The Big Picture

April 19, 2024

Baptist General Convention and Lott Carey

Fifth Street not only takes cares of mission efforts in the community, we are a part of a wider community of mission oriented organizations, the Baptist General Convention (BGC) and Lott Carey. Do you know what these organizations are about? How can you be involved? We're glad you asked!

The mission of BGC is "To unite and equip churches, ministries, associations, and constituents to do holistic ministry that propagate the Gospel, advances the Kingdom of God, and supports education and missions in Virginia and beyond. Our mission is to encourage ministry support and participation through partnerships state and national bodies and other likeminded agencies that are ever expanding." The Baptist General Convention is a statewide effort that has something for everyone - men, women, and children. Fifth Street had and still has leaders in both the local and state Women's Division. They host several Christian Education training sessions throughout the year and has a Annual Statewide Conference once a year where all divisions come together and offer classes to advance in Christian knowledge. More information can be found on their website: https://www.bgcva.org/about-us.html

The mission of Lott Carey is "The Lott Carey Global Christian Missional Community is dedicated to broadening the reach of the Christian faith across the globe. By fostering a network of prayer, providing financial aid, and offering technical guidance, we collaborate with local communities to bolster ministries focused on evangelism, compassion, empowerment, and advocacy. United in our efforts, we strive to impact lives profoundly with the transformative power of love." Lott Carey also has divisions for men, women, and children. The Annual Sessions for Lott Carey are held over several states. More information can be found on their website: https://lottcarey.org/

Each year Fifth Street supports both of these great organizations financially and we can't do it without you. When giving your tithes and offerings, don't forget to donate to missions!

< Older Post

"NAACP: Leading the Fight for Justice and Equality"

April 15, 2024

On Saturday, February 24, 2024, thirty members of Fifth Street, including Pastor Gray, were in attendance for the annual NAACP Founders and Life Membership Luncheon. We were there to celebrate Deacon Lorna Cosby and her achievement in receiving the 2022 and 2023 Million Dollar Medallion Membership Awards. Deacon Cosby has been a fixture in the Richmond Chapter of the NAACP, taking over the recruitment of membership for many years. Two of our Child Development Staff, Mrs. Michelle Mealy-Williams and Ms. Antoinette M. Mealy were also given awards for Fully Paid Silver Life Memberships. Fifth Street as a church was awarded five (5) Membership Awards as a church. We all set there proud to be members of Fifth Street and hearing our church's name called. Most importantly was the reason of the day. There's no disputing it: the support of the black voters is essential to securing victory in the 2024 Presidential election. We must fight attempts to erase our history, to invest in our neighborhoods and to take care of each other. The Christian Social Action and Justice Ministry are committed to ensuring our voices make an impact. Originally, legislators hoped that within five years of its passage, the issues surrounding the 1965 Voting Rights Act would be resolved and there would be no further need for its enforcement-related provisions. They were wrong! Because of civil rights leaders, NAACP and others, Congress had to extend these provisions in 1970, 1975, 1982, and most recently in 2007. Most of you have heard of John R. Lewis the Civil Rights Activist, well the John R. Lewis Advancement Act of 2023 bill would restore and strengthen parts of the Original Voting Rights Act of 1965, most notably, its requirement for certain jurisdictions to seek federal approval before enacting certain changes to their voting laws. This election season, we hold the most powerful tool to make democracy work for Black Americans: our vote! Don't just complain about our leaders, GET OUT AND VOTE! If you would like to become a member of the NAACP or you need to renew your membership, please see Deacon Lorna Cosby or call (804) 651-4738.