About Us

St. John CME Church History (1875–2025)

  “To God Be the Glory for the Great Things He Has Done!”

St. John Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) Church, established in 1875, journey began in 1867 with pioneers from the Hillsdale and Howard Town communities worshiping with Allen AME Church. As they sought closer places of worship, Howard Town members formed Campbell AME, while others worshipped at an old schoolhouse on Mt. Zion Hill. In 1875, these believers built a new church at Stanton and Douglas Roads, S.E., naming it Israel Mission CME Church. Over time, the name changed to Hillsdale Station CME, and in 1920, it became St. John CME Church.

The current church property was purchased in 1925. By 1939, with leadership from pastors like Revs. Wilcox, McClennon, and Threlkeld, the sanctuary was completed and furnished. Through the 20th century, pastors led major developments: Rev. E.R. Coleman eliminated bonded debt; Rev. Oree Broomfield secured a parsonage and major upgrades; and Rev. Allen Singh retired the mortgage.

Major Advancements Under Dr. William L. Austin (1976–1986)

Dr. Austin led extensive renovations, including new pews, flooring, lighting, and office spaces—totaling over $276,000. He ordained Rev. Phyllis Harris as St. John’s first female minister and established the church’s Scholarship Committee, which has awarded over 70 scholarships.

A Season of Growth with Dr. Weldon G. Thomas (1986–2000)

Dr. Thomas led the campaign to retire the mortgage and guided the construction of a $1.6 million Education Center now named in his honor, and a newly renovated sanctuary with stained glass windows, dedicated in 1996. New ministries emerged, including Marriage Enrichment, Tutoring, Acolytes, Youth Choir, Rafiki and Boys to Men Rites of Passage, the Girl  and Boy Scouts Troops were reactivated and ultimately produced 10 Eagle Scouts, and the Little Angels Child Development Center (opened in 1997). He also led outreach through the Ministry of Hope, Men’s Fellowship Brunch, and the publication of St. John’s Messenger newsletter.

Innovative Ministry in the 21st Century

• Rev. Dr. Wardell Bonner (2001–2012): Expanded Bible study and youth ministries, purchased new buses and AV equipment, and launched the Saint John Community Development Corporation (SJCDC) in 2007.
• Rev. Dr. Ronald Davis (2012–2013): Raised over $25,000 in sacrificial offerings and hosted community-focused events like the “Back to School Pep Rally.”
• Rev. Diane Hugger (2013–2014): St. John’s first female pastor and a daughter of St. John; formed a partnership with Narcotics Anonymous and launched a Drum & Bugle Corps.
• Rev. John Dillard III (2014–2018): Focused on financial stability and raised $25,000 to fund repairs. Initiated the Brick Legacy Project to restore deteriorating church walls and retired the 1996 mortgage in 2016.
• Rev. Marcus Rogers (2018–2021): Led major roof repairs and launched a solar panel project during the pandemic.

Rev. Dr. Michele F. Parker (2021–Present)

Appointed as the 46th pastor and second woman to lead St. John, Dr. Parker has emphasized teaching, outreach, and technology. She introduced the “Church Without Walls” outdoor services, expanded leadership training, and created Youth & Young Adult and Ministry of the Arts Sundays. Infrastructure was modernized with completing the solar panels project, upgraded HVAC and AV systems, security, and the installation of new windows in the education center. Three ministers were licensed under her leadership, and one was ordained as a Local Elder in 2025.

Dr. Parker also established the Safety and Security Ministry, implemented CPR and food handling certifications, and strengthened community partnerships with organizations including Martha’s Table, DC Police, Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center, Ward 8 Clergy and Faith Leaders, God Speaks Ministry, KIPP Public Charter Schol, Emergent Preparatory Academy, and FAN DC among others. The CIT Team expanded the church’s digital footprint, supporting worship on Zoom, Facebook, and YouTube, as well as offering online giving platforms.

Connectional Leadership & Legacy

Over 158 years, St. John has produced: 

• 46 Pastors    
• 24 Ministers of the Gospel
• 3 Exhorters
• 2 Bishops (Joseph C. Coles Jr. and Oree Broomfield Sr.)
• Numerous General and Connectional Officers

St. John has been honored to host Annual Conferences, Bishop’s Meetings, and many district events. Leaders from St. John have served at every level of the CME Church, including the General Conference, Women’s Missionary Council, and Young Adult Council. Many have contributed to national efforts such as health initiatives, youth and young adult leadership, and devotional publications.

Looking Ahead

As we approach our 150th anniversary, St. John remains committed to its mission: transforming lives, expanding ministries, and honoring its legacy as a beacon of faith, service, and hope in Southeast Washington, D.C. We thank God for His grace and look forward to continuing our witness for generations to come.

“To God Be the Glory for the Great Things He Has Done!”