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Thank you for visiting our site, we do not take it lightly that you have been
guided to St. John A.M.E. Church. Please take a moment to view our Pastor's
Welcome, our Vision Statement as well as our various Bible Studies and other
relevant information.
We are a church that welcomes all those that have fallen short of His glory, for
His word reminds us that not one of us is perfect. We are to love the sinner and
hate the sin. So please do not allow your past, or present failures, issues or
problems stop you from receiving the blessing that God has waiting for you.
Know that Jesus felt that YOU were worth dying for on the cross.
THE FOUNDERS:
Eighty-nine years ago, long before South Miami was born, known then as Larkins, a handful of men
and women thought it wise and advantageous to serve God. They started to have prayer meetings in the
home of Mr. & Mrs. Marshall Williamson, on what is now Southwest 60th Avenue. The fellowship and
the mutual agreement of God’s people have always wrought wonders in our midst. It did at Pentecost
and was done again in 1915 in South Miami, Florida.
The ORGANIZERS AND ST. JOHN'S HISTORY:
Out of this meager beginning grew the founding of Saint John African Episcopal Church. The absence
of a sanctuary was no hindrance. God was with them. On the second Sunday in June 1916, the church
was formerly organized by the first pastor, Rev. F.W. Kinslow, and took the name St. John A.M.E.
Church.
Mr. Marshall Williamson, the first pioneer resident of South Miami and wife, Elnora gave the land at
6461 Southwest 59th Place for the purpose of erecting a place of worship. From this church was the
birth of all the other black churches in the community. The hurricane of 1926 destroyed the first
church and the following year, a new structure was erected, which was a little white-frame building
(the little white church as many recall), housing approximately one hundred members. The present
building is the third St. John structure.
The original eight (8) trustees were J. Maxwell, L. Richardson, Alonza Aaron, James Hunt, Charley
Williams, Rosa Little, Eleanor Williamson and Marshall Williamson with Rev. F.L. Kinslow as pastor.
The Rev. G.A. Curry was the Presiding Bishop and R.B. Brooks was the Presiding Elder at the time
church was organized.
Through the years, the Founders kept a watchful eye on the caliber of ministers who pastured at St.
John, South Miami. Among the illustrious clergymen who have pastured are: Reverends H.W. Gary; R.
J. Jones; J.H. Strums; J.J. Johnson; Paul Lee; L.O. Kennedy; Richardson Cowins; G.Goodman; H.W.
Holton; Henry McNeil Harris; J.H. Garmon; William Everett; F.N. Duncan; J.D. Dukes, who built the
parsonage’ A.B. Collins; J.E. Campbell; and J.A. Grisby. Other pastors: In 1966, the Rev. W.A. Curry,
in 1974; Rev. Leroy Holmes; Rev. Hardy, Rev. David Williams; in 1975 Rev. Theodore Roddy; in 1980,
Rev. C.E. Standifer (the builder of the current sanctuary); in 1995, Rev. William J. Green; in 2001, Rev.
John Wesley Williams. In November 2003, we were blessed with our current pastor and leader in the
charismatic Rev. Gregory V. Gay, Sr.; Past Presiding Elders; the Reverends G.J. Oates; J.J. Williams;
Geoffrey; F.A. Allen; J.A. Roberts; S.D. Salimon; T.E. Wright; C. Hunt; J.B. Blacknell; I.D. Hinson;
and Rev. C.E. Standifer. The current Presiding Elder is Rev. John L. Bodison. Past Bishops: the Rt.
Reverends Henry Tookes; John Gregg; Carey A. Gibbs; D. Ward Nichols; Sherman Green; W.F. Ball;
G.N. Collins; G. Dewey Robinson; Hubert N. Robinson; S.S. Morris; Phillip R. Cousin; Frank C.
Cummings and John Hurst Adams. The present Presiding Bishop is the Rt. Rev. McKinley Young.
The heritage of St. John is rich. A legacy of greatness is ours to enjoy. God has indeed placed us an
open door and showed us with leadership. But true to His word, He has called many of His servants
home from labor to reward. Bro. D.C. Gilchrist who served as superintendent of St. John’s Sunday
School for forty years, Bro. Marshall Williamson who served as Secretary, Treasury, Chairman of the
Steward and Trustee Boards; Sis. Grant served as secretary of the church until 1955. Sis. Mary Lou
Pittman, Sis. Cora Anderson, Sis. Ethel Shipp, Bro. Hadley Bellone, Bro. Gus Donaldson, Bro. Wilford
Thompson, Bro. Dan Ferguson, Bro. George Baines, Sis. Rosa King, Bro. Emanuel Fryar and many
more Stewards and Trustees have gone home to rest.
The first Sunday in April 1980, marked a historical day for St. John A.M.E. Church.
Through the Godly judgment of Bishop S.S. Morris, Jr., Rev. Charles E. Standifer (Sis. Barbara
Standifer) was assigned to St. John to take the reins of leadership. Rev. Standifer accepted this great
challenge, walked out on faith, not knowing where he was going nor what tasks awaited him. He
baptized twenty-seven (27) infants, thirty-two (32) youths and thirty (30) adults. Many long and tedious
hours of work and prayers were spent in an effort to move into a new era at St. John. Today, we enjoy
the fruits of the labor. August 1985 marked another milestone, our Ground Breaking Celebration, in
preparation to construct a new St. John A.M.E. Church. The members of St. John had long planned
and worked toward the day when there would stand somewhere in these surroundings, a church that
would not only be lofty and beautiful, but so designed and constructed to properly and conveniently
facilitate the practices of African Methodist in South Miami. In October 1991, we left the old building
for safety reasons and continued to serve the Lord at J.R.E. School. At that time, more than ever before,
we had to give a little more and pray a little harder. The erecting of the new sanctuary had begun. We
knew we had a long journey, but we put God first for we knew we couldn’t make it by ourselves. In
August 1992, the onset of Hurricane Andrew put a time constraint on the plans for the new St. John.
The construction went on and before long the sanctuary was complete. Our prayers had been answered
and our dream had become a reality. On the fifth Sunday of October 1993, we walked into our new
edifice, which Rev. Standifer called “the biggest little church in South Miami”, with praise and
thanksgiving.
On the third Sunday in October 1995, God sent another warrior for the upbringing of his kingdom,
while placing Rev. Standifer in the reigns of Presiding Elder.
Rev. William J. Green (First Lady Lillian Green) came to St. St. John with insight to enhance the
church as well as the community. Along with his new ideas, Rev. Green envisioned a day dedicated to
the instruction of the children now called “Saturday School”. He developed initiatives to help rid the
community of drug usage. We held many evening and weekend vigils and walks throughout the South
Miami community to let the drug dealers know that they were not welcomed and would not be
tolerated. Through his efforts, other community churches and elected officials became involved. St.
John was the site chosen in the community to host charrettes where meetings were held to discuss and
determine the future economic and enhancement decisions for the South Miami community. He
instilled the God’s Plan system of giving, under which several construction project requirements had
to be met to receive a certificate of occupancy; the electrical room enclosure, cement pad and a Fire
Alarm System in December 1995. “Praise the Lord”, all were accomplished! Later work began to put a
face lift of beauty to God’s House; painting the church inside out including motto, name on church,
beautiful stained glass windows, landscaping, new roof and the cross on the bell tower. Under his
leadership, Rev. Green also established the Wounded Healers Organization, Inc., which assisted and
provided jobs, training and entrepreneurial opportunities for members of our community as well as a
tool for developing and nurturing relationships within and outside of the church. It was a great day on
December 15, 1996, when Bishop Frank C. Cummings burned mortgage #2 for the parking lot of the
church. On September 13, 1998, Rev. Green envisioned a place for the youth and multi-purpose use,
and had the insight to purchase in full the St. John Enterprise and Learning Center. With the
departure of Rev. Green to retirement in March 2001, St. John would yet again receive another
shepherd for this flock.
Appointed to St. John in March 2001, Rev. John W. Williams, Jr. (First Lady Sharon Williams) came to
us from Key West, Florida. A former pastor of Bethel A.M.E., Key West, Rev. Williams inspired the
church that despite the passing of the great pastor and Presiding Elder Rev. Charles E. Standifer (May
2001) and the retiring of Rev. William J. Green, the church would not suffer. He embarked upon a new
vision that would create church growth and spiritual development. He completed the groundwork to
launch a new and innovative ministry referred to as incarnational evangelism. It was under his
stewardship that in August 2002, we were able to purchase the partitions which divide the fellowship
hall from the main sanctuary. Prior to leaving to shepherd another congregation, Rev. Williams
reestablished the traditional presence of the Sunday School.
Just when St. John needed a new infusion of hope, motivation and guidance, in November 2003, Rev.
Gregory V. Gay, Sr. (First Lady LaShunda Gay and children) was assigned to St. John as Senior
Pastor. Rev. Gay has been a lighting rod in so many ways and his vision and boundless energy have
made St. John a true beacon of comfort in the South Miami community. He serves as the South
Miami Police Department Chaplain. In just two years, his endless energy and love for the South
Miami community, the church and its members have been shown daily…spiritually, financially and
physically. He brought along his super BBQ grill and instituted “Frydays” to feed the community his
mouth-watering BBQ ribs, delicious corn on the cob and signature baked beans. These were also times
of fellowship and outreach. Our church’s music ministry has exploded and exemplifies the great
spiritual excitement that Rev. Gay has brought to St. John. Yes, he loves to sing!!! He is continuing
Rev. Green’s vision for the Wounded Healers. He has brought back, what Rev. Green started, the
future of the church “our children” and continues to give in so many ways. It is fitting that St. John’s
mortgage burning on January 22, 2005 and 89 years of existence stand as a tribute to the hard work and
dedication of Rev. Gay, the pastors, who preceded him and the past and present members of St. John.
Eighty-nine years ago, long before South Miami was born, known then as Larkins, a handful of men
and women thought it wise and advantageous to serve God. They started to have prayer meetings in the
home of Mr. & Mrs. Marshall Williamson, on what is now Southwest 60th Avenue. The fellowship and
the mutual agreement of God’s people have always wrought wonders in our midst. It did at Pentecost
and was done again in 1915 in South Miami, Florida.
The ORGANIZERS AND ST. JOHN'S HISTORY:
Out of this meager beginning grew the founding of Saint John African Episcopal Church. The absence
of a sanctuary was no hindrance. God was with them. On the second Sunday in June 1916, the church
was formerly organized by the first pastor, Rev. F.W. Kinslow, and took the name St. John A.M.E.
Church.
Mr. Marshall Williamson, the first pioneer resident of South Miami and wife, Elnora gave the land at
6461 Southwest 59th Place for the purpose of erecting a place of worship. From this church was the
birth of all the other black churches in the community. The hurricane of 1926 destroyed the first
church and the following year, a new structure was erected, which was a little white-frame building
(the little white church as many recall), housing approximately one hundred members. The present
building is the third St. John structure.
The original eight (8) trustees were J. Maxwell, L. Richardson, Alonza Aaron, James Hunt, Charley
Williams, Rosa Little, Eleanor Williamson and Marshall Williamson with Rev. F.L. Kinslow as pastor.
The Rev. G.A. Curry was the Presiding Bishop and R.B. Brooks was the Presiding Elder at the time
church was organized.
Through the years, the Founders kept a watchful eye on the caliber of ministers who pastured at St.
John, South Miami. Among the illustrious clergymen who have pastured are: Reverends H.W. Gary; R.
J. Jones; J.H. Strums; J.J. Johnson; Paul Lee; L.O. Kennedy; Richardson Cowins; G.Goodman; H.W.
Holton; Henry McNeil Harris; J.H. Garmon; William Everett; F.N. Duncan; J.D. Dukes, who built the
parsonage’ A.B. Collins; J.E. Campbell; and J.A. Grisby. Other pastors: In 1966, the Rev. W.A. Curry,
in 1974; Rev. Leroy Holmes; Rev. Hardy, Rev. David Williams; in 1975 Rev. Theodore Roddy; in 1980,
Rev. C.E. Standifer (the builder of the current sanctuary); in 1995, Rev. William J. Green; in 2001, Rev.
John Wesley Williams. In November 2003, we were blessed with our current pastor and leader in the
charismatic Rev. Gregory V. Gay, Sr.; Past Presiding Elders; the Reverends G.J. Oates; J.J. Williams;
Geoffrey; F.A. Allen; J.A. Roberts; S.D. Salimon; T.E. Wright; C. Hunt; J.B. Blacknell; I.D. Hinson;
and Rev. C.E. Standifer. The current Presiding Elder is Rev. John L. Bodison. Past Bishops: the Rt.
Reverends Henry Tookes; John Gregg; Carey A. Gibbs; D. Ward Nichols; Sherman Green; W.F. Ball;
G.N. Collins; G. Dewey Robinson; Hubert N. Robinson; S.S. Morris; Phillip R. Cousin; Frank C.
Cummings and John Hurst Adams. The present Presiding Bishop is the Rt. Rev. McKinley Young.
The heritage of St. John is rich. A legacy of greatness is ours to enjoy. God has indeed placed us an
open door and showed us with leadership. But true to His word, He has called many of His servants
home from labor to reward. Bro. D.C. Gilchrist who served as superintendent of St. John’s Sunday
School for forty years, Bro. Marshall Williamson who served as Secretary, Treasury, Chairman of the
Steward and Trustee Boards; Sis. Grant served as secretary of the church until 1955. Sis. Mary Lou
Pittman, Sis. Cora Anderson, Sis. Ethel Shipp, Bro. Hadley Bellone, Bro. Gus Donaldson, Bro. Wilford
Thompson, Bro. Dan Ferguson, Bro. George Baines, Sis. Rosa King, Bro. Emanuel Fryar and many
more Stewards and Trustees have gone home to rest.
The first Sunday in April 1980, marked a historical day for St. John A.M.E. Church.
Through the Godly judgment of Bishop S.S. Morris, Jr., Rev. Charles E. Standifer (Sis. Barbara
Standifer) was assigned to St. John to take the reins of leadership. Rev. Standifer accepted this great
challenge, walked out on faith, not knowing where he was going nor what tasks awaited him. He
baptized twenty-seven (27) infants, thirty-two (32) youths and thirty (30) adults. Many long and tedious
hours of work and prayers were spent in an effort to move into a new era at St. John. Today, we enjoy
the fruits of the labor. August 1985 marked another milestone, our Ground Breaking Celebration, in
preparation to construct a new St. John A.M.E. Church. The members of St. John had long planned
and worked toward the day when there would stand somewhere in these surroundings, a church that
would not only be lofty and beautiful, but so designed and constructed to properly and conveniently
facilitate the practices of African Methodist in South Miami. In October 1991, we left the old building
for safety reasons and continued to serve the Lord at J.R.E. School. At that time, more than ever before,
we had to give a little more and pray a little harder. The erecting of the new sanctuary had begun. We
knew we had a long journey, but we put God first for we knew we couldn’t make it by ourselves. In
August 1992, the onset of Hurricane Andrew put a time constraint on the plans for the new St. John.
The construction went on and before long the sanctuary was complete. Our prayers had been answered
and our dream had become a reality. On the fifth Sunday of October 1993, we walked into our new
edifice, which Rev. Standifer called “the biggest little church in South Miami”, with praise and
thanksgiving.
On the third Sunday in October 1995, God sent another warrior for the upbringing of his kingdom,
while placing Rev. Standifer in the reigns of Presiding Elder.
Rev. William J. Green (First Lady Lillian Green) came to St. St. John with insight to enhance the
church as well as the community. Along with his new ideas, Rev. Green envisioned a day dedicated to
the instruction of the children now called “Saturday School”. He developed initiatives to help rid the
community of drug usage. We held many evening and weekend vigils and walks throughout the South
Miami community to let the drug dealers know that they were not welcomed and would not be
tolerated. Through his efforts, other community churches and elected officials became involved. St.
John was the site chosen in the community to host charrettes where meetings were held to discuss and
determine the future economic and enhancement decisions for the South Miami community. He
instilled the God’s Plan system of giving, under which several construction project requirements had
to be met to receive a certificate of occupancy; the electrical room enclosure, cement pad and a Fire
Alarm System in December 1995. “Praise the Lord”, all were accomplished! Later work began to put a
face lift of beauty to God’s House; painting the church inside out including motto, name on church,
beautiful stained glass windows, landscaping, new roof and the cross on the bell tower. Under his
leadership, Rev. Green also established the Wounded Healers Organization, Inc., which assisted and
provided jobs, training and entrepreneurial opportunities for members of our community as well as a
tool for developing and nurturing relationships within and outside of the church. It was a great day on
December 15, 1996, when Bishop Frank C. Cummings burned mortgage #2 for the parking lot of the
church. On September 13, 1998, Rev. Green envisioned a place for the youth and multi-purpose use,
and had the insight to purchase in full the St. John Enterprise and Learning Center. With the
departure of Rev. Green to retirement in March 2001, St. John would yet again receive another
shepherd for this flock.
Appointed to St. John in March 2001, Rev. John W. Williams, Jr. (First Lady Sharon Williams) came to
us from Key West, Florida. A former pastor of Bethel A.M.E., Key West, Rev. Williams inspired the
church that despite the passing of the great pastor and Presiding Elder Rev. Charles E. Standifer (May
2001) and the retiring of Rev. William J. Green, the church would not suffer. He embarked upon a new
vision that would create church growth and spiritual development. He completed the groundwork to
launch a new and innovative ministry referred to as incarnational evangelism. It was under his
stewardship that in August 2002, we were able to purchase the partitions which divide the fellowship
hall from the main sanctuary. Prior to leaving to shepherd another congregation, Rev. Williams
reestablished the traditional presence of the Sunday School.
Just when St. John needed a new infusion of hope, motivation and guidance, in November 2003, Rev.
Gregory V. Gay, Sr. (First Lady LaShunda Gay and children) was assigned to St. John as Senior
Pastor. Rev. Gay has been a lighting rod in so many ways and his vision and boundless energy have
made St. John a true beacon of comfort in the South Miami community. He serves as the South
Miami Police Department Chaplain. In just two years, his endless energy and love for the South
Miami community, the church and its members have been shown daily…spiritually, financially and
physically. He brought along his super BBQ grill and instituted “Frydays” to feed the community his
mouth-watering BBQ ribs, delicious corn on the cob and signature baked beans. These were also times
of fellowship and outreach. Our church’s music ministry has exploded and exemplifies the great
spiritual excitement that Rev. Gay has brought to St. John. Yes, he loves to sing!!! He is continuing
Rev. Green’s vision for the Wounded Healers. He has brought back, what Rev. Green started, the
future of the church “our children” and continues to give in so many ways. It is fitting that St. John’s
mortgage burning on January 22, 2005 and 89 years of existence stand as a tribute to the hard work and
dedication of Rev. Gay, the pastors, who preceded him and the past and present members of St. John.
| | | | |
Thank you for visiting our site, we do not take it lightly that you have been
guided to St. John A.M.E. Church. Please take a moment to view our Pastor's
Welcome, our Vision Statement as well as our various Bible Studies and other
relevant information.
We are a church that welcomes all those that have fallen short of His glory, for
His word reminds us that not one of us is perfect. We are to love the sinner and
hate the sin. So please do not allow your past, or present failures, issues or
problems stop you from receiving the blessing that God has waiting for you.
Know that Jesus felt that YOU were worth dying for on the cross.
THE FOUNDERS:
Eighty-nine years ago, long before South Miami was born, known then as Larkins, a handful of men
and women thought it wise and advantageous to serve God. They started to have prayer meetings in the
home of Mr. & Mrs. Marshall Williamson, on what is now Southwest 60th Avenue. The fellowship and
the mutual agreement of God’s people have always wrought wonders in our midst. It did at Pentecost
and was done again in 1915 in South Miami, Florida.
The ORGANIZERS AND ST. JOHN'S HISTORY:
Out of this meager beginning grew the founding of Saint John African Episcopal Church. The absence
of a sanctuary was no hindrance. God was with them. On the second Sunday in June 1916, the church
was formerly organized by the first pastor, Rev. F.W. Kinslow, and took the name St. John A.M.E.
Church.
Mr. Marshall Williamson, the first pioneer resident of South Miami and wife, Elnora gave the land at
6461 Southwest 59th Place for the purpose of erecting a place of worship. From this church was the
birth of all the other black churches in the community. The hurricane of 1926 destroyed the first
church and the following year, a new structure was erected, which was a little white-frame building
(the little white church as many recall), housing approximately one hundred members. The present
building is the third St. John structure.
The original eight (8) trustees were J. Maxwell, L. Richardson, Alonza Aaron, James Hunt, Charley
Williams, Rosa Little, Eleanor Williamson and Marshall Williamson with Rev. F.L. Kinslow as pastor.
The Rev. G.A. Curry was the Presiding Bishop and R.B. Brooks was the Presiding Elder at the time
church was organized.
Through the years, the Founders kept a watchful eye on the caliber of ministers who pastured at St.
John, South Miami. Among the illustrious clergymen who have pastured are: Reverends H.W. Gary; R.
J. Jones; J.H. Strums; J.J. Johnson; Paul Lee; L.O. Kennedy; Richardson Cowins; G.Goodman; H.W.
Holton; Henry McNeil Harris; J.H. Garmon; William Everett; F.N. Duncan; J.D. Dukes, who built the
parsonage’ A.B. Collins; J.E. Campbell; and J.A. Grisby. Other pastors: In 1966, the Rev. W.A. Curry,
in 1974; Rev. Leroy Holmes; Rev. Hardy, Rev. David Williams; in 1975 Rev. Theodore Roddy; in 1980,
Rev. C.E. Standifer (the builder of the current sanctuary); in 1995, Rev. William J. Green; in 2001, Rev.
John Wesley Williams. In November 2003, we were blessed with our current pastor and leader in the
charismatic Rev. Gregory V. Gay, Sr.; Past Presiding Elders; the Reverends G.J. Oates; J.J. Williams;
Geoffrey; F.A. Allen; J.A. Roberts; S.D. Salimon; T.E. Wright; C. Hunt; J.B. Blacknell; I.D. Hinson;
and Rev. C.E. Standifer. The current Presiding Elder is Rev. John L. Bodison. Past Bishops: the Rt.
Reverends Henry Tookes; John Gregg; Carey A. Gibbs; D. Ward Nichols; Sherman Green; W.F. Ball;
G.N. Collins; G. Dewey Robinson; Hubert N. Robinson; S.S. Morris; Phillip R. Cousin; Frank C.
Cummings and John Hurst Adams. The present Presiding Bishop is the Rt. Rev. McKinley Young.
The heritage of St. John is rich. A legacy of greatness is ours to enjoy. God has indeed placed us an
open door and showed us with leadership. But true to His word, He has called many of His servants
home from labor to reward. Bro. D.C. Gilchrist who served as superintendent of St. John’s Sunday
School for forty years, Bro. Marshall Williamson who served as Secretary, Treasury, Chairman of the
Steward and Trustee Boards; Sis. Grant served as secretary of the church until 1955. Sis. Mary Lou
Pittman, Sis. Cora Anderson, Sis. Ethel Shipp, Bro. Hadley Bellone, Bro. Gus Donaldson, Bro. Wilford
Thompson, Bro. Dan Ferguson, Bro. George Baines, Sis. Rosa King, Bro. Emanuel Fryar and many
more Stewards and Trustees have gone home to rest.
The first Sunday in April 1980, marked a historical day for St. John A.M.E. Church.
Through the Godly judgment of Bishop S.S. Morris, Jr., Rev. Charles E. Standifer (Sis. Barbara
Standifer) was assigned to St. John to take the reins of leadership. Rev. Standifer accepted this great
challenge, walked out on faith, not knowing where he was going nor what tasks awaited him. He
baptized twenty-seven (27) infants, thirty-two (32) youths and thirty (30) adults. Many long and tedious
hours of work and prayers were spent in an effort to move into a new era at St. John. Today, we enjoy
the fruits of the labor. August 1985 marked another milestone, our Ground Breaking Celebration, in
preparation to construct a new St. John A.M.E. Church. The members of St. John had long planned
and worked toward the day when there would stand somewhere in these surroundings, a church that
would not only be lofty and beautiful, but so designed and constructed to properly and conveniently
facilitate the practices of African Methodist in South Miami. In October 1991, we left the old building
for safety reasons and continued to serve the Lord at J.R.E. School. At that time, more than ever before,
we had to give a little more and pray a little harder. The erecting of the new sanctuary had begun. We
knew we had a long journey, but we put God first for we knew we couldn’t make it by ourselves. In
August 1992, the onset of Hurricane Andrew put a time constraint on the plans for the new St. John.
The construction went on and before long the sanctuary was complete. Our prayers had been answered
and our dream had become a reality. On the fifth Sunday of October 1993, we walked into our new
edifice, which Rev. Standifer called “the biggest little church in South Miami”, with praise and
thanksgiving.
On the third Sunday in October 1995, God sent another warrior for the upbringing of his kingdom,
while placing Rev. Standifer in the reigns of Presiding Elder.
Rev. William J. Green (First Lady Lillian Green) came to St. St. John with insight to enhance the
church as well as the community. Along with his new ideas, Rev. Green envisioned a day dedicated to
the instruction of the children now called “Saturday School”. He developed initiatives to help rid the
community of drug usage. We held many evening and weekend vigils and walks throughout the South
Miami community to let the drug dealers know that they were not welcomed and would not be
tolerated. Through his efforts, other community churches and elected officials became involved. St.
John was the site chosen in the community to host charrettes where meetings were held to discuss and
determine the future economic and enhancement decisions for the South Miami community. He
instilled the God’s Plan system of giving, under which several construction project requirements had
to be met to receive a certificate of occupancy; the electrical room enclosure, cement pad and a Fire
Alarm System in December 1995. “Praise the Lord”, all were accomplished! Later work began to put a
face lift of beauty to God’s House; painting the church inside out including motto, name on church,
beautiful stained glass windows, landscaping, new roof and the cross on the bell tower. Under his
leadership, Rev. Green also established the Wounded Healers Organization, Inc., which assisted and
provided jobs, training and entrepreneurial opportunities for members of our community as well as a
tool for developing and nurturing relationships within and outside of the church. It was a great day on
December 15, 1996, when Bishop Frank C. Cummings burned mortgage #2 for the parking lot of the
church. On September 13, 1998, Rev. Green envisioned a place for the youth and multi-purpose use,
and had the insight to purchase in full the St. John Enterprise and Learning Center. With the
departure of Rev. Green to retirement in March 2001, St. John would yet again receive another
shepherd for this flock.
Appointed to St. John in March 2001, Rev. John W. Williams, Jr. (First Lady Sharon Williams) came to
us from Key West, Florida. A former pastor of Bethel A.M.E., Key West, Rev. Williams inspired the
church that despite the passing of the great pastor and Presiding Elder Rev. Charles E. Standifer (May
2001) and the retiring of Rev. William J. Green, the church would not suffer. He embarked upon a new
vision that would create church growth and spiritual development. He completed the groundwork to
launch a new and innovative ministry referred to as incarnational evangelism. It was under his
stewardship that in August 2002, we were able to purchase the partitions which divide the fellowship
hall from the main sanctuary. Prior to leaving to shepherd another congregation, Rev. Williams
reestablished the traditional presence of the Sunday School.
Just when St. John needed a new infusion of hope, motivation and guidance, in November 2003, Rev.
Gregory V. Gay, Sr. (First Lady LaShunda Gay and children) was assigned to St. John as Senior
Pastor. Rev. Gay has been a lighting rod in so many ways and his vision and boundless energy have
made St. John a true beacon of comfort in the South Miami community. He serves as the South
Miami Police Department Chaplain. In just two years, his endless energy and love for the South
Miami community, the church and its members have been shown daily…spiritually, financially and
physically. He brought along his super BBQ grill and instituted “Frydays” to feed the community his
mouth-watering BBQ ribs, delicious corn on the cob and signature baked beans. These were also times
of fellowship and outreach. Our church’s music ministry has exploded and exemplifies the great
spiritual excitement that Rev. Gay has brought to St. John. Yes, he loves to sing!!! He is continuing
Rev. Green’s vision for the Wounded Healers. He has brought back, what Rev. Green started, the
future of the church “our children” and continues to give in so many ways. It is fitting that St. John’s
mortgage burning on January 22, 2005 and 89 years of existence stand as a tribute to the hard work and
dedication of Rev. Gay, the pastors, who preceded him and the past and present members of St. John.
Eighty-nine years ago, long before South Miami was born, known then as Larkins, a handful of men
and women thought it wise and advantageous to serve God. They started to have prayer meetings in the
home of Mr. & Mrs. Marshall Williamson, on what is now Southwest 60th Avenue. The fellowship and
the mutual agreement of God’s people have always wrought wonders in our midst. It did at Pentecost
and was done again in 1915 in South Miami, Florida.
The ORGANIZERS AND ST. JOHN'S HISTORY:
Out of this meager beginning grew the founding of Saint John African Episcopal Church. The absence
of a sanctuary was no hindrance. God was with them. On the second Sunday in June 1916, the church
was formerly organized by the first pastor, Rev. F.W. Kinslow, and took the name St. John A.M.E.
Church.
Mr. Marshall Williamson, the first pioneer resident of South Miami and wife, Elnora gave the land at
6461 Southwest 59th Place for the purpose of erecting a place of worship. From this church was the
birth of all the other black churches in the community. The hurricane of 1926 destroyed the first
church and the following year, a new structure was erected, which was a little white-frame building
(the little white church as many recall), housing approximately one hundred members. The present
building is the third St. John structure.
The original eight (8) trustees were J. Maxwell, L. Richardson, Alonza Aaron, James Hunt, Charley
Williams, Rosa Little, Eleanor Williamson and Marshall Williamson with Rev. F.L. Kinslow as pastor.
The Rev. G.A. Curry was the Presiding Bishop and R.B. Brooks was the Presiding Elder at the time
church was organized.
Through the years, the Founders kept a watchful eye on the caliber of ministers who pastured at St.
John, South Miami. Among the illustrious clergymen who have pastured are: Reverends H.W. Gary; R.
J. Jones; J.H. Strums; J.J. Johnson; Paul Lee; L.O. Kennedy; Richardson Cowins; G.Goodman; H.W.
Holton; Henry McNeil Harris; J.H. Garmon; William Everett; F.N. Duncan; J.D. Dukes, who built the
parsonage’ A.B. Collins; J.E. Campbell; and J.A. Grisby. Other pastors: In 1966, the Rev. W.A. Curry,
in 1974; Rev. Leroy Holmes; Rev. Hardy, Rev. David Williams; in 1975 Rev. Theodore Roddy; in 1980,
Rev. C.E. Standifer (the builder of the current sanctuary); in 1995, Rev. William J. Green; in 2001, Rev.
John Wesley Williams. In November 2003, we were blessed with our current pastor and leader in the
charismatic Rev. Gregory V. Gay, Sr.; Past Presiding Elders; the Reverends G.J. Oates; J.J. Williams;
Geoffrey; F.A. Allen; J.A. Roberts; S.D. Salimon; T.E. Wright; C. Hunt; J.B. Blacknell; I.D. Hinson;
and Rev. C.E. Standifer. The current Presiding Elder is Rev. John L. Bodison. Past Bishops: the Rt.
Reverends Henry Tookes; John Gregg; Carey A. Gibbs; D. Ward Nichols; Sherman Green; W.F. Ball;
G.N. Collins; G. Dewey Robinson; Hubert N. Robinson; S.S. Morris; Phillip R. Cousin; Frank C.
Cummings and John Hurst Adams. The present Presiding Bishop is the Rt. Rev. McKinley Young.
The heritage of St. John is rich. A legacy of greatness is ours to enjoy. God has indeed placed us an
open door and showed us with leadership. But true to His word, He has called many of His servants
home from labor to reward. Bro. D.C. Gilchrist who served as superintendent of St. John’s Sunday
School for forty years, Bro. Marshall Williamson who served as Secretary, Treasury, Chairman of the
Steward and Trustee Boards; Sis. Grant served as secretary of the church until 1955. Sis. Mary Lou
Pittman, Sis. Cora Anderson, Sis. Ethel Shipp, Bro. Hadley Bellone, Bro. Gus Donaldson, Bro. Wilford
Thompson, Bro. Dan Ferguson, Bro. George Baines, Sis. Rosa King, Bro. Emanuel Fryar and many
more Stewards and Trustees have gone home to rest.
The first Sunday in April 1980, marked a historical day for St. John A.M.E. Church.
Through the Godly judgment of Bishop S.S. Morris, Jr., Rev. Charles E. Standifer (Sis. Barbara
Standifer) was assigned to St. John to take the reins of leadership. Rev. Standifer accepted this great
challenge, walked out on faith, not knowing where he was going nor what tasks awaited him. He
baptized twenty-seven (27) infants, thirty-two (32) youths and thirty (30) adults. Many long and tedious
hours of work and prayers were spent in an effort to move into a new era at St. John. Today, we enjoy
the fruits of the labor. August 1985 marked another milestone, our Ground Breaking Celebration, in
preparation to construct a new St. John A.M.E. Church. The members of St. John had long planned
and worked toward the day when there would stand somewhere in these surroundings, a church that
would not only be lofty and beautiful, but so designed and constructed to properly and conveniently
facilitate the practices of African Methodist in South Miami. In October 1991, we left the old building
for safety reasons and continued to serve the Lord at J.R.E. School. At that time, more than ever before,
we had to give a little more and pray a little harder. The erecting of the new sanctuary had begun. We
knew we had a long journey, but we put God first for we knew we couldn’t make it by ourselves. In
August 1992, the onset of Hurricane Andrew put a time constraint on the plans for the new St. John.
The construction went on and before long the sanctuary was complete. Our prayers had been answered
and our dream had become a reality. On the fifth Sunday of October 1993, we walked into our new
edifice, which Rev. Standifer called “the biggest little church in South Miami”, with praise and
thanksgiving.
On the third Sunday in October 1995, God sent another warrior for the upbringing of his kingdom,
while placing Rev. Standifer in the reigns of Presiding Elder.
Rev. William J. Green (First Lady Lillian Green) came to St. St. John with insight to enhance the
church as well as the community. Along with his new ideas, Rev. Green envisioned a day dedicated to
the instruction of the children now called “Saturday School”. He developed initiatives to help rid the
community of drug usage. We held many evening and weekend vigils and walks throughout the South
Miami community to let the drug dealers know that they were not welcomed and would not be
tolerated. Through his efforts, other community churches and elected officials became involved. St.
John was the site chosen in the community to host charrettes where meetings were held to discuss and
determine the future economic and enhancement decisions for the South Miami community. He
instilled the God’s Plan system of giving, under which several construction project requirements had
to be met to receive a certificate of occupancy; the electrical room enclosure, cement pad and a Fire
Alarm System in December 1995. “Praise the Lord”, all were accomplished! Later work began to put a
face lift of beauty to God’s House; painting the church inside out including motto, name on church,
beautiful stained glass windows, landscaping, new roof and the cross on the bell tower. Under his
leadership, Rev. Green also established the Wounded Healers Organization, Inc., which assisted and
provided jobs, training and entrepreneurial opportunities for members of our community as well as a
tool for developing and nurturing relationships within and outside of the church. It was a great day on
December 15, 1996, when Bishop Frank C. Cummings burned mortgage #2 for the parking lot of the
church. On September 13, 1998, Rev. Green envisioned a place for the youth and multi-purpose use,
and had the insight to purchase in full the St. John Enterprise and Learning Center. With the
departure of Rev. Green to retirement in March 2001, St. John would yet again receive another
shepherd for this flock.
Appointed to St. John in March 2001, Rev. John W. Williams, Jr. (First Lady Sharon Williams) came to
us from Key West, Florida. A former pastor of Bethel A.M.E., Key West, Rev. Williams inspired the
church that despite the passing of the great pastor and Presiding Elder Rev. Charles E. Standifer (May
2001) and the retiring of Rev. William J. Green, the church would not suffer. He embarked upon a new
vision that would create church growth and spiritual development. He completed the groundwork to
launch a new and innovative ministry referred to as incarnational evangelism. It was under his
stewardship that in August 2002, we were able to purchase the partitions which divide the fellowship
hall from the main sanctuary. Prior to leaving to shepherd another congregation, Rev. Williams
reestablished the traditional presence of the Sunday School.
Just when St. John needed a new infusion of hope, motivation and guidance, in November 2003, Rev.
Gregory V. Gay, Sr. (First Lady LaShunda Gay and children) was assigned to St. John as Senior
Pastor. Rev. Gay has been a lighting rod in so many ways and his vision and boundless energy have
made St. John a true beacon of comfort in the South Miami community. He serves as the South
Miami Police Department Chaplain. In just two years, his endless energy and love for the South
Miami community, the church and its members have been shown daily…spiritually, financially and
physically. He brought along his super BBQ grill and instituted “Frydays” to feed the community his
mouth-watering BBQ ribs, delicious corn on the cob and signature baked beans. These were also times
of fellowship and outreach. Our church’s music ministry has exploded and exemplifies the great
spiritual excitement that Rev. Gay has brought to St. John. Yes, he loves to sing!!! He is continuing
Rev. Green’s vision for the Wounded Healers. He has brought back, what Rev. Green started, the
future of the church “our children” and continues to give in so many ways. It is fitting that St. John’s
mortgage burning on January 22, 2005 and 89 years of existence stand as a tribute to the hard work and
dedication of Rev. Gay, the pastors, who preceded him and the past and present members of St. John.
| | | | |
Thank you for visiting our site, we do not take it lightly that you have been
guided to St. John A.M.E. Church. Please take a moment to view our Pastor's
Welcome, our Vision Statement as well as our various Bible Studies and other
relevant information.
We are a church that welcomes all those that have fallen short of His glory, for
His word reminds us that not one of us is perfect. We are to love the sinner and
hate the sin. So please do not allow your past, or present failures, issues or
problems stop you from receiving the blessing that God has waiting for you.
Know that Jesus felt that YOU were worth dying for on the cross.
THE FOUNDERS:
Eighty-nine years ago, long before South Miami was born, known then as Larkins, a handful of men
and women thought it wise and advantageous to serve God. They started to have prayer meetings in the
home of Mr. & Mrs. Marshall Williamson, on what is now Southwest 60th Avenue. The fellowship and
the mutual agreement of God’s people have always wrought wonders in our midst. It did at Pentecost
and was done again in 1915 in South Miami, Florida.
The ORGANIZERS AND ST. JOHN'S HISTORY:
Out of this meager beginning grew the founding of Saint John African Episcopal Church. The absence
of a sanctuary was no hindrance. God was with them. On the second Sunday in June 1916, the church
was formerly organized by the first pastor, Rev. F.W. Kinslow, and took the name St. John A.M.E.
Church.
Mr. Marshall Williamson, the first pioneer resident of South Miami and wife, Elnora gave the land at
6461 Southwest 59th Place for the purpose of erecting a place of worship. From this church was the
birth of all the other black churches in the community. The hurricane of 1926 destroyed the first
church and the following year, a new structure was erected, which was a little white-frame building
(the little white church as many recall), housing approximately one hundred members. The present
building is the third St. John structure.
The original eight (8) trustees were J. Maxwell, L. Richardson, Alonza Aaron, James Hunt, Charley
Williams, Rosa Little, Eleanor Williamson and Marshall Williamson with Rev. F.L. Kinslow as pastor.
The Rev. G.A. Curry was the Presiding Bishop and R.B. Brooks was the Presiding Elder at the time
church was organized.
Through the years, the Founders kept a watchful eye on the caliber of ministers who pastured at St.
John, South Miami. Among the illustrious clergymen who have pastured are: Reverends H.W. Gary; R.
J. Jones; J.H. Strums; J.J. Johnson; Paul Lee; L.O. Kennedy; Richardson Cowins; G.Goodman; H.W.
Holton; Henry McNeil Harris; J.H. Garmon; William Everett; F.N. Duncan; J.D. Dukes, who built the
parsonage’ A.B. Collins; J.E. Campbell; and J.A. Grisby. Other pastors: In 1966, the Rev. W.A. Curry,
in 1974; Rev. Leroy Holmes; Rev. Hardy, Rev. David Williams; in 1975 Rev. Theodore Roddy; in 1980,
Rev. C.E. Standifer (the builder of the current sanctuary); in 1995, Rev. William J. Green; in 2001, Rev.
John Wesley Williams. In November 2003, we were blessed with our current pastor and leader in the
charismatic Rev. Gregory V. Gay, Sr.; Past Presiding Elders; the Reverends G.J. Oates; J.J. Williams;
Geoffrey; F.A. Allen; J.A. Roberts; S.D. Salimon; T.E. Wright; C. Hunt; J.B. Blacknell; I.D. Hinson;
and Rev. C.E. Standifer. The current Presiding Elder is Rev. John L. Bodison. Past Bishops: the Rt.
Reverends Henry Tookes; John Gregg; Carey A. Gibbs; D. Ward Nichols; Sherman Green; W.F. Ball;
G.N. Collins; G. Dewey Robinson; Hubert N. Robinson; S.S. Morris; Phillip R. Cousin; Frank C.
Cummings and John Hurst Adams. The present Presiding Bishop is the Rt. Rev. McKinley Young.
The heritage of St. John is rich. A legacy of greatness is ours to enjoy. God has indeed placed us an
open door and showed us with leadership. But true to His word, He has called many of His servants
home from labor to reward. Bro. D.C. Gilchrist who served as superintendent of St. John’s Sunday
School for forty years, Bro. Marshall Williamson who served as Secretary, Treasury, Chairman of the
Steward and Trustee Boards; Sis. Grant served as secretary of the church until 1955. Sis. Mary Lou
Pittman, Sis. Cora Anderson, Sis. Ethel Shipp, Bro. Hadley Bellone, Bro. Gus Donaldson, Bro. Wilford
Thompson, Bro. Dan Ferguson, Bro. George Baines, Sis. Rosa King, Bro. Emanuel Fryar and many
more Stewards and Trustees have gone home to rest.
The first Sunday in April 1980, marked a historical day for St. John A.M.E. Church.
Through the Godly judgment of Bishop S.S. Morris, Jr., Rev. Charles E. Standifer (Sis. Barbara
Standifer) was assigned to St. John to take the reins of leadership. Rev. Standifer accepted this great
challenge, walked out on faith, not knowing where he was going nor what tasks awaited him. He
baptized twenty-seven (27) infants, thirty-two (32) youths and thirty (30) adults. Many long and tedious
hours of work and prayers were spent in an effort to move into a new era at St. John. Today, we enjoy
the fruits of the labor. August 1985 marked another milestone, our Ground Breaking Celebration, in
preparation to construct a new St. John A.M.E. Church. The members of St. John had long planned
and worked toward the day when there would stand somewhere in these surroundings, a church that
would not only be lofty and beautiful, but so designed and constructed to properly and conveniently
facilitate the practices of African Methodist in South Miami. In October 1991, we left the old building
for safety reasons and continued to serve the Lord at J.R.E. School. At that time, more than ever before,
we had to give a little more and pray a little harder. The erecting of the new sanctuary had begun. We
knew we had a long journey, but we put God first for we knew we couldn’t make it by ourselves. In
August 1992, the onset of Hurricane Andrew put a time constraint on the plans for the new St. John.
The construction went on and before long the sanctuary was complete. Our prayers had been answered
and our dream had become a reality. On the fifth Sunday of October 1993, we walked into our new
edifice, which Rev. Standifer called “the biggest little church in South Miami”, with praise and
thanksgiving.
On the third Sunday in October 1995, God sent another warrior for the upbringing of his kingdom,
while placing Rev. Standifer in the reigns of Presiding Elder.
Rev. William J. Green (First Lady Lillian Green) came to St. St. John with insight to enhance the
church as well as the community. Along with his new ideas, Rev. Green envisioned a day dedicated to
the instruction of the children now called “Saturday School”. He developed initiatives to help rid the
community of drug usage. We held many evening and weekend vigils and walks throughout the South
Miami community to let the drug dealers know that they were not welcomed and would not be
tolerated. Through his efforts, other community churches and elected officials became involved. St.
John was the site chosen in the community to host charrettes where meetings were held to discuss and
determine the future economic and enhancement decisions for the South Miami community. He
instilled the God’s Plan system of giving, under which several construction project requirements had
to be met to receive a certificate of occupancy; the electrical room enclosure, cement pad and a Fire
Alarm System in December 1995. “Praise the Lord”, all were accomplished! Later work began to put a
face lift of beauty to God’s House; painting the church inside out including motto, name on church,
beautiful stained glass windows, landscaping, new roof and the cross on the bell tower. Under his
leadership, Rev. Green also established the Wounded Healers Organization, Inc., which assisted and
provided jobs, training and entrepreneurial opportunities for members of our community as well as a
tool for developing and nurturing relationships within and outside of the church. It was a great day on
December 15, 1996, when Bishop Frank C. Cummings burned mortgage #2 for the parking lot of the
church. On September 13, 1998, Rev. Green envisioned a place for the youth and multi-purpose use,
and had the insight to purchase in full the St. John Enterprise and Learning Center. With the
departure of Rev. Green to retirement in March 2001, St. John would yet again receive another
shepherd for this flock.
Appointed to St. John in March 2001, Rev. John W. Williams, Jr. (First Lady Sharon Williams) came to
us from Key West, Florida. A former pastor of Bethel A.M.E., Key West, Rev. Williams inspired the
church that despite the passing of the great pastor and Presiding Elder Rev. Charles E. Standifer (May
2001) and the retiring of Rev. William J. Green, the church would not suffer. He embarked upon a new
vision that would create church growth and spiritual development. He completed the groundwork to
launch a new and innovative ministry referred to as incarnational evangelism. It was under his
stewardship that in August 2002, we were able to purchase the partitions which divide the fellowship
hall from the main sanctuary. Prior to leaving to shepherd another congregation, Rev. Williams
reestablished the traditional presence of the Sunday School.
Just when St. John needed a new infusion of hope, motivation and guidance, in November 2003, Rev.
Gregory V. Gay, Sr. (First Lady LaShunda Gay and children) was assigned to St. John as Senior
Pastor. Rev. Gay has been a lighting rod in so many ways and his vision and boundless energy have
made St. John a true beacon of comfort in the South Miami community. He serves as the South
Miami Police Department Chaplain. In just two years, his endless energy and love for the South
Miami community, the church and its members have been shown daily…spiritually, financially and
physically. He brought along his super BBQ grill and instituted “Frydays” to feed the community his
mouth-watering BBQ ribs, delicious corn on the cob and signature baked beans. These were also times
of fellowship and outreach. Our church’s music ministry has exploded and exemplifies the great
spiritual excitement that Rev. Gay has brought to St. John. Yes, he loves to sing!!! He is continuing
Rev. Green’s vision for the Wounded Healers. He has brought back, what Rev. Green started, the
future of the church “our children” and continues to give in so many ways. It is fitting that St. John’s
mortgage burning on January 22, 2005 and 89 years of existence stand as a tribute to the hard work and
dedication of Rev. Gay, the pastors, who preceded him and the past and present members of St. John.
Eighty-nine years ago, long before South Miami was born, known then as Larkins, a handful of men
and women thought it wise and advantageous to serve God. They started to have prayer meetings in the
home of Mr. & Mrs. Marshall Williamson, on what is now Southwest 60th Avenue. The fellowship and
the mutual agreement of God’s people have always wrought wonders in our midst. It did at Pentecost
and was done again in 1915 in South Miami, Florida.
The ORGANIZERS AND ST. JOHN'S HISTORY:
Out of this meager beginning grew the founding of Saint John African Episcopal Church. The absence
of a sanctuary was no hindrance. God was with them. On the second Sunday in June 1916, the church
was formerly organized by the first pastor, Rev. F.W. Kinslow, and took the name St. John A.M.E.
Church.
Mr. Marshall Williamson, the first pioneer resident of South Miami and wife, Elnora gave the land at
6461 Southwest 59th Place for the purpose of erecting a place of worship. From this church was the
birth of all the other black churches in the community. The hurricane of 1926 destroyed the first
church and the following year, a new structure was erected, which was a little white-frame building
(the little white church as many recall), housing approximately one hundred members. The present
building is the third St. John structure.
The original eight (8) trustees were J. Maxwell, L. Richardson, Alonza Aaron, James Hunt, Charley
Williams, Rosa Little, Eleanor Williamson and Marshall Williamson with Rev. F.L. Kinslow as pastor.
The Rev. G.A. Curry was the Presiding Bishop and R.B. Brooks was the Presiding Elder at the time
church was organized.
Through the years, the Founders kept a watchful eye on the caliber of ministers who pastured at St.
John, South Miami. Among the illustrious clergymen who have pastured are: Reverends H.W. Gary; R.
J. Jones; J.H. Strums; J.J. Johnson; Paul Lee; L.O. Kennedy; Richardson Cowins; G.Goodman; H.W.
Holton; Henry McNeil Harris; J.H. Garmon; William Everett; F.N. Duncan; J.D. Dukes, who built the
parsonage’ A.B. Collins; J.E. Campbell; and J.A. Grisby. Other pastors: In 1966, the Rev. W.A. Curry,
in 1974; Rev. Leroy Holmes; Rev. Hardy, Rev. David Williams; in 1975 Rev. Theodore Roddy; in 1980,
Rev. C.E. Standifer (the builder of the current sanctuary); in 1995, Rev. William J. Green; in 2001, Rev.
John Wesley Williams. In November 2003, we were blessed with our current pastor and leader in the
charismatic Rev. Gregory V. Gay, Sr.; Past Presiding Elders; the Reverends G.J. Oates; J.J. Williams;
Geoffrey; F.A. Allen; J.A. Roberts; S.D. Salimon; T.E. Wright; C. Hunt; J.B. Blacknell; I.D. Hinson;
and Rev. C.E. Standifer. The current Presiding Elder is Rev. John L. Bodison. Past Bishops: the Rt.
Reverends Henry Tookes; John Gregg; Carey A. Gibbs; D. Ward Nichols; Sherman Green; W.F. Ball;
G.N. Collins; G. Dewey Robinson; Hubert N. Robinson; S.S. Morris; Phillip R. Cousin; Frank C.
Cummings and John Hurst Adams. The present Presiding Bishop is the Rt. Rev. McKinley Young.
The heritage of St. John is rich. A legacy of greatness is ours to enjoy. God has indeed placed us an
open door and showed us with leadership. But true to His word, He has called many of His servants
home from labor to reward. Bro. D.C. Gilchrist who served as superintendent of St. John’s Sunday
School for forty years, Bro. Marshall Williamson who served as Secretary, Treasury, Chairman of the
Steward and Trustee Boards; Sis. Grant served as secretary of the church until 1955. Sis. Mary Lou
Pittman, Sis. Cora Anderson, Sis. Ethel Shipp, Bro. Hadley Bellone, Bro. Gus Donaldson, Bro. Wilford
Thompson, Bro. Dan Ferguson, Bro. George Baines, Sis. Rosa King, Bro. Emanuel Fryar and many
more Stewards and Trustees have gone home to rest.
The first Sunday in April 1980, marked a historical day for St. John A.M.E. Church.
Through the Godly judgment of Bishop S.S. Morris, Jr., Rev. Charles E. Standifer (Sis. Barbara
Standifer) was assigned to St. John to take the reins of leadership. Rev. Standifer accepted this great
challenge, walked out on faith, not knowing where he was going nor what tasks awaited him. He
baptized twenty-seven (27) infants, thirty-two (32) youths and thirty (30) adults. Many long and tedious
hours of work and prayers were spent in an effort to move into a new era at St. John. Today, we enjoy
the fruits of the labor. August 1985 marked another milestone, our Ground Breaking Celebration, in
preparation to construct a new St. John A.M.E. Church. The members of St. John had long planned
and worked toward the day when there would stand somewhere in these surroundings, a church that
would not only be lofty and beautiful, but so designed and constructed to properly and conveniently
facilitate the practices of African Methodist in South Miami. In October 1991, we left the old building
for safety reasons and continued to serve the Lord at J.R.E. School. At that time, more than ever before,
we had to give a little more and pray a little harder. The erecting of the new sanctuary had begun. We
knew we had a long journey, but we put God first for we knew we couldn’t make it by ourselves. In
August 1992, the onset of Hurricane Andrew put a time constraint on the plans for the new St. John.
The construction went on and before long the sanctuary was complete. Our prayers had been answered
and our dream had become a reality. On the fifth Sunday of October 1993, we walked into our new
edifice, which Rev. Standifer called “the biggest little church in South Miami”, with praise and
thanksgiving.
On the third Sunday in October 1995, God sent another warrior for the upbringing of his kingdom,
while placing Rev. Standifer in the reigns of Presiding Elder.
Rev. William J. Green (First Lady Lillian Green) came to St. St. John with insight to enhance the
church as well as the community. Along with his new ideas, Rev. Green envisioned a day dedicated to
the instruction of the children now called “Saturday School”. He developed initiatives to help rid the
community of drug usage. We held many evening and weekend vigils and walks throughout the South
Miami community to let the drug dealers know that they were not welcomed and would not be
tolerated. Through his efforts, other community churches and elected officials became involved. St.
John was the site chosen in the community to host charrettes where meetings were held to discuss and
determine the future economic and enhancement decisions for the South Miami community. He
instilled the God’s Plan system of giving, under which several construction project requirements had
to be met to receive a certificate of occupancy; the electrical room enclosure, cement pad and a Fire
Alarm System in December 1995. “Praise the Lord”, all were accomplished! Later work began to put a
face lift of beauty to God’s House; painting the church inside out including motto, name on church,
beautiful stained glass windows, landscaping, new roof and the cross on the bell tower. Under his
leadership, Rev. Green also established the Wounded Healers Organization, Inc., which assisted and
provided jobs, training and entrepreneurial opportunities for members of our community as well as a
tool for developing and nurturing relationships within and outside of the church. It was a great day on
December 15, 1996, when Bishop Frank C. Cummings burned mortgage #2 for the parking lot of the
church. On September 13, 1998, Rev. Green envisioned a place for the youth and multi-purpose use,
and had the insight to purchase in full the St. John Enterprise and Learning Center. With the
departure of Rev. Green to retirement in March 2001, St. John would yet again receive another
shepherd for this flock.
Appointed to St. John in March 2001, Rev. John W. Williams, Jr. (First Lady Sharon Williams) came to
us from Key West, Florida. A former pastor of Bethel A.M.E., Key West, Rev. Williams inspired the
church that despite the passing of the great pastor and Presiding Elder Rev. Charles E. Standifer (May
2001) and the retiring of Rev. William J. Green, the church would not suffer. He embarked upon a new
vision that would create church growth and spiritual development. He completed the groundwork to
launch a new and innovative ministry referred to as incarnational evangelism. It was under his
stewardship that in August 2002, we were able to purchase the partitions which divide the fellowship
hall from the main sanctuary. Prior to leaving to shepherd another congregation, Rev. Williams
reestablished the traditional presence of the Sunday School.
Just when St. John needed a new infusion of hope, motivation and guidance, in November 2003, Rev.
Gregory V. Gay, Sr. (First Lady LaShunda Gay and children) was assigned to St. John as Senior
Pastor. Rev. Gay has been a lighting rod in so many ways and his vision and boundless energy have
made St. John a true beacon of comfort in the South Miami community. He serves as the South
Miami Police Department Chaplain. In just two years, his endless energy and love for the South
Miami community, the church and its members have been shown daily…spiritually, financially and
physically. He brought along his super BBQ grill and instituted “Frydays” to feed the community his
mouth-watering BBQ ribs, delicious corn on the cob and signature baked beans. These were also times
of fellowship and outreach. Our church’s music ministry has exploded and exemplifies the great
spiritual excitement that Rev. Gay has brought to St. John. Yes, he loves to sing!!! He is continuing
Rev. Green’s vision for the Wounded Healers. He has brought back, what Rev. Green started, the
future of the church “our children” and continues to give in so many ways. It is fitting that St. John’s
mortgage burning on January 22, 2005 and 89 years of existence stand as a tribute to the hard work and
dedication of Rev. Gay, the pastors, who preceded him and the past and present members of St. John.
| | | | |
Thank you for visiting our site, we do not take it lightly that you have been
guided to St. John A.M.E. Church. Please take a moment to view our Pastor's
Welcome, our Vision Statement as well as our various Bible Studies and other
relevant information.
We are a church that welcomes all those that have fallen short of His glory, for
His word reminds us that not one of us is perfect. We are to love the sinner and
hate the sin. So please do not allow your past, or present failures, issues or
problems stop you from receiving the blessing that God has waiting for you.
Know that Jesus felt that YOU were worth dying for on the cross.
THE FOUNDERS:
Eighty-nine years ago, long before South Miami was born, known then as Larkins, a handful of men
and women thought it wise and advantageous to serve God. They started to have prayer meetings in the
home of Mr. & Mrs. Marshall Williamson, on what is now Southwest 60th Avenue. The fellowship and
the mutual agreement of God’s people have always wrought wonders in our midst. It did at Pentecost
and was done again in 1915 in South Miami, Florida.
The ORGANIZERS AND ST. JOHN'S HISTORY:
Out of this meager beginning grew the founding of Saint John African Episcopal Church. The absence
of a sanctuary was no hindrance. God was with them. On the second Sunday in June 1916, the church
was formerly organized by the first pastor, Rev. F.W. Kinslow, and took the name St. John A.M.E.
Church.
Mr. Marshall Williamson, the first pioneer resident of South Miami and wife, Elnora gave the land at
6461 Southwest 59th Place for the purpose of erecting a place of worship. From this church was the
birth of all the other black churches in the community. The hurricane of 1926 destroyed the first
church and the following year, a new structure was erected, which was a little white-frame building
(the little white church as many recall), housing approximately one hundred members. The present
building is the third St. John structure.
The original eight (8) trustees were J. Maxwell, L. Richardson, Alonza Aaron, James Hunt, Charley
Williams, Rosa Little, Eleanor Williamson and Marshall Williamson with Rev. F.L. Kinslow as pastor.
The Rev. G.A. Curry was the Presiding Bishop and R.B. Brooks was the Presiding Elder at the time
church was organized.
Through the years, the Founders kept a watchful eye on the caliber of ministers who pastured at St.
John, South Miami. Among the illustrious clergymen who have pastured are: Reverends H.W. Gary; R.
J. Jones; J.H. Strums; J.J. Johnson; Paul Lee; L.O. Kennedy; Richardson Cowins; G.Goodman; H.W.
Holton; Henry McNeil Harris; J.H. Garmon; William Everett; F.N. Duncan; J.D. Dukes, who built the
parsonage’ A.B. Collins; J.E. Campbell; and J.A. Grisby. Other pastors: In 1966, the Rev. W.A. Curry,
in 1974; Rev. Leroy Holmes; Rev. Hardy, Rev. David Williams; in 1975 Rev. Theodore Roddy; in 1980,
Rev. C.E. Standifer (the builder of the current sanctuary); in 1995, Rev. William J. Green; in 2001, Rev.
John Wesley Williams. In November 2003, we were blessed with our current pastor and leader in the
charismatic Rev. Gregory V. Gay, Sr.; Past Presiding Elders; the Reverends G.J. Oates; J.J. Williams;
Geoffrey; F.A. Allen; J.A. Roberts; S.D. Salimon; T.E. Wright; C. Hunt; J.B. Blacknell; I.D. Hinson;
and Rev. C.E. Standifer. The current Presiding Elder is Rev. John L. Bodison. Past Bishops: the Rt.
Reverends Henry Tookes; John Gregg; Carey A. Gibbs; D. Ward Nichols; Sherman Green; W.F. Ball;
G.N. Collins; G. Dewey Robinson; Hubert N. Robinson; S.S. Morris; Phillip R. Cousin; Frank C.
Cummings and John Hurst Adams. The present Presiding Bishop is the Rt. Rev. McKinley Young.
The heritage of St. John is rich. A legacy of greatness is ours to enjoy. God has indeed placed us an
open door and showed us with leadership. But true to His word, He has called many of His servants
home from labor to reward. Bro. D.C. Gilchrist who served as superintendent of St. John’s Sunday
School for forty years, Bro. Marshall Williamson who served as Secretary, Treasury, Chairman of the
Steward and Trustee Boards; Sis. Grant served as secretary of the church until 1955. Sis. Mary Lou
Pittman, Sis. Cora Anderson, Sis. Ethel Shipp, Bro. Hadley Bellone, Bro. Gus Donaldson, Bro. Wilford
Thompson, Bro. Dan Ferguson, Bro. George Baines, Sis. Rosa King, Bro. Emanuel Fryar and many
more Stewards and Trustees have gone home to rest.
The first Sunday in April 1980, marked a historical day for St. John A.M.E. Church.
Through the Godly judgment of Bishop S.S. Morris, Jr., Rev. Charles E. Standifer (Sis. Barbara
Standifer) was assigned to St. John to take the reins of leadership. Rev. Standifer accepted this great
challenge, walked out on faith, not knowing where he was going nor what tasks awaited him. He
baptized twenty-seven (27) infants, thirty-two (32) youths and thirty (30) adults. Many long and tedious
hours of work and prayers were spent in an effort to move into a new era at St. John. Today, we enjoy
the fruits of the labor. August 1985 marked another milestone, our Ground Breaking Celebration, in
preparation to construct a new St. John A.M.E. Church. The members of St. John had long planned
and worked toward the day when there would stand somewhere in these surroundings, a church that
would not only be lofty and beautiful, but so designed and constructed to properly and conveniently
facilitate the practices of African Methodist in South Miami. In October 1991, we left the old building
for safety reasons and continued to serve the Lord at J.R.E. School. At that time, more than ever before,
we had to give a little more and pray a little harder. The erecting of the new sanctuary had begun. We
knew we had a long journey, but we put God first for we knew we couldn’t make it by ourselves. In
August 1992, the onset of Hurricane Andrew put a time constraint on the plans for the new St. John.
The construction went on and before long the sanctuary was complete. Our prayers had been answered
and our dream had become a reality. On the fifth Sunday of October 1993, we walked into our new
edifice, which Rev. Standifer called “the biggest little church in South Miami”, with praise and
thanksgiving.
On the third Sunday in October 1995, God sent another warrior for the upbringing of his kingdom,
while placing Rev. Standifer in the reigns of Presiding Elder.
Rev. William J. Green (First Lady Lillian Green) came to St. St. John with insight to enhance the
church as well as the community. Along with his new ideas, Rev. Green envisioned a day dedicated to
the instruction of the children now called “Saturday School”. He developed initiatives to help rid the
community of drug usage. We held many evening and weekend vigils and walks throughout the South
Miami community to let the drug dealers know that they were not welcomed and would not be
tolerated. Through his efforts, other community churches and elected officials became involved. St.
John was the site chosen in the community to host charrettes where meetings were held to discuss and
determine the future economic and enhancement decisions for the South Miami community. He
instilled the God’s Plan system of giving, under which several construction project requirements had
to be met to receive a certificate of occupancy; the electrical room enclosure, cement pad and a Fire
Alarm System in December 1995. “Praise the Lord”, all were accomplished! Later work began to put a
face lift of beauty to God’s House; painting the church inside out including motto, name on church,
beautiful stained glass windows, landscaping, new roof and the cross on the bell tower. Under his
leadership, Rev. Green also established the Wounded Healers Organization, Inc., which assisted and
provided jobs, training and entrepreneurial opportunities for members of our community as well as a
tool for developing and nurturing relationships within and outside of the church. It was a great day on
December 15, 1996, when Bishop Frank C. Cummings burned mortgage #2 for the parking lot of the
church. On September 13, 1998, Rev. Green envisioned a place for the youth and multi-purpose use,
and had the insight to purchase in full the St. John Enterprise and Learning Center. With the
departure of Rev. Green to retirement in March 2001, St. John would yet again receive another
shepherd for this flock.
Appointed to St. John in March 2001, Rev. John W. Williams, Jr. (First Lady Sharon Williams) came to
us from Key West, Florida. A former pastor of Bethel A.M.E., Key West, Rev. Williams inspired the
church that despite the passing of the great pastor and Presiding Elder Rev. Charles E. Standifer (May
2001) and the retiring of Rev. William J. Green, the church would not suffer. He embarked upon a new
vision that would create church growth and spiritual development. He completed the groundwork to
launch a new and innovative ministry referred to as incarnational evangelism. It was under his
stewardship that in August 2002, we were able to purchase the partitions which divide the fellowship
hall from the main sanctuary. Prior to leaving to shepherd another congregation, Rev. Williams
reestablished the traditional presence of the Sunday School.
Just when St. John needed a new infusion of hope, motivation and guidance, in November 2003, Rev.
Gregory V. Gay, Sr. (First Lady LaShunda Gay and children) was assigned to St. John as Senior
Pastor. Rev. Gay has been a lighting rod in so many ways and his vision and boundless energy have
made St. John a true beacon of comfort in the South Miami community. He serves as the South
Miami Police Department Chaplain. In just two years, his endless energy and love for the South
Miami community, the church and its members have been shown daily…spiritually, financially and
physically. He brought along his super BBQ grill and instituted “Frydays” to feed the community his
mouth-watering BBQ ribs, delicious corn on the cob and signature baked beans. These were also times
of fellowship and outreach. Our church’s music ministry has exploded and exemplifies the great
spiritual excitement that Rev. Gay has brought to St. John. Yes, he loves to sing!!! He is continuing
Rev. Green’s vision for the Wounded Healers. He has brought back, what Rev. Green started, the
future of the church “our children” and continues to give in so many ways. It is fitting that St. John’s
mortgage burning on January 22, 2005 and 89 years of existence stand as a tribute to the hard work and
dedication of Rev. Gay, the pastors, who preceded him and the past and present members of St. John.
Eighty-nine years ago, long before South Miami was born, known then as Larkins, a handful of men
and women thought it wise and advantageous to serve God. They started to have prayer meetings in the
home of Mr. & Mrs. Marshall Williamson, on what is now Southwest 60th Avenue. The fellowship and
the mutual agreement of God’s people have always wrought wonders in our midst. It did at Pentecost
and was done again in 1915 in South Miami, Florida.
The ORGANIZERS AND ST. JOHN'S HISTORY:
Out of this meager beginning grew the founding of Saint John African Episcopal Church. The absence
of a sanctuary was no hindrance. God was with them. On the second Sunday in June 1916, the church
was formerly organized by the first pastor, Rev. F.W. Kinslow, and took the name St. John A.M.E.
Church.
Mr. Marshall Williamson, the first pioneer resident of South Miami and wife, Elnora gave the land at
6461 Southwest 59th Place for the purpose of erecting a place of worship. From this church was the
birth of all the other black churches in the community. The hurricane of 1926 destroyed the first
church and the following year, a new structure was erected, which was a little white-frame building
(the little white church as many recall), housing approximately one hundred members. The present
building is the third St. John structure.
The original eight (8) trustees were J. Maxwell, L. Richardson, Alonza Aaron, James Hunt, Charley
Williams, Rosa Little, Eleanor Williamson and Marshall Williamson with Rev. F.L. Kinslow as pastor.
The Rev. G.A. Curry was the Presiding Bishop and R.B. Brooks was the Presiding Elder at the time
church was organized.
Through the years, the Founders kept a watchful eye on the caliber of ministers who pastured at St.
John, South Miami. Among the illustrious clergymen who have pastured are: Reverends H.W. Gary; R.
J. Jones; J.H. Strums; J.J. Johnson; Paul Lee; L.O. Kennedy; Richardson Cowins; G.Goodman; H.W.
Holton; Henry McNeil Harris; J.H. Garmon; William Everett; F.N. Duncan; J.D. Dukes, who built the
parsonage’ A.B. Collins; J.E. Campbell; and J.A. Grisby. Other pastors: In 1966, the Rev. W.A. Curry,
in 1974; Rev. Leroy Holmes; Rev. Hardy, Rev. David Williams; in 1975 Rev. Theodore Roddy; in 1980,
Rev. C.E. Standifer (the builder of the current sanctuary); in 1995, Rev. William J. Green; in 2001, Rev.
John Wesley Williams. In November 2003, we were blessed with our current pastor and leader in the
charismatic Rev. Gregory V. Gay, Sr.; Past Presiding Elders; the Reverends G.J. Oates; J.J. Williams;
Geoffrey; F.A. Allen; J.A. Roberts; S.D. Salimon; T.E. Wright; C. Hunt; J.B. Blacknell; I.D. Hinson;
and Rev. C.E. Standifer. The current Presiding Elder is Rev. John L. Bodison. Past Bishops: the Rt.
Reverends Henry Tookes; John Gregg; Carey A. Gibbs; D. Ward Nichols; Sherman Green; W.F. Ball;
G.N. Collins; G. Dewey Robinson; Hubert N. Robinson; S.S. Morris; Phillip R. Cousin; Frank C.
Cummings and John Hurst Adams. The present Presiding Bishop is the Rt. Rev. McKinley Young.
The heritage of St. John is rich. A legacy of greatness is ours to enjoy. God has indeed placed us an
open door and showed us with leadership. But true to His word, He has called many of His servants
home from labor to reward. Bro. D.C. Gilchrist who served as superintendent of St. John’s Sunday
School for forty years, Bro. Marshall Williamson who served as Secretary, Treasury, Chairman of the
Steward and Trustee Boards; Sis. Grant served as secretary of the church until 1955. Sis. Mary Lou
Pittman, Sis. Cora Anderson, Sis. Ethel Shipp, Bro. Hadley Bellone, Bro. Gus Donaldson, Bro. Wilford
Thompson, Bro. Dan Ferguson, Bro. George Baines, Sis. Rosa King, Bro. Emanuel Fryar and many
more Stewards and Trustees have gone home to rest.
The first Sunday in April 1980, marked a historical day for St. John A.M.E. Church.
Through the Godly judgment of Bishop S.S. Morris, Jr., Rev. Charles E. Standifer (Sis. Barbara
Standifer) was assigned to St. John to take the reins of leadership. Rev. Standifer accepted this great
challenge, walked out on faith, not knowing where he was going nor what tasks awaited him. He
baptized twenty-seven (27) infants, thirty-two (32) youths and thirty (30) adults. Many long and tedious
hours of work and prayers were spent in an effort to move into a new era at St. John. Today, we enjoy
the fruits of the labor. August 1985 marked another milestone, our Ground Breaking Celebration, in
preparation to construct a new St. John A.M.E. Church. The members of St. John had long planned
and worked toward the day when there would stand somewhere in these surroundings, a church that
would not only be lofty and beautiful, but so designed and constructed to properly and conveniently
facilitate the practices of African Methodist in South Miami. In October 1991, we left the old building
for safety reasons and continued to serve the Lord at J.R.E. School. At that time, more than ever before,
we had to give a little more and pray a little harder. The erecting of the new sanctuary had begun. We
knew we had a long journey, but we put God first for we knew we couldn’t make it by ourselves. In
August 1992, the onset of Hurricane Andrew put a time constraint on the plans for the new St. John.
The construction went on and before long the sanctuary was complete. Our prayers had been answered
and our dream had become a reality. On the fifth Sunday of October 1993, we walked into our new
edifice, which Rev. Standifer called “the biggest little church in South Miami”, with praise and
thanksgiving.
On the third Sunday in October 1995, God sent another warrior for the upbringing of his kingdom,
while placing Rev. Standifer in the reigns of Presiding Elder.
Rev. William J. Green (First Lady Lillian Green) came to St. St. John with insight to enhance the
church as well as the community. Along with his new ideas, Rev. Green envisioned a day dedicated to
the instruction of the children now called “Saturday School”. He developed initiatives to help rid the
community of drug usage. We held many evening and weekend vigils and walks throughout the South
Miami community to let the drug dealers know that they were not welcomed and would not be
tolerated. Through his efforts, other community churches and elected officials became involved. St.
John was the site chosen in the community to host charrettes where meetings were held to discuss and
determine the future economic and enhancement decisions for the South Miami community. He
instilled the God’s Plan system of giving, under which several construction project requirements had
to be met to receive a certificate of occupancy; the electrical room enclosure, cement pad and a Fire
Alarm System in December 1995. “Praise the Lord”, all were accomplished! Later work began to put a
face lift of beauty to God’s House; painting the church inside out including motto, name on church,
beautiful stained glass windows, landscaping, new roof and the cross on the bell tower. Under his
leadership, Rev. Green also established the Wounded Healers Organization, Inc., which assisted and
provided jobs, training and entrepreneurial opportunities for members of our community as well as a
tool for developing and nurturing relationships within and outside of the church. It was a great day on
December 15, 1996, when Bishop Frank C. Cummings burned mortgage #2 for the parking lot of the
church. On September 13, 1998, Rev. Green envisioned a place for the youth and multi-purpose use,
and had the insight to purchase in full the St. John Enterprise and Learning Center. With the
departure of Rev. Green to retirement in March 2001, St. John would yet again receive another
shepherd for this flock.
Appointed to St. John in March 2001, Rev. John W. Williams, Jr. (First Lady Sharon Williams) came to
us from Key West, Florida. A former pastor of Bethel A.M.E., Key West, Rev. Williams inspired the
church that despite the passing of the great pastor and Presiding Elder Rev. Charles E. Standifer (May
2001) and the retiring of Rev. William J. Green, the church would not suffer. He embarked upon a new
vision that would create church growth and spiritual development. He completed the groundwork to
launch a new and innovative ministry referred to as incarnational evangelism. It was under his
stewardship that in August 2002, we were able to purchase the partitions which divide the fellowship
hall from the main sanctuary. Prior to leaving to shepherd another congregation, Rev. Williams
reestablished the traditional presence of the Sunday School.
Just when St. John needed a new infusion of hope, motivation and guidance, in November 2003, Rev.
Gregory V. Gay, Sr. (First Lady LaShunda Gay and children) was assigned to St. John as Senior
Pastor. Rev. Gay has been a lighting rod in so many ways and his vision and boundless energy have
made St. John a true beacon of comfort in the South Miami community. He serves as the South
Miami Police Department Chaplain. In just two years, his endless energy and love for the South
Miami community, the church and its members have been shown daily…spiritually, financially and
physically. He brought along his super BBQ grill and instituted “Frydays” to feed the community his
mouth-watering BBQ ribs, delicious corn on the cob and signature baked beans. These were also times
of fellowship and outreach. Our church’s music ministry has exploded and exemplifies the great
spiritual excitement that Rev. Gay has brought to St. John. Yes, he loves to sing!!! He is continuing
Rev. Green’s vision for the Wounded Healers. He has brought back, what Rev. Green started, the
future of the church “our children” and continues to give in so many ways. It is fitting that St. John’s
mortgage burning on January 22, 2005 and 89 years of existence stand as a tribute to the hard work and
dedication of Rev. Gay, the pastors, who preceded him and the past and present members of St. John.
| | | | |
Thank you for visiting our site, we do not take it lightly that you have been
guided to St. John A.M.E. Church. Please take a moment to view our Pastor's
Welcome, our Vision Statement as well as our various Bible Studies and other
relevant information.
We are a church that welcomes all those that have fallen short of His glory, for
His word reminds us that not one of us is perfect. We are to love the sinner and
hate the sin. So please do not allow your past, or present failures, issues or
problems stop you from receiving the blessing that God has waiting for you.
Know that Jesus felt that YOU were worth dying for on the cross.
THE FOUNDERS:
Eighty-nine years ago, long before South Miami was born, known then as Larkins, a handful of men
and women thought it wise and advantageous to serve God. They started to have prayer meetings in the
home of Mr. & Mrs. Marshall Williamson, on what is now Southwest 60th Avenue. The fellowship and
the mutual agreement of God’s people have always wrought wonders in our midst. It did at Pentecost
and was done again in 1915 in South Miami, Florida.
The ORGANIZERS AND ST. JOHN'S HISTORY:
Out of this meager beginning grew the founding of Saint John African Episcopal Church. The absence
of a sanctuary was no hindrance. God was with them. On the second Sunday in June 1916, the church
was formerly organized by the first pastor, Rev. F.W. Kinslow, and took the name St. John A.M.E.
Church.
Mr. Marshall Williamson, the first pioneer resident of South Miami and wife, Elnora gave the land at
6461 Southwest 59th Place for the purpose of erecting a place of worship. From this church was the
birth of all the other black churches in the community. The hurricane of 1926 destroyed the first
church and the following year, a new structure was erected, which was a little white-frame building
(the little white church as many recall), housing approximately one hundred members. The present
building is the third St. John structure.
The original eight (8) trustees were J. Maxwell, L. Richardson, Alonza Aaron, James Hunt, Charley
Williams, Rosa Little, Eleanor Williamson and Marshall Williamson with Rev. F.L. Kinslow as pastor.
The Rev. G.A. Curry was the Presiding Bishop and R.B. Brooks was the Presiding Elder at the time
church was organized.
Through the years, the Founders kept a watchful eye on the caliber of ministers who pastured at St.
John, South Miami. Among the illustrious clergymen who have pastured are: Reverends H.W. Gary; R.
J. Jones; J.H. Strums; J.J. Johnson; Paul Lee; L.O. Kennedy; Richardson Cowins; G.Goodman; H.W.
Holton; Henry McNeil Harris; J.H. Garmon; William Everett; F.N. Duncan; J.D. Dukes, who built the
parsonage’ A.B. Collins; J.E. Campbell; and J.A. Grisby. Other pastors: In 1966, the Rev. W.A. Curry,
in 1974; Rev. Leroy Holmes; Rev. Hardy, Rev. David Williams; in 1975 Rev. Theodore Roddy; in 1980,
Rev. C.E. Standifer (the builder of the current sanctuary); in 1995, Rev. William J. Green; in 2001, Rev.
John Wesley Williams. In November 2003, we were blessed with our current pastor and leader in the
charismatic Rev. Gregory V. Gay, Sr.; Past Presiding Elders; the Reverends G.J. Oates; J.J. Williams;
Geoffrey; F.A. Allen; J.A. Roberts; S.D. Salimon; T.E. Wright; C. Hunt; J.B. Blacknell; I.D. Hinson;
and Rev. C.E. Standifer. The current Presiding Elder is Rev. John L. Bodison. Past Bishops: the Rt.
Reverends Henry Tookes; John Gregg; Carey A. Gibbs; D. Ward Nichols; Sherman Green; W.F. Ball;
G.N. Collins; G. Dewey Robinson; Hubert N. Robinson; S.S. Morris; Phillip R. Cousin; Frank C.
Cummings and John Hurst Adams. The present Presiding Bishop is the Rt. Rev. McKinley Young.
The heritage of St. John is rich. A legacy of greatness is ours to enjoy. God has indeed placed us an
open door and showed us with leadership. But true to His word, He has called many of His servants
home from labor to reward. Bro. D.C. Gilchrist who served as superintendent of St. John’s Sunday
School for forty years, Bro. Marshall Williamson who served as Secretary, Treasury, Chairman of the
Steward and Trustee Boards; Sis. Grant served as secretary of the church until 1955. Sis. Mary Lou
Pittman, Sis. Cora Anderson, Sis. Ethel Shipp, Bro. Hadley Bellone, Bro. Gus Donaldson, Bro. Wilford
Thompson, Bro. Dan Ferguson, Bro. George Baines, Sis. Rosa King, Bro. Emanuel Fryar and many
more Stewards and Trustees have gone home to rest.
The first Sunday in April 1980, marked a historical day for St. John A.M.E. Church.
Through the Godly judgment of Bishop S.S. Morris, Jr., Rev. Charles E. Standifer (Sis. Barbara
Standifer) was assigned to St. John to take the reins of leadership. Rev. Standifer accepted this great
challenge, walked out on faith, not knowing where he was going nor what tasks awaited him. He
baptized twenty-seven (27) infants, thirty-two (32) youths and thirty (30) adults. Many long and tedious
hours of work and prayers were spent in an effort to move into a new era at St. John. Today, we enjoy
the fruits of the labor. August 1985 marked another milestone, our Ground Breaking Celebration, in
preparation to construct a new St. John A.M.E. Church. The members of St. John had long planned
and worked toward the day when there would stand somewhere in these surroundings, a church that
would not only be lofty and beautiful, but so designed and constructed to properly and conveniently
facilitate the practices of African Methodist in South Miami. In October 1991, we left the old building
for safety reasons and continued to serve the Lord at J.R.E. School. At that time, more than ever before,
we had to give a little more and pray a little harder. The erecting of the new sanctuary had begun. We
knew we had a long journey, but we put God first for we knew we couldn’t make it by ourselves. In
August 1992, the onset of Hurricane Andrew put a time constraint on the plans for the new St. John.
The construction went on and before long the sanctuary was complete. Our prayers had been answered
and our dream had become a reality. On the fifth Sunday of October 1993, we walked into our new
edifice, which Rev. Standifer called “the biggest little church in South Miami”, with praise and
thanksgiving.
On the third Sunday in October 1995, God sent another warrior for the upbringing of his kingdom,
while placing Rev. Standifer in the reigns of Presiding Elder.
Rev. William J. Green (First Lady Lillian Green) came to St. St. John with insight to enhance the
church as well as the community. Along with his new ideas, Rev. Green envisioned a day dedicated to
the instruction of the children now called “Saturday School”. He developed initiatives to help rid the
community of drug usage. We held many evening and weekend vigils and walks throughout the South
Miami community to let the drug dealers know that they were not welcomed and would not be
tolerated. Through his efforts, other community churches and elected officials became involved. St.
John was the site chosen in the community to host charrettes where meetings were held to discuss and
determine the future economic and enhancement decisions for the South Miami community. He
instilled the God’s Plan system of giving, under which several construction project requirements had
to be met to receive a certificate of occupancy; the electrical room enclosure, cement pad and a Fire
Alarm System in December 1995. “Praise the Lord”, all were accomplished! Later work began to put a
face lift of beauty to God’s House; painting the church inside out including motto, name on church,
beautiful stained glass windows, landscaping, new roof and the cross on the bell tower. Under his
leadership, Rev. Green also established the Wounded Healers Organization, Inc., which assisted and
provided jobs, training and entrepreneurial opportunities for members of our community as well as a
tool for developing and nurturing relationships within and outside of the church. It was a great day on
December 15, 1996, when Bishop Frank C. Cummings burned mortgage #2 for the parking lot of the
church. On September 13, 1998, Rev. Green envisioned a place for the youth and multi-purpose use,
and had the insight to purchase in full the St. John Enterprise and Learning Center. With the
departure of Rev. Green to retirement in March 2001, St. John would yet again receive another
shepherd for this flock.
Appointed to St. John in March 2001, Rev. John W. Williams, Jr. (First Lady Sharon Williams) came to
us from Key West, Florida. A former pastor of Bethel A.M.E., Key West, Rev. Williams inspired the
church that despite the passing of the great pastor and Presiding Elder Rev. Charles E. Standifer (May
2001) and the retiring of Rev. William J. Green, the church would not suffer. He embarked upon a new
vision that would create church growth and spiritual development. He completed the groundwork to
launch a new and innovative ministry referred to as incarnational evangelism. It was under his
stewardship that in August 2002, we were able to purchase the partitions which divide the fellowship
hall from the main sanctuary. Prior to leaving to shepherd another congregation, Rev. Williams
reestablished the traditional presence of the Sunday School.
Just when St. John needed a new infusion of hope, motivation and guidance, in November 2003, Rev.
Gregory V. Gay, Sr. (First Lady LaShunda Gay and children) was assigned to St. John as Senior
Pastor. Rev. Gay has been a lighting rod in so many ways and his vision and boundless energy have
made St. John a true beacon of comfort in the South Miami community. He serves as the South
Miami Police Department Chaplain. In just two years, his endless energy and love for the South
Miami community, the church and its members have been shown daily…spiritually, financially and
physically. He brought along his super BBQ grill and instituted “Frydays” to feed the community his
mouth-watering BBQ ribs, delicious corn on the cob and signature baked beans. These were also times
of fellowship and outreach. Our church’s music ministry has exploded and exemplifies the great
spiritual excitement that Rev. Gay has brought to St. John. Yes, he loves to sing!!! He is continuing
Rev. Green’s vision for the Wounded Healers. He has brought back, what Rev. Green started, the
future of the church “our children” and continues to give in so many ways. It is fitting that St. John’s
mortgage burning on January 22, 2005 and 89 years of existence stand as a tribute to the hard work and
dedication of Rev. Gay, the pastors, who preceded him and the past and present members of St. John.
Eighty-nine years ago, long before South Miami was born, known then as Larkins, a handful of men
and women thought it wise and advantageous to serve God. They started to have prayer meetings in the
home of Mr. & Mrs. Marshall Williamson, on what is now Southwest 60th Avenue. The fellowship and
the mutual agreement of God’s people have always wrought wonders in our midst. It did at Pentecost
and was done again in 1915 in South Miami, Florida.
The ORGANIZERS AND ST. JOHN'S HISTORY:
Out of this meager beginning grew the founding of Saint John African Episcopal Church. The absence
of a sanctuary was no hindrance. God was with them. On the second Sunday in June 1916, the church
was formerly organized by the first pastor, Rev. F.W. Kinslow, and took the name St. John A.M.E.
Church.
Mr. Marshall Williamson, the first pioneer resident of South Miami and wife, Elnora gave the land at
6461 Southwest 59th Place for the purpose of erecting a place of worship. From this church was the
birth of all the other black churches in the community. The hurricane of 1926 destroyed the first
church and the following year, a new structure was erected, which was a little white-frame building
(the little white church as many recall), housing approximately one hundred members. The present
building is the third St. John structure.
The original eight (8) trustees were J. Maxwell, L. Richardson, Alonza Aaron, James Hunt, Charley
Williams, Rosa Little, Eleanor Williamson and Marshall Williamson with Rev. F.L. Kinslow as pastor.
The Rev. G.A. Curry was the Presiding Bishop and R.B. Brooks was the Presiding Elder at the time
church was organized.
Through the years, the Founders kept a watchful eye on the caliber of ministers who pastured at St.
John, South Miami. Among the illustrious clergymen who have pastured are: Reverends H.W. Gary; R.
J. Jones; J.H. Strums; J.J. Johnson; Paul Lee; L.O. Kennedy; Richardson Cowins; G.Goodman; H.W.
Holton; Henry McNeil Harris; J.H. Garmon; William Everett; F.N. Duncan; J.D. Dukes, who built the
parsonage’ A.B. Collins; J.E. Campbell; and J.A. Grisby. Other pastors: In 1966, the Rev. W.A. Curry,
in 1974; Rev. Leroy Holmes; Rev. Hardy, Rev. David Williams; in 1975 Rev. Theodore Roddy; in 1980,
Rev. C.E. Standifer (the builder of the current sanctuary); in 1995, Rev. William J. Green; in 2001, Rev.
John Wesley Williams. In November 2003, we were blessed with our current pastor and leader in the
charismatic Rev. Gregory V. Gay, Sr.; Past Presiding Elders; the Reverends G.J. Oates; J.J. Williams;
Geoffrey; F.A. Allen; J.A. Roberts; S.D. Salimon; T.E. Wright; C. Hunt; J.B. Blacknell; I.D. Hinson;
and Rev. C.E. Standifer. The current Presiding Elder is Rev. John L. Bodison. Past Bishops: the Rt.
Reverends Henry Tookes; John Gregg; Carey A. Gibbs; D. Ward Nichols; Sherman Green; W.F. Ball;
G.N. Collins; G. Dewey Robinson; Hubert N. Robinson; S.S. Morris; Phillip R. Cousin; Frank C.
Cummings and John Hurst Adams. The present Presiding Bishop is the Rt. Rev. McKinley Young.
The heritage of St. John is rich. A legacy of greatness is ours to enjoy. God has indeed placed us an
open door and showed us with leadership. But true to His word, He has called many of His servants
home from labor to reward. Bro. D.C. Gilchrist who served as superintendent of St. John’s Sunday
School for forty years, Bro. Marshall Williamson who served as Secretary, Treasury, Chairman of the
Steward and Trustee Boards; Sis. Grant served as secretary of the church until 1955. Sis. Mary Lou
Pittman, Sis. Cora Anderson, Sis. Ethel Shipp, Bro. Hadley Bellone, Bro. Gus Donaldson, Bro. Wilford
Thompson, Bro. Dan Ferguson, Bro. George Baines, Sis. Rosa King, Bro. Emanuel Fryar and many
more Stewards and Trustees have gone home to rest.
The first Sunday in April 1980, marked a historical day for St. John A.M.E. Church.
Through the Godly judgment of Bishop S.S. Morris, Jr., Rev. Charles E. Standifer (Sis. Barbara
Standifer) was assigned to St. John to take the reins of leadership. Rev. Standifer accepted this great
challenge, walked out on faith, not knowing where he was going nor what tasks awaited him. He
baptized twenty-seven (27) infants, thirty-two (32) youths and thirty (30) adults. Many long and tedious
hours of work and prayers were spent in an effort to move into a new era at St. John. Today, we enjoy
the fruits of the labor. August 1985 marked another milestone, our Ground Breaking Celebration, in
preparation to construct a new St. John A.M.E. Church. The members of St. John had long planned
and worked toward the day when there would stand somewhere in these surroundings, a church that
would not only be lofty and beautiful, but so designed and constructed to properly and conveniently
facilitate the practices of African Methodist in South Miami. In October 1991, we left the old building
for safety reasons and continued to serve the Lord at J.R.E. School. At that time, more than ever before,
we had to give a little more and pray a little harder. The erecting of the new sanctuary had begun. We
knew we had a long journey, but we put God first for we knew we couldn’t make it by ourselves. In
August 1992, the onset of Hurricane Andrew put a time constraint on the plans for the new St. John.
The construction went on and before long the sanctuary was complete. Our prayers had been answered
and our dream had become a reality. On the fifth Sunday of October 1993, we walked into our new
edifice, which Rev. Standifer called “the biggest little church in South Miami”, with praise and
thanksgiving.
On the third Sunday in October 1995, God sent another warrior for the upbringing of his kingdom,
while placing Rev. Standifer in the reigns of Presiding Elder.
Rev. William J. Green (First Lady Lillian Green) came to St. St. John with insight to enhance the
church as well as the community. Along with his new ideas, Rev. Green envisioned a day dedicated to
the instruction of the children now called “Saturday School”. He developed initiatives to help rid the
community of drug usage. We held many evening and weekend vigils and walks throughout the South
Miami community to let the drug dealers know that they were not welcomed and would not be
tolerated. Through his efforts, other community churches and elected officials became involved. St.
John was the site chosen in the community to host charrettes where meetings were held to discuss and
determine the future economic and enhancement decisions for the South Miami community. He
instilled the God’s Plan system of giving, under which several construction project requirements had
to be met to receive a certificate of occupancy; the electrical room enclosure, cement pad and a Fire
Alarm System in December 1995. “Praise the Lord”, all were accomplished! Later work began to put a
face lift of beauty to God’s House; painting the church inside out including motto, name on church,
beautiful stained glass windows, landscaping, new roof and the cross on the bell tower. Under his
leadership, Rev. Green also established the Wounded Healers Organization, Inc., which assisted and
provided jobs, training and entrepreneurial opportunities for members of our community as well as a
tool for developing and nurturing relationships within and outside of the church. It was a great day on
December 15, 1996, when Bishop Frank C. Cummings burned mortgage #2 for the parking lot of the
church. On September 13, 1998, Rev. Green envisioned a place for the youth and multi-purpose use,
and had the insight to purchase in full the St. John Enterprise and Learning Center. With the
departure of Rev. Green to retirement in March 2001, St. John would yet again receive another
shepherd for this flock.
Appointed to St. John in March 2001, Rev. John W. Williams, Jr. (First Lady Sharon Williams) came to
us from Key West, Florida. A former pastor of Bethel A.M.E., Key West, Rev. Williams inspired the
church that despite the passing of the great pastor and Presiding Elder Rev. Charles E. Standifer (May
2001) and the retiring of Rev. William J. Green, the church would not suffer. He embarked upon a new
vision that would create church growth and spiritual development. He completed the groundwork to
launch a new and innovative ministry referred to as incarnational evangelism. It was under his
stewardship that in August 2002, we were able to purchase the partitions which divide the fellowship
hall from the main sanctuary. Prior to leaving to shepherd another congregation, Rev. Williams
reestablished the traditional presence of the Sunday School.
Just when St. John needed a new infusion of hope, motivation and guidance, in November 2003, Rev.
Gregory V. Gay, Sr. (First Lady LaShunda Gay and children) was assigned to St. John as Senior
Pastor. Rev. Gay has been a lighting rod in so many ways and his vision and boundless energy have
made St. John a true beacon of comfort in the South Miami community. He serves as the South
Miami Police Department Chaplain. In just two years, his endless energy and love for the South
Miami community, the church and its members have been shown daily…spiritually, financially and
physically. He brought along his super BBQ grill and instituted “Frydays” to feed the community his
mouth-watering BBQ ribs, delicious corn on the cob and signature baked beans. These were also times
of fellowship and outreach. Our church’s music ministry has exploded and exemplifies the great
spiritual excitement that Rev. Gay has brought to St. John. Yes, he loves to sing!!! He is continuing
Rev. Green’s vision for the Wounded Healers. He has brought back, what Rev. Green started, the
future of the church “our children” and continues to give in so many ways. It is fitting that St. John’s
mortgage burning on January 22, 2005 and 89 years of existence stand as a tribute to the hard work and
dedication of Rev. Gay, the pastors, who preceded him and the past and present members of St. John.