Title
Proclamation celebrating the 133rd anniversary of Ebenezer Baptist Church.
Body
WHEREAS, the Ebenezer Baptist Church, located on Wylie Avenue and Devillers and Davenport Streets in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was organized on August 10, 1875; and
WHEREAS, the original Church had ten charter members and was led by the Reverend R. Henry Marshall; and
WHEREAS, after moving to several locations, Reverend Marshall built the first church building in Western Pennsylvania owned by an African-American Baptist; and
WHEREAS, throughout its history, Ebenezer Baptist Church has been home to remarkable leaders, including Reverend W.W. Brown, during whose tenure the Church became educationally grounded and aided many young people through school, adopting the Virginia Seminary in Lynchburg, Virginia; and
WHEREAS, Ebenezer Baptist Church also became the first African-American Baptist Church to pay the salary of a missionary to any foreign land when they sent Reverend James E. East to Middle Drift, South Africa; and
WHEREAS, subsequent pastors, including Reverend J.C. Austin, Reverend T.J. King, and Reverend James B. Cayce began to focus on cultivating a larger church membership, contributing to the dedicated congregation that celebrates at Ebenezer today; and
WHEREAS, led by the current pastor, Reverend Joseph Van Alfred Winsett, Ebenezer Church continues to thrive as a sanctuary for Pittsburgh residents who wish to join together in faith;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, Allegheny County Council hereby recognizes and celebrates the 133rd anniversary of Ebenezer Baptist Church. Furthermore, we wish you continued success throughout your next century of faith and service.
Sponsored by Council Member