979-732-2590 stjohnsepiscopalctx@gmail.com
915 Travis Street, Columbus, Texas 78934
About Us
Our History
The first service of the Protestant Episcopal Church known to be held in Columbus was conducted sometime between June and December 1848 by the Rev. Henry Niles Pierce, who was Missionary for Washington County at that time. The first steady services were from Rev. Pratt, who was ordained a deacon in 1854 by Bishop Freeman and worked with St. Paul's College at Anderson in Grimes County before coming to Columbus and La Grange in 1855. Rev. Hannibal Pratt held two services a month in Columbus, one in La Grange, and one in Richmond. He travelled to these other points by stagecoach from Columbus where he lived with his mother and sisters. One of his sisters married James Wright and the other married William Henry Stafford. ​
​St. John's Church, Columbus, was admitted into the Diocese as a parish on April 14, 1856 at the Diocesan Council. It was the 23rd parish admitted into the Diocese which at that time included the whole state of Texas. (Note: At the present time, St. John's ranks eighth in the Diocese of Texas in point of age and continuous existence.)
​​
In recognition of our rich heritage, St. John Episcopal Church proudly bears a Texas Historical Marker in front of our church. This marker honors our longstanding presence and significance in the community since our founding in 1856. It serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of our congregation and our commitment to faith, fellowship, and service throughout the years. We invite you to visit and learn more about our history and the vital role we continue to play in our community.
​
Marker Inscription:
The earliest Episcopal worship service known to have been held in Columbus occurred in 1848. At that time services were held infrequently, conducted by clergy traveling through the area. The Rev. Hannibal Pratt came to Columbus in 1855, and Saint John's Parish was officially organized and admitted to the Diocese of Texas on April 14,1856.​​
Worship services for Saint John's parishioners were held in a variety of locations, including the large castle-like home of Robert Robson, the county courthouse, and the Methodist Church. A lot on Milam Street was purchased in 1871 and a church building was constructed by 1874. It was later sold to the Church of Christ.
Property at this site was purchased in 1906 with proceeds from the will of Mrs. Fannie Darden and money raised by the Ladies Guild. A house located here was used first as a rectory and later as a parish house. A new brick church, built with funds willed to the congregation by Mrs. Nannie Thatcher Andrus, was consecrated in 1942 by Bishop Clinton S. Quin.
Charter members of Saint John's included citizens of the Republic of Texas, veterans of the Texas Revolution, local civic leaders, and state officials.
​
​
​
Pastors and Staff
.jpg)
About the Episcopal Faith
The word “episcopal” refers to governance by bishops. The historic episcopate (bishops) continues the work of the first apostles in the Church: guarding the faith, unity and discipline of the Church, and ordaining men and women to continue Christ’s ministry.
​
We believe:
-
The Holy Scriptures are the revealed word of God, which inspired the human authors of the Scripture, and which is interpreted by the Church under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
-
The Nicene Creed is the basic statement of our belief about God.
-
The two great sacraments given by Christ to the Church are Baptism and the Holy Eucharist.
-
The teachings and beliefs of the Episcopal Church are articulated in an "Outline of the Faith" in our Book of Common Prayer
​
The Episcopal Church follows the “via media” or middle way in our theology and discussions because we believe that, whether or not we agree on a particular topic, we all are beloved by God and can have thoughtful and respectful discussions. There are no prerequisites in the Episcopal Church … everyone is welcome.
