Perhaps the soul of Houston resides within these walls. I am talking about the walls of Saint Luke the Evangelist Episcopal Church. This church is more than bricks and mortar. It is a beacon of hope. Saint Luke’s is a testament to faith and community.
Saint Luke the Evangelist Episcopal Church stands proudly in Houston’s Third Ward. It is across from Texas Southern University’s Thurgood Marshall College of Law. The University of Houston is just blocks away. This location places Saint Luke’s at the heart of student life.
Founded in 1920, Saint Luke’s holds a special place in history. It was the first Black Episcopal Church in Houston. Today, Saint Luke’s welcomes everyone. The congregation celebrates diversity. It embraces all cultures, races, ethnicities, and ages. They are one in Christ Jesus.
At Saint Luke the Evangelist Episcopal Church scripture is the foundation of worship. The service follows The Book of Common Prayer. All are welcome to join in prayer. The church unites to acknowledge God’s holiness. They celebrate God’s presence among them.
Saint Luke’s extends its reach beyond its walls. It supports the Community Music Center of Houston’s Scott Joplin Chamber Orchestra. Saint Luke’s hosts the Children’s Summer String Camp. The church also holds summer and winter recitals.
Through the Episcopal Church Women, Saint Luke’s supports the Manna House Food Pantry. The pantry serves those in need in the community. The church partners with Holy Spirit Episcopal Church. They support Blessings in a Backpack. This program provides food for students at Blackshear Elementary School on weekends.
Each year, Saint Luke the Evangelist Episcopal Church holds a Fall Festival. It coincides with the celebration of St. Luke Day. The festival raises funds for the church’s activities. Saint Luke’s conforms to the beliefs of the Episcopal Church. It is a member of several organizations. These include the Episcopal Diocese of Texas and the Anglican Communion.
The future of Saint Luke’s includes expanding its ministry. They want to reach students, faculty, and staff at Texas Southern University. The church also seeks to expand its partnership with the new College Missioner at the University of Houston. Saint Luke the Evangelist Episcopal Church is a place where faith meets action. It is a place where everyone is welcome.