HONORING ZION BAPTIST CHURCH

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

HONORING ZION 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] [Pages E1061-E1062] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING ZION BAPTIST CHURCH ______ HON. CLEO FIELDS of louisiana in the house of representatives Friday, October 9, 2026 Mr. FIELDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Zion Baptist Church, located in Shreveport, Louisiana. Zion Baptist Church was established in 1937 and has served the Shreveport community for nearly nine decades as a place of Christian worship, fellowship, spiritual growth, and community service. Throughout its history, the church has remained committed to sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and providing spiritual guidance to generations of individuals and families. Since its establishment, Zion Baptist Church has developed a rich history rooted in the Baptist faith and the traditions of the African American church. Throughout changing times in Shreveport and the surrounding community, Zion Baptist Church has continued to provide a place where members can worship, strengthen their faith, develop meaningful relationships, and serve others. The church's longevity reflects the dedication of generations of members and leaders who have worked to preserve its ministry and ensure that it remains an important part of the community. An important part of Zion Baptist Church's history has been its strong tradition of worship and gospel music. Music has played a meaningful role in the life of the congregation, complementing the church's ministries of preaching, Christian education, fellowship, and service. Through these ministries, Zion Baptist [[Page E1062]] Church has sought to strengthen both the spiritual lives of its members and its connection to the broader Shreveport community. For more than six decades, Zion Baptist Church has been led by Dr. Brady L. Blade Sr., who began serving as pastor in 1961. His longstanding tenure represents a significant period in the history of the congregation and has provided continuity in the church's ministry across multiple generations. Under his pastoral leadership, Zion Baptist Church has continued its commitment to Christian teaching, worship, music, fellowship, and service. Today, Zion Baptist Church continues the mission that began with its establishment in 1937. After nearly 90 years of ministry, the church remains a longstanding institution within Shreveport's faith community, carrying forward a legacy built by generations of faithful members. Its history reflects an enduring commitment to faith, perseverance, service, and the spiritual development of the community it has called home for generations. I urge my colleagues to join me in acknowledging Zion Baptist Church for its dedication to service in spreading the word of God, and goodwill in the Shreveport community. ____________________