CELEBRATING THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF FAITH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH AND THE LEADERSHIP OF PASTOR JAMES R. BANKS, II

CELEBRATING THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF FAITH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH AND THE LEADERSHIP OF PASTOR JAMES R. BANKS, II

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 11 (Monday, January 20, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 11 (Monday, January 20, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E49] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF FAITH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH AND THE LEADERSHIP OF PASTOR JAMES R. BANKS, II ______ HON. TIMOTHY M. KENNEDY of new york in the house of representatives Monday, January 20, 2025 Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the Faith Missionary Baptist Church, a beacon of devotion and service in Buffalo, New York. As we honor this momentous occasion, may we reflect on the church's incredible history, its unwavering commitment to spreading the Gospel, and the transformative impact it has had in the lives of countless individuals over seven decades. Faith Missionary Baptist Church was founded in 1955 by Pastor Roscoe Marion Mitchell and Deacon Dwight Smallwood, Sr. In 1981, Pastor James R. Banks, II took on the leadership of the church, and under his dedicated guidance, it has grown and prospered. Pastor Banks' steadfast commitment to his congregation has played a pivotal role in the church's continued success. Pastor Banks, who is married to Mrs. Judy Shaw-Banks, a devoted partner in ministry, has three daughters and six grandchildren. As a distinguished educator, consultant, and preacher, he has faithfully served as the church's leader for more than forty years, making him the longest-serving pastor in Buffalo. Additionally, Pastor Banks has initiated several transformative programs, including the Mitchell-Coefield Scholarship Fund to assist youth in pursuing higher education and the Tithe Ministry, which supports local community organizations with financial aid. The church's vibrant ministries, such as the choirs, usher boards, Nurses Guild, and Trustee Ministry, continue to reflect its deep and enduring mission. Mr. Speaker, today as we celebrate seven decades of ministry, let us honor the countless lives who have walked into Faith Missionary Baptist Church and have been touched by Pastor Banks' teachings. I congratulate Pastor James R. Banks, II and the entire congregation on this significant milestone, his unwavering dedication to Faith Missionary Baptist Church is a blessing, and we look forward to many more years of his inspired leadership. ____________________