“Did you know that Saint John’s Baptist Church in Woburn has a history stretching back to 1886?” I ask.
Saint John’s Baptist Church isn’t just a building. It’s a living testament to faith resilience and community. Eleven people gathered in 1886 at Mr Saunders Sims’ home. They formed a mission called St Paul’s Baptist Mission. Most were parishioners of a Boston church. Reverend Peter Smith suggested a name change. It became Saint John’s Baptist Church Mission. They worshipped in the Old Fraternity Hall.
Membership grew. The church formally organized on July 5 1887. Twenty members started. More joined soon. Fifty members made a strong community. A constitution was created. Thirteen charter members established this vital faith community. They included Thomas Allen Annie Johnson and John W White. A council officially recognized Saint John’s Baptist Church in 1888. Churches from Woburn Winchester Medford and Boston sent representatives. The church joined the Boston North Association now the Adoniram Judson Association.
Many pastors served Saint John’s. Reverend G G Robinson the first baptized the first eight members. They struggled to find a permanent location. A lot on Fowle Street was purchased. Later a Green Street lot was a gift. Building began on Green Street. However the deed restrictions led to its return.
Reverend William Henry Scott served longer than any other pastor at that time six years. He was born a slave in Virginia. He escaped to Massachusetts. He was a champion of human rights. He was involved in the Niagara Movement a precursor to the NAACP. Reverend Scott’s legacy inspires ongoing work for justice.
The church faced financial challenges. Fundraising efforts were crucial for survival. In 1920 a revival raised $1515 for a pipe organ and new pews. Constance White a granddaughter of charter members spearheaded a project in 1940. Memorial stained glass windows were installed.
Extensive renovations and expansion occurred during Reverend Larry Edmunds’ pastorate in the 1970s and 1980s. The church grew. A renovation in the 1980s cost $1.25 million. The church expanded its outreach and ministries. Reverend Dr Neal E Pearson became pastor in 2007. He established the church mission “The Word The World The Work”. Saint John’s Baptist Church stands as a beacon of faith in Woburn. Its story of perseverance continues to inspire. It embodies the enduring spirit of its founders and members.