July 26, 2009

Markell: Public-Private Partnership to Build Church Enhances State’s ‘Spiritual Wealth’

WILMINGTON – Gov. Jack Markell joined members of the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) and other government and church officials Sunday from the Ribbon Cutting Celebration at Ezion Fair Baptist Church in Wilmington.
 
The new Ezion Fair Baptist Church was constructed on a remediated brownfield site  -- land that has been rehabilitated after suffering environmental damage. The church worked diligently with officials from the DNREC to remediate the property for adequate use.  
 
“This church is an example of the tremendous things that can be accomplished when government works with the private sector,” Markell said. “Brownfields can play an important role in our economic recovery. Today I am delighted to see that brownfields can do more than create financial wealth – they can enhance our state’s spiritual wealth as well.”
 
The church was originally organized as a mission in 1919, as a safe haven for individuals experiencing racial inequality issues within the City of Wilmington.  Since that time, only four pastors have served the church. Currently, Ezion Fair is under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Christopher T. Curry.
 
Future plans for the facility include a Community Fellowship Hall, literacy development classrooms, a community gymnasium, and daycare facilities for both children and senior adults.