“When others try to erase us, we gather, we remember, and we celebrate.”
This year marks a powerful milestone in the life of Bishop Craig L. Oliver Sr. He is celebrating his 30th anniversary as Senior Pastor of Elizabeth Baptist Church (EBC). But it’s not just a moment of celebration for longevity in ministry. It’s a reflection of how spiritual leadership can evolve with the times while holding fast to core convictions like truth, equity, and service.
Bishop Oliver has shepherded EBC from a small, youthful congregation to a multigenerational, socially conscious movement rooted in gospel teaching and community empowerment. Now, three decades later, EBC prepares to host its first-ever Juneteenth Celebration, a timely response to growing attacks on DEI and the teaching of Black history.
“As we honor my 30 years, I see it not only as a personal milestone,” Bishop Oliver shared during a recent interview, “but as a call to deepen our commitment to truth-telling, to affirm the dignity of Black life, and to boldly proclaim that our history cannot be erased.”
Juneteenth as Resistance and Reaffirmation
Organized by EBC Cares, the Juneteenth Celebration is not just a church event. It’s a cultural moment, a Homecoming of sorts, a unity celebration. Set to attract over 4,000 attendees, the event will include music, food, storytelling, and activities for all ages. It’s designed to unite generations, educate the community, and give space for joy and reflection.
“Juneteenth is a moment for collective acknowledgment and the reaffirmation of our identity,” said one of the event organizers. “In the face of attempts to silence Black voices and rewrite our history, this celebration becomes even more necessary.”
Bishop Oliver and the EBC leadership team see this Juneteenth event as more than a day of commemoration. It is a powerful act of resistance. A sacred gathering where faith meets culture and remembrance sparks hope.
A Pastoral Legacy of Truth and Transformation
Since beginning his pastorship at just 19 years old, Bishop Oliver has grown EBC not only in size but in spirit and impact. He has developed emerging leaders, responded to the needs of the times, and kept the church grounded in scripture and relevant in culture. His recent visit to Ghana reaffirmed a global perspective on the resilience of Black people, reminding him that “the fear of our excellence is not new—but neither is our strength.”
Under his leadership, EBC has remained a prophetic voice in turbulent times. Always advocating for the marginalized, speaking against systemic racism, and championing the truth in an age of political erasure. “We are called to be a church that doesn’t just preach but practices justice,” he declared.
Moving Forward with Purpose
As the church looks to the future, three commitments remain clear:
Continue to elevate Black history and reject efforts to suppress it in schools and public life.
Promote cultural experiences like the Juneteenth Celebration and future pilgrimages to places like Ghana to deepen community connection.
Remain a prophetic voice, declaring that Black lives matter, truth matters, and history matters.
With a spirit of resilience and joy, Bishop Oliver and EBC are not just celebrating an anniversary. They’re making history. “When others try to erase us,” says Michelle DeShields, who is helping promote the event, “we gather, we remember, and we celebrate.” This Juneteenth, Elizabeth Baptist Church
