[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 62 (Thursday, April 11, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E336]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         COMMEMORATING SIXTH BAPTIST CHURCH'S 100TH ANNIVERSARY

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                       HON. JENNIFER L. McCLELLAN

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 11, 2024

  Ms. McCLELLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 100th 
anniversary of Sixth Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia.
  In 1923, Reverend Edward D. Caffee led 25 members from Mount Carmel 
Baptist Church to establish a Mission, initially known as St. Luke's 
Mission. Despite initial challenges in obtaining recognition, on 
December 12, 1923, the Mission was officially recognized as St. Luke 
Baptist Church.
  Under Reverend Caffee's guidance, the church flourished, moving to 
North Sixth Street in 1924, where it held its first service on December 
28, 1924. In November 1927, the Reverend Joseph Arrington was appointed 
as pastor of Sixth Baptist Church. At Arrington's recommendation and 
with the congregation's consent, the church officially changed its name 
from St. Luke Baptist Church to Sixth Street Baptist Church.
  Despite financial struggles during the Great Depression, the church 
persevered, paying off its mortgage in 1944. In 1952, recognizing the 
changing landscape of Richmond, the congregation moved to the West End, 
renaming itself Sixth Baptist Church. Under the leadership of Reverend 
Arrington, the church's membership grew to an astounding 350 members.
  After 33 years of faithful service, Reverend Arrington stepped down 
as pastor, paving the way for the appointment of Haywood Knight as 
Sixth Baptist Church's new senior pastor. Under Reverend Knight's 
leadership, the church renovated its fellowship hall and established 
the Fellowship Club and Youth Church. Reverend Knight served as pastor 
until 1968, when Reverend Dr. Emmett L. Fleming Sr. became the fourth 
pastor of the church.
  Under Reverend Dr. Fleming's tenure, the church embarked on ambitious 
projects, including erecting an educational building and renovating the 
sanctuary. His legacy of community outreach and ministry development 
laid a strong foundation for the future.
  In 2001, Reverend Dr. Yvonne Jones Bibbs became the fifth pastor of 
Sixth Baptist Church, continuing the tradition of stewardship and 
community engagement. As pastor, Rev. Dr. Bibbs has overseen the church 
through two phases of construction and renovations to improve 
facilities and worship spaces for the growing congregation.
  Throughout its 100 years, Sixth Baptist Church has remained a 
steadfast place of worship for congregants and members of the Richmond 
community. As we celebrate Sixth Baptist Church's centennial, we honor 
the past, embrace the present, and look forward to a future filled with 
continued growth and service.

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