St John Missionary Baptist Church

Can a church have two birthplaces? The St. John Missionary Baptist Church can. Its story begins not in Boston, but in Grand Prairie, Texas, in 1921. Thirteen determined souls laid the foundation of this vibrant community. Imagine them, gathered in the Evening Chapel A.M.E., sharing their vision for St. John Missionary Baptist Church. They met there on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month. Later, their meetings moved to the Dalworth School, the designated school for Black students at that time. Their first church building wasn’t a grand structure, but a humble old store building, purchased with the proceeds of a July 4th picnic in 1923. The St. John Missionary Baptist Church thrived under a succession of pastors. From Reverend W. Scott to Rev. N.R. Washington, each leader guided the church through different eras. World War II brought challenges. Manpower was scarce, leading members to often serve both St. John and the Evening Chapel A.M.E. In 1941, under Rev. L.A. Hancock, the church acquired an army chapel, relocating to 2133 Spikes Street. Growth and expansion continued. A new balcony and rededicated classrooms marked the era of Rev. R.M. Lester. Rev. B.E. Collie, the 14th pastor, led the church to financial stability, acquiring pews, an organ, and even the Medallion Apartment Complex, which later housed the Dallas County HeadStart Program. The St. John Missionary Baptist Church continued to evolve, always serving its community. Renovations and expansions continued under numerous pastors, marking the church’s commitment to growth and service. By 1991, under Rev. Denny D. Davis, the St. John Missionary Baptist Church boasted over 50 ministries and five weekend worship services. The church expanded, adding a Life-Time Athletic Family Center, classrooms, and more. In 2009, the Grand Prairie campus earned recognition as a historical landmark. So, while the building you see before you in Boston may not be the original St. John Missionary Baptist Church, it carries the spirit and legacy of that first congregation in Grand Prairie. Their dedication laid the foundation for the church’s continued growth and impact.