HONORING MORNING STAR MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

On 2026-10-09, Representative Cleo Fields (D-LA-6) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING MORNING STAR MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH" in the House.

HONORING MORNING STAR MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 159 (Friday, October 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 159 (Friday, October 9, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1059] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MORNING STAR MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH ______ HON. CLEO FIELDS of louisiana in the house of representatives Friday, October 9, 2026 Mr. FIELDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church of Shreveport, Louisiana, an institution whose history reflects nearly a century of faith, fellowship, and dedicated service to the community. Founded in 1929 as a Sunday school that met from house to house, Morning Star soon grew into a formal congregation following a revival led by its first pastor, Reverend O.C. Johnny. From its earliest days, the church established itself as a steadfast source of worship, guidance, and community for families across Shreveport. In 1953, Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church was officially incorporated, marking an important step in its development and long- term presence in the community. The congregation continued to grow and, in 1968, relocated to its current area after purchasing the former Emmanuel Baptist Church property. This move enabled Morning Star to expand its ministries, broaden its outreach, and strengthen its role as a spiritual foundation for its members and surrounding neighborhoods. Throughout its history, the church has remained deeply committed to serving the broader Shreveport area through ministries focused on education, youth development, senior care, family support, social services, and community outreach. These initiatives reflect Morning Star's enduring mission: to nurture individuals and families while meeting the evolving needs of the community. Its work stands as a testament to the church's dedication to faith in action. Today, under the leadership of Dr. Theron J. Jackson, Morning Star continues to flourish. Dr. Jackson has guided the congregation in expanding its ministries and deepening its commitment to community service, building upon the foundation laid by generations before him. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church for its longstanding legacy of faithful service and in wishing its pastor and congregation continued blessings in the years to come. ____________________