Thirteen visionary members founded St. John Church in 1921. They laid the foundation for a spiritual home that would grow and thrive. Let’s step back in time to understand its origins.
St. John Missionary Baptist Church started humbly. The church gathered at Evening Chapel A.M.E. on the 1st and 3rd Sundays. Later, meetings moved to Dalworth School. Back then, Dalworth School served as the school for Black students.
In 1923, St. John Church acquired its first building. Proceeds from a July 4th picnic made it possible to purchase an old store building. This marked a significant milestone for the young congregation.
During 1947 to 1991, nine pastors guided St. John Church. They were Reverends W. Scott, C. J. Morse, and others. The church was located on El Paso Street in Grand Prairie. In 1941, under Rev. L.A. Hancock, the church purchased an army chapel. Members raised funds to move and erect the chapel at 2133 Spikes Street.
Significant growth occurred in 1955. Under Rev. R. M. Lester, a new sanctuary balcony was built. Classrooms were rededicated. These improvements accommodated the growing congregation of St. John Church.
Rev. B.E. Collie became pastor in 1957. He eliminated the church’s debt and purchased essential items. These included pews, an organ, and pulpit furniture. The St. John Credit Union was also organized under his leadership.
In 1968, Rev. Leonard Jordan became the 15th pastor. He focused on extensive repairs and remodeling. He also improved the parking lot and organized the youth choir. St. John Church became very active in the community.
In 1991, Rev. Denny D. Davis became the 17th pastor. Under his leadership, membership grew significantly. St. John expanded to over 50 ministries. In 1995, the church retired a $500,000 mortgage note.
Groundbreaking for the Vision 2000 project occurred in 1997. In 2001, a four-story complex was completed debt-free. It included the Life-Time Athletic Family Center, classrooms, and administrative offices.
In 1999, St. John Church established the North Family Fellowship. They met at hotels in Grapevine and Irving. In 2000, a converted warehouse became the new worship location in Southlake.
On Palm Sunday in 2003, St. John Church began worshipping at NextStage Auditorium. This was in addition to the Jefferson Street location. It better served the overflow of services in Grand Prairie.
In 2006, St. John Church broke ground in Southlake. The facility included a large sanctuary, a Family Life Center, and more.
To further meet community needs, St. John opened the H.O.P.E. Outreach Center in 2005. The Victory Place Counseling Center followed in 2009.
In 2009, St. John’s Grand Prairie campus received a historical marker. This designated it as a historical landmark.
In 2019, St John Church celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Southlake campus.
Today, St. John Church celebrates its centennial. The church continues to grow and serve God’s people. The thirteen charter members from 1921 would be proud. The church looks forward to impacting society with the message of Jesus Christ. To God be the glory. St. John Church stands as a testament to faith, growth, and service.