A city proclamation this coming Tuesday will honor the installation of a new pastor at Hillcrest Baptist Church at 3400 Hillcrest Rd. in Richmond.
After a two-year search to replace the beloved late Pastor Theodore Henry “Ted” Goslen, who led the church for 21 years before his passing, Rev. Dr. Curtis B. Flemming, Sr. was installed as spiritual leader.
Rev. Flemming is a third-generation pastor with over 15 years of experience, and who founded Bay Community Fellowship of Churches in Oakland.
“Congratulations to Rev. Dr. Curtis B. Flemming, Sr. on his official installation as Pastor of Hillcrest Baptist Church,” the proclamation states. “The city expresses its gratitude for the church’s continued dedication to the spiritual and communal well-being of Richmond residents.”
Hillcrest Baptist Church was originally founded as First Southern Missionary Baptist Church on July 4, 1943. For 21 years, Pastor Ted led the church “with unwavering dedication” and “spiritual wisdom” until his passing on Oct. 16, 2022. He was not only beloved in the church but in the wider community.
It took two years to find the church’s next spiritual leader. The city proclamation notes Rev. Dr. Flemming’s ministry is rooted in the belief the church is more than a place of worship, but also for love, service, comfort and motivation.
