Fulton Baptist Church will soon begin a weekend of celebration for the installation of Pastor Elect Reverend Julian Rivera. “The Friendly Church on the Corner,” as Fulton Baptist Church is fondly called by friends and family, has finally concluded the rigorous two year search to find a new leader.
Rev. Rivera, who previously served in leadership positions under Bishop Walter Scott Thomas Sr. of New Psalmist Baptist Church, brings not only a warm spirit but fresh ideas to the congregation that has been a staple in the West North Avenue community. “I love to preach but there is so much more to pastoring. Preaching may bring people in but you have to sustain them,” said the Rev. Rivera. Since becoming acting pastor in April 2011, Rev. Rivera has overseen many operations that assist and better the communities of West North Avenue.
Located at 1630 W. North Ave., many churches and organizations could find it easy to become secluded and withdrawn from the surrounding communities plagued by crime, poverty, and violence. Yet, one dose of the kindness radiating from the hearts of its members and it’s clear why the house of worship has experienced long standing success in actively making change in the lives of others.
Aside from partnering with neighboring churches, Fulton Baptist Church has collaborated with BP gas stations to give Baltimore wallets a break from high oil prices. Days sponsored by Fulton Baptist Church at local BPs allow Baltimoreans to purchase gas at a rate of 50¢ off per gallon. Past and future initiatives include free dinners for those in need on Thanksgiving Day, and a computer lab that will help young and old with computer literacy and free internet access.
Only the 6th pastor to serve Fulton Baptist Church in its 107 years, Rivera says his “growing at New Psalmist Baptist Church was very influential.” Rivera soon began to desire to spread the gospel and teach others himself.
A native of Brooklyn, New York, Rivera moved to Baltimore in 1991. Shortly after marrying his wife in 1992, Rivera began to attend New Psalmist Baptist Church where he became deeply involved in ministry. Armed with a strong mentality to serve and make change, there are no questions about whether the right servant is now leading Fulton Baptist Church. “I have thoroughly enjoyed it,” said Rivera, when asked about the transition into the pulpit, “There are some challenges but we can really make a difference and an impact.”
Activities for the inauguration of Rev. Julian Rivera will begin 6 p.m., Sept. 16 with a Friday Night Live service featuring Dr. Rodney Smalls as speaker from First Church of the Brethren in Baltimore. Other celebrations for the weekend include a Pre-Installation Banquet on Saturday and the official installation service Sunday evening at 5pm.
For more information on the installation of Rev. Julian Rivera, please contact Joyce Gillard at 410.484.4341
