Rev. Kevin R. Johnson Aims to Revitalize Traditional Worship at Abyssinian Baptist Church
In a world where casual dress codes have infiltrated many houses of worship, Rev. Kevin R. Johnson is on a mission to bring back the elegance of traditional church attire to the historic Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem, New York. “I want to make traditional church cool,” he declared, underscoring his vision for a congregation that embraces both style and substance.
Located at 132 Odell Clark Place, Abyssinian Baptist Church has a storied history dating back to its founding in 1808. Johnson, who assumed the role of senior pastor in September 2024, is committed to maintaining the church’s rich heritage while making it relevant for younger generations. “We have to make it engaging so that those who want this type of experience with Christ will feel like, ‘you know what? I can wear a tie and still be cool,’” he explained.
Despite the growing trend of “come as you are” worship services, Johnson believes that the high culture of Abyssinian represents the best of Black tradition and faith. He cites influential figures who have graced the church, such as the renowned theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer and former President Barack Obama, who has fond memories of the church’s powerful worship experience.
Johnson’s approach is not merely about appearances; it’s about fostering a sense of community and unity within the church. Since taking office, he has focused on reviving the spirit of Abyssinian through messages centered on love and service. “My focus has been on reviving the Abyssinian spirit,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of bringing the congregation together amid recent challenges.
However, Johnson’s appointment has not been without controversy. A federal lawsuit has been filed by Rev. Eboni Marshall Turman, who sought the position of senior pastor herself. She alleges gender discrimination after not being selected as a finalist for the role. The church’s legal team has denied the claims and is seeking to dismiss the lawsuit. Additionally, some longtime members have expressed dissatisfaction with the election process that led to Johnson’s appointment, arguing that it did not adhere to the church’s bylaws.
In light of these challenges, Johnson remains steadfast in his belief that he is called to lead Abyssinian. “When you’re in ministry, it’s kind of like saying to a firefighter, ‘How bad was the fire?’ You’re expected to go into fire,” he remarked, demonstrating his commitment to serving the congregation despite the difficulties.
Johnson’s background is impressive. He previously founded and led the Dare to Imagine Church in Philadelphia, growing it from a small gathering in his home to a thriving community of over 1,500 members. He holds a master’s degree from Union Theological Seminary and a doctorate in education from Columbia University. His experience positions him well to address the needs of Abyssinian and its diverse congregation.
One of Johnson’s key initiatives is revitalizing the church’s ministries, including youth programs and small group meetups. These gatherings allow him to connect with congregants on a personal level, fostering relationships that extend beyond the pulpit. “As much as I love preaching, I love the smaller communities because it gives you an opportunity to connect with people,” he shared.
In addition to church matters, Johnson is acutely aware of the changes in Harlem due to gentrification. He acknowledges the challenges that persist, such as poverty and homelessness, and sees them as areas where the church can make a meaningful impact. “What has not changed is the poverty and the pain,” he noted, highlighting the need for the church to address these pressing issues.
Johnson’s leadership comes at a time when many churches are rethinking their approach to worship in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. “The pandemic has changed everything,” he stated, recognizing that many people have become accustomed to virtual worship. He believes that churches must find a way to blend in-person and online services to meet the needs of their congregations effectively.
On the topic of prayer in public schools, Johnson expressed support for reinstating it but emphasized that spiritual development should primarily come from parents. “Spiritual development is the responsibility of the parents. It’s not the responsibility of the government or the school,” he asserted.
As Johnson embarks on this new chapter at Abyssinian Baptist Church, he is poised to inspire a new generation of worshipers while honoring the church’s rich legacy. His commitment to unity, tradition, and community service reflects a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for this historic institution. With a blend of reverence for the past and a vision for the future, Johnson is ready to lead Abyssinian into a vibrant new era of faith and fellowship.
For more information about Abyssinian Baptist Church and its programs, visit their official website Abyssinian Baptist Church.