St. John's Episcopal Church

HISTORY


The first Episcopal church services in Harbor Springs were held in 1878 on the second floor of O’Connors Hall, near the intersection of Main & State Streets, under the direction of Rev. Joseph S. Large. Three years later a lot was purchased at Third & Traverse Streets, the cornerstone was laid on July 14, 1882, the church building was constructed at a cost of $2,300, and St. John's Episcopal Church was consecrated on July 19, 1883.


In its 137 year history St. John’s has alternated between being a full-time parish, diocesan mission, and a seasonal chapel. Today, the summertime vicars of St. John’s are chosen by the church’s congregation instead of the traditional practice of selection by the Diocese.

​The generosity of St. John’s parishioners has been remarkable, beginning with a gift of the lot at Third & Traverse in 1881 (by Dr. R.O. Crandell), to a new HVAC system in 2014 (a gift of the Jean B. & John G. McCoy fund). Over the years the financial generosity of St. John’s parishioners has assisted the people of Harbor Springs and the surrounding areas; in 2020 that amount totaled $88,000.

St. John’s Episcopal Church continues to grow, and we invite you to join us at one of our summer services, or to learn more by contacting us.