History & Heritage

St. Stephen's RZUA Church proudly stands within the rich spiritual heritage of the Reformed Zion Union Apostolic (RZUA) Churches of America, a fellowship of believers whose roots extend back to the years immediately following the Civil War. Founded in Boydton, Virginia, in 1869 by Rev. James R. Howell, the denomination was originally known as the Zion Union Apostolic Church and was reorganized in 1882 as the Reformed Zion Union Apostolic Church. Born from a vision of biblical faithfulness, Christian unity, and spiritual renewal, the RZUA continues to serve communities throughout Virginia and beyond.

The meaning of the RZUA name reflects the values that continue to guide our ministry today:

Reformed — because we have been transformed by the grace of God.

Zion — because our faith is rooted in the liberating message of Scripture.

Union — because we are united in Christian fellowship and service.

Apostolic — because we strive to follow the teachings of Christ and be led by the Holy Spirit.

For generations, St. Stephen's RZUA Church has served as a place of worship, spiritual growth, Christian education, and community fellowship. Through times of challenge and celebration, faithful members have gathered here to pray, worship, support one another, and proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The sacred grounds of St. Stephen's also bear witness to the lives of those who helped establish and sustain this ministry. The St. Stephen's Church Cemetery, with more than 125 memorials recorded, stands as a lasting testimony to generations of faithful believers whose lives continue to inspire us. Among those remembered are Brother Alexander Baskerville (1853–1925), believed to be the earliest recorded burial at St. Stephen's, and Brother Lynard James Baskerville (1900–1991), whose faithful service remains part of our church's living memory.

While many beloved members rest within the church cemetery, we also honor the countless pastors, deacons, missionaries, trustees, musicians, ushers, church mothers, church fathers, and faithful members whose final resting places may be elsewhere. Their contributions, sacrifices, prayers, and service helped shape the character and ministry of St. Stephen's and remain an important part of our story.

Today, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Lewis Knight, St. Stephen's continues the mission handed down through generations of faithful believers. Guided by Scripture, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and committed to serving Christ and our community, we remain dedicated to preserving our heritage while preparing future generations to carry the Gospel forward.

As we reflect on our history, we give thanks to God for those who came before us, for those who labor today, and for those who will continue this ministry in the years ahead. Their legacy reminds us that the Church is not merely a building, but a living fellowship of believers united by faith, hope, and the love of Jesus Christ.