- Record: Extensions of Remarks
- Section type: Recognition
- Chamber: House
- Date: September 15, 2026
- Congress: 119th Congress
- Why this source matters: Extensions of Remarks are statements submitted for the official record, even if they were not spoken live on the floor.
HON. CLEO FIELDS
of louisiana
in the house of representatives
Mr. FIELDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Philadelphia- Christian Ministries, founded in July 2008 as New Philadelphia Full Gospel Baptist Church by Bishop C L Shepherd, Sr. and Co-Pastor Paula Shepherd. In 2015, it adopted its current name to reflect its mission of Spirit-led worship and service The church is known for fostering a welcoming environment centered on the Holy Spirit and providing transformative experiences for its members.
substantially—from four members to more than four hundred. Philadelphia Christian Ministries has purchased 4.05 acres at the corner of Hanks and Landis Drive for its future location and expanded its transportation ministry with two vans and a twenty-five-passenger bus. The Deacon, Deaconess, Music, and Usher Ministries have flourished with Holy Ghost-filled workers dedicated to the service of God. The development of the Sunday School and Creative Worship Ministry— including mime, dance, and drama presentations—has encouraged youth to embrace meaningful activities rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Men's and Women's ministries offer instruction and Bible study that nurture spiritual development of the whole person.
Guardian Angel Scholarship Award for high school seniors who demonstrate excellence and service both educationally and spiritually while actively participating in the church. Bishop and Co-Pastor Shepherd later founded the Philadelphia Foundation, a nonprofit organization designed to meet community needs beyond the church walls. Through the foundation, the ministry launched several impactful programs, including Joseph's Closet, which provides clothing and household items to the homeless and underprivileged, and Abigail's Hope, which supports abused women and children with essential resources.
Mr. Speaker, Philadelphia Christian Ministries shows its commitment to service through outreach programs like Homeless Programs, which offer gifts, meals, and emergency help to families in East Baton Rouge Parish. Additional programs include job placement, mental health referrals, and Christian counseling. The Fan Giveaway Program helps elderly residents during summer, and the Word Giveaway Program distributes Bibles to promote spiritual growth. I urge colleagues to recognize this ministry's dedicated work and wish its leadership continued success.