June 30th 2024.
After an extensive nationwide search, the historic New York Abyssinian Baptist Church has finally found its new senior pastor to replace the late Reverend Calvin O. Butts. This significant role has been filled by Rev. Kevin R. Johnson, who was officially named on June 23.
Rev. Johnson is taking over from the highly respected Calvin Butts, who dedicated 50 years of his life to serving the Abyssinian church in Harlem before his passing in 2022. Rev. Johnson brings a wealth of experience to this position, having founded the independent Dare to Imagine Church in Philadelphia. According to The New York Post, he had previously served as an assistant pastor and intern under Butts, making him well-acquainted with the inner workings of the church.
However, Rev. Johnson's journey to this moment was not an easy one. He started Dare to Imagine with just 20 members in his own home, but through his dedication and hard work, the church now boasts a thriving community of 1,500 active members. So, it comes as no surprise that he expressed his deep gratitude, honor, and excitement upon being given this significant role.
In a video posted on the church's website, Rev. Johnson shared, "Abyssinian is not just a church – it's our spiritual home, and I'm honored to build upon its rich legacy." He continued, "Together, we will advance God's kingdom, serve our community by God's grace, impact the world, and shape Abyssinian's next glorious chapter."
Rev. Johnson's appointment marks the end of a long and scrutinized pastoral search process. The search committee came under fire for various issues, including a gender discrimination lawsuit filed by former assistant pastor Rev. Eboni Marshall Turman. The church faced criticism for a lack of transparency and potential gender discrimination.
The Abyssinian church has a long and rich history, founded in 1808, and is a staple Black church in the United States. Rev. Johnson, a graduate of Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, and Union Theological Seminary in New York City, is well-equipped to lead this historic institution. He first served as an intern at Abyssinian in 1999 under Butts, and then returned in 2002 as the assistant pastor. He continued to learn from Butts for another five years before being called to serve temporarily at Bright Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia.
The passing of Rev. Butts was a significant loss for the church and the wider community. He was not only a prominent figure in the religious world but also a major political force and influential leader. But with the appointment of Rev. Johnson, the Abyssinian church can continue to thrive and make a positive impact on the world.
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