Saint James African Methodist Episcopal Church

In 1867, a determined group of African Americans left Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church. They sought to establish their own congregation, closer to their homes in Freedmen’s Town. This marked the humble beginnings of Saint James African Methodist Episcopal Church. Initially, they worshipped under a simple brush arbor by Buffalo Bayou. The year 1871 brought a significant step forward for Saint James. The congregation purchased land and built their first permanent sanctuary at Howard and Second Street (now Bluebonnet Place Circle at Nash). Just two years later, during the annual Methodist Conference of 1873, the church received its official name: West Point African Methodist Episcopal Church. The Reverend Gabriel Todd served as the first pastor. By 1880, the church became known as St. James Methodist Episcopal Church. A challenging period arose in 1908. The city of Houston designated a red-light district, encompassing the church’s location. This prompted the congregation to relocate their building. In 1910, they moved to the corner of Andrews and Wilson Streets, where Saint James African Methodist Episcopal Church stands today. Throughout its existence, Saint James has demonstrated a strong commitment to serving those in need. The Women’s Ministry, formed in the early 1930s, actively raised scholarship funds for college-bound students. The church’s Home Mission, organized in the 1940s, provided vital support to shut-ins. A youth fellowship was formed in the 1950s. A Food Ministry further extended the church’s outreach into the community. The year 1957 saw the construction of a new sanctuary, led by Reverend L. B. Allen and Richard H. Robinson. The renowned architect J. J. Hawkins designed the building, and Heights Lodge #280 leveled the cornerstone. A significant change occurred in 1968 with the merger of the Methodist and Evangelical United Brethren Churches. The congregation then became St. James United Methodist Church. Saint James African Methodist Episcopal Church stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of its founders. From its humble beginnings under a brush arbor to its current location, it has remained a steadfast beacon of faith and service in Houston.