HONORING GOOD HOPE BAPTIST CHURCH

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

HONORING GOOD HOPE 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] [Pages E1042-E1043] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING GOOD HOPE BAPTIST CHURCH ______ HON. CLEO FIELDS of louisiana in the house of representatives Tuesday, October 6, 2026 Mr. FIELDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Good Hope Baptist Church, located at 114 C.L. Bradford Street in Pineville, Louisiana, a congregation that has served the Pineville area, and the greater Alexandria community across the Red River, for more than a century. Established in 1907 as a place of worship rooted in the Baptist tradition, Good Hope's mission is to be a community of believers empowered by the Holy Spirit to love God, love all people, and make disciples. Good Hope began in the early 20th century as a small congregation meeting in a modest setting. Over the decades, it grew through the dedication of its members, expanding its worship services, outreach programs, and community involvement. From the beginning, the values of faith, service, and fellowship shaped the life of the church, and a long history of service has remained central to its identity ever since. That history of service is the heart of Good Hope's story. The church's mission to love all people has been lived out through members who take part in local events, charitable work, and spiritual support for their neighbors. For generations, Good Hope has been a place where families have found worship, encouragement, and help in times of need, and [[Page E1043]] where the call to discipleship has been understood to include caring for the community beyond the church's walls. In 2017, the church celebrated its 110th anniversary with a special program documented in a photo book, Good Hope Baptist Church 110th, by Michael R. Maffet. The anniversary project featured historical images, program details, and reflections on the church's journey, highlighting its role in the Pineville community and its enduring commitment to spiritual growth and service. Today, under the leadership of Pastor Joseph K. Lewis and First Lady Tricia Lewis, Good Hope Baptist Church continues to uphold its founding mission. The church also reaches beyond its walls through social media and video content, including its YouTube channel, which shares worship services, events, and community updates, allowing the congregation's ministry to reach members and neighbors wherever they are. The impact of Good Hope extends well beyond its own membership. As a longstanding congregation in the Pineville and Alexandria area, it contributes to the strength of the broader faith community, standing alongside other churches in the shared work of nurturing faith, supporting families, and building a community grounded in compassion. Its long history reflects resilience, faithfulness, and a deep connection to the people it serves, and its example continues to inspire those who worship there and those who look to it as a model of faithful service. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Good Hope Baptist Church, Pastor Joseph K. Lewis, First Lady Tricia Lewis, and the dedicated congregation for nearly 120 years of steady growth, community engagement, and commitment to Christian discipleship and service. May Good Hope continue to be a vital part of the spiritual and social life of Pineville, Alexandria, and the surrounding communities for generations to come. ____________________