“We’ve got to have a church out here.” Those words sparked the beginning of Hughes Memorial United Methodist Church. It was the fall of 1948. A superintendent saw the need in the Capitol View and Marshal Heights areas.
Hughes Memorial’s story is one of faith and vision. The church’s journey began with just a few people. In 1949, the mission started in Malvan and Schey Funeral Chapel. This was at 48th and Deane Avenue NE. There were only two charter members then.
After six months they moved. The group of fifteen members established a parish house church. This was at 18 54th Street SE. The church was named to honor Bishop William A.C. Hughes. He had been the Field Secretary of the Conference Board of Missions and Church Extension. The stadium at Morgan State University is also named for him. He was the first bishop elected after the unification. Sadly, he died soon after his consecration.
The congregation marched to their present location on March 23, 1958. Sixty-seven members made the historic walk to 53rd and Ames Street.
Hughes Memorial has seen steady growth. There were purchases of lots and building programs. Rev. Charles Johnson oversaw the paying off of mortgages. In the 1980s and 90s, there was more construction. Rev. Mamie Williams led the building of a multipurpose building. The sanctuary was also renovated at that time.
Bishop James K. Matthews consecrated the new facility. This happened on Sunday, August 22, 1993. Sunday services were held in the Fellowship Hall during this time. On November 6, 1994, worship returned to the renovated sanctuary. It now had a new computerized organ and stained glass windows. In 1998, a new 15-passenger van was purchased.
Many groups have helped Hughes Memorial grow. They developed ministries to serve the community. The church participated in the Bishop’s Initiative Against Drugs and Violence. There was also a Summer Ministries Program called Project Spirit. Hughes Memorial supported UPO Day Care. They also had an Adopt-a-School program. Boy Scout Troop #582 was founded in 1953. Charity Outreach began in 1993. The HUM Federal Credit Union started in 1964. It has now merged with the HEW Credit Union.
Other activities have included Hi-Lites. This was the church newsletter from 1977. There is also the Angels Service Network. Hughes HOPE serves those affected by HIV/AIDS. The CAP Afterschool program supports children. The Woman Veteran’s Resource Center is also important. The Food Bank helps those in need.
The Reverend Paul W. Johnson is the 12th pastor. He follows a line of dedicated leaders. They include Rev. Constance C. Smith and Rev. B. Kevin Smalls. Also Rev. Dr. Kirk D. Monroe, Sr. and Rev. Mamie A. Williams. Each pastor has contributed to the church’s mission.
Rev. Kirkland Frazier organized the church in its early days. Rev. William H. Hairston saw Hughes Memorial accepted into the Methodist Conference. Rev. William E. Bishop purchased land and built the current edifice. Rev. Thomas F. Brooks bought adjacent lots and installed air conditioning. Rev. Charles A. Johnson paid off the mortgage. Rev. Hal T. Henderson acquired a new parsonage. Rev. Arlester Brown prepared for the multipurpose building. Rev. Mamie Alethia Williams constructed the multipurpose building. Rev. Kirk D. Monroe, Sr. increased Bible Study classes. Rev. B. Kevin Smalls instituted the Young Adult Café. Rev. Constance C. Smith organized the Angel Service Network. Rev. Paul W. Johnson instituted the Greeter’s ministry.
Hughes Memorial United Methodist Church stands as a testament to faith. It also shows the power of community. It is a place where all are welcome.