“Is It Well With Your Soul?” That was one of Rev. Charles C. Davis’ mottos. We are standing before the St. Mary Mission Church Plaque. It marks a place of deep history and community spirit. This plaque tells a story. It is a story of faith and perseverance.
Let’s step back in time to the early 1900s. Imagine Houston’s West End. It was a developing area. In 1919, a group of settlers arrived. They saw a need for a Baptist church. Brothers John Dixon and George Stubberfield reached out to Rev. W. M. Jones. He was a pastor at Mt. Sanai Baptist Church. Rev. Jones helped them organize. St. Mary’s Baptist Church was born.
Rev. R. J. Jordan became the first pastor. He was known for his energetic sermons. The church initially met at the foot of Patterson St. After three months, they moved to 1901 Patterson St. Rev. Jordan served for 12 years. During his time, the church membership grew significantly.
Several ministers followed Rev. Jordan. Rev. M.J. Steward and Rev. J. L. Lampley briefly led the congregation. Then, Rev. M. H. Hunter took over. He also served for 12 years. The church paid off its original debt under his leadership. Many improvements were made to the building.
In 1942, Rev. J. B. Norman became the pastor. The church continued to grow. They purchased land for a larger sanctuary. Rev. Norman ordained several ministers. He led St. Mary’s for 10 years.
Rev. C. S. Gunnells was called to pastor St. Mary’s in 1953. In 1964, under his guidance, the church moved to its current location on Eli St. Rev. Gunnells was a pillar of the community. He performed countless baptisms, weddings, and eulogies. He trained many ministers, including Rev. Charles C. Davis. Rev. Gunnells served faithfully for 45 years.
Rev. Charles C. Davis was elected pastor in 1999. He focused on spiritual growth. He established new auxiliaries. Rev. Davis believed in serving the community. He mentored aspiring ministers. His other motto was “I Will Trust In The Lord”.
In May 2022, Rev. Charles L. Washington, Sr. became the pastor. He is known for his teaching and preaching. Rev. Washington continues St. Mary’s legacy. He fosters relationships between the church and the community.
The St. Mary Mission Church Plaque stands as a reminder. It recalls the church’s enduring presence in Houston’s West End. Despite the challenges of gentrification, St. Mary’s remains a beacon of light. It serves the community. It continues to thrive on the corner of Eli and Fowler. The plaque marks faith, community, and a lasting legacy.