Black History, Our History: Featuring Rev. William "Bill" Lawson
This Black History Month, we want to highlight a few African American pastoral legends.
Whether or not you’re African American, these leaders make up an important part of our history and are the shoulders we stand on today.
Reverend William A. “Bill” Lawson (June 28, 1928 – May 14, 2024) was a distinguished pastor, civil rights leader, and community advocate whose impact on Houston, Texas, and beyond spanned over six decades.
Early Life and Education
Born in St. Louis, Missouri, and raised in Kansas City, Kansas, Lawson graduated from Summer High School in 1946. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Tennessee A & I State University in 1950.
He later obtained both a Bachelor of Divinity and a Master of Theology from Central Baptist Theological Seminary in 1955, focusing on New Testament Interpretation. During seminary, he married Audrey Hoffman, with whom he had four children.
Academic and Pastoral Career
In 1960, Lawson moved to Houston to serve as director of the Baptist Student Union and professor of Bible at Texas Southern University (TSU).
He played a key role in the Civil Rights Movement, supporting student sit-ins protesting segregation. In 1962, he founded Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in his home, which grew into a congregation of over 12,000 members and became a center for faith and social justice.
Civil Rights Leadership
A close friend of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Lawson was instrumental in desegregating Houston. He established a local office of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and hosted Dr. King despite the risks.
His advocacy extended to marginalized groups, including African Americans, Hispanics, women, and the economically disadvantaged.
Community Initiatives
In 1996, in honor of his 50th anniversary in ministry, the Houston community established the William A. Lawson Institute for Peace and Prosperity (WALIPP). This nonprofit advocates for education and social equity, operating charter schools and providing senior housing.
Lawson also championed historic preservation and affordable housing in Houston's Third Ward.
Legacy
Known as "Houston's Pastor," Lawson dedicated his life to faith, justice, and service. He fought against homelessness, racism, and inequality, collaborating with leaders of various faiths to promote unity and progress.
His enduring legacy continues to inspire those committed to justice, equality, and compassionate service.