James Steptoe Johnston (June 9, 1843 – November 4, 1938) was an American Episcopal bishop and educator who served as the second Bishop of the Missionary District of Western Texas (later renamed the Diocese of West Texas) from 1888 to 1916. A veteran of the American Civil War, he was also a significant figure in the development of the University of the South (Sewanee).
Early Life and Civil War Service
James Steptoe Johnston was born on June 9, 1843, in Spring Garden, Virginia, a son of George Johnston and Mary Steptoe Johnston. He grew up in a prominent Southern family. At the outbreak of the American Civil War, he enlisted in the Confederate Army, serving with distinction as a Captain of Engineers under General Robert E. Lee. His experiences during the war profoundly shaped his worldview and later career.Legal and Early Ecclesiastical Career
After the war, Johnston pursued an education at the University of Virginia. He subsequently studied law and was admitted to the bar, practicing briefly in Mississippi. However, he soon felt a call to ordained ministry within the Episcopal Church. He was ordained a deacon in 1869 and a priest in 1871. His early ministry included serving parishes in Mississippi, such as St. James' Church in Port Gibson, and later in Kentucky, at St. Paul's Church in Louisville.Bishop of West Texas
In 1888, Johnston was elected as the second Bishop of the Missionary District of Western Texas, succeeding Bishop Robert Woodward Barnwell Elliott. He was consecrated on January 6, 1888. His episcopate in West Texas was marked by significant growth and expansion of the Episcopal Church in a challenging frontier environment. He traveled extensively throughout his vast diocese, establishing new missions and churches, overseeing the construction of church buildings, and nurturing a fledgling diocese. His leadership was crucial in building the church's infrastructure and presence across South and West Texas. The missionary district was renamed the Diocese of West Texas during his tenure. He retired from his episcopal duties in 1916.Contributions to Education and University of the South
Bishop Johnston was a strong advocate for education and had a deep involvement with the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee. He served for many years as a Regent of the university and was instrumental in its growth and financial stability during a critical period in its history. His dedication helped secure the institution's future as a leading Episcopal university.Writings
Johnston was also an author, penning several works that reflected his experiences and observations. Notable among his publications are:- ''The Church in Texas'' (1904), a historical account of the Episcopal Church in his diocese.
- ''A Story of a Confederate Boy'' (1914), a memoir of his experiences during the Civil War.