[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 182 (Friday, October 31, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1024]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CELEBRATING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF NEW BEECH GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

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                     HON. ROBERT C. ``BOBBY'' SCOTT

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 31, 2025

  Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and 
celebrate New Beech Grove Baptist Church in Newport News, Virginia, on 
the occasion of its 100th anniversary. For a century, New Beech Grove 
has stood as a steadfast pillar of faith, service, and fellowship in 
the Newport News community.
  In 1925, Reverends A.B. Ellis, H.L. Blackwell, and J.D. Farrow led 
efforts to build a new house of worship. Named for the grove of 
beechnut trees surrounding it, the church was dedicated as Beech Grove 
Church. Under the leadership of Reverends James Farmer, B.C. Harrod, 
Samuel Fladger, and James Lawson, the church expanded its community 
outreach by joining the Eastern Virginia Christian Conference and the 
National Progressive Baptist Conference, adopting the name New Beech 
Grove Baptist Church.
  On March 6, 1983, the congregation held its farewell service at the 
original building, forming a motorcade to its new home. The church 
later moved into its current facility on April 29, 2018.
  Guided by its vision that was established under the leadership of Dr. 
Willard Maxwell, Jr., ``Building Kingdom Minded People to Serve the 
Community,'' New Beech Grove has consistently embodied service in 
action. During the Flint Water Crisis, members collected and sent 6,000 
cases of water to those in need. The church also hosts the InTouch 
Community Basketball Tournament, fostering unity between first 
responders and the community.
  Mr. Speaker, as New Beech Grove marks this remarkable milestone, I 
extend my sincere gratitude for a century of faithful service and 
lasting impact on the people of Newport News.

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