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September 3, 2026
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Download official Extensions PDFReturn to issue contextHON. CLEO FIELDS
of louisiana
in the house of representatives
Mr. FIELDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable congregation in my District, Greater New Guide Baptist Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, as it celebrates more than a century of worship, education, and service to our community.
Scotlandville area under the leadership of Reverend Ike Kelly. This group eventually moved to North 19th Street in 1914.
After the death of Reverend Kelly in 1915, Reverend L.C. Crier led the flock until 1921. Reverend Thomas A. Levy was called to pastor the church in 1922 and concentrated on building a new facility. In 1930 the new facility was erected, and the church was called the Greater New Guide Baptist Church. Reverend Levy led the congregation until his death in 1946. Reverend Joseph H. Freeman was elected as pastor in July 1946, and under his leadership many new committees and ministries were formed.
house for worship. As plans were being drawn for a new facility, news of an available building was received. The Relocation Investigation Committee was formed and subsequently toured the Fairfield Baptist Church. The majority returned with a favorable report, and the Greater New Guide Baptist Church moved to the new location in 1974.
pledges and fundraisers. In the early 1980s, however, the church resolved to become a tithing church. Blessings were abundant, and in 1981, seven years after moving to the new location, the church's mortgage was retired.
Reverend Freeman died on June 10, 1985. Reverend Isaiah J. Webster, a former member of Greater New Guide, was elected as pastor in October and installed on February 16, 1986. This was another banner day for the Greater New Guide family. Again, the congregation was blessed with a leader who shows an interest in people, especially the flock over which he had been placed, a forceful teacher, and a staunch administrator.
twelve hundred members. With the growing attendance, the need for an additional service was realized, and on Sunday, November 4, 1990, the eight o'clock morning worship service was instituted.
formerly the old National Food Store. The property was formerly called the Greater New Guide Plaza and housed the Learning Academy and the Clothes Closet. Today, this property is referred to as the Greater New Guide Christian Education and Family Life Center. The mission of the Center is, Empowering people, advancing families. In addition to housing the Clothes Closet and Library, this facility is used for Sunday school classes, financial training, new members classes, and other classes that promote Christian discipline and growth.
two hundred fifty persons weekly. The Sunday School averages two hundred ninety in weekly attendance, and classes are available for all age groups. The church is also very involved in the life of the youth congregation and supports youth retreats and many other activities.
growth through the teaching of Reverend Webster. He retired as leader of this flock on December 30, 2022. Reverend Mark C. Thomas was elected as Acting Pastor effective January 2023, and he has continued the spiritual teaching and leadership set forth by the past leaders of Greater New Guide. His emphasis is on the love of Christ and the holistic needs of church members as well as the citizens of the community.
instituted that make for an easy transition. The adult New Members class was established August 3, 1986. The class meets for five sessions where Christian-based doctrines are emphasized. The classes assist the members in understanding God's will for their lives while equipping and encouraging members to use their spiritual gifts.
Greater New Guide is active in the life of the community. It serves as a polling site. The Mission Ministry operates a Clothes Closet that provides clothing for the needy, and a social worker reviews applications for financial assistance. The Evangelistic Ministry leads the church into the community to present the Gospel to all who are willing to listen. Its mission is, Our Mission for the Master, People.
Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Greater New Guide Baptist Church for more than a century of faithful service, and in wishing its pastor and congregation many more years of blessing and growth.