St. Luke United Methodist Church: A Legacy of Faith, Family, and Community

"Let me tell you a story about the church I grew up in." These words from Aften Johnson open a window into the soul of St. Luke United Methodist Church—a steadfast and sacred home for Sykesville’s Black community for over 127 years.

Standing proudly at 350 River Road, just over the Howard County line, St. Luke UMC has been more than just a church—it has been a place of refuge, resilience, and restoration for generations. Built in 1898, during a time when Sykesville had a small but significant Black population, St. Luke was established by African American members of Sykesville Village as part of the Sykesville Circuit of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

The church’s foundation was built on faith and family, as Aften Johnson beautifully describes:

"The church’s cornerstone reads October 8, 1898, and if you ask anyone who is an attendee or has visited, they should confirm that date represents the beginning of a legacy of GOD, FAITH, AND FAMILY CONNECTION that has been monumental in many lives, transforming the hearts & minds, like surgery, so to speak."

A Sacred Space for the Marginalized

St. Luke was built on land that was once part of the Springfield Estate and is believed to have been donated by St. Paul’s UMC and the Norris family. At a time when Black residents of Sykesville faced segregation and exclusion from many public spaces, St. Luke became a spiritual and social anchor for the community.

Through the turbulence of history—from Jim Crow to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond—St. Luke endured. Its congregation remained faithful, committed to worship, fellowship, and service despite the shifting tides of time.

"Through the changes in the country and our town, St. Luke stood tall and went through its own transitions within the people who adored and gave their energy and talents to the physical building through the 1940’s-2000’s," recalls Johnson.

This dedication transformed St. Luke into the loving, God-centered place of worship it is today—a beacon of hope that welcomes all who seek faith, fellowship, and healing.

A Church Built on Generations of Faith

For over a century, St. Luke has remained a family church, with many congregants tracing their lineage back to the founding families: Norris, Johnson, Dorsey, Green, and Young. These families, and the generations that followed, have carried forward the spirit of their ancestors, keeping the church alive through song, prayer, and service.

"For most of St. Luke’s history, the congregation has consisted of descendants of the founding families, who continue to be welcoming to any and ALL with a warm embrace, with the goal of spreading the Gospel and being the Arms & Legs of Jesus Christ in the world today," says Johnson.

That spirit of service extends beyond the church walls into Carroll and Howard County communities. Through ministries like the Member Care Committee, St. Luke Crusaders, and the Fruit of the Spirit, the church provides for those in need, supports the Carroll County Food Bank, the Escape Ministry, Grassroots, and delivers school supplies for children each year.

A Tradition of Worship, Celebration, and Fellowship

St. Luke is known for its hospitality and joyous celebrations, many of which have become beloved traditions in the community.

From the annual Shoe Rally in honor of the late Francis Dorsey to Friends & Family Day, Men’s Day, Women’s Day, Homecoming, and Anniversary services, every event is spirit-filled and welcoming. Most recently, the church introduced Red Dress Sunday, raising awareness for heart health.

"All of our specially planned, Spirit-Filled Services offer the presence of GOD plus a leisurely opportunity for good food and Fellowship," shares Johnson.

But beyond the special events, Sunday worship at St. Luke is an experience in itself. Under the leadership of Pastor Rony Young, souls are fed by powerful sermons, while Lay Servants and Bible study groups provide ongoing guidance for those seeking a deeper understanding of their faith.

St. Luke’s bi-weekly Bible Studies, held via Zoom, remain open to all, while Sunday services—offered both in-person and virtually at 9:30 AM—continue to serve as a place of renewal and connection.

A Home for All Who Seek Faith and Family

Even as the world changes, St. Luke United Methodist Church remains unwavering—a sacred place where generations have prayed, wept, rejoiced, and grown together in faith. Its presence in Sykesville is not just historical, but deeply personal to those who have walked through its doors.

"Life is hard, and we get it. Come join an imperfect people serving a perfect God," invites Johnson.

For those seeking a church rooted in history, faith, and community, St. Luke United Methodist Church stands with open doors and open hearts—a sanctuary where God heals, love abides, and all are welcome.