St. Cyprian’s Episcopal Church

Can a church be born out of rejection? St. Cyprian’s Episcopal Church in Boston can answer that. It stands as a testament to the resilience and faith of Black Episcopalians in the early 20th century. They faced discrimination and humiliation in other churches. In May 1910, a small group began meeting for family worship in a private home on Northampton Street. This marked the humble beginnings of St. Cyprian’s. St. Cyprian’s quickly outgrew the Northampton Street home. They moved to Franklin Union on Berkley Street. A layreader, a medical student, led services. Later, a Congregational minister, Reverend Mr. Barrows, presided. In 1913, under Bishop Babcock, the congregation became an official mission of the Diocese of Massachusetts. The church appointed its first Episcopal Priest-in-Charge, Reverend Joseph M. Matthias. They then worshipped in a chapel at St. Paul’s Cathedral. After Reverend Matthias resigned, Reverend David Leroy Ferguson began his ministry in December 1920. He served until 1951. During his time, the congregation continued its nomadic existence. They worshipped at St. Paul’s Cathedral and later at the Church of the Ascension. One incident stands out. After the congregation used a church for Sunday evening services, the church was fumigated. This blatant act of racism fueled their determination to build their own church. Reverend Ferguson led this effort. In July 1921, they purchased a lot on Tremont Street in Roxbury. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on June 25, 1922. St. Cyprian’s Episcopal Church opened its doors on February 10, 1924. The church was named after Cyprian, a prominent theologian and Bishop of Carthage in North Africa. The founders chose this name to affirm their African roots. They also wanted to emulate Cyprian’s remarkable leadership in the ancient church. St. Cyprian’s was more than a building. It was a symbol of pride, dignity, and empowerment. The church’s mission was, and continues to be, the empowerment of its people. St. Cyprian’s Episcopal Church stands proudly on Tremont Street. It represents a century of resilience, faith, and community.