OUR HISTORY
OCTOBER 19, 1962
The church began in the Woodridge community of Washington, DC. Six persons, some were residents of this community, assembled at the Randall Memorial Baptist Church, located at Twenty-Second Street and Rhode Island Avenue, NE. the ritual included the acceptance of the Articles of Faith and Church Covenant which was administered as a pledge by Rev. William L. Wheeler. The purpose of the ceremony was to establish a new church of which Rev Wheeler became the founder. The church was named the Children of Light Baptist Church and was incorporated under this name in the District of Columbia. Three months after the church was incorporated, inspired by the Pastor, it moved to 6115 Chillum Place, NE, Washington DC and changed the name to Riggs Park Baptist Church.
JANUARY 28, 1963
The church opened its doors to the new community for worship. The Recognition Service of the church was held at the Mt. Moriah Baptist Church. Rev. Walter Gray was Moderator. Sunday, May 25, 1964, at 3:30PM, Rev R. G. Williams preached the Dedicatory Sermon. The first two deacons were ordained June 1, 1964. By July 1966, three deacons had been ordained by the Church. During 1966, William E. Brown was elected Chairman of the Board of Trustees. He proved to be a pillar of strength and made major contributions in the planning for the church to move to its second new location. Brother W. E. Brown remained Chairman until his demise September 10, 1988. Brother Carnell C. VanLaudingham was then elected Chairman of the Board of Trustees.
MARCH 21, 2010
Rev. Brian Watson was installed as the 2nd Pastor. The message was delivered by Pastor Robert W. Crummie of Mt Calvary Missionary Baptist Church. The Charge to the Pastor was given by Rev Terry D.
Streeter, Pastor of Mt Pleasant Baptist Church.
MARCH 2020
COVID-19 AND RIGGS PARK BAPTIST CHURCH
Riggs Park Baptist Church was able to have regular services while following COVID-19 Protocols. At that time they added access to services via Zoom. Due to the dedication of its members, they continued with
outreach to the homeless shelters, seniors, and youth.