On leaving New York he removed to Philadelphia, succeeding the celebrated Dr. Stoughton as pastor of the Sansom Street Baptist Church. Here he was as popular as elsewhere, ministering to one of the largest congregations in the city, and maintaining his high position as a leader in the Baptist denomination.
When he departed New York, he headed to Philadelphia, assuming the position of pastor at the Sansom Street Baptist Church from Dr. Stoughton. He was widely admired in this role, serving a large and influential congregation in the city while maintaining his prominent status as a leader within the Baptist community.