Recognizing First Baptist Church West Point

Floor Speech

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Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the First Baptist Church of West Point, Virginia. December 21st marked the Church's 150th anniversary.

Since its founding in 1873, the First Baptist Church established itself as a cornerstone of West Point and the surrounding communities. Today, we recognize the First Baptist Church's service to the people of West Point as a place for the faithful to gather in worship, for those in need to receive help, and for the young to be nurtured and educated.

It was from modest beginnings that the First Baptist Church came into being. In 1870, there were fewer than four hundred people living in the village of West Point. Among them was Mrs. Sue Davis, who dreamed of a Baptist Church in her community. Mrs. Davis travelled to Stevensville to contact Rev. Alfred Bagby about starting a Baptist Church in West Point, which he and a group of fifteen other Baptists did when they met on December 21st at 2 o'clock to baptize Clarence Anderson as the first member received into the Church.

Over the next 150 years, the First Baptist Church has had many great pastors. Among them was Rev. Marvin Kerby, who stood as a true example of Godly integrity during his tenure of more than 31 years as Senior Pastor. His leadership had a profound impact on West Point and the surrounding communities. The Church thrived as a source of spiritual support to those in need, not just in Virginia but the entire world.

Rev. Dr. James Goebel has stood as Senior Pastor of the First Baptist Church for almost nine years. During that time, he has continued the traditions of the great pastors who came before him, ensuring that his congregation will continue to prosper for generations to come.

Therefore, Mr. Speaker, I ask that you rise with me in honoring the First Baptist Church for its dedication to serving the people of West Point for 150 years.

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