“In August 1899 a new chapter began in Houston’s Third Ward.” That’s how the story of St. John Missionary Baptist Church starts. The Reverend Hilliard R. Johnson led a small group of African Americans. They were determined to establish a church. Thus St. John Missionary Baptist Church was born.
St. John Missionary Baptist Church has stood as a spiritual cornerstone. It is located on Dowling Street. Dowling Street is now known as Emancipation Avenue. It has played a vital role in the community’s life.
During his time as pastor, Rev. Johnson introduced some new practices. He pioneered two morning church services. He organized spring revivals. Baptisms were held in Brays Bayou. These traditions helped shape the church’s identity.
In 1920, the congregation had grown. They needed a bigger space. So, they built a brick building on Dowling Street near McGowan Avenue. This marked a significant milestone.
The Reverend Sanderson A. Pleasants Jr. took over in 1925. He served until 1953. Rev. Pleasants started many organizations and outreach programs. These included a Home Mission Department and a Silent Department Deaf Ministry. There was also a Prison Ministry. He also created a church band and orchestra. A radio group was formed too.
By 1948, St. John Missionary Baptist Church had over 5000 members. The church needed a larger sanctuary. A new building was completed in 1950. It featured a classical revival architectural design. Colossal columns were included. They symbolized the church’s spiritual strength and influence. By 1953, it was one of the largest African American churches in the country.
From 1953 to 1983, the Reverend Marshall M. Malone led St. John Missionary Baptist Church. A weekly radio Bible class was broadcast. The M. M. Malone chapel and educational building were built in 1963. It was next to the 1950 sanctuary.
St. John Missionary Baptist Church played a key role during the Civil Rights era. In 1958, it hosted the 25th Commencement Ceremony of the Erma Hughes Business College. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was the principal speaker. In 1965, the church hosted the 85th National Baptist Convention of America. It was the first religious event held at Houston’s Astrodome.
In 1917 Rev. Hilliard R. Johnson and several hundred members began services around the corner of the established St. John Missionary Baptist Church. This location was on Gray and Bastrop St. This is where the current St. John Missionary Baptist Church stands on Dowling.
James M. Thomas was a local black contractor. He became Houston’s most prominent architect for black congregations. Under his leadership, a three-story Gothic Revival Masonry Structure building was built. It had a nave and twin towers. A bell rung on Sunday mornings and for funerals.
In 2013, St. John Missionary Baptist Church was designated a historical landmark. This recognition celebrated its lasting impact on Houston. The church is a testament to faith. It is a symbol of community. It is a beacon of hope.
Today, St. John Missionary Baptist Church continues to thrive. It enriches the lives of its members. It serves as a reminder of the power of faith and community. Its history is etched in every brick. It resonates in every hymn. It echoes through the streets of Houston’s Third Ward.