‘Houston’s Pastor’
HOUSTON – Regardless of age, class, race, or economic status, if you’ve lived in Houston at any point in time, you know the name, Rev. William A. Lawson.
During his time as a pastor in Houston, he had a unique ability to connect with young people despite his older age.
Lawson was first called to serve students as the Chaplain of the Baptist Student Union at Texas Southern University.
While working in Houston’s Third Ward, Lawson was so respected by those around campus, that he and his wife Audrey were encouraged to start a small church in their living room, showing their dedication to their faith and community.
That ministry then transformed into the Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, as we know it today.
KPRC 2′s Digital Reporter Moriah Ballard had the chance to speak with Wheeler’s Youth Pastor, Rev. Richard Boone IV.
When asked about the late Rev. Lawson, Boone’s statements were spot on with what others in the community had said.
“He’s definitely a gentle giant. He was a civil rights leader, pastor, professor, friend, and grandfather. He was everyone’s grandfather. He was just a cool dude. He was chill. And he was a giver, you know, a selfless person. He was not selfish at all. And he always looked out for other people,” said Boone.
Boone gave insight into Lawson’s humble beginnings, as he and his wife started with only 13 people. That beginning ultimately led him to the unbelievable legacy he’s left around town.
“Thinking about the sanctuary, right? 1985 (was) when Pastor Lawson built the building, he put screens in the building. That’s what I mean,” Boone said. “Innovative. Not knowing a pandemic would hit in 2020 (and we would need) screens in the church. I was born in 1985, but I feel like he thought about me. You know, he thought about my youth. He thought about the people to come.”
During a walk around the Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, longtime member Jonathan Howard says he can recall growing up right on those grounds. And it’s evident.
Every corner turned, Howard was greeted with a friendly face and a familiar ‘Hey Jon!’ from the young and seasoned saints alike.
He says that if it had not been for Rev. Lawson, he may not even be here today. His parents met at Wheeler, were married by Lawson, and ultimately raised him and his family inside the church.
Lawson christened Howard, baptized and stayed by his side as he grew up in Houston’s Third Ward.
Howard added that as a youngster, his parents were able to keep him involved in the church thanks to programs that were tailored to shepherding young men, such as Lawson’s beloved Boy Scout Troop 242, one of the pastor’s proudest accomplishments.
While walking under the leadership of Lawson, Howard made another stride in his manhood by joining Lawson in the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Now, as a product of Rev. Lawson’s ministry, Howard is currently working as an entrepreneur and owns multiple businesses around the Houston area.