“Growing together in faith and community” is more than just a motto here at Springfield Christian Church. It is a way of life. Welcome.
Springfield Christian Church stands as a testament to faith. It also represents community in Washington D.C. But our story actually begins elsewhere. It started with a shared history in Edgefield, South Carolina.
Three of the five founding family’s home church was also named Springfield Baptist Church. Think about that. When they traveled to a new place, they wanted to bring a little bit of home. That is how Springfield Christian Church was born.
The church was officially organized on November 17, 1939. Sister Josie Cheeter opened her home for the first meeting. It was located at 777 M Street, Northwest, Washington, D.C. Many people ascended from Springfield Baptist Church in Edgefield, South Carolina.
Deacon Jefferson D. Yeldell and Sister Annie Mae Yeldell were among them. Deacon J.D. Mobley, Deacon J.R. Carter, and Sister Lillie Eldermann also joined. They all participated in a devotional service. They gathered for an organizational meeting to establish a church. Reverend John Sligh served as Moderator Pro-term. Deacon J.R. Simmons served as Secretary Pro-term. From this meeting, Springfield Baptist Church was organized.
The first worship service took place on November 18, 1939. The members hosted the service. The initial membership was thirty-seven. They worshipped at 1337 Seventh Street, Northwest. Deacon James Marshall, Mrs. Elizabeth Marshall, and Deacon J.R. Simmons were among the worshippers. Deacon Bennie Hanes, Mrs. Pearly Joyner McPherson, and Mrs. Lexia Hinson also attended. Mrs. Beatrice Stringfellow, Deacon Fleming McClinton, and Deacon Eddie Tolbert were there as well.
Reverend Westley Shorter was elected as acting pastor. Other officers were also elected. Mr. J. D. Yeldell was Chairman of the Deacons. Mr. J. D. Mobley, Mr. J. R. Carter, and Mr. Joseph Duncan were also deacons. Mr. Samuel Graham and Mr. James Duncan became Trustees. Mrs. Lettie Eldemann was President of the Missionary Circle. Mrs. Florence Shorter was President of the Women’s Auxiliary.
Deacon James Leech recommended Reverend Eddie J. Gallman. Reverend Gallman accepted the call. He became the first pastor of Springfield Baptist Church in 1939. The church was located at 1337 Seventh Street, NW.
In November 1941, Springfield purchased a building. It was located at 1429 Sixth Street, NW. On January 20, 1942, the Trustees signed the Deed of Trust. The property belonged to Zion Evangelical Church. Pastor Gallman established the Deacon Board. He also founded the Trustee Board and several auxiliaries.
Springfield has called eight pastors over the years. Reverend James H. Marshall and Reverend James J. Abney were among them. Reverend H. Wesley Wiley and Reverend Dr. L.B. Jones, Sr. also served. The current church was erected under Reverend Jones. Additional properties were purchased during his time. Reverend Dr. Carl Que Hickerson also led the church. Reverend Dr. Vernard E. Hinton is the current shepherd.
Springfield has faced many challenges. Yet, it moves forward with faith. The church hopes to remain a beacon of light. It aims to serve both locally and globally.
Springfield Christian Church has a clear vision. It seeks to lead people to become devoted disciples. The goal is to help them discover their purpose. The church wants to empower them to make a difference for the Kingdom.
The mission is simple. Be a Spirit-filled, Christ-centered church. Believe in the Bible. Evangelize, equip, and empower believers. Help them reach their full potential in Christ.
Today, Springfield Christian Church offers bilingual services. They are in Spanish and English. Services are held on Sundays at 11:30 am. All are welcome to join the community. All are encouraged to grow together in faith.