[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 203 (Wednesday, December 13, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1693]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





        HONORING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF NEW HOPE BAPTIST CHURCH

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. ROBERT C. ``BOBBY'' SCOTT

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 13, 2017

  Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 50th 
anniversary of New Hope Baptist Church in Hampton, Virginia.
  New Hope Baptist Church began as New Hope Mission in 1967. Former 
members of New Emmanuel Baptist Church in Newport News, Virginia felt 
compelled to establish their own place of worship, and they began to 
meet and cultivate their fellowship. The group originally began meeting 
in a store on North Avenue and later at Carver High School, both in 
Newport News. Reverend C.B. Potts served as the mission's spiritual 
leader during this time. The mission officially became New Hope Baptist 
Church in October of 1967.
  Reverend C.B. Potts oversaw the church's move into their first 
building on April 10, 1969. With more space, proper furnishings, and a 
growing community presence, the church soon experienced an increase in 
membership and the creation of their first choir. Pastor G.I. Melton, 
installed as pastor in 1970, provided guidance and direction throughout 
this period. Under his leadership, the church saw over 100 new members 
and the creation of the Children's Church Ministry and Transportation 
Ministry. This growth continued over the years, and under the 
leadership of Pastor Melton the congregation broke ground on a new 
sanctuary in 1980. The construction of New Hope Baptist Church's new 
sanctuary was completed in August of 1981, two months after the death 
of Pastor Melton. Today, New Hope Baptist Church has grown beyond any 
of its founders' expectations. Members of New Hope Baptist Church have 
seen the expansion of the church through membership and the creation of 
many ministries such as the Women's Fellowship, Men's Fellowship, 
Evangelism Team, Seniors' Ministry, Tutorial Ministry, and many more. 
In January 1995, Rev. Dr. Christopher C. Carter, Sr. was installed as 
Pastor. In 2004, Pastor Carter led the congregation as they broke 
ground on a 12,000 square foot facility located in Hampton, Virginia, 
where they worship today.
  Over the years, the congregation of New Hope Baptist Church has been 
dutifully led in prayer and service by the following men of faith--Rev. 
C.B. Potts, Rev. W.W. Butler, Rev. G.I. Melton, Rev. Dr. Ivan Harris, 
Rev. Virgil Newkirk, and Rev Dr. Christopher C. Carter, Sr.
  Mr. Speaker, as New Hope Baptist Church celebrates its 50th 
anniversary, the church's congregation can look back on its history 
with pride. I would like to congratulate Pastor Carter and the entire 
New Hope Baptist Church community on this special occasion. I wish the 
church another 50 years of growth and fellowship.

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