HONORING PEACEFUL REST MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

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

HONORING PEACEFUL REST 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 E1064] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING PEACEFUL REST 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 recognize and honor Peaceful Rest Missionary Baptist Church of Shreveport, Louisiana--an enduring and dynamic institution whose spiritual, social, and civic influence has enriched the Cedar Grove community and the wider Shreveport region for more than half a century. Since its emergence as a central force in the city's African American religious life in the 1960s, Peaceful Rest has stood as both a place of worship and a powerful agent for community uplift, compassion, and transformation. Rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the church has long demonstrated an unwavering commitment to Christian fellowship, education, service, and outreach. The modern era of Peaceful Rest Missionary Baptist Church began in 1994 with the arrival of Rev. Dr. R. Timothy Jones, whose visionary leadership ushered in unprecedented growth and revitalization. Under Dr. Jones' compassionate guidance and dynamic preaching, the congregation grew from approximately 200 members to over 2,000, establishing the church as one of the most vibrant and active faith communities in Shreveport. His ministry strengthened Peaceful Rest's presence in Cedar Grove, deepened its engagement with families, seniors, and youth, and expanded its capacity to meet the spiritual and practical needs of the community. Peaceful Rest's impact is felt not only within its sanctuary but also throughout Shreveport's neighborhoods, where the church has become a trusted anchor of support and service. Through scholarship programs, educational initiatives, senior ministries, recreational activities, and family support services, the church has consistently invested in the growth and well-being of its members and neighbors. The beloved `Church in the Park' outreach initiative exemplifies Peaceful Rest's mission to meet people where they are--offering fellowship, hope, and spiritual nourishment beyond the church walls. Additionally, the Cedar Grove Community Development Corporation, the learning center, and the adult academy reflect the church's dedication to addressing long-term community needs, including education, workforce development, and neighborhood revitalization. Peaceful Rest's influence extends far beyond Shreveport. With the establishment of a church in Malawi, Africa, in 2016, the congregation demonstrated its commitment to global missions and international Christian outreach. This act of service underscores the church's belief that its calling reaches beyond local boundaries to uplift communities around the world. Through this expansion, Peaceful Rest has become not only a regional spiritual leader but also a participant in the global Christian mission. Today, Rev. Dr. R. Timothy Jones continues his more than three decades of devoted leadership, guiding a congregation that remains deeply rooted in faith, service, and community engagement. Peaceful Rest Missionary Baptist Church stands as a testament to what a faith community can achieve when it embraces both spiritual growth and social responsibility. Its remarkable legacy reflects the enduring power of faith to transform lives, strengthen communities, and inspire hope across generations. I urge my colleagues to join me in acknowledging Peaceful Rest's enduring legacy, and service to the Shreveport community. ____________________