Congress Honors United Baptist Church Akron 100 Years of Service

Last updated: October 23, 2026

NewsWK — A historic local congregation in West Akron is reaching a century of community service and spiritual ministry. Consequently, federal lawmakers are recognizing this major landmark through official congressional action. Specifically, Representative Emilia Strong Sykes introduced a commemorative resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives. Ultimately, the measure celebrates 100 years of dedication, charity, and civic leadership in Summit County.

How does H. Res. 1638 recognize United Baptist Church Akron Ohio?

Federal lawmakers introduced H. Res. 1638 on October 22, 2026. This resolution officially honors United Baptist Church Akron Ohio for reaching its centennial anniversary. Specifically, the measure recognizes the church’s deep contributions to local families, education, and health initiatives. Next, House leaders referred the bill to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform for formal consideration.

The Representative Emilia Strong Sykes United Baptist Church legislative effort highlights a century-spanning commitment to public welfare. Notably, the resolution functions as a symbolic federal honor. It does not create a law requiring taxpayer funding or government mandates. However, the measure explicitly highlights how local faith institutions strengthen communities through voluntary charitable action and moral support.

Furthermore, the resolution formally encourages the church body to continue its ministry work for another 100 years. Church leaders at 1007 S. Hawkins Avenue operate under the foundational motto “Saving Souls and Salvaging Lives.” Today, that guided mission continues to direct their extensive neighborhood outreach efforts.

What does this century of ministry mean for local Akron families?

For residents across Akron, United Baptist Church provides essential community resources alongside its religious services. Specifically, the church delivers vital support through early childhood education, adult care, youth mentoring, and family assistance. Thanksgiving gift cards

Local institutions depend heavily on strong community partners to solve everyday challenges. Therefore, United Baptist Church fills critical gaps in Summit County by funding practical community solutions. For example, the church completed the Gus Johnson Community Center in 2000 to expand its daily services.

Today, the center hosts several vital local programs:

• The Royal Christian Academy, providing primary education for local youth.
• Kidz Kollege and Bright Beginnings, delivering early childhood development and infant care.
• Nu Horizons, offering specialized adult day services for senior citizens.
• The Gus Johnson Tutoring Program, assisting K-12 students with academic subjects and ACT prep.

In addition, the congregation actively supports nearby public institutions. Specifically, members adopted both Schumacher Community Learning Center and Buchtel Community Learning Center to mentor students. Moreover, the church awards significant financial support to local youth. Over the years, the ministry has distributed more than $40,000 in college scholarships.

Similarly, health and welfare programs play a central role in the ministry’s mission. For instance, the church hosts the annual West Akron 5K Walk/Run and a Minority Health Fair. Meanwhile, annual holiday initiatives provide Thanksgiving gift cards to more than 150 area families each fall. Furthermore, the Ready 2 Work program prepares local teenagers for workforce, college, or military careers.

How did United Baptist Church build its historic legacy?

The story of United Baptist Church began in September 1926 when two smaller congregations joined forces in Akron. Specifically, members from Gladstone Baptist Church and Springfield Baptist Church chose to unite their resources. Consequently, the combined congregation established a permanent spiritual foundation. That foundation has sustained local neighborhood families for generations.

What is the history of the United Baptist Church anniversary Akron? United Baptist Church Akron 100 Years

The initial naming process for the United Baptist Church anniversary Akron celebration traces back to October 1926. At that time, a dedicated committee evaluated several potential names before selecting a final title. Ultimately, committee member Evelyn Spencer suggested the name “United” to reflect the harmonious union between the two founding congregations.

The naming committee included Mary Matthews, Evelyn Spencer, and Jessie Clark. Although members reviewed names like Shadygrove and Moriah, Spencer’s suggestion captured the spirit of unity. Shortly after forming, the church called Reverend R. S. Tatum as its very first pastor.

Later, Reverend W. S. McGhahee assumed leadership on August 21, 1935. Next, Reverend J. H. Hall took leadership on July 27, 1938. He pastored the church for over two decades until his death on September 19, 1964. During his tenure, the congregation established deep roots within the West Akron neighborhood.

In March 1965, Reverend Billy Robinson became pastor and introduced expanded cultural awareness programs. Specifically, he launched Black history Bible studies and enhanced community education. He served until his resignation on February 22, 1981. Afterward, Reverend Roderick C. Pounds, Sr. preached his first sermon on April 4, 1982, leading the ministry until 1993.

Subsequently, Reverend Kenneth W. Paramore assumed spiritual leadership on July 6, 1993. Under his leadership, the congregation experienced substantial membership growth and constructed the Gus Johnson Community Center. Following his resignation on December 31, 2008, the church selected Reverend Kevin G. Rushing on June 3, 2010. Today, Pastor Rushing continues to lead the congregation.

When will the 100-year centennial celebrations take place?

United Baptist Church marks its official 100-year anniversary date on October 25, 2026. To celebrate, organizers planned commemorative events running from October 23 through October 25 under the theme “A Century of Faithfulness.” Notably, the celebration includes a central anniversary banquet on October 24 at St. George Fellowship Centre in Copley Township.

Ultimately, centennial milestone celebrations allow local residents to reflect on a century of spiritual strength and voluntary service. Faith institutions like United Baptist Church demonstrate how community-led charity builds resilient neighborhoods. Through education, youth mentorship, and regular outreach, the congregation continues to fulfill its founding commitment to Akron.

Related: Congress Honors Women in US Service Academies 50th Anniversary and Class of 1980

Related: Nation Honors Fallen Heroes on 25th Anniversary of 9 11 Attacks Across Historic Sites