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Church History

In 1911, a group of citizens determined an Episcopal Church was needed in Shandon, Columbia's first suburb. Chartered on March 18, 1912, St. John's Episcopal Church purchased a ¾ acre lot on the corner of Wheat and Holly Streets. The first church building was constructed facing Holly Street (approximately where the parking lot is located today). This building served as both the sanctuary and parish hall until the present church building was completed in 1926.

During the 1930's, the parish struggled to meet the mortgage payments on the church building, frequently only able to pay the interest. In May 1945, St. John's paid off the mortgage and began a period of growth in both membership and facilities. In 1949, the brick portion of Heyward Hall was built and in 1956 the granite section of Heyward Hall and the narthex of the church were constructed. During the 1950's and 1960's, the parish thrived and expanded its impact on the community. Following a strategic planning process in 1990, the parish identified the need for new facilities to meet the need for additional ministries. The John MacReadie Barr Christian Life Center was completed in 1993 providing space for basketball, parish meetings, a formal dining room for small groups and a well-equipped kitchen.

While physical structures are important and define the appearance of a church, a parish is only as strong as its members and its programs. Since 1912, St. John's has been blessed with ten outstanding rectors and many talented assistants. Over the years hundreds of parishioners have served on the Vestry providing the lay leadership that has always been a strength of St. John's. St. John's has always had a strong Episcopal Church Women's group that has provided the women of the parish an opportunity to pursue a variety of ministries both within and outside the parish. A recently revitalized Men of the Church organization also tackles numerous ministry needs throughout the community and beyond. St. John's children, youth and young adult programs provide our young people with learning opportunities that instill in them the primary tenants of our faith.

Today, St. John's faces the challenge of providing additional facilities for a growing number of ministries without intruding into the surrounding neighborhood. The church buildings are in constant use by both parish and outside organizations, a challenge that is currently being addressed by the parish. Plans are being drawn for the renovation of Heyward Hall, the classroom and office building. A capital campaign began in September, 2002. Renovation on Heyward Hall is slated to begin the first quarter of 2003. During that time, Christian Education classes will be held in the Barr Center. Construction should be complete by Fall 2004.