The Church of St. John the Divine, located at 2450 River Oaks Blvd., is set for a major expansion and renovation, according to a recent filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). While details submitted to the TDLR are subject to change, construction could kick off this December and last through late September 2028.
According to a St. John the Divine news release obtained by Chron, the project includes a new modern worship center with seating for more than 400 people and upgraded audiovisual systems. A revitalized entrance facing Westheimer Rd., with a coffee shop, gathering spaces, and the relocated St. John the Divine gift shop is also in the pipeline.
The revamped campus will also feature a redesigned fellowship hall, updated office spaces, a spacious outdoor walkway and additional classrooms. Designs will incorporate large windows, light wood and natural stone.
The multi-million-dollar makeover is the first major capital project the church has undertaken in 32 years, according to the release. St. John the Divine in Houston is one of the ten largest Episcopal churches in the United States. The church, dating back to 1939, currently serves a weekly congregation of more than 900 members. It also has long-standing ties to Houston’s elite education and civic circles, given its close connection to St. John’s School nearby.
“We’re creating spaces that will serve not only our church today, but generations to come across this city,” Rev. Dr. R. Leigh Spruill, rector of St. John the Divine, said.
The expansion and renovation represent the church’s mission to “be A Light for the City,” described as “a long-term investment aimed at better connecting St. John the Divine to the city” and serving as a “third place” where community members can build together.
St. John the Divine has tapped Houston-based architectural firm Merriman Holt Powell for design, while Tellepsen Construction will head development.
The church’s website details that qualities of warmth, openness and comfort will be central to the upgraded space.
“By constructing new facilities, reimagining current spaces, and leaving some buildings untouched, we will create a harmony between the St. John that was, the St. John that is, and the St. John that will be,” the church’s website reads.
St. John the Divine has asked members to make a pledge towards the estimated $58-million cost through a portal on their website.