In a recent decision, the City of Charleston’s Planning Commission voted to deny the request to sell and relocate 1 Word of Grace Assembly in West Ashley. This move comes after concerns raised by local residents about rezoning a historically Black church that has stood on Magnolia Road in the Maryville-Ashleyville community for 135 years. The proposed rezoning had sparked community protests, with over 100 neighborhood signatures collected in opposition to the change.
A Church with Deep Roots in the Community
The church has had several name and building changes over the years but has remained a constant presence in the community. According to Marsha Higgins, president of the Maryville-Ashleyville Neighborhood Association, the church is considered a vital part of the area’s history and culture. Higgins, along with Rev. Mary L. Jordan, a minister and long-time resident, both emphasized the church’s significance, particularly to families who have attended for generations.
“This church has always been my home church. I was baptized here and also my family,” said Rev. Jordan. “My grandfather was the first pastor in this church, my mother was also a member until she transitioned to Jerusalem church down the street. My sisters, all my brothers, we were all baptized. Our children, our grandchildren – we were all baptized at this church.”
The Rezoning Controversy
Currently, the church is located on land labeled as single-family residential, but the owner sought to rezone the property to commercial transitional. This change would allow for significant modifications to the structure and could potentially pave the way for non-religious businesses to take over the space. Such a change raised concerns among community members, who argued that this would strip the church of its historical and cultural importance.
While Charleston city officials mentioned that the owner had a buyer and that city staff recommended the rezoning, many residents were unhappy with the prospect of losing the church. Higgins spearheaded a petition against the rezoning and expressed that such a change would deeply upset local residents. “We feel it isn’t appropriate to do that. We would like to see it continue as a church and continue to strive in the community,” she said.
A Symbol of Community Legacy
The church’s history goes beyond just the building—it represents the shared experiences and memories of multiple generations. For many, the church is more than a place of worship; it is a community center where important life events like baptisms and weddings have taken place. As the church’s legacy continues to impact families in the area, the possibility of its closure has been a source of emotional distress for long-time members.
Rev. Mary L. Jordan reflected on the deep personal connection to the church, stating, “This church has always been a part of my life and my family’s life. It’s a place where generations have found solace, and to see it possibly being lost to commercial development feels like a major blow to the community.”
The Commission’s Decision
Despite the owner’s request and city staff’s recommendation, the Charleston Planning Commission decided to deny the rezoning proposal. This decision came as a relief to many residents who fought to keep the church as a religious space. The neighborhood association and church members now hope that a solution can be found that will preserve the church’s role in the community.
The fate of 1 Word of Grace Assembly is still uncertain, but for now, the Charleston Planning Commission’s denial provides a sense of relief to those who wish to see the church remain a part of the Maryville-Ashleyville community. As the debate over rezoning continues, residents remain hopeful that the church can continue to serve its historical and cultural role in the neighborhood.
