“Haven for African American fellowship” is what they called it. The Calvary Baptist Church stands here as a testament to faith. It also embodies community, education, and personal sharing.
Let’s explore the story of Calvary Baptist Church. Its roots stretch back to the late 19th century. Salt Lake City’s Black population grew. This growth spurred the creation of independent institutions. These institutions served the community’s spiritual needs.
Imagine a small group of Black women. They gathered in private homes to pray. This was the beginning of something special. Soon, they became known as the “Baptist Prayer Band.” Sister Emma Jackson, affectionately called “Mom Jack,” led them. Her home became their primary meeting place.
These women worked tirelessly. They were maids, cooks, and wash ladies. They maintained their own homes and cared for their families. Black centers of worship became their havens. They found fellowship, strength, and opportunities to participate in community building.
By 1892, the group had grown. It officially became the Calvary Missionary Baptist Church. It provided a haven for African Americans. In 1896, they moved from private homes to the First Baptist Church. Emma Hatfield, Mattie Ketchell, and Eliza McAfee were the first baptized members. They formed the “colored” congregation. Their worship was energetic and filled with spiritual fervor.
In 1898, they found a permanent place. It was a “little colored house of worship” on West Temple Street. Reverend A. E. Reynolds was invited to lead. After six months, he left. Reverend D. Jones from Kansas came next. His time was also short. In 1901, Reverend James W. Washington became the leader. He delivered inspiring sermons.
The congregation grew again. Reverend Washington organized a “Building Fund Possum Festival.” They raised money with possums, wild turkeys, and Belgian hares. Instead of building a new church, they moved to a building on 200 South in 1902.
Reverend Washington started the Alexander Dumas Literary Society. He also published the Tri-City Oracle Newspaper. In 1911, the congregation bought the Eastside Baptist Church. In 1912, Reverend Allen Newman invited Booker T. Washington. The educator spoke at Calvary Baptist Church in 1913.
In 1917, Reverend George Hart organized the Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming Baptist Association. The NAACP’s Salt Lake branch was founded at Calvary in 1919. Reverend George Hart and Sister Thelma Steward were involved.
Calvary Baptist Church was officially incorporated in 1921. Reverend George Hart led this effort. After several pastors, Reverend William A. Lucas became the leader. The Association became the Rocky Mountain Baptist Association.
Calvary Baptist Church celebrated its 125th anniversary. It has been a center of faith for many years. The congregation built its current location on State Street in 2001. It includes space for worship, education, and recreation.
Calvary Baptist Church is a testament. It shows the enduring spirit of Salt Lake City’s African American community. It stands as a beacon of hope, unity, and unwavering faith.