Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-10-06

HONORING ZION HILL MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

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On 2026-10-06, Representative Cleo Fields (D-LA-6) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING ZION HILL MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH" in the House.

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HONORING ZION HILL MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 158 (Tuesday, October 6, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 158 (Tuesday, October 6, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1035] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING ZION HILL MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH ______ HON. CLEO FIELDS of louisiana in the house of representatives Tuesday, October 6, 2026 Mr. FIELDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the historic and enduring legacy of Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church, a steadfast pillar of faith and community in Central Louisiana and the Alexandria area for more than a century. The church traces its beginnings to 1925, when its first sanctuary was constructed on land generously donated by Rev. Hall and his wife. Rooted in a strong foundation of Christian believers, the congregation persevered through trials, challenges, and the uncertain conditions of its early years. Their resilience, anchored in faith, established Zion Hill as a spiritual refuge committed to worship, service, and the advancement of God's Kingdom. In 1996, a significant new chapter began when Dr. Joshua Joy Dara, Sr., moved to Central Louisiana and accepted the call to serve as pastor. His inspiring leadership, dynamic preaching, and passion for teaching the Word of God brought renewed growth and vitality to the congregation. Under Dr. Dara's guidance, Zion Hill experienced unprecedented expansion, growing from a modest membership of 75 to more than 3,500 worshipers. His ministry has touched countless lives, drawing individuals and families into deeper fellowship and spiritual maturity. Today, Zion Hill stands as one of the region's most vibrant and visionary congregations, operating more than 50 ministries that address spiritual, educational, and social needs across the community. These ministries reflect the church's commitment to serving the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. Whether through youth programs, outreach initiatives. Christian education, or service-focused projects, Zion Hill continues to uplift its congregation and its surrounding neighborhoods with compassion and purpose. The church's long history of service is central to its identity. A congregation that began with a small group of believers on land donated by a pastor and his wife has grown into one that serves thousands, and it has done so by remaining true to the idea that faith is meant to be lived out in service to others. By meeting needs that are spiritual, educational, and social, Zion Hill has become a place where families find not only worship, but also guidance, encouragement, and practical support. The church's reach extends far beyond its physical walls. Zion Hill's worship services are broadcast weekly on multiple television stations throughout Louisiana and shared across numerous social media platforms, allowing the message of hope to reach national and international audiences. Through this expanded digital presence, Zion Hill continues its mission of spreading the Gospel and connecting believers from every walk of life, including those who are unable to join in person. The impact of Zion Hill on the faith community of Alexandria and Central Louisiana is significant. With a membership in the thousands and more than 50 ministries, it stands alongside the region's other churches in the shared work of nurturing faith, supporting families, and serving those in need, and it serves as a model of what a growing, service-minded congregation can accomplish. Its example encourages other congregations and inspires the many individuals and families who have found a spiritual home within its walls. Mr. Speaker, Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church remains a beacon of light, steadfast devotion, and transformative ministry in Central Louisiana, faithfully carrying forward its calling to serve God and His people. I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring Zion Hill, Dr. Joshua Joy Dara, Sr., and the dedicated congregation for more than a century of spreading the Word of God and serving the community. ____________________

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HONORING ZION HILL MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 158 (Tuesday, October 6, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 158 (Tuesday, October 6, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1035] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING ZION HILL MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH ______ HON. CLEO FIELDS of louisiana in the house of representatives Tuesday, October 6, 2026 Mr. FIELDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the historic and enduring legacy of Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church, a steadfast pillar of faith and community in Central Louisiana and the Alexandria area for more than a century. The church traces its beginnings to 1925, when its first sanctuary was constructed on land generously donated by Rev. Hall and his wife. Rooted in a strong foundation of Christian believers, the congregation persevered through trials, challenges, and the uncertain conditions of its early years. Their resilience, anchored in faith, established Zion Hill as a spiritual refuge committed to worship, service, and the advancement of God's Kingdom. In 1996, a significant new chapter began when Dr. Joshua Joy Dara, Sr., moved to Central Louisiana and accepted the call to serve as pastor. His inspiring leadership, dynamic preaching, and passion for teaching the Word of God brought renewed growth and vitality to the congregation. Under Dr. Dara's guidance, Zion Hill experienced unprecedented expansion, growing from a modest membership of 75 to more than 3,500 worshipers. His ministry has touched countless lives, drawing individuals and families into deeper fellowship and spiritual maturity. Today, Zion Hill stands as one of the region's most vibrant and visionary congregations, operating more than 50 ministries that address spiritual, educational, and social needs across the community. These ministries reflect the church's commitment to serving the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. Whether through youth programs, outreach initiatives. Christian education, or service-focused projects, Zion Hill continues to uplift its congregation and its surrounding neighborhoods with compassion and purpose. The church's long history of service is central to its identity. A congregation that began with a small group of believers on land donated by a pastor and his wife has grown into one that serves thousands, and it has done so by remaining true to the idea that faith is meant to be lived out in service to others. By meeting needs that are spiritual, educational, and social, Zion Hill has become a place where families find not only worship, but also guidance, encouragement, and practical support. The church's reach extends far beyond its physical walls. Zion Hill's worship services are broadcast weekly on multiple television stations throughout Louisiana and shared across numerous social media platforms, allowing the message of hope to reach national and international audiences. Through this expanded digital presence, Zion Hill continues its mission of spreading the Gospel and connecting believers from every walk of life, including those who are unable to join in person. The impact of Zion Hill on the faith community of Alexandria and Central Louisiana is significant. With a membership in the thousands and more than 50 ministries, it stands alongside the region's other churches in the shared work of nurturing faith, supporting families, and serving those in need, and it serves as a model of what a growing, service-minded congregation can accomplish. Its example encourages other congregations and inspires the many individuals and families who have found a spiritual home within its walls. Mr. Speaker, Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church remains a beacon of light, steadfast devotion, and transformative ministry in Central Louisiana, faithfully carrying forward its calling to serve God and His people. I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring Zion Hill, Dr. Joshua Joy Dara, Sr., and the dedicated congregation for more than a century of spreading the Word of God and serving the community. ____________________