SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH OF HOMESTEAD PASTOR, REV. LAPHON T. FLOOD-FRANCIS (FILE PHOTOS BY J.L. MARTELLO)
by Karen Harris Brooks
For New Pittsburgh Courier
“If it’s a mountain, just climb it; a river, just cross it; a dream, just chase it; a vision, just pursue it; an idea, just do it; a bad habit, just break it!”
Those were the words of advice that the Honorable Reverend Dr. Raphael G. Warnock charged inductees of the 41st Martin Luther King Jr. College of Ministers & Laity annual ceremony held on April 9, 2026. The United States Senator and 1991 Morehouse graduate delivered a powerful, spirit-filled speech that electrified not only the inductees, but also proved to be an uplifting inspiration to all in attendance.
Held within the walls of the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, the overflow gathering included conscientious inductees, confident alumni, distinguished clergy, and proud mentors and family members.
Established in 1985, the Board of Preachers honors the preaching legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., recognizing pastors who demonstrate a strong commitment to prophetic preaching, justice, and faithful leadership in the church and community. Pittsburgh’s own Reverend Laphon Flood-Francis, Senior Pastor of the Second Baptist Church of Homestead, Pennsylvania, was one of the 2026 prestigious inductees. The HBCU graduate, who leaves his touch upon every road he travels, was encouraged by Dr. Warnock’s word that “God is still raising up people willing to boldly speak truth in power and do whatever it takes to bring justice.”
When asked how he felt about receiving such an honor, Reverend Flood-Francis, a man of truth, character and responsible leadership, felt this award “carries a weight that is hard to fully describe. It is a true honor and privilege, but also a reminder of the responsibility to continue the legacy and tradition of so many that have fought to lay the foundation on which I now stand.”
He humbly continued that he is “grateful to my family and alma mater for the investment that was made into me and for the foundation that continues to shape how I live and serve.”
SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH OF HOMESTEAD PASTOR, REV. LAPHON T. FLOOD-FRANCIS, THIRD FROM RIGHT. (FILE PHOTOS BY J.L. MARTELLO)
REV. LAPHON T. FLOOD-FRANCIS IS PASTOR OF SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH OF HOMESTEAD.