A History of St. Thomas

The Rev. James Thompson, who was the first Priest-In-Charge, in this small congregation, built the first permanent edifice on Dearborn Street between 29th and 30th streets.

The congregation continued to grow and in 1910 under the leadership of the Rev. J.B. Massiah, the congregation purchased a large church at 3801 S. Wabash Ave. for $20,000. The communicant list numbered two thousand.

As the impact of the Great Depression (1929-1933) began to lift, The Rev. William B. Suthern Jr. became Priest-In-Charge in 1933 and subsequently the first rector when parish status was granted. At this time the membership was approximately four hundred. Father Suthern, to date, was the longest serving rector of St. Thomas. Through his dedicated and distinguished leadership, he led St. Thomas to parish status and continued to serve with honor for 23 years until his untimely death. In February 1960, when the Rev. James A. Edden became Rector of Saint Thomas, he immediately addressed the parish to the public housing, which surrounded us for many years. This Parish became involved in assisting young people from these developments. Many were confirmed at Saint Thomas and have gone to college and have become successful citizens.

In 1962, the congregation suffered a shattering loss. The edifice was completely destroyed by fire. An old mansion which had been used as a funeral home, located at 3800 South Michigan Avenue was purchased. The funeral home had a chapel and with few alterations was converted to a rather attractive place of worship.

A rectory and undercroft with a kitchen and dining facilities were also made possible.

In 1973, Bishop Quinten E. Primo, Jr., Suffragan Bishop of the Diocese of Chicago, pledged $1,000,000 to the Rebuilding Fund of Saint Thomas. The Rev. James A Edden retired in 1974 after also serving as President of the Standing committee and as a member of Bishop and Trustees. In June of 1975, a contract was signed, and in August work began on a new church building. However, it was not until September 1976, with the calling of the Rev. Joseph L.B. Forrester III, as Rector, that Saint Thomas really became alive. Under the guidance of this young, dynamic and enthusiastic leader, new life was infused into the entire congregation and community.

Following the death of the Rev. Joseph L.B. Forrester III, in November of 1986, the Reverend Walter Bryan served as Interim Priest. He served with distinction until January 1, 1990, when the Rev. Martini Shaw was called as Rector of Saint Thomas Church.

Under the leadership of the Rev. Martini Shaw, St. Thomas continued to thrive. His political activity strengthened our relationships in the community, with government and other religious organizations. He was instrumental in the formation of the Renaissance Collaborative which re-opened the historic Wabash Y.M.C.A. As the chairman of its board he led the organization into its grand vision to minister to “the least of these” in the Bronzeville area. His vision for St. Thomas was inclusive of children and young people and went well beyond the wonderful youth programs that were developed during his tenure, to include a magnificent dance ministry.

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