Welch Discusses Connection Between Faith and Compassionate Policy with Progressive Baptist Leaders
CHICAGO – House Speaker Emanuel ‘Chris’ Welch welcomed religious leaders from across the country to Illinois this week, speaking with attendees of the Progressive National Baptist Convention about the important role faith communities play in advocating for healthcare, human rights, and economic empowerment.
“As a lifelong member of a Baptist Church, and a member of the Rock of Ages Baptist Church in Maywood, it is truly my honor to join people called by our faith to care for the sick and uplift those in need,” Welch said. “Scripture tells us in Proverbs 14:31 that ‘He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.’ Nothingwe see happening in Washington right now is kind, and nothing we see honors God. So now more than ever, it’s right that we gather in Illinois as people who are ready to stand against the things we cannot accept and work to build the brighter future we all want—to make America better.”
Welch offered keynote remarks before the 64th Annual Progressive National Baptist Convention in Chicago on Wednesday. The attendees united in Chicago represent more than 2.5 million congregants nationwide, and organize efforts to promote voting rights, economic empowerment, education, human rights, and liberation.
