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WHEREAS, from its beginning in 1900, Mount Rise has stood as a beacon for its community; and,
WHEREAS, Mount Rise Baptist Church serves in New Homestead as a voting poll location, community meetings host, annual Community Days organizer, among many other roles; and,
WHEREAS, in 1900 Mount Rise was organized under the leadership of Rev. Payne and Rev. TC Washington. Shortly thereafter Rev. AH Tibbs was called as the first pastor and served faithfully for 10 years, followed by Rev. CB Smith, Rev. BJ Westray, Rev. Drayton, Rev. George Nowlin, Rev. F Jones, and Rev. I Lyons; and,
WHEREAS, they were followed by Rev. Stephen Daniel, who pastored faithfully for 33 years until retiring in 2023; and,
WHEREAS, during Rev. Daniel’s tenure, Mt. Rise Ministries grew exponentially, establishing and fostering lasting connections with other churches within and outside of Pittsburgh; and,
WHEREAS, in 2023, Rev. Arlene Cashaw Williams was appointed pastor, marking a historic moment and a new chapter for the church as Mt. Rise’s first female pastor; and,
WHEREAS, with faith, wisdom, and vision, Rev. AC Williams is leading the charge in restoring, rebuilding, investing, and enhancing the Mt. Rise ministry physically, spiritually, and organizationally; and,
WHEREAS, in its 126th year of ministry - through transitions, triumphs, and growth - Mt. Rise continues to be the Little Wooden Church on the Hill, guiding generations past, present, and future and being a community hub for all of New Homestead; and,
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NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare November 8, 2026 to be “Mount Rise Baptist Church Day” in the City of Pittsburgh.