The community of St. John’s began forming in Springfield in 1950 when several Episcopalians from the area wanted to form a church in Springfield. Up to that time the only Episcopal Church in the south Willamette valley area was St. Mary’s, located in downtown Eugene.  Land was purchased, buildings constructed and services held for many years at that first location at 10th and G. Street in Springfield.

 

Although incorporated as a parish in 1983, St. John’s experienced a downturn in attendance and participation during the 70’s and 80’s as did many mainline churches at the time. A Presbyterian congregation that was looking for worship space was invited to share the building and the expenses. By the late 90’s however, it became too much for both congregations to maintain the property. The church buildings and property was sold, and the remaining St. John’s community began the search for a new location to call their church home. By early 2000 property located on Game Farm Road in the Gateway area of Springfield was purchased from another church, and St. John’s resumed its place in the local community. Some remodeling was done and services were begun.

 

The Rev. Bill Swan was called as rector in November 2000 and served the ‘new’ St. John’s for over two years before retiring. His ministry was followed by The Rev. Sam Smith, who served for nearly four years as regular supply clergy. The Rev. Peter Fones began his ministry at St. John’s in February of 2005, and is the current Priest in Charge of the congregation.

 

St. John’s has experienced much change as it continues to find its place in the larger Christian community. A family sized congregation, this church offers a friendly welcome and a sincere desire to share its resources and energy with those seeking a close and vital relationship with God in Christ. We are grounded in the liturgical and sacramental traditions of The Episcopal Church and are a part of the larger worldwide Anglican Communion. We come together to worship, to pray, and to fellowship with one another as we celebrate the love of God in Christ Jesus, working with and through the Holy Spirit “…on the fragile earth, our island home.” It is with much joy that we continue to gather and grow in the love of Christ as we seek His will in our lives