Burney named Shiloh’s new pastor

ALBANY — Shiloh Baptist Church has named the Rev. Charles E. Burney as its new pastor. Burney will follow in the footsteps of legendary pastor the Rev. H.C. Boyd, who died June 25.

Boyd and Shiloh were key figures in the national and Albany Civil Rights movements. Boyd served as pastor of the landmark church for more than 57 years.

A native of St. Petersburg, Fla., and resident of Monticello, Fla., Burney will offer his first sermon at Shiloh on Sunday at 11 a.m.

The church congregation has vowed, under Burney’s leadership, to move forward as a current and innovative church that is destined to continue impacting the community and the civil rights of blacks in Albany.

“I am humbled by the call and ready to serve the church and community,” the new Shiloh pastor said. “After much prayer, my family and I are excited about joining the Shiloh family. We have confirmation in our spirits about the great work and continued progress of the church.

“The members at Shiloh have shown a spirit of excitement, care and commitment. There is a true sense of readiness, family, closeness, as well as a warm welcome. If you don’t have a church that you are affiliated with, please be our guest on the first Sunday in September. If you are worried about being new, don’t be. I’m new, too.”