Beneath this very ground lies a story of resilience a story that echoes through the walls of St. John’s Presbyterian Church. St. John’s Presbyterian Church is not just a building. It’s a testament to faith community and the enduring spirit of Detroit’s African American population.
Let’s step back in time to April 27 1919. Thirty-nine determined individuals gathered at the First Presbyterian Church. The church was on Woodward Avenue. They had a vision to create a place of worship. This place would serve Detroit’s growing black population. Reverend John W. Lee a field missionary spearheaded this endeavor.
St. John’s Presbyterian Church emerged as the first African American Presbyterian congregation in Michigan. Imagine their first humble worship space. It was located at Madison and Dubois streets. The congregation then moved to a church at Clinton and Joseph Campau streets in 1940.
Now envision the Detroit of the 1960s. Government-sponsored urban renewal projects were reshaping the city. These projects forced St. John’s Presbyterian Church to seek a new location.
The congregation found a new home. This is where we stand today. The land was purchased on January 17 1965. The land is at E. Lafayette Blvd and St. Aubin. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on January 30 1966. The cornerstone was laid on June 19 1966.
Picture this Christmas Day 1966. The congregation celebrated its first service in this new church. The move wasn’t just about finding a new building. It was about reaffirming their commitment to the community.
Today St. John’s Presbyterian Church continues its mission. It serves as a beacon of hope and a center for community engagement. The church has a community garden. This garden teaches about growing food. It also connects neighbors. It is located on the corner of E. Lafayette and St. Aubin. The garden allows children to explore the wonders of farm to table produce.
St. John’s Presbyterian Church sows seeds of faith. They nurture Christ in their lives. They reflect that same care in the world. It is more than just a church. It is a living breathing testament to faith resilience and community. It embodies Detroit’s enduring spirit. The words of Psalm 126.3 resonate deeply here. “The Lord has done great things for us and we are filled with joy.”