A dedication of the restoration of the historic second Baptist Church Chapel built in 1919 took place Sunday.

 

Pastor Todd Johnson explains the importance of restoring the chapple to it's beauty and functionality saying it is the foundation of their heritage and Black History in Warren. 

 

"Second Baptist Church was the first chartered Black Baptist Church in Trumbull County. And so many other fellowships and congregations have come out of this church," Pastor Johnson said.

 

The service and dedication of this church is to honor veterans past and present.

 

"We honor those who have served in particular our African American Veterans, many of whom served a country  where they did not have full rights and privileges as others," Johnson added.

 

Mayor Doug Franklin presented Pastor Todd Johnson with a flag to fly outside the historic church chapel.

 

That flag was given to him by President Barack Obama at a US conference of mayors. Franklin points out the first person to die in the Revolutionary War was an African American and adds there were many blacks on the front lines of the Korean War and in many wars.

 

"There are so many statistics and so many things that are overlooked about the African American contributions to our military services. So I'm honored you have had the foresight and vision to dedicate this edifice and this campus for the service honoring African American veterans service, and veterans in general," Mayor Doug Franklin said.

 

The newly rebuilt church chapel, including the original restored turn of the century stained glass windows, will be used for several special events in the community, plus for veterans families.

 

"For small worship services, funerals, weddings, as well as memorial services for veterans whose families don't have a church to honor their loved ones if they pass. We will also make sure the church is available for historic presentations and community meetings and any other functions that can benefit the community," Pastor Johnson emphasized. 

 

In addition to this chapel renovation, plans are in the works to install a special display featuring the flags of all branches of service and POW/MIA service  members.