Did you know People’s Presbyterian Church started in a vacant store? This very building stands as a testament to a remarkable journey. People’s Presbyterian Church wasn’t always here on York Street. It began humbly in 1906. An African-American congregation found its first home in a small space at 25th and Larimer Street. The Committee on Home Missions of the Presbytery of Denver helped them. Sixty-six members formed the church electing three Ruling Elders and Rev D D Cole as their first pastor. Rev Cole served until 1909. Many joined the growing church during his tenure.
The congregation soon needed a proper building. In 1908 negotiations began. They purchased the First Cumberland Presbyterian Church at East 23rd Avenue and Washington Street. This was a significant step for People’s Presbyterian Church. It marked a move towards a more permanent home. Unfortunately tragedy struck. Rev H A Gibson the newly elected pastor passed away just two weeks after his arrival. Rev J A Thomas-Hazell took over. He served as pastor until 1922 and later again from 1946 to 1949. He oversaw the move to the East 23rd Avenue location.
The church experienced phenomenal growth under Rev Hugh A Mullings. He became pastor in 1949. The congregation swelled to over 500 members. People’s Presbyterian Church became self-sufficient. They no longer needed financial aid from the Presbyterian Board of Nations Mission. In 1955 they finally moved to their current building at 2780 York Street. This building was formerly used by the Clayton Presbyterian Church. It represented a new chapter for People’s Presbyterian Church. This relocation mirrored the shift in Denver’s African-American population. They moved east from Five Points to York Street and beyond. The church thrived in this new environment. They even offered diverse programs like piano lessons and skiing trips.
Through the years People’s Presbyterian Church welcomed pastors from various backgrounds. This included the first Asian-American pastor Rev Frank Y Ichishita and the first African-American woman pastor Rev Cynthia F Burse. This diversity reflects the church’s inclusive nature. The current pastor Rev Olivia Hudson-Smith continues this legacy of service. People’s Presbyterian Church stands as a symbol of faith perseverance and community. It’s a living testament to a rich history.