Born in 1952 and a lifelong resident of the District of Columbia, Bishop Cheeks was ordained in 1982 from the National Spiritual Science Center of the Nation’s Capital and later received an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity from St. Andrews Theological Seminary in London, England. In 1985, he founded Us Helping Us, People Into Living, Inc. — an organization rooted in love, community empowerment, and the conviction that every person deserves to live a healthy, whole, and dignified life. What began as a vision became a movement that has served countless lives across the D.C. area for more than forty years.

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His vision continues to challenge us to look beyond the immediate need and see the whole person. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the seeds he planted, the lives he touched, and the communities he helped build.

 

Bishop Rainey Cheeks’ work did not end with him. It continues through all of us. 

 

Upcoming services to attend:

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Testimonies of Love Service

Community Voices Honoring Bishop Cheeks

Friday, August 28, 2026  ·  6:30 PM – 8:00 PM

Covenant Baptist Church UCC

3845 South Capitol Street SW  ·  Washington, DC 20032

 

Celebration of Life Service

Saturday, August 29, 2026  ·  11:00 AM

Doors Open at 10:00 AM

First Congregational UCC

945 G Street NW  ·  Washington, DC 20001

Parking is available in the church parking garage for $15.00 per vehicle.

Please wear white in celebration of his life.

A private family repast will follow.