Clergy
The Rev. Dr. Katharine C. Black,
Priest
Welcome to St. John’s, Bowdoin Street. We are an urban, liturgically ceremonial, socially progressive church. We hope that whether you’ve been part of us in the past, currently claim us in the present, or may try us soon, you know that you, wherever you may be on life’s journey, are truly welcome at Bowdoin Street.
This sincere welcome has been a proud part of our heritage from our inception. The parish was founded to minister to freed African slaves after the Civil War. We have welcomed categories of people made unwelcome in some churches and in some societies: the poor, the hungry, gay and lesbians, those with AIDS, women seeking ordination, and the homeless. We are proud of this welcome and we continue to be a hospitable place for all of these peoples. We welcome a variety of other Christians who have found with us a place of beauty, both liturgically and musically, and who are in search of a truly open church. We also offer an urban oasis for those who seek a holy place to be in, quietly or in the presence of music. All are welcome.
We continue to offer a well-prepared variety of beautiful music within our liturgies, presented by our gifted organist Jeffrey Mills, and the parish choir. The musical range runs the gamut of early church music to contemporary pieces, to American shape note music and grand anthems. Building on this ministry, and utilizing the glorious acoustics of our church, we also offer a free concert every Wednesday at 5:30 pm. The free concerts offer a ministry of respite and companionship freely to all who come.
We invite you to join us, as together we head into the 21st century and our next years of service. We understand that urban ministry is always one of presence and listening. Do join us as we listen anew in our local neighborhood and far beyond. You are truly welcome at St. John’s, Bowdoin Street.
- The Rev. Dr. Katharine C. Black, Priest
