1

The dedication ceremony in which Stewart Memorial Church became an Ontario Heritage Site.
15 May 1994
Stewart Memorial Church, John St. Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

2

The saga of Stewart Memorial Church is really a metaphor for the long history of Black settlement and community in Hamilton over the last 200 years. At present the church appears to be flourishing in terms of membership and activity. Reverend Horton notes that it serves as the flagship for the Black community and people who are not members often come there for special events. However, many Stewart Memorial congregants are old and on fixed incomes. The church is not rich. After almost six years as a functioning full-time minister, Horton is still only making a half-time salary.

3

Church member, the late Doris Thompson, lifting her voice in song.
2002
Stewart Memorial Church, John St. Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

4

While Stewart Memorial's long-term health appears to be stable, its future depends on being able to attract young people and families who may be drawn to Pentecostal or other denominations. Reverend Horton is working hard to forge relationships with other organizations, such as the Dominican Association of Hamilton, which now holds an annual joint service on Good Fridays with Stewart Memorial. As a result of the Joshua Nelson event of 2004, the Jasper Foundation now offers scholarships to Jewish and Black youth to engage in human rights studies. Reverend Horton was also invited to Israel in the spring of 2005 on a goodwill tour with a group of clergy. These are important spinoffs upon which he is anxious to build. For now, the legacy endures.

5

Stewart Memorial Church today.
14 December 2004
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada


Credits:
Photo by Roger Ferreira