He wants to make church cool.
Rev. Kevin R. Johnson, the new leader of the historic Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem, aims to make traditional church services appealing to the next generation. While many churches in the U.S. have shifted toward a more casual dress code, Johnson wants to bring back the tradition of men wearing suits and women in dresses, making this style of worship feel “cool” and relevant. He hopes to create an atmosphere where young people can still embrace formal attire while enjoying a vibrant and engaging worship experience.
Johnson, who took over as the pastor in June, believes that Abyssinian’s rich history and cultural heritage are essential to its identity. The church has long represented the best of Black culture, faith, and advocacy, and Johnson is committed to preserving that legacy. He sees the church as a place that connects past and future generations, creating a strong sense of community while honoring its historical roots.
Abyssinian has a long tradition of attracting prominent figures, such as theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who once taught Sunday School there, and former President Barack Obama, who attended the church while studying at Columbia University. Obama fondly remembers the emotional impact of the church’s choir and sermons, reflecting the deep spiritual experience that the church offers to its members.
Rev. Johnson emphasizes the importance of maintaining traditional worship styles while adapting to modern sensibilities. He believes that despite the rise of contemporary worship, there is still a large audience that appreciates the rituals and atmosphere of traditional church services. The church’s large congregation, both in-person and online, suggests that there is a continued interest in traditional worship, and Johnson is committed to serving that need.
In sum, Johnson’s vision for Abyssinian is to blend tradition with relevance, ensuring that the church’s cultural and spiritual significance remains strong for future generations. By embracing the past while making the traditional worship experience accessible to today’s youth, he aims to keep the church’s identity intact while adapting to the changing times.