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September 14, 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 acknowledge Ebenezer Baptist Church of South Baton Rouge, Louisiana, a congregation whose beginnings date back to November 12, 1926, when a group of devout Christians met at the home of Sister Louvenia Green to establish a place of worship. The late Reverend Johnny Banks, one of the organizers, was elected as the church's first pastor. Ebenezer Baptist Church was formally incorporated on July 30, 1931, and Reverend Banks served faithfully until his passing in 1960. Leadership continued under Reverend Johnny Cyrus, who served until his death in that same year, followed briefly by Reverend Joseph Martin, assistant pastor, until the election of Reverend John H. Thomas, II, who guided the church forward until July 1971.
In August 1971, Reverend Q.T. Ellis was elected pastor, with Reverend Lemmie Washington serving as assistant pastor. Following Reverend Washington's death, Reverend Alex Banks assumed the role of assistant pastor. Under Reverend Ellis's leadership, the church progressed spiritually and structurally. In 1985, a major addition was completed including a pastor's study, secretary's office, dressing rooms, restrooms, a dining and kitchen facility, and expanded parking. After Reverend Ellis's resignation in May 1988, Reverend Banks served briefly as interim pastor until Reverend Ellis was re-elected in March 1989. Weekly Bible study was instituted as a core part of Ebenezer's spiritual development. Reverend Banks later became pastor of Christ Land Baptist Church, and Reverend William Armstead was elected assistant pastor.
On May 7, 2000, Reverend Q.T. Ellis became Pastor Emeritus, and Reverend Ronald A. Sutton was elected pastor. Under Reverend Sutton's leadership, the church developed its motto, mission, and vision statement, and the membership increased through Baptism and Christian Experience. In 2002, the church's name was changed to Ebenezer Baptist Church of South Baton Rouge. Reverend Sutton proposed remodeling the sanctuary, and construction began in January 2004, resulting in a new sanctuary, pews, organ, electronic piano, updated sound system, and additional parking. During construction, Greater Mt. Gideon Baptist Church and Greater Pleasant Green Baptist Church graciously opened their doors for worship and Bible study. By June 12, 2004, Ebenezer returned to its newly renovated home. In subsequent years, properties were purchased and improved along Carolina Street and Missouri Street as part of continued campus development.
Mr. Speaker, Ebenezer Baptist Church of South Baton Rouge continues to stand as a pillar of service, faith, and community engagement. In January 2025, the church implemented its `Community Conversation' series addressing gun violence, education, domestic violence, voting, and economic development. In April and May 2025, Ebenezer hosted COPE training to strengthen community empathy and engagement. In January 2026, the church hosted a three-month Community Trauma Awareness Summit addressing mental health, stress, anxiety, depression, and suicide. On November 15, 2026, Ebenezer Baptist Church will celebrate its 100th Centennial Anniversary—giving honor to God for the abundant spiritual and financial blessings bestowed upon the congregation. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ebenezer Baptist Church of South Baton Rouge for a century of faith, resilience, and devotion to carrying out the purpose of the Church as the light of the world and the salt of the earth.