As the population of the East Riverton neighborhood in Cinnaminson Township continued to grow after the Civil War, residents often gathered in local homes where the idea of building a church was discussed.
Led by dedicated Christians and the Rev. John Robinson, early meetings were held at the home of Samuel Wade and together they decided to build the St. Paul Baptist Church at 1420 Bannard Street.
Initially Rev. Robinson officiated services in Morgan Hall and Joyce’s Hall just before the new church was built in 1891 – and it stands proudly today, 135 years later, still ministering to the members’ spiritual needs.
On a beautiful Aug. 15 summer day, congregants gathered for the first of six events celebrating the 135th anniversary of the church – the Unity in the Community Day of fellowship, food and fun for all.
Looking out at the people gathered on the church grounds, including a giant table under a canopy being prepared for dinner and men starting the barbecue, Pastor Dr. Victor Lee quoted Psalm 133: “Behold how good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity.”
“This is a beautiful day for a celebration,” said Deacon Ruben Rivera, who joined the congregation two years ago. “I really like it here. I have met beautiful people and there is a family-oriented atmosphere.”
Rev. Lee, who was installed as pastor in May 2013 succeeding the legendary Rev. Dr. Alvin A. Jackson, said he is excited that the church continues to serve the needs of the community after 135 years.
The food pantry provides food and hygiene products to struggling families, he said, and the Women’s Outreach Ministry focuses on spiritual growth, scriptural study and supporting individuals or families in need through church fellowship and compassionate engagement.
The pastor is also proud of the Bold Men Worshiping and Fishers of Men groups that organize fellowship activities and worship gatherings like the Men’s Day events that encourage local men to build strong ties and take active roles in service and praise.
All the groups will be participating in the 135th anniversary events, including the Gala Black Tie Banquet on Saturday, Oct. 24, and the two Midweek Anniversary Worship Services on Oct. 28 and 29.
On the morning of Sunday, Nov. 1, there will be a Memorial Service and the opening of the time capsule. Later on that day the 135th Anniversary Culmination Worship Service will be celebrated.
Beyond regular Sunday worship, St. Paul Baptist Church has historically partnered with neighboring civic groups across Cinnaminson, Palmyra, and Riverton, participating in regional milestones.
“We are honoring our ancestors and what they went through, breaking barriers for us to be here today,” Deacon Rivera had said during this year’s Juneteenth celebration at Wood Park in Cinnaminson.
Pastor Lee, who delivered the opening prayer on Juneteenth, said his predecessor, Rev. Alvin Jackson, was a great man who served as the pastor for 63 years – one of the longest tenures at one church in the nation’s history.
Pastor Jackson ministered to generations of families through the turbulent Civil Rights era and the growth of industry and suburban development along River Road, which runs parallel to the Delaware River, solidifying the church’s legacy as a pillar for the historic East Riverton African American community.
Ever since St. Paul Baptist Church was built in 1891, it has ministered to the spiritual needs of its congregants. On Aug. 15, the members of the church gathered for a day of fun, unity and fellowship while celebrating the history of their beloved church.
They will continue to celebrate the 135th anniversary this year and look forward to the church’s 150th anniversary in 2041.
