[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 193 (Monday, November 17, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1070-E1071]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CELEBRATING THE FIRST WOMAN SENIOR PASTOR OF FIRST MOUNT ZION BAPTIST 
                                 CHURCH

                                  _____
                                 

                       HON. EUGENE SIMON VINDMAN

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, November 17, 2025

  Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a historic moment 
in our community--the installment of Rev. Dr. Sandra K. James as the 
first woman senior pastor in the history of First Mount Zion Baptist 
Church (FMZBC) located in Dumfries, Virginia.
  Over twenty-five years ago, Rev. Dr. James began serving at FMZBC, 
one of the oldest churches in Prince William County. Before her 
leadership at the church, Rev. Dr. James served our Nation with honor 
in the United States Army for more than 24 years, retiring with the 
rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
  After retiring from the U.S. Army, Rev. Dr. James continued her 
leadership and service to others as Assistant Pastor at FMZBC, where 
she provided guidance in preaching, teaching, pastoral care, and 
ministry development.
  Rev. Dr. James is also a dedicated scholar of faith. She earned a 
Master's Degree in Theological Studies from Virginia Union University 
and later went on to earn a Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Studies and 
Ministry from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, which equipped her 
to serve others with wisdom and compassion.
  In 2024, Rev. Dr. James made history when she was appointed Acting 
Pastor of FMZBC, leading the church with vision and grace. Today, she 
stands as the 11th Pastor of First Mount Zion Baptist Church, a 
milestone in the churches' 158-year history.
  Mr. Speaker, I want to personally recognize Rev. Dr. James as she 
makes history as the first woman to pastor First Mount Zion Baptist 
Church, bringing a fresh vision to meet the challenges of today.
  Founded in 1867 by formerly enslaved men and women determined to 
build a place of worship and community, FMZBC has stood as a symbol of 
faith and hope in Prince William County. I ask my colleagues to join me 
in celebrating Rev. Dr. James and the entire First Mount Zion Baptist 
Church family as they enter this new and inspiring chapter in their 
church's history.

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