Commending Providence Park Baptist Church.

2026, 1st Special Session Introduced by Bonita Anthony and 18 co-sponsors

The bill commends Providence Park Baptist Church for 150 years of community service and outreach in Northside Richmond.

Bill text as passed House (HR2128ER)

Summary of HR 2128 (2026 Special Session I, Virginia)

Purpose and Intent

This House of Delegates resolution commends Providence Park Baptist Church on the occasion of its 150th anniversary.

The measure serves to recognize the church’s historical presence, community leadership, and ongoing service in the Northside Richmond area.

Key Provisions and Changes

Acknowledges the historical origins of Providence Park Baptist Church, including:

Early prayer meetings in local homes.
Purchase of land in 1876 and construction of the original chapel in 1879.
Acquisition and relocation of the Monument Methodist Church building in 1912 to accommodate growth.
Services in the current sanctuary beginning in 1966 and the construction of an education building in 1974.

Highlights notable pastors and leadership:

Reverend J. J. Woodson (1903–1957)
Reverend Miles J. Jones (1963–1993)
Reverend Dr. Jerome C. Ross (1993–Present)

Documents and recognizes the church’s community outreach and partnerships, including:

We-Care Fellowship (donations of school supplies and Christmas gifts)
Partnerships with Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond
Cooperative Outreach Ministry
Tuckahoe Baptist Association of Virginia

The resolution directs the Clerk of the House of Delegates to prepare and present a copy of the resolution to Providence Park Baptist Church.

Affected Parties

Primary: Providence Park Baptist Church

Secondary: Members of the Northside Richmond community, partners and beneficiaries of the church’s outreach programs (e.g., We-Care Fellowship, Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond, Cooperative Outreach Ministry, Tuckahoe Baptist Association)

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Status: Introduced and presented in the 2026 Special Session I, June 17, 2026.

Process: A formal resolution adopted by the Virginia House of Delegates to officially commend the church.

Sponsorship: Primary sponsor and co-sponsors include Delegates Anthony Cousins, Rae Cousins, Bonita Anthony, Nicole Cole, Jeion Ward, and David Reid.

Next steps: If adopted, the Clerk of the House will prepare and deliver a copy of the resolution to Providence Park Baptist Church.

Additional Context

The bill does not alter laws or establish new state programs; it is a ceremonial resolution recognizing historical and community contributions.

The commemoration emphasizes long-standing community service and the church’s role in Richmond’s Northside beyond its religious functions.