Stepping into the vibrant tapestry of San Francisco’s history, let’s pause at a cornerstone of faith and community: Saint Johns Missionary Baptist Church. This church isn’t just a building. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of a congregation. It speaks volumes about the power of faith. Saint Johns Missionary Baptist Church stands proudly on 3rd Street. It has witnessed decades of San Francisco’s ever-evolving story.
Saint Johns Missionary Baptist Church was organized on August 24, 1945. The Reverend Benjamin F. Davis guided the nascent congregation as its first pastor. Among the founding members were Mothers Mamie Lands and Sadie Sanders, their names etched into the church’s foundation. Sister Nancy Williams, another founding member, continued her faithful service. The church’s first home was a humble storefront on Capitol Avenue, affectionately dubbed “The Little Store-Front Church.” Within a year, the burgeoning congregation outgrew this space and moved to a larger facility on Third Street. Pastor Davis and the members dreamt of a purpose-built church. Sadly, this dream was deferred when Pastor Davis accepted a call to serve in the Bay Area.
The church then called Reverend J.D. Griffin to serve as its second pastor. Under his leadership, the congregation expanded to seventy-five members. Saint Johns Missionary Baptist Church found a new home on Fourth Street. Reverend Griffin served Saint Johns for twelve years. In 1962, the church faced a period of transition, seeking new leadership. On November 10, 1962, Dr. William E. Hights became the third pastor of Saint Johns Missionary Baptist Church. His arrival marked a period of significant growth and transformation. The old church structure was demolished in 1982. In September 1983, over 200 parishioners joyously marched into the new church building, the very one that graces 3rd Street today. This new edifice was the culmination of a 38-year journey. Under Dr. Hights’s leadership, the church experienced its most substantial growth. Membership swelled to approximately 800 members.
In 1987, another dream was realized. The St. John Christian School opened its doors. It offered a Christian-based education for students from pre-school through sixth grade. In 1999, Dr. Hights’s health declined. He entrusted the church to his associate ministers. This included Reverend Darryl B. Heath, Reverend MacArthur Weatherspoon, Sr., and Reverend Kevin Brown. Later that year, Dr. Hights passed away, leaving behind a legacy of devoted service. His wife, Mary Hights, remained a vital part of the church community. She continued to inspire and motivate others with her unwavering faith. Reverend Darryl B. Heath took up the mantle of leadership. He was installed as the church’s new pastor on June 25, 2000. Pastor Heath, mentored by Dr. Hights, continued to build upon the established foundation. Saint Johns Missionary Baptist Church continues to thrive, a beacon of hope and faith in the heart of San Francisco. It is a place where history and faith intertwine. It creates a rich tapestry of community and resilience.