths of loved ones. Burns’ wife Irene passed away. Her death prepared the church for COVID-19. It forced them to expand their technology. The pandemic led to a growing food ministry.
AA and NA groups meet at the church. They meet Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 7:00 pm. The church also has a food pantry. Its hours are 8:30 am to 11:30 am. This is on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. Hot meals are served. They are available Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Through every challenge, Fourth Presbyterian Church finds resurrection. A place where death is not the end. Their story is a testament to community faith and resilience.