Church History
In the year 1926, a small group of Methodists, under the leadership of Bro. Porter D. Hall, decided to leave the Nash Memorial Methodist Church. A series of prayer meetings began in the home of Bro. John W. and Ida Colbert. Brothers Colbert, Eli Whittington, Percy L. Smith, and Harrison A. West used the first offering of $8.50 to rent 720 19th Street, N.E.
1926
Reverend Thomas E. Berry was invited to serve as Pastor and the first public service was held on Sunday May 1, 1926. The name “Pilgrim” was suggested by Sis. Carrie Carroll and was unanimously adopted. The Church was united into the body of the A.M.E. Church by Bishop J. Albert Johnson and Presiding Elder John Norris. Reverend Charles S. Butcher was appointed as the second Pastor. During his administration, the church moved to 718 19th Street, N.E.
1938
In 1938, Reverend Charles E. Walden, Sr., launched an intensive building fund drive. “Little Pilgrim” moved to 612 17th Street, N.E. The building was purchased for $9,000 and the renovation cost was $4,500. The new church was dedicated on Sunday May 25, 1941. Reverend F. P. Turner was appointed as the next Pastor. Reverend J.M. Harrison, Jr. was appointed to Pilgrim in 1946. The present site was remodeled and partially redecorated.
Reverend Dr. J. Louis Young was appointed as Pastor in 1949. The membership increased and sufficient funds were realized to rebuild and beautify our church home.
1949
1957
In 1957, Reverend Paul Q. Baker, Sr., assumed the pastorate. His youthfulness and dynamic personality attracted the largest Young People's Department in the history of the Church. The membership grew considerably under his spiritual leadership.
The Reverend Raymond P. Harrison was appointed in 1961. A youth choir was organized, the building fund drive was initiated and the parsonage at 718 19th Street, N.E. was redecorated.
1961
1963
The Reverend Savarhette Morse was appointed in 1963. The Gospel and Celestial Choirs, a Young Adult Club, the Progress Club and Lay Organization were organized.
In 1970, Reverend James H. Robinson launched a drive to raise funds for the erection of our new church. On Sunday, December 28, 1975, our new church was dedicated. Additionally, a new parsonage at 2801 6th Street, N.E. was purchased.
1970
1980
In 1980, Reverend Gregory L. Edmond was assigned to Pilgrim. He provided spiritually uplifting services and is remembered for his melodious singing, soul stirring preaching, and warm friendly smile.
In June 1985, we welcomed Reverend Levi Brown, whose motto was “some from all, rather than all from some.” Under this administration, the 8:00 a. m. worship service began and several new ministries were started.
1985
1993
In June 1993, we welcomed Reverend Dr. Lois Ann Poag Ray, who implemented new programs. Also, a bus and four buildings were purchased for community outreach. In 1998, the welfare-to-work program received grants from the DC Government.
In May 2008, we welcomed Reverend Wendell O.E. Christopher, Sr., who brought a strong focus on religious and spiritual teaching, social activism, and a vision for growth and development to our youth.
2008
2016
In November 2016, we welcomed, Reverend Tony D. Boone, who has greatly uplifted the spiritual atmosphere of the congregation and community. He includes intercessory prayer before morning worship service, and has a genuine concern for all people. He is transparent, easily accessible to all, and is a powerful praying man.
In May 2018, we welcomed our current Pastor, Reverend Vernon R. Ware, who believes that with God nothing is impossible. Under his leadership, Pilgrim grew spiritually, in fellowship, numerically and increased its Outreach to the community.
2018