48th Pastoral Anniversary and Retirement Celebration Commemorative Journal by FIBC Phoenix

Congratulations to Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.,

Senior Pastor

The 48th Pastoral Anniversary and Retirement Celebration

Honoring

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr., Senior Pastor

Commemorative Journal

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48th Pastoral Anniversary and Retirement Celebration Committee

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 Congressman Greg Stanton, Arizona 4th Congressional District

 Governor Katie Hobbs, State of Arizona

 Whip Quanta Crews, Arizona House of Representatives

 Mayor Kate Gallego, City of Phoenix

 Mayor Corey Woods, City of Tempe

 District 8 City Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington, City of Phoenix

 District 4 City Councilwoman Laura Pastor, City of Phoenix

 Councilwoman Berdetta Hodge, City of Tempe

 Acting Police Chief Dennis Orender, City of Phoenix

 The Honorable Sandra D. Kennedy

 The Honorable Leah Landrum Taylor

 American Center for Religious Freedom

 The Rev’d Dr. Sunday and The Rev’d Mrs. Grace Fagbemi, Nigeria

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Greetings from the 48th Pastoral Anniversary and Retirement Celebration Committee Chair and Co-Chair

It is our blessed privilege to serve as Chair and Co-Chair of this momentous moment honoring and celebrating the 48 Pastoral Anniversary and retirement of our Senior Pastor, Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr. In his words, “GOD IS FAITHFUL!”

For 48 years our Senior Pastor has SOARED ON FAITH, remaining steadfast in his belief that the Gospel is more than words – it’s a call to action. He has embodied the Gospel through his focus on evangelism and discipleship, ensuring that people everywhere experience salvation and the fullness that God intends for their lives.

For 48 years our Senior Pastor has RISEN FOR JUSTICE, never taking a backseat to the issues of our times. From fighting against apartheid in South Africa to leading the historic effort to bring the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr./Civil Rights Day holiday to Arizona; Pastor Stewart has been a champion of Jesus and Justice.

We honor his almost five decades of unwavering leadership, profound spiritual guidance, and tireless advocacy for justice and equality. As we reflect on Pastor Stewart’s remarkable journey, the best way to describe him is a man whose life is dedicated to faith, service and transformation of individuals and communities locally, statewide, nationally and internationally. We are forever grateful that he accepted the call in 1977 to serve as Pastor of First Institutional Baptist Church, a spiritual beacon in the community for now 120 years.

To the 48th Pastoral Anniversary and Retirement Celebration Committee, words cannot adequately convey our deepest gratitude to you. Each of you served with such grace and excellence. The coming together in just five short months to plan and host a Community Block Party, nine Worship Services in June and an unforgettable gala are a direct reflection of your unwavering commitment to our Lord and to honoring a truly phenomenal legacy in the ministry of our Senior Pastor. We are forever thankful for you.

We also thank our sponsors and community partners. Your support was vital to the success of our 48th Pastoral Anniversary and Retirement celebration.

As he begins this new journey of life known as retirement and whatever that may look like for him, Pastor Stewart’s daily presence in our lives as Senior Pastor will be missed dearly but we are excited by the deserved rest he will now be able to take. We salute his partner in marriage and ministry, the Reverend Dr. Karen E. Stewart, their children and grandchildren for they are a part of this historic journey as well.

God has truly been faithful to the Pastor and People of this church – a Body of Christ, believing and living, going and growing, sharing and caring as active witnesses of the Kingdom of God on Earth.

In His Service, Sis. Marchelle F. Franklin, Chair Bro. Matthew Stewart, Co-Chair

Gala Program

HONOREE PROCESSIONAL

Drs. Warren H. and Karen E. Stewart, Sr. Led by Kawambe-Omowale African Drum and Dance Theatre Troupe

GREETINGS AND WELCOME

Dr. Kenneth C. Curry, Jr., Senior Pastor, Friendship Baptist Church, Yorba Linda, CA and The Rev. Tanya Y. Hughes, CEO, Activate International, Boynton Beach, FL, Emcees

REMARKS AND INVOCATION

Dr. Terry E. Mackey, Senior Pastor, Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, Phoenix, AZ

DINNER SERVED

Audio and video tributes and acknowledgements presented during dinner

MUSICAL SELECTION

Mr. Maurice Griffin, Gospel Recording Artist and BET Sunday’s Best Finalist (Season Two)

TRIBUTES

Mrs. Jewel L. Boganey, Family Matriarch, Chicago, IL

Representing the Stewart-Washington-Curry Family (Pastor Stewart’s oldest aunt)

Deacon Darnell Sells, Phoenix, AZ

Longtime First Institutional Baptist Church (FIBC) Member and Deacons Ministry Chair

Mrs. Akilah Stewart, Executive Director, FIBCO Family Services, Inc., Phoenix, AZ FIBCO was founded by Pastor Stewart in 1986

The Rev. Aubrey L. Barnwell, Senior Pastor, First New Life Church, Phoenix, AZ Chair, African American Christian Clergy Coalition, Phoenix, AZ

Dr. Geoffrey V. Guns, Senior Pastor, Second Calvary Baptist Church, Norfolk, VA

Representing the State, National, and Global Baptist Communities – Baptist World Alliance General Council; Statistician, National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc.; President, Virginia Baptist State Congress of Christian Education

The Rev. Marcus Fulton, Managing Member, Arrow Property Group, Scottsdale, AZ

Came to FIBC for a food basket which led to him turning his life around, uniting with FIBC, being licensed to preach, and now providing housing for those who are houseless

The Honorable Sandra D. Kennedy, longtime FIBC Member Former Member, Arizona Senate; former Member, Arizona House of Representatives; former Arizona Corporation Commissioner; current Salt River Project Director-at-large; Member, 48th Pastoral Anniversary and Retirement Celebration Committee

INTRODUCTION OF KEYNOTE PREACHER

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

MUSICAL SELECTION

Mr. Maurice Griffin

KEYNOTE PREACHER

Dr. Ralph Douglas West

PRESENTATION OF THE HONOREE

Dr. Karen E. Stewart, Wife, Partner in Marriage and Ministry

HONOREE’S REMARKS

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr., Senior Pastor, First Institutional Baptist Church, since 1977

CLOSING REMARKS AND BENEDICTION

Dr. Benjamin N. Thomas, Sr., Senior Pastor, The Historic Tanner Chapel AME Church, Phoenix, AZ

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD IS FAITHFUL!

for Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Friday, June 27, 2025

Gala Celebration

Keynote Preacher: Dr. Ralph Douglas West

Dr. Ralph Douglas West first preached as a sixteen-year-old in his native Houston. He now serves as founder and senior pastor of The Church Without Walls (Brookhollow Baptist Church, Houston, Texas). The church began with 32 members and now embraces 6,000+ families, meeting in three locations and conducting 5 services each Sunday. Dr. West is affectionately known as PAS.

Dr. West completed degrees at Bishop College, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Beeson Divinity School, where he received the Doctor of Ministry Degree. He serves as an Adjunct Professor of Preaching at the George W. Truett Theological Seminary of Baylor University. He has an abiding commitment to the church and the academy, relating with equal ease to both venues and using his influence to mentor ministers in both locations. He speaks perennially at colleges, universities and seminaries across America as well as at Regent’s Park College, Oxford University.

Dr. West’s preaching style consists of careful explanation of Scripture combined with his signature ability to tell detailed, credible, and indelible stories from contemporary life that enrich the sermon and relate to the congregation. He also makes penetrating and specific application of the text to his people. He does all of this while maintaining the vibrant preaching tradition of church and culture in an atmosphere of celebration.

Pas is a leader beyond his own church and serves on boards, agencies, trusteeships and committees at local, state and national levels. He is constantly in demand by fellow ministers for counsel and wisdom. Ontopofthis,hepastorsavery large church as if it were a much smaller church, standing with people in exceptional times of crisis. As one astute observer remarked, “He is unselfish with his time and utterly without self-regard" Through publications, television and the internet his messages are available across the world and are witnessed by thousands beyond his church each week. Perpetually in demand, Pas has spoken multiple times at conferences such as the Hampton Institute, the largest gathering to hear preaching each year. From the pulpit to the lectern, he is sought for his preaching gift.

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

June 29, 2024

Aliving legend: Dr. Warren H Stewart has devoted decades to the service of others. Traveling and preaching throughout the United States and internationally. Since 1977, Dr. Stewart has led the First Institutional Baptist Church in Phoenix. He expanded his mission by mobilizing communities, mentoring young leaders, and advocating for continued progress. He served as the Chairperson of the African American Christian Clergy Coalition, representing over 100 predominantly Black congregations and clergy in the Valley.

Dr. Stewart played a big role in establishing Martin Luther King Jr. Day in Arizona, organizing a statewide movement that led to its passage through a referendum in 1992. His work not only honored Dr. King’s legacy but secured Arizona’s commitment to civil rights. His mission has been to serve the greater good. Dr. Stewart founded FIBCO Family Services, providing housing, food, and job support to those in need. As a scholar and author, Dr. Stewart has written on theology and racial justice, including Victory Together for Martin Luther King Jr., a great novel documenting one of the most intense state-level civil rights battles.

The community will surely miss such a giant of a leader.

Congratulation and Best Wishes on your Retirement!

Laura Pastor District 4 - Councilmember

Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

From the Desk

To the Esteemed Reverend Dr. Warren Hampton Stewart Sr.,

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ!

After 48 years of faithful service, prophetic preaching, and putting up with every church member who thought they could direct the choir and the deacons (often at the same time), you have earned more than our applause, you have earned a sabbatical that lasts. Come July 1, 2025, if anyone sees you near a pulpit, we pray it is only because you’re dusting it… on your way to your seat in the pew!

Dr. Stewart, half a century ago, you said yes to God's call, and Phoenix has never been the same since. You brought holy fire to the desert, and the saints at First Institutional Baptist Church have been basking in the glow ever since.

I remember the day you arrived in Arizona. It was a sweltering June afternoon in 1977. You stepped into the church basement with a gorgeous afro and a thick mustache—looking like the Holy Ghost and Isaac Hayes had just formed a duo. The temperature was high, but your anointing was even higher. From that day forward, we knew something special was happening.

And something special did happen. Your ministry has been marked by courage, scholarship, and a righteous commitment to justice. You’ve led protests and prayer meetings, spoken truth to power, and preached with both thunder and tenderness. You’ve baptized generations, officiated weddings, comforted the grieving, and counseled souls through every kind of storm.

And let’s tell the truth: you have also survived church meetings that would have made Moses tap out. You’ve endured potlucks with unidentifiable casseroles, choir members who turned solos into full Broadway productions, and ushers with more hand signals than NFL referees. Through it all, you kept your joy, your wisdom, and most importantly, your faith.

The Kingdom of God is stronger, broader, and more courageous because you stood on the wall and did not come down. Your legacy is not just in sermons preached or buildings built—but in lives transformed, justice advanced, and love lived aloud.

As you step into retirement—whatever that means for a preacher who’s “just resting” but still owns 14 Bibles—we pray God grants you rest, good health, holy peace, and just enough mischief to keep the rest of us on our toes.

Thank you, Dr. Stewart, for showing us what it means to lead with love, serve with dignity, and walk humbly with our God.

Enjoy this next season. You have earned every minute.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:21 (NKJV)

With deep gratitude, holy joy, and abiding respect.

Sandra D. Kennedy

Director, Salt River Project: May 2024 – Present  Commissioner: 2009-2013 and 2019 – 2023 Contact info: Tel:602.881.7778  Email: sksandra@aol.com

June 29, 2025

It is with a full heart and extreme honor that I wish to express congratulations to Pastor Warren H. Stewart for the 48 years of dedicated service to the First Institutional Baptist Church community. Your steadfast commitment as a servant leader is so appreciated as you have truly been a community Pastor for our state, country and across the globe.

The focus you have had on areas related to services for those in need with the establishment of FIBCO social services where those with food insecurities are given nourishment on a weekly basis along with affordable housing for seniors with the Broadway House is a needed staple in the community.

Pastor your unwavering commitment to improving social injustices are seen, heard and felt around the world and your bold and prophetic voice to fight for those who at many times have their voices drowned has helped thousands of lives with many you may never meet in a lifetime but the everlasting and generational effects will continue to have an impact. Your service and labor of love will never go in vain as it will truly be the gift that will keep on giving for decades to come.

My family and I want to thank you for always being there for us and even with your perfectly full calendar you always had time for consultation, conversation, breaking of bread and prayer and for that we will be forever grateful to call you on of our incredible spiritual leaders and friend. Enjoy your time as we know you will have an exciting retirement journey and as there is still so much work to be done see you in the trenches of labor for those in need my friend.

Yours in Service,

Leah Landrum Taylor (LT) Former Arizona State Senator

Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

TRIBUTE TO REV. DR. STEWART FROM A PASTOR FRIEND IN NIGERIA.

There is time for everything under heaven...says the word of God. Rev'd Stewart, you had over 48 years of dedicated service at First Institute Baptist Church, Arizona. Glory be unto God for the grace to be covered, called, commissioned and committed for this number of years.

God in His faithfulness made us to cross each others path through Brother Yomi Owoyemi who is a member of your church in Arizona and a member in Diaspora of the First Baptist Church Lagos, Nigeria. The work of Missions brought us together and you gave your all to the Master in visiting some of our preaching Stations. Yours was not just a visit, you gave your resources and the word of God everywhere we visited. You devoted your entire ministry to reaching every corner of the planet earth and even Nigeria. Your four decades of ministry was not just in America but in every part of the world as commanded by our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

With grace and charity, Dr. Stewart you have been a model of Christian faith to people in Africa even in Nigeria; you are a mentor and friend, and you have been a blessing in our country Nigeria and in our own ministry.

Rev. Dr & Mrs. Stewart , let me remind you that retirement from the pulpit is not the end of ministry. You must continue to "fire-on" with the Gospel until you both lay the sword at the feet of the Master, Jesus.

It is my prayer that “God’s richest blessings be on you and yours. I will carry you in my heart forever.” Wishing you a peaceful retirement with strong frame to serve Christ to the end.

CONGRATULATIONS

Rev'd Dr Sunday & Rev'd Mrs Grace Fagbemi NIGERIA

Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

THE 48 YEAR JOURNEY OF Dr. Warren. H. Stewart, Sr.

A Kingdom-Minded Ministry

Dr. Stewart is a visionary leader, fearless advocate for justice and a guiding force in the faith community. Like the eagle, his leadership has been marked by strength, resilience and the ability to see beyond the present, soaring above challenges and chartering a path toward justice and liberation for all.

1977-1986

Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Two of Pastor’s Stewart’s most significant Mentors Dr. Sandy F. Ray and Deacon Clarence S. Washington at Pastor Stewart’s Installation - August 1977 Commemorative Journal for Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

GOD’S NEW ASSIGNMENT for a 25-year old, seminary graduate from Coffeyville, Kansas, was to be a new leader for a new time for the First Institutional Baptist Church (FIBC) in March 1977, becoming the youngest pastor in the church’s history. His name was Warren H. Stewart. It was during that time he completed his second graduate degree, a Master of Sacred Theology from Union Theological Seminary in New York City while serving as the Associate Minister of the Cornerstone Baptist Church being mentored by the pulpit giant, the late Dr. Sandy F. Ray. Before he arrived to pastor FIBC on July 1, 1977, he married Miss Serena Michele Wilson of New York City. Preaching messages of reconciliation and church unity, he challenged the members of First Institutional to "build up that which was torn down," then put words into action when he was installed as Pastor on Sunday, August 28, 1977, by Dr. Ray.

The first few years of Pastor Stewart's tenure saw great progress in congregational renewal, rededication and revival. New ministries emerged including the Fund For Missions, Young Marrieds Couples, Singles and Cassette Tape Ministry. The Broadway House Corporation, which owns and operates a Section 8 low-income housing complex, saw a new Chairperson of the Board of Directors in Pastor Stewart. First Lady Serena also helped organize the Prison Ministry, Senior Adult Ministry and was active with children and youth. The Stewart's first son, Warren H. Stewart, Jr., was born on May 21, 1978. Pastor Stewart also focused on local, state and national issues, serving on several community boards and took leadership roles within the Central District Missionary Baptist Association, Paradise Missionary Baptist State Convention of Arizona, Inc., National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. and American Baptist Churches on the state, regional and national levels. Ultimately, he was elected as President of the Paradise Missionary Baptist State Convention of Arizona, Inc. in 1978, once again setting a record as the youngest to ever serve in that position in the nation.

In the late 70's, the church purchased a third parsonage and the Broadway House Apartments became a ministry with the hiring of the Reverend Anthony W. Green from Washington, D.C., to manage the complex as part of FIBC's Social Outreach Ministry. The church's Diamond Jubilee Celebration focused on "75 Years of Mission-Minded Ministry." That same year Matthew Christian Stewart was born on June 1.

In 1980, Pastor Stewart traveled to Israel for the first time in a delegation sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix on an eye-opening journey for him and his co-travelers. In the Spring of 1982, Pastor Stewart fulfilled one of his academic goals to earn a doctorate by age 30, which he did from the American Baptist Seminary of the West, Berkeley, California. The Property Expansion Exploratory Committee launched efforts to locate and fund future sites for the church and to start a pledge program to raise the needed monies. In 1982, Pastor Stewart envisioned and launched the Sandy F. Ray Institute, an opportunity for clergy and laity to come together and learn from world-renowned preachers and teachers. He authored his first book, "Interpreting God's Word in Black Preaching," in 1984 published by Judson Press and had five printings over 40 years. During that same year, along came Jared Chamberlain Stewart born on February 27, 1984.

Began the Christian Studies Institute in 1982

While many of the accomplishments of the 1980's are noteworthy, none so much so as what happened on April 12, 1982, when Pastor Stewart attended an Evangelism Conference at Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, Tucson, Arizona, pastored by his Bishop College classmate, the Reverend T. Ellsworth Gantt, II, sponsored by the National Evangelism Movement in Los Angeles, California, and led by Dr. R. Johnson. It was at that time he launched the church's "Evangelizing and Discipling Fellowship Vision," including a two-month series of messages on evangelism, 60 weeks of teaching on evangelism and the development of the Evangelism Commission. To this day, evangelism is the heart of ministry at FIBC and we endeavor to live out our Vision each and every day, "Becoming a Discipling Fellowship through Evangelism and Emancipation."

Journal for Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

In 1986, our Church Historians, the late Deacon William C. Smith, Jr. and his wife Deaconess Valdia Smith saw fit to have the church inducted into the Arizona Historical Society as a historic African-American church and a marker is located at Fifth and Jefferson streets, the site of the first church buildings. Pastor Stewart founded FIBCO Family Services, Inc., the nonprofit arm of First Institutional in 1986, with the hopes of meeting the holistic needs of the family and greater Phoenix area as a whole. FIBCO’s reach at the time included weekly food and clothing distribution and the Ujima House, a home for unwed teenage mothers and their infants. The Samaritan House for homeless families was also established. The Stewarts welcomed the birth of their fourth son, Justin Mitchell Stewart, on February 1, 1987.

The First Family 1977-1987

Pastor Stewart baptizing his son, Matthew

Pastor Stewart and Serena with their four boys: Warren, Jr., Matthew, Jared and Justin

Pastor Stewart, Deacon William C. Smith, Jr., Sister Margaret Reeder

Pastor Stewart’s First Book

Sunday School Classes at FIBC

“I'd never had a white person talk to me like that.” ~Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

The King holiday's approval in Arizona followed a chapter in state history that included racist comments by former Gov. Evan Mecham, who opposed the holiday, and widespread disdain and boycotts of Arizona from the likes of musicians, businesses and the National Football League.

Arizona Gov. Bruce Babbitt read his executive order declaring Martin Luther King Jr. Day a paid state holiday from the pulpit of First Institutional Baptist Church on March 18, 1986. Pastor Stewart has the framed declaration from that day and a front-page photo from The Arizona Republic on the wall outside his office. But Governor Babbitt's declaration did not stick.

Arizona Gov. Evan Mecham took office in January 1987 after running on the promise that he would rescind MLK Jr. Day, which he did. "You folks don't need another holiday," Mecham once famously said during a speech to Black leaders. "What you folks need are jobs."

Pastor Stewart's public profile rose as he was a leader of two separate coalitions that advocated for the state to recognize MLK Jr. Day in the late 1980s and early 1990s via a popular vote. He received hate letters, hate phone calls and someone set fire to newspapers in his driveway, Pastor Stewart recalled.

Governor Bruce Babbitt declared Martin Luther King Jr. Day an Arizona holiday in March 18, 1986, but his proclamation was repealed by Governor Mecham in 1987 on the grounds Babbitt did not have the authority to declare such a holiday. Arizonans were for and against repeal of holiday for a variety of reasons, and in 1992, Arizona voters reinstated the holiday.

March 1986

The Fight for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday

On Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 1988, an estimated 15,000 people gathered in downtown Phoenix for a march to the Arizona State Capitol protesting the state's refusal to recognize the holiday.

Pastor Stewart and Attorney Gerald Richards on the front line

AZ Governor Gov. Evan Mecham and Civil Rights Leader, Jessie Jackson

Pastor Stewart with Jessie Jackson and others

Soaring on Faith

From 1987 to 1996, Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr. remained steadfast in his belief that the Gospel is more than words–it's a call to action. Dr. Stewart's ministry has embodied evangelism and discipleship, ensuring that people everywhere experience salvation and the fullness that God intends for their lives.

The

Victory Together: The King Holiday Struggle and Success

Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Pastor Stewart with Dr. Paul Eppinger

While Evangelism and Discipleship were on the mind of Pastor Stewart, so was social justice and community involvement. After the Arizona State Legislature and Governor Mecham torpedoed efforts to establish a MLK holiday several years consecutively, Pastor Stewart, along with others, launched Arizonans for a Martin Luther King, Jr. State Holiday in November 1986 from the Fellowship Hall of FIBC. This broad-based coalition was established to bring the holiday to the state and Pastor Stewart served as the first General Chairperson for three hard-fought years. This coalition was successful in attaining the passage of a paid state King holiday in Arizona in September 1989 by the Arizona State Legislature. However, that victory was short lived when two competing propositions were placed on the ballot in 1990.

First legislatively passed Arizona King Holiday signed by Governor Rose Mofford on September 22, 1989, with Representative Sandra D. Kennedy, Representative Art Hamilton, Senator Carolyn Walker, Pastor Stewart and others witnessing the signing .

In the November 1990 general election, the two competing MLK, Jr. competing propositions were defeated. Soon after Pastor Stewart received the “go ahead from God” and formed Victory Together, Inc. a broad-based coalition that campaigned for the holiday, which ultimately passed on November 3, 1992, by a historic vote of the people of Arizona, a feat accomplished by no other state in the Union.” In the midst of all of this prophetic, pastoral servant leadership, Pastor Stewart and First Lady Serena became the parents of their fifth son, Aaron Frederick Taylor Stewart, born on April 1, 1989.

Along side Pastor Stewart during both of these King holiday campaigns was the late Dr. Paul Eppinger, American Baptist pastor, interfaith leader and devoted friend to him.

As if pastoring each week was not enough while also taking on the system and winning, Pastor Stewart also launched during this time FIBC’s Vision 2000 and the Lifestyle Capital Stewardship Campaign. This four phased program included building the Body Building (1991), renovating the Worship Center (1999), acquiring land west of the church, and planning and building the Hope Center and parking (2004). All of these goals were accomplished with the Lord’s help and faithful members at a cost of over $9,000,000.

Then, lo and behold on April 11, 1992, a beautiful baby daughter became the sixth Stewart child and was named Jamila Imani. During this decade, Pastor Stewart also penned his second book, “How to Handle Giants: Sermons to African American Youth and Their Mentors”, published by Townsend Press. FIBC also expanded its global reach in the 90’s through the efforts of the Foreign Mission Board of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. and broke ground on FIBC of Soweto, South Africa, a church changing lives in that country and beyond.

Pastor Stewart with the members of the FIBC of Soweto, South Africa

VISION 2000 STARTED WITH THE GROUND BREAKING OF THE BODY BUILDING - 1990

Pastor Stewart’s 2nd Book

Coming off the heels of the long yet successful MLK, Jr. holiday campaign, Pastor Stewart took a six-month sabbatical from FIBC in 1994 to pen his next book, later published in 2015, titled “Victory Together for Martin Luther King, Jr.: The Story of Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr., Governor Evan Mecham, and the Historic Battle for a Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday in Arizona.” Also during this decade, seeing the need to step in and provide more care for his mother, Mrs. Jessie Elizabeth Washington Jenkins, Pastor Stewart moved her from Kansas City, Missouri to Phoenix where she lived out her remaining days with him, his family and FIBC before passing away in January 2008.

This decade was marked by congregational growth, civic changes and personal change. Tragically, the failure of the marriage between Pastor Stewart and First Lady Serena deeply grieved the two of them, their children and FIBC. While in the midst of this transition, he could still be found caring for his family, shepherding his flock, fighting social injustices and touching the lives of the underserved and underprivileged locally, nationally and internationally.

On any given Sunday, you never knew who was visiting with FIBC

The First Family - 1992 Pastor Stewart and Serena with their six children: Warren, Jr., Matthew, Jared, Justin, Aaron and Jamila

Pastor Stewart with mother, Jessie

Pastor Stewart with Rosa Parks

Pastor with Dr. Leon Sullivan

Pastor with Dr. Jeremiah Wright

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Rising for Justice

Dr. Stewart has never taken a backseat to the issues of our times. From fighting against apartheid in South Africa to leading the historic effort to bring the Martin Luther King, Jr./Civil Rights Day holiday to Arizona, Dr. Stewart remains a champion for Jesus and Justice.

1997-2006

Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Between 1997-2006, the FIBC staff expanded to about 16-full time employees, several part-time employees and dozens of volunteers. Three of the last four phases of Vision 2000 were completed as well as Habitat for Humanity "Hope House" was built along with other mission-minded projects. In 1999, the Worship Center also underwent a renovation.

In 2001, Pastor Stewart launched “We Are One Christian Church”, a daughter congregation led by our own Dr. Sarahlyn L.Bristow. Also during this decade in honor of his 25th year at FIBC, Pastor Stewart endowed two $25,000 scholarships at the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology in Richmond, Virginia and at the American Baptist Seminary of the West in Berkeley, California. From 1994 to 2005, Pastor Stewart served as Executive Secretary of the Home Mission Board of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc., and accomplished his goal of funding the first, full-time Executive Secretary of the Home Mission Board. He served as Chair of that same board through 2010 and was also First Vice-Presidentof the Paradise Missionary Baptist State Convention of Arizona, along with other roles within the Baptist World Alliance, African-American Christian Clergy Coalition and American Baptist Seminary of the West.

Dedication of Church’s Three-Part Historic Marker in 1999

Commemorative Journal for Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Pastor Stewart, Dr. Neville Callam (Incoming General Secretary of Baptist World Alliance) and Dr. Denton Lotz (Outgoing Geneal Secretary) in Ghana, Africa - July 2007

Pastor Stewart and Pastor T. J. Spencer In stairwell of Dr. Stewart’s Hall of Diversified Skills Training Academy in Paynesville Liberia, Africa

Pastor Stewart (back row) and group—Ghana, Africa

Pastor Stewart and daughter, Jamila, on the Liberian Beach of the Atlantic Ocean

The decade also marked Pastor Stewart's 50th birthday and in 2002, the church broke ground on the fourth and final phase of the Vision 2000 Master Plan, The Hope Center, a facility that would later be dedicated in 2004. The Hope Center houses a gym, kitchen, classrooms, chapel, office space and FIBCO Family Services, Inc., taking the vision that was plainly written in the early 90's of being "the hope of the city from the city center" and bringing it to fruition and completion in God's time.

With the founding of FIBCO Family Services, Inc, the Reverend Karen E. Curry was hired as the first full-time Executive Director after earning her Master’s degree from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary in Phoenix, Arizona and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Arizona State University College of Extended Education. In this new full-time role, she along with Pastor Stewart, helped shape many of the programs still in place today and expanding the non-profit reach of both FIBCO and FIBC. Rev. Curry remained as Executive Director until 2006 when she moved to other roles working in a national labor organization.

Commemorative Journal for Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

PASTOR STEWART’S MARRIAGE TO THE REV. KAREN ELIZABETH CURRY

In November 2007, Pastor Stewart wed the Rev. Karen Elizabeth Curry and she became his partner in marriage and ministry. This marriage also welcomed Jessica Elizabeth Curry as Pastor Stewart’s seventh child and second daughter. Since then, the blending of these two families has become the cornerstone in their lives and continues to provide significant leadership at FIBC.

Pastor Karen served in many positions after their marriage including as the first Executive Director of Ministries and retired in November 2023, after 30 years of serving on the FIBC staff.

Empowering Generations

Dr. Stewart has spent his career working to extend the baton of leadership through mentorship to the next generation of preachers, teachers and social justice advocates. His impact can be felt across the globe and lives on in those he has mentored.

2007 - 2016

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

The mid-2000's saw a great shift at FIBC and with Pastor Stewart and Pastor Karen. After spending time focusing on the completion and growth of the FIBC campus and FIBCO Family Services, Inc., Pastor Stewart plunged back into mission and ministry. Setting their sights on Africa and India, Pastor Stewart and Pastor Karen ventured to Andhra Pradesh, India visiting our sister church, Calvary Baptist Church of Akividu, baptizing believers and spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ in a predominantly Hindu nation.

With the election of President Barack Obama, the first African-American to serve in that role, FIBCO Family Services, Inc. along with Pastor Stewart were awarded the President’s Volunteer Service Award. During this decade, Pastor Stewart was also invited to the White House in 2010 to attend a concert and reception in celebration of “Music from the Civil Rights Movement” and Black History Month.

In 2012, FIBC welcomed the Vice-President of Liberia, a country coming off the heels of a long civil war and is still recovering from that devastating period in its history. Pastor Stewart also stepped into the role of Chair of the Board of the National Immigration Forum, headquartered in Washington, D.C., a position he held from 2012 to 2014 and once again took the head position at the Paradise Missionary Baptist State Convention of Arizona, Inc., where he served as President until 2016. Pastor Karen also continued to serve in ministry both at FIBC and in the community, taking a board position with First Things First (FTF) Arizona and later becoming Chair of the South Phoenix FTF Council. She also served as President of the Ministers Conference of the Paradise Missionary Baptist State Convention, Arizona, Inc. and served as the President of the Young People's Auxiliary

FIBC’s sister church, Calvary Baptist Church of Akividu

During this decade, Pastor Stewart was once again pushed into the national spotlight as immigration reform and social justice issues took center stage with the passing of Arizona Senate Bill 1070, an immigration related bill that allowed Arizona to enforce restrictive immigration laws. Coming together again as a coalition in 2014, including the Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., Pastor Stewart and the coalition fought this restrictive immigration bill the same way they campaigned for the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. In addition to his coalition building roles, Pastor Stewart was called upon to run for an open seat in the U.S. Senate (2011) and the open District 8 Phoenix City Council seat (2013).

In 2015, Pastor Stewart was inducted into the Martin Luther King, Jr. College of Ministers and Laity Board of Preachers at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. There, his oil painting hangs in the halls of the Martin Luther King, Jr. International Chapel near the portraits of the King Family and two of his most significant mentors, Drs. Sandy F. Ray and Gardner C. Taylor.

From left, Danny Ortega, Mary Rose Wilcox and the Rev. Warren Stewart were among several speakers discussing the federal lawsuit to stop SB 1070 during a press conference at El Portal Mexican Restaurant in Phoenix .

DOING THE LORD’S WORK STRATEGICALLY AMIDST OUR NEW NOW!

2017-2024

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

2017 - named History Maker by the Historical League, Inc. of the Arizona Historical Society.

Pastor Stewart’s power salute in front of these symbolic statues of freed enslaved Africans in Nigeria in 2019 in Monrovia, Liberia.

Pastor Stewart’s 4th Book

2016

51st Anniversary of “Bloody Sunday” at the Edmund Pettus Bridge, Selma, Alabama

On Sunday, June 20, 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic shut down churches across the country including FIBC. As a result, Pastor Stewart and staff had to find creative ways to stay connected to the members. Within days, services were moved to live-stream with him preaching from various locations throughout the valley including the desert, from his living room and in front of empty pews at the church.

To support live-streamed services during this time, FIBC had a dedicated team of 12 individuals that were present on campus - multimedia, musicians - during worship services with each adhering to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines including physical distancing and wearing masks. During those years of the pandemic, Pastor Stewart would often reiterate in his messages that “COVID-19 is the great equalizer. It has no respect for persons. It is very serious. It is dangerous and it comes in different forms. It’s important for all of us to take it seriously.”

This also led to Pastor Stewart and Pastor Karen sharing their story when both tested positive for Covid with Pastor Stewart stating, “I just want to help people. If sharing our story will help people take this more seriously and to take care of themselves and others, then I’ll be very thankful.”

Pastor Stewart also, along with other Arizona faith leaders, shared in a strong message to their congregations and the public that the COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective, and that getting vaccinated is the best way to end this pandemic. In leading by example, Pastor Stewart and other leaders received their vaccination by Arizona Department of Health Services Director Dr. Cara Christ at a vaccination event held at FIBC.

Dr. Warren H. Stewart Sr., Senior Pastor preaches during a live-streamed Sunday service at FIBC on March 29, 2020.

April 5 2020, Dr. Warren Stewart Sr preaching in the desert to his congregation

In Pastor Stewart’s annual report to the church in 2022, he said “as God would have it, we were forced to engage in the Lord’s work amidst the continuing COVID19 pandemic during all of 2021. Nobody but the Lord sustained us faced with a myriad of challenges that the pandemic presented to us. How providential it was for the Holy Spirit to lead us strategically no matter what confronted us as a pastor and people. Therefore, I begin by thanking God for His faithfulness. In addition to the Lord, allow me to offer some more words of appreciation.

 You, members of FIBC, continue to be faithful to the Lord’s work through FIBC, whether you are present in mind, body, soul and/or spirit. Much obliged.

 Our FIBC Staff, which includes members of our Pastoral Leadership Team, Pastoral Staff, Music Ministry Staff and the FIBCO Family Services, Inc. Staff, “worked their behinds off”. With several vacancies at different times in 2021, many of our staff members had to acquire the responsibilities of those vacant staff positions, in reality doing the work of two or more staff persons. Words are inadequate to express my personal, pastoral gratitude to you, FIBC Staff.

 High praise goes to our Re-Gathering Task Force that oversees how we persevere in doing holistic Christian mission and ministry amidst the pandemic in a sanitary-sensitive, holy and healthy environment on our FIBC Campus. The RGTF established FIBC COVID-19 Protocols and monitored them regularly. In addition, we have a faithful team of volunteers who serve on Sunday mornings to keep all of our worshipers and worship service participants as safe as humanly possible.

 I certainly must give a “High-5” to our multimedia team of mostly volunteers who show up every Sunday morning early and leave after six hours-plus making sure our hybrid worship services function at their optimum for those worshiping in the Sanctuary and virtually.

 There are the Sunday and weekday Bible Studies with a committed team of Biblical scholars who teach the Word “in season and out of season” who deserve a hand of applause.

 Our Deacons Ministry and Governance Council fulfilled their servant leadership roles overseeing various aspects of FIBC’s work with dedication and determination, with monthly meetings conducted virtually and other responsibilities done in person.

 Several other FIBC ministries “kept the lights on” for their respective ministries via innovative and creative ways in spite of being separated in body, but not in love. What a testimony each of your ministries are in the Body of Christ for which I am very grateful!

Our FIBC Staff Reorganization constituted a major strategic move for FIBC. We secured the services of Pastor Stephen J. Thurston, Consultant, Inpowered Enterprises, in mid-2021 to assist us in evaluating our FIBC Pastoral Staff and Ministries. As a result of his consultation and our participation in the process, we reorganized our Pastoral Staff and assessed our ministries.

In the areas of Evangelism and Emancipation, we thank God for 63 persons who answered our Invitations to Discipleship for membership from around the Valley of the Sun, across the nation and from the Motherland. Praise God we had our first baptism in almost two years toward the end of 2021.”

JESUS AND JUSTICE WORK

In January 2022, Pastor Stewart hired Dr. Donta McGilvery to oversee FIBC’s Jesus and Justice Ministry. His first assignment was to march with Martin Luther King III, his wife Arndrea, and their daughter Yolanda, to call for an end to the filibuster that was attacking democracy at that time.

“Pastor Stewart and First Institutional Baptist Church don’t play when it comes to standing up for the rights and freedom of all people! We don’t merely talk about justice and pray, we believe like Fannie Lou Hamer who once said ‘you better put some legs on that prayer.’ And so, the work began.” - Martin Luther King, III

JESUS AND JUSTICE WORK CONTINUES

In spite of challenges and setbacks from COVID-19 in 2021, the Lord allowed Pastor Stewart to continue to serve his last full year as Chairperson of the African American Christian Clery Coalition (AACCC) - a coalition which represents over 100 African-American clergy and predominately African-American churches in the valley engaging heavily in criminal justice reform in Arizona. That year, the AACCC received a grant for their efforts from fwd.us, a non-profit which focuses on the failed immigration and criminal justice system in the United States. Commemorative Journal for Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

During this decade, Pastor Stewart was involved in several faith-based justice advocacy organizations locally, statewide and nationally. He had the noteworthy privilege of being arrested in support of voting rights in Phoenix in the summer of 2021 along with his longtime friend, the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., civil rights activist-preacher the Rev. William J. Barber II, wife Dr. Karen E. Stewart, Dr. Donta McGilvery and 34 others engaging in civil disobedience. Also, several FIBC members were on the frontline for “liberty and justice for all”, including the Honorable Sandra D. Kennedy, former Arizona Corporation Commissioner, Pastor Warren H. Stewart, Jr. and Matthew C. Stewart.

This time period also included FIBC acquiring the vacant property east of the campus and thanks to the congregation and Governance Council, paid the mortgage off in 2021, less than three years after purchase. Known as The Garden Workspace, it is used as a multipurpose small meeting space, a location for small business entrepreneurs and will house a commercial kitchen soon.

It is a fact the “church” is not the same since the COVID-19 pandemic arrived unexpectedly in the winter of 2020. After not being allowed to gather starting in late 2020, and the adverse effects of the pandemic on our way of living and being at gatherings in public spaces, FIBC in 2022 once again resumed in-person worship service with limited attendance. We saw a gradual increase of in-person worship attendance but the average attendance is still less than half of what it was prior to the pandemic. We thank God that FIBC never missed a Sunday gathering for congregational worship in some form from the beginning of the pandemic. To God be the glory!

After returning to in-person worship service, a faithful core of FIBC members and staff were an invaluable cadre of supporters of the Lord’s work through FIBC. Praise God for the Sunday morning worship services volunteers who were on the campus Sunday after Sunday to ensure attendees were welcomed upon arrival, our praise and worship team and musicians, as well as our multimedia team who kept us “live” in the Sanctuary and on our social media platforms. Also, there were Children and Youth activities led by Pastor April Hawkins, her staff and volunteers. In addition, a dedicated Sunday Bible Studies crew ensured God’s word continued to be taught on campus and virtually. During this time, we also saw some of our FIBC ministry leaders’ tenures extended in order to provide invaluable leadership, one of which was the Governance Council. Finally, we continued our FIBC Staff Reorganization under the consultation of Pastor Stephen J. Thurman and guidance of Pastor Karen E. Stewart.

Pastor Stewart and FIBC outreach to our African brothers and sisters continues to be led by our African Pastoral Leadership Team, namely, Pastors Mbaya Barampunde, Jean Habineza and Solange Habineza. We hold African worship services every Sunday, 9:00-11:00 a.m. In addition, Pastor Mbaya provides social service assistance to African members and non-members.

God continues to allow Pastor Stewart to provide leadership to several organizations, including the following: Board of Directors of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc.; Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc.; American Baptist Churches USA; Lott Carey Baptist Foreign Mission Convention; Baptist World Alliance; A New Day Coalition for Equity for Black America; Paradise Missionary Baptist State Convention of Arizona, Inc.; Central District Missionary Baptist Association; and African American Christian Clergy Coalition. Pastor Stewart said it was a blessed privilege to preach and/or speak for numerous occasions, including the Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc.’s Southwest Region; Baptist World Alliance; Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc.; National Baptist Convention of America International, Inc.; Lott Carey Baptist Foreign Mission Convention (in Liberia).

In the areas of Evangelism and Emancipation, COVID-19 did not stop people from coming to God. We had 31 persons who answered the Invitations to Discipleship for membership from around the Valley of the Sun, across the nation and from the Motherland. Praise God, we baptized new converts in 2022, including two ofPastorStewart’s grandchildren, namely, Lance Nasir Madden (“Little PaPa”) and little Sister Sanaya E. Stewart, daughter of Brother Matthew C. and Sister Akilah Stewart.

Sanaya E. Stewart

Lance Nasir Madden (“Little PaPa”)

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

On the tailwinds of the COVID-19 pandemic, FIBCO continued its legacy of serving the underserved of the community. With our faith, business, community, government, and individual partners we supported, served, and empowered with IMPACT. In addition to lingering residual impact of Covid and the reality of economic and social insecurities, FIBCO still provided services with excellence.

In September 2022, FIBC celebrated Pastor Stewart’s 45th Anniversary with many events, including on August 31, 2022, the Mayor and Phoenix City Council voted unanimously to recognize 45 years of Pastor Stewart’s leadership and service to FIBC and Phoenix by ceremonially naming 12th and Jefferson Streets “Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr. Way.” The actual ceremony took place on September 22, 2022 and in attendance was Mayor Kate Gallego, Phoenix Councilman Carlos Garcia and many other government officials, community leaders, FIBC members and friends. In his remarks, Pastor Stewart said “I would hope that they would ask, ‘Who’s that guy up there?’ And they would see how God used me for His community”.

During the Phoenix City Council Meeting in which the renaming of the street was approved, Councilman Carlos Garcia said “He always personifies dignity and the yearning for justice.”

H. Stewart, Sr.

In 2022, Pastor Stewart and FIBC were fairly new members of the Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc. (PNBC) when we were asked to be the Host Pastor and church for the 2023 Mid-Winter Board Meeting to be held January 16-18, 2023. This predominantly Black Baptist denomination was the denominational home of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Dr. Gardner C. Taylor and other advocates for JESUS AND JUSTICE at the height of the historic Civil Rights Movement. For PNBC President David R. Peoples to bring the Mid-Winter Board Meeting to Arizona during the 30th anniversary of this state’s first observance of King Day was nothing but God’s prophetic timing. This was even more God-ordained in that FIBC had only been an active members of PNBC since 2020.

On May 9, 2023, Pastor Stewart was honored to co-host at FIBC a delegation of elected members of the Parliament of the Republic of Kenya with Dr. Karen Hardin, President of the Maricopa County Branch NAACP and its Executive Committee .

On February 23, 2023, the Broadway House Apartments in South Phoenix celebrated a half-century of low-income housing, with a community event. In attendance for this event, included Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, Phoenix City Councilman Carlos Garcia and others.

BOARD MEMBERS

From Left to Right: Ralph D. Thompson, II, Debra Long, Florence Wilhight, Charmaine Woods, Dr. Lottie Lecian, Winston Lyons and Pastor Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Pastor Stewart’s Jesus and Justice Work

In 2022, Pastor Stewart and FIBC were still on the frontline fighting voter suppression and advocating voting rights through the African American Christian Clery Coalition (AACCC) locally; Faiths United to Save Democracy and Black Voters Matter, nationally; and Arizona Democracy Resilience Network sponsored by The Carter Center in Georgia. Dr. Donta McGilvery, our Pastor of Outreach and Justice, and his Social Justice Ministry Team of FIBC volunteers made a significant difference for justice in the Valley of the Sun and Arizona through their work to get out the vote in various elections.

In 2023, Pastor Stewart and Pastor Karen took the slogan “Have Gospel Will Travel” enthusiastically and seriously as they traveled nationwide and internationally representing the Lord and FIBC. Specifically, in June 2023, they traveled to Norway for the Annual Gathering of the Baptist World Alliance where Pastor Stewart preached the closing message to Baptist delegates from all over the world. He and Pastor Karen returned home for several days and then later traveled to Marrakech, Morocco to participate in the wedding of FIBC’s former Minister of Children, Youth and Young Adults, Dr. Keisha A. Agard-Williams. The next across-the-world journey was to the continent of Africa leading the 2023 FIBC African Mission Trip to visit FIBC of Soweto, South Africa on its 30th Anniversary since FIBC built their church edifice.

Norway—2023

2023 Mission Trip: July 7-12—Lagos, Nigeria / July 13-14, Nairobi, Kenya

FIBC delegation worshiping with FIBC of Soweto, (30th Anniversary) South Africa, FIBC of Burundi, FIBC of Rwanda, FIBC of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and FIBC of Tanzania.

Pastor Stewart said, “from 9/12-27/2023, during our once-in-an-eternity 2023 FIBC Africa Mission Adventure journeyed from the Valley of the Sun to London, England; Cape Town, Johannesburg, Soweto and Pretoria, SouthAfrica;Nairobi,Kenya;andKigali, Rwanda”.

A statue of Nelson Mandela, and Pastor Stewart

Over 150 members and community attended a Top Chef cook off, where six different chefs from around the valley participated. There were 1st, 2nd, 3rd and general cash prizes given to the chefs. What a night of fun and fellowship honoring Dr. Karen E. Stewart for 30 years of services to FIBC. Commemorative Journal for Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

In 2023, First Lady and Executive Director of Ministries, Dr. Karen E. Stewart, announced her retirement effective November 2023. To celebrate her 30 years of service, FIBC elected to honor her during the 2023 Pastoral and Church Anniversary weekend (September 8-10, 2023).

Commemorative

To close out the year, Pastor Stewart and Pastor Karen celebrated his birthday in Washinton, DC with Vice President Kamala Harris and others at the invitation only Christmas Holiday Party at the Vice President’s residence.

In his 2024 annual report to FIBC, Pastor Stewart reported, “while still facing challenges of the changing culture, aging membership and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, his priority for FIBC will be reaching and nurturing younger people and families. To be a vibrant, sustaining, transgenerational, Christ-centered church ministering to the holistic needs of our members and others who enter our circles of influence locally, statewide, regionally, nationally and internationally. “ His stated goals were:

 To utilize the “dark space” on our FIBC campus for ongoing ministries and services to and for our community throughout the week, which will require upgraded campus space and marketing. He said, “we have made significant progress in this area by renting space in The Body Building to the Strong Family Learning Cooperative that provides collective learning for Arizona and FIBC utilizing The Garden Workspace”.

 To increase the endowment fund.

 To prayerfully identify God’s person who will become the Lead Pastor to shepherd FIBC beyond 2020’s succeeding the Senior Pastor, utilizing the Senior/Lead Pastor Succession Plan approved by FIBC.

 To acquire property owned by the City of Phoenix to the west of FIBC’s campus, if it becomes available, and to acquire property elsewhere as deemed appropriate. Pertaining to the property to the east of The Worship Center, FIBC is currently partnering with Local First Arizona, and potentially the City of Phoenix to continue renovation of The Garden Workspace and hope to have it ready for multipurpose usage as a small meeting space, a location for small business entrepreneurs and a commercial kitchen, beginning in the first quarter of 2024.

 To encourage FIBC Ministries to increase in-person meetings and activities both on and off the FIBC Campus.

Also during 2024, FIBC welcomed Pastor John H. Talley III as Executive Director of Ministries and FIBCO Family Services, Inc. named Akilah Stewart as the new Executive Director and thanked Bro. Ernest Urquhart for his years of leadership on the Board of Directors.

On January 15, 2024, thanks to Drs. Angulos Wilson and Donte A. Ford, Wheaton College Chaplain and Associate Chaplain, Pastor Stewart was humbled to deliver the "sermonic lecture" for Wheaton College's Second Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Symposium along with other inspiring preachers, speakers and gospel choirs. Pastor Stewart stated “I never dreamed in my life that I would preach about Dr. King and our historic fight for a King Holiday in Arizona in the Billy Graham Center at Wheaton College.”

Pastor Stewart continued to provide leadership in several organizations, including the following: Board of Directors of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc.; Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc.; American Baptist Churches USA; Lott Carey Baptist Foreign Mission Convention; Baptist World Alliance; A New Day Coalition for Equity for Black America; Paradise Missionary Baptist State Convention of Arizona, Inc.; Central District Missionary Baptist Association; and African American Christian Clergy Coalition.

In January 2024, Pastor Stewart and Pastor Karen were invited, as special guests to the Inauguration of His Excellency Joseph N. Boakai, Sr. as President of the Republic of Liberia in West Africa, where they were treated as VIP guests and were afforded the privilege of visiting President Boakai’s home before returning back to the United States. Commemorative Journal for Dr. Warren H. Stewart,

Sr.

Commemorative Journal for Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

In 2024, the NCAA Men’s Final Four Legacy Project was unveiled at Eastlake Park (16th and Jefferson Streets). The project includes a mural of legends in our community including FIBC’s living legend, Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr. along with the following “All Stars”: Mr. Virgil J. Berry, Sr., the Honorable Cloves Campbell Sr., Mr. George Greathouse, the Honorable Calvin C. Goode, Mrs. Helen K.Mason, Mr. Lincoln Ragsdale, Sr., Bishop Alexis Thomas, Dr. Benjamin Thomas, Sr., Mr. Morrison Warren, Sr., and Mrs. Elizabeth White.

Knowing that 2024 would be his last full year as Senior Pastor of FIBC, Pastor Stewart and Pastor Karen led the 2024 FIBC Africa Mission Trip to Lagos, Nigeria for the Annual Gathering of the Baptist World Alliance where Pastor Stewart moderated a global preaching forum. From there they traveled to Nairobi, Kenya to conduct a leadership conference for The Global Cathedral-Nairobi and Bishop Moses Turere.

Later in October, Pastor Stewart, Pastor Karen and Pastor Talley led our FIBC India Mission Trip to the pastor and people of the Calvary Baptist Church, Akividu, India, where FIBC delivered a generous offering toward the building of a new sanctuary.

THE 2024 AFRIC MISSION ADVENTURE TEAM MEMBERS

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Dr. Karen E. Stewart

The Rev. John H. Talley III

The Rev. Levada Coker

The Rev. Claudia Phelps Wade

Bro. Jason Wade

Bro. Philp Wade

Sis. Lauren Wade

Sis. Lori Price

Sis. Glory Berry

On September 29, 2024, Pastor Stewart announced his retirement and formed the 48th Pastoral Anniversary and Retirement Celebration Committee. The committee is comprised of Sister Marchelle F. Franklin, Chair; Brother Matthew C. Stewart, Vice Chair; Deacon Anthony Dorbin, Secretary; Sister Tielah Dawan; Pastor James L. Harris, Jr.; The Honorable Sandra D. Kennedy; Dr. Karen E. Stewart; Dr. LaVern S. Tarkington; and Brother Ernest Urquhart. The Committee held its first meeting on November 12, 2024 with Pastor Stewart designating Pastor John H. Talley III and Brother Deangelo Hall as FIBC staff support.

We closed out 2024 with PASTOR STEWART’S ANNUAL COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS PARTY. For over 30 years, FIBC has held this event providing fun, food, fellowship and Christmas gifts for thousands of families over the years.

I Corinthians 1:9; Proverbs 16:3; Isaiah 1:17; Ephesians 4:11-13 (NRSVUE)

In his 48 years at FIBC, Pastor Stewart has, with five earned degrees, gained numerous certifications, been honored dozens of times for his civic engagement and community service, authored five books, licensed 167 sons and daughters in ministry, traveled to more than 60 countries and served in numerous leadership positions both in mission and ministry. Under his leadership, he has led FIBC forward to the 21st century as a role model congregation, with a focus on Evangelism, Discipleship and Emancipation, believing that everyone has a place in the Kingdom of God on Earth. While Pastor Stewart has witnessed members come and go, life and death, sacrifices and successes, he continues to trustingly believe that First Institutional Baptist Church’s “best future is in God’s Hands,” his personal definition of faith.

Thank you, Pastor Stewart, for the immeasurable impact you have had on our lives. May your retirement be filled with joy, peace, and the knowledge that you have made a difference in the lives of so many.

As we gather to celebrate the retirement of Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr. we cannot help but remember his countless inspirational words that have touched our hearts over the years. Our Pastor has always had a way with words, effortlessly delivering powerful messages that resonate with each and every one of us.

48th Pastoral Anniversary and Retirement Celebration - June 2025 started with the Community Event on Saturday, May 31, 2025.

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Commemorative Journal for Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

First Sunday, June 1, 2025, Pastor Stewart preached his last first Sunday message as Senior Pastor of FIBC. At 6:00 pm, he held his last Communion at the Community Communion and Ordination Service, where he conferred emerita status to Deacon Maria E. Webster and ordained his last deacons: Sister Gaynelle Dorsey, Brother Warren Hall and Brother William C. Smith, III, and his last clergy: The Reverend DeWayne Jordan Hampton and The Reverend Jessica E. Morris.

48th Pastoral Anniversary and Retirement Celebration SERVICES AND GALA HONORING

Honoring Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr., Senior Pastor

June, 2025

June 1, 2025, 9:30 AM WORSHIP SERVICE

PREACHER: Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr., Senior Pastor

6:00 PM - COMMUNITY COMMUNION AND ORDINATION SERVICE

GUEST PREACHER: Dr. Jannah Scott, Phoenix, AZ

June 8, 2025, 7:30 AM and 11:00 AM WORSHIP SERVICES GUEST PREACHERS

7:30 - Pastor Joseph E. Green, Stafford, VA

11:00 - Pastor Jessica E. Morris

Next Gen Pastor of First United Methodist Church, Phoenix, AZ

June 15, 2025, 7:30 AM and 11:00 AM WORSHIP SERVICES GUEST PREACHER

Dr. Michael J. Jones, Senior Pastor of The Village of Faith and Delegate of the 77th District of the Virginia House of Delegates

June 22, 2025, 7:30 AM and 11:00 AM WORSHIP SERVICES GUEST PREACHERS

7:30 - Dr. Marvin J. Bentley, Antioch Baptist Church of Corona, NY

10:00 - The Dedication and Open house of the Garden Center

11:00 - Pastor T. Ellsworth Gantt II, Second Birth Church of Riverside, CA

FRIDAY, JUNE 27, 2025, 6 P.M. CELEBRATION GALA

Sheraton Downtown Phoenix, 340 N. Third St., Phoenix

Keynote Preacher, Dr. Ralph Douglas West

Pastor and Founder, of The Church Without Walls (Brookhollow Baptist Church), Houston, Texas

June 29, 2025, 7:30 AM and 11:00 AM WORSHIP SERVICES

7:30 - Community Farewell Service

11:00 - Congregational Family Farewell Service PREACHER

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr., Senior Pastor

We were excited that as a part of the anniversary and retirement celebrations, on June 22, 2025, FIBC dedicated the Garden Workspace, formerly the 1153 E. Jefferson Street property. The building was renovated through a partnership with Local First Arizona (LFA) and its Executive Director, Kimber Lanning, who was recommended to us by Brother Matthew C. Stewart, Executive Director of Our Sister Our Brother. The building is now a state-of-the art community kitchen and educational space for LFA.

for Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

At FIBC, Pastor Stewart has licensed 167 sons and daughters into the Gospel Ministry.

1. David Barnes

2. Larry Scott

3. Jerry Hillman 4. James Boone

5. Andrew Blake 6. Janet Caldwell

7. James Morris, Sr.

8. Barbara Tinsley

9. Charles Langston

10. Clyde Crawford

11. Sarah Jenkins

12. A. Elaine Crawford

13. Sarahlyn Bristow

14. Pamela Woodard

15. Karen E. Curry

16. Kenneth Ragland

17. Vanessa Henderson

18. Alana Ragland

19. Imogene Wormley

20. Walter Byes

21. Maxine Williams

22. Tommy Reynolds

23. Janette Williams

24. Karen D. Brown

25. Chatonda Chibambo

26. Deborah Cotton

27. Charlotte D. Hillman

28. F. Lisa Miller

29. Tifphanie Rhymes

30. George Deaver

31. Brenda Davis

32. James Taylor

33. Albertine Buchanan

34. Deloris Lockhart

35. Trevell Chappell

36. Mildred Jones

37.Kevin Hall

38.Joseph Whitfield

39. Michael J. Jones

40. Tim Beatty

41. Loria Woods

42. Michele Cotton-Bohanon

43. Denise Willis

44. Valerie Hollmon

45. Tanya Jones

46. Robin Kornegay

47. Fritzi Harris

48. Rita Story

49. Tara Stroy

50. Mary Bridges

51. Terry Henderson

52. Charles Taylor

53. Jannah Scott

54. Judy Dee Smith

55. Tolissa Williams

56. Claudette Slater

57. Angela Tibbs

58. Barbara Colbert

59. Michele Hoskins

60. Warren H. Stewart, Jr.

61. Simone Colbert

62. Carolyn O'Neil

63. Bobby Thompson, Jr.

64. Charlene Miller-Lewis

65. Derrick Peoples

66. Patricia Sells

67. Gloria Randle

68. Dianne Winters

69. Silas Winters

70. Clifton Pickard

71. Nancy Reynolds

72. Jaimi Sells

73. Dawn Bohanon

74. Jacob Greene, III

75. Pam Crowder-Archibal

76. Teresa A. Harris-Hanley

77. Yvonne Winfrey

78. Oliver Harris

79. Billie Jean Johnson

80. Brenda Jack-Rushing

81. Miriam Bacon

82. Anthony Jones

83. Michelle Margerum

84. Patricia Vernell

85. Janet L. Denson

86. Tracey Goodner

87. Sheila D. Harris

88. Delaney L. Jones

89. Marjorie Bennett

90. Stephanie Roberts Henderson

91. Shawn Lamb

92. Stephanie Coker

93. Shirley Lewis

94. Nathaniel Beatty

95. Lisa Brinson

96. Brianna K. Parker

Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Sons and Daughters Licensed into the Gospel Ministry (cont.)

97. Lisa Bozeman

98. Lautrina Patterson

99. Thelma Staten

100.Belinda Hernandez

101.Deitra Webb

102.Dawn Cornelius

103.Joni J. Sonyetta Lawrence

104.Isaac H. Henderson

105.Sunee Robinson

106.Christell Sumpter

107.Patricia Crenshaw

108.Kimberly Ann McNeil

109.Berinda Wallace

110.Angel V. Green

111.Anita O. Hopkins

112.David A. Jones

113.Gloria "D. D." Carson

114.Julia A. "Penny" Reid

115.Yvette Chatman

116.Nikkita L. Smith

117.LaNita M. Smart-Wade

118.Alonda M. Brown

119.Colia A. McKinley

120.Erica Jessie Louise Rosette

121.Gregory Tremble

122.Mbaya Barampunde

123.Janice Jones

124.Anani Ketoglo

125.Tanya Ngalula

126.Renee Roberson

127.Mary Coleman

128.Sherrie Smithwick-Ward

129.Marcus Fulton

130.Joyce Moore

131.Tandie T. Myles

132.Brandy A. Oliver

133.Lorraine Williams

134.Kendall L. Washington

135.Jordan Hampton

136.Anna Ndayishimiye

137.Greena Gale Pinckney

138.Anthony M. Simpson, Jr.

139.Jared C. Stewart

140.Angelic Cager

141.M. Hollie

142.Greg Holt

143.Louis P. Reese, Jr.

144.Zelda Y. Holland

145.Charles F. Long, II

146.Alicia M. Simpson

147.Jean Claude Habineza

148.Solange Habineza

149.Joseph Lavi

150.Lisa M. Young

151.Donte Ford

152.April Hawkins

153.Roland Pierce

154.Menyon Landrum

155.DeeAnna Smallwood

156.Donta McGilvery

157.James Morris, Jr.

158.Jessica E. Morris

159.Thomas Young, Jr.

160.Reginald Bell, Jr.

161.Daniel Hazelton

162.Evan LeBlanc

163.Ismatu LeBlanc

164.Iisha Graves

165.John H. Talley III

166.Thomas Claiborn IV

167.Matthew C. Stewart

Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Commemorative Journal for Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

As Pastor Stewart is winding down his ministry, one of his greatest joys is spending time with his wife, children, extended family and 13 grandchildren ranging from early teens to six months, namely, Warren Josiah III, Micaiah Lovel, Matthew Christian II, Jared Chamberlain II, Kaira Nechee, John Paul Silas, Jase Alexander, Joshua Elijah, Mia Noelai, Sanaya Elyse, Janelle Elizabeth and Lance Nasir (“Little Papa”), plus an “adopted” grandson, Jonny Angel.

The Stewart/Curry Family

Congratulatory Messages from Fellow

Pastors, FIBC Ministries and Community

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Congratulations and Heartfelt Gratitude to Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

In Honor of 48 Years of Distinguished Service and Retirement

On behalf of The Broadway House Board of Directors, we extend our deepest congratulations and heartfelt appreciation to you, Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr., as you retire after an extraordinary 48 years of dedicated service as Chairman of our Board.

Your visionary leadership and unwavering commitment have profoundly shaped the very foundation, growth, and enduring success of The Broadway House. Through nearly five decades, you have been the steady hand guiding this organization with grace, wisdom, and strength—through both challenges and triumphs. Your strategic foresight and compassionate stewardship have not only fortified our mission to serve the community but have also nurtured a spirit of unity and purpose among the Board, staff, and all those whose lives we touch.

Your exceptional ability to listen with intention, lead with conviction, and care with sincerity has earned you the deep respect and admiration of your colleagues and the broader Broadway House family. Under your guidance, The Broadway House has expanded its impact in countless ways—from launching vital programs to securing essential resources that meet the ever-evolving needs of our community.

You have not only served as our Chairman—you have been a mentor, a passionate advocate, and a true friend. As you step into this well-deserved new chapter of retirement, please know that your legacy of service and leadership is indelible. The strong foundation you have built will support and inspire the future of The Broadway House for generations to come.

With great admiration and gratitude, we celebrate your remarkable journey and the lasting impact you have made. We wish you abundant joy, continued good health, and deep fulfillment in the years ahead.

Thank you for your faithful heart, your selfless service, and your immeasurable contributions to The Broadway House.

With deepest respect and sincere appreciation,

The Broadway House Incorporate, Board of Directors

Bro. Ralph D. Thompson II, Chairperson

Sis. Deborah Long, Secretary

Sis. Charmaine F. Woods

Dr. Lottie Lecian

Bro. Winston Lyons

Dr. Florence Wilhight

Rev. Fritzi Harris

Bro. Oliver Harris III

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Commemorative

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Commemorative

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Congratulations Dr. Warren H. Stewart

Commemorative

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr

Congratulations

Pastor Warren H. Stewart, Sr. thank you so much for your decades of demonstrating what a true Servant Leader looks, walks and talks like!! We are all forever grateful for your unwavering impact on our state, country and overall global society to share the great works and message of our Savior!!

Our family truly appreciates you!! Much Love from the Landrum Taylor’s

Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

for Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr

A Legacy of Leadership, A Life of Service

Congratulations on your Retirement

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr. First Institutional Baptist Church, Phoenix, AZ

After 48 remarkable years of faithful Pastoral service to First Institutional Baptist Church and the Phoenix community, your unwavering commitment to the Lord and His people has left an eternal mark on hearts and history.

And for 31 dedicated years of leadership on the Home Mission Board of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc., as Chair and Executive Secretary, you have guided us with integrity, wisdom, and faith.

We salute your extraordinary journey. We honor your faithful labor. We celebrate your next chapter. May God richly bless you and your family in this new season of peace, purpose, and rest.

With Gratitude and Love, The Home Mission Board

Rev. John F. Harrell, Chair

Dr. Kelcey A. West, Vice Chair

Rev. Carolyn A. Landry, Executive Secretary

Sis. Tiffany Miller, Treasurer

Sis. Florence Jean Wright, Administrative Assistant

Dear Pastor Stewart, we are wishing you a lifetime of God’s blessings!

You have been a wonderful shepherd to FIBC for 48 years, We have really been blessed by your teaching and your show of love. We couldn’t have asked for a better pastor. It was your dedication, care, and love for God, that built the church up to the height it is now. If only everyone cared for their congregation the way you do. Happy Retirement!

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

TO PASTOR WARREN H. STEWART SR.

Congratulations on 48 years of divine and God ordained service to the people of the First Institutional Baptist Church, Phoenix, Arizona, the United States of America and the world.

Your leadership has been a continuous blessing and a motivation to many. May God continue to bless you now and in your new chapter.

We love you, and always will.

The Lonnie Sullivan Ministry of Protection

Pastor Stewart, thank you for 48 years of unwavering faith, great leadership, dedication and commitment to our church and community. Your devotion to God and the work of the church have been an inspiration to us all.

Thank you for your support over the years.

Congratulations on such a long and fruitful career, now take pleasure in your retirement. FIBC Men’s Ministry

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr

Congratulations Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr., Senior Pastor of First Institutional Baptist Church for 48 Successful year

The Kingdom of God is stronger, broader, and more courageous because you stood on the wall and did not come down.

Your legacy is not just in sermons preached or buildings built—but in lives transformed, justice advanced, and love lived aloud.

Thank you, Dr. Stewart, for showing us what it means to lead with love, serve with dignity, and walk humbly with our God.

With Grateful Hearts – A Tribute from the Dora W. Johnson

Thank you, Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr., our favorite Pastor, for the countless ways you have poured into our family—through your preaching, teaching, your prayers, your presence, and your unwavering faith.

Your ministry has marked our lives through baptisms, milestones, and moments when we needed strength and guidance. The fruits of your labor are evident in the generations you've touched, including ours.

As you step into your well-deserved retirement, we celebrate you and say from the

Well done good and faithful servant!

With love and gratitude,

Alyce Royal; Mina Smith & Family

Nina & Minea Moore & Family

Congratulations to Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.,

Thank you for 48 wonderful and blessed years as Senior Pastor of First Institutional Baptist Church. Your hard work is done—now it’s time to celebrate a lifetime of achievements!

Members

Jordan Hampton, DOM

Dorthea Williams, Chair

Dr. LaVern Tarkington

Dr. Lottie Lecian

Norman Lansden

Dr. Donald Godbold

Thomasita Taylor

Rev. Brenda Griffith-Collins

John Woodruff

Linda Easter

The Rev. Shirley Lewis

THE H.E.L.P.S. MINISTRY OF FIBC Helping Embrace Life’s Problems Spiritually

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Congratulations Pastor Warren Stewart

Thank you for serving as a vessel of God's love, wisdom, and grace. Your legacy of leadership and service to our community will continue to inspire generations to come.

May God's favor surround you and your beloved family as you follow the "ordered" steps ahead.

Dr. Josephine Pete and Family

Mahogany Kennedy

South Mountain Constable

CONGRATULATIONS

DR. WARREN H. STEWART, SR. SENIOR PASTOR FIRST INSTITUTIONAL BAPTIST CHURCH

You have served the Lord with gladness-tirelessly, faithfully, and with great compassion for His flock. Your investment in the lives of others have truly made a difference; You have given hope and encouragement to so many.

Now, as the day dawns on the next chapter in your life, may God continue to richly bless you and watch over you, may the God of peace grant you peace now and always.

With Great Affection and Gratitude

From Your Family Hayson and Neal

"Behold I will do something new, Now it will spring forth ... "

Isaiah 43:19

Congratulation to Pastor Warren H. Stewart.

CONGRATULATIONS PASTOR STEWART ON YOUR 48 YEARS AS OUR SENIOR PASTOR AT FIRST INSTITUTIONAL BAPTIST CHURCH

YOU HAVE FAITHFULLY LED OUR CHURCH FAMILY WITH INCREDIBLE SPIRITUAL WISDOM, COMPASSION, AND UNWAVERING DEDICATION

OUR FAMILY APPRECIATES YOUR GREAT LEADERSHIP AS AN OUTSTANDING LEADER IN OUR COMMUNITY, THE STATE OF ARIZONA, AND TO OUR NATION MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS

BROTHER STANLEY & DR. MARJORIE KYLE

Pastor Stewart, thank you for 48 amazing years as Pastor of FIBC and community leadership thought out this country, especially here in Arizona

Thank you for the many times you have been there for my family.

Enjoy your retirement, you have earned it.

(In Memory of Joe McDonald)

Sharon McDonald and Chanda, Elise, Kimani, Kai, Gia, Luca

CONGRATULATIONS PASTOR STEWART

on reaching this incredible milestone of 48 years with us!

Your passion and dedication have made a lasting impact, and we are truly thankful for your exceptional service.

The

Hassel Family

From the Senior Ushers

Congratulations Pastor Stewart

Linda Hardy & Kids

Commemorative Journal for Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Ministries of FIBC Congratulates Pastor Stewart

We Love You. Thank you for 48 Years - You Will Be Missed!

Wilma R. Rhaney Rose Library Ministry

Prayer Ministry Ushers Ministry

Kitabu Reading Ministry

Children and Youth Ministry

SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS AND SUPPORTERS

Arizona Community Foundation and Black Philanthropy Initiative

Arizona Public Service

Royand Carlian Dawson

FIBCO Family Services, Inc.

First United Methodist Church

Richard and Marion Holmes

Hope for the City

Pastor’s Aid Ministry

Russ Lyons Realty

Salt River Project

Robert and Shirley Shaw

Dr. Karen E. Stewart

Thank you to all who purchased tables and tickets or supported this celebration in any way. God saw what you did and He smiled, and so did we.

Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

48th Pastoral Anniversary and Retirement Celebration Committee

STEERING COMMITTEE

Rev. Matthew C. Stewart Co-Chair

Dea. Anthony Dorbin Secretary

Sis. Tielah Dawan

Pastor James L. Harris, Jr.

The Honorable Sandra D. Kennedy

Pastor Karen E. Stewart

Sis. LaVern Tarkington

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.

Sis. Marchelle Franklin Chair

Bro. Ernie Urquhart

The 48th Pastoral Anniversary and Retirement Celebration Committee

SUBCOMMITTEES

Community Celebration Subcommittee

Sis. Tielah Dawan, Chair

Sis. Christa Saddler

Bro. Obie Saddler

Sis. Akilah Stewart

The Rev. Matthew C. Stewart

Bro. John Woodruff

June Worship Subcommittee

Pastor Karen Stewart, Chair

Bro. Matthew Stewart, Co-Chair

Bro. Lemuel Cannon

Sis. Tielah Dawan

Sis. Brenda Hankins

The Rev. Fritzi Harris

The Rev. Sheila Harris

The Rev. Claudia Phelps-Wade

Dea. Darnell Sells

Deacon Bill Smith

The Rev. Yvonne Smith

The Rev. Kendall Washington

Gala Subcommittee

Sis. LaVern Tarkington, Chair

Sis. Marion Holmes

The Honorable Sandra Kennedy

Bro. Ernie Urquhart

Finance Subcommittee

The Honorable Sandra Kennedy, Chair

Pastor James L. Harris, Jr., Co-Chair

Sis. Marion Holmes

Marketing and Communications Subcommittee

Sis. Marchelle Franklin, Co-Chair

The Rev. Matthew Stewart, Co-Chair

Hospitality Subcommittee

Dea. Anthony Dorbin, Co-Chair

The Rev. Sheila Harris, Co-Chair

Sis. Glory Berry

Sis. Toney Black

The Rev. Levada Coker

Sis. Sonya Cooper

Sis. Jo Fulton

Sis. Linda Hardy

Sis. Earnestine Harrison

Sis. Pamela Lansden

Sis. Beverly Martin

Sis. Deborah Patterson

Sis. Lori Price

Sis. Irma Rawls

Sis. Kimberly Willis Smith

Sis. Zan Thompson

Sis. Ilena Ward

Sis. Joyce Ward

Sis. Charmaine Woods

Church Decorating Subcommittee

The Rev. Claudia Phelps Wade, Chair

Dr. Trista Campbell

Sis. Jennifer Grady

Sis. Marion Holmes

Sis. Nancy Hooper

Sis. Adis Strong

Sis. Dottie Sublett

Sis. Carolyn Engram Sullivan

Photographers

Bro. Maarcus Hall

Bro. Norman Lansden

Printing and Programs: EBS Copy and Printing (Marion Holmes)

Documentary: Marmera Films (Irin Daniels)

Gala and Campus Decorations: Events by Jamila (Jamila Stewart)

Gala Event Planner: A Joyous Event (Joy Johnson)

Marketing and Communication: Mahogany Xan Communications, LLC (LaTricia Harper Woods)

Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.