The History of St. John's

St. John’s Congregational Church prides itself as the oldest Black Church in Springfield, MA. Founded in 1844 by anti-slave protestors, St. John’s has a rich history and legacy of positive community influence that has been championed by a number of its Pastors over the years. In its earliest years John Brown, the legendary abolitionist, led the fight against bigotry in the Springfield churches. At the turn of the century Reverend William N. DeBerry established a number of activities benefiting the community, including a parish home for workingwomen, girls’ and boys’ clubs and classes in domestic sciences. During the Civil Rights turbulence of the 50’s and 60’s St. John’s reputation as a community leader grew even more under the leadership of Reverend Charles E. Cobb.

For thirty-three years St. John’s experienced a period of transition and uncertainty as four ministers and several interims led the congregation. However in November of 1997 the Reverend Howard-John Wesley was installed and it was not long before St. John’s was once again a prominent leader in the Springfield community. Since his installation, St. John’s has grown tremendously, changing the lives of more than a thousand souls of all ages, races and economic backgrounds. Because of his commitment to teach the Word of God, our growth has exploded. We currently offer 3 Sunday Worship Services, 2 Bible Study classes per week and Prayer Services twice daily, Monday through Friday. Under the leadership of the Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley, St. John’s has grown to a membership of over 1, 700. With over 40 ministries and 7 choirs, Project Vision is an $8 million dollar project to build a new worship and Christian Education Center.