Greetings,

It is with a heavy heart that we share our church founder and Pastor Emeritus Dr. Emmett C. Burns, Jr. departed this life to receive his heavenly reward at 7:31 a.m. this morning surrounded by the love of the Burns family.

Dr. Burns tirelessly served Rising Sun and the greater Baltimore community for over 43 years. A civil rights trailblazer, noted theologian and preacher of the Gospel for nearly six decades, Dr. Burns exemplified the meaning of servant leadership – whether from the pulpit of our great church, in the Maryland General Assembly as one of the first African Americans from Baltimore County to hold statewide office or on national issues that have historically impacted race, equity and opportunity in America.

There was never a moment when Dr. Burns did not courageously raise his voice on behalf of God’s people. And by his side was our Senior First Lady Earlean Poe Burns – his devoted partner in the ministry and life.

We are heartbroken by the loss of this giant among us. Yet, we know that Heaven is rejoicing at the homecoming of its beloved son and servant.

In the Gospel of John, the Word proclaims “the works that I do in My Father’s name, bear witness of Me.” The life’s work of the Reverend Dr. Emmett C. Burns, Jr. will live on for generations.

We are deeply grateful for your expressions of love and continued prayers.

Details on funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days.

To God Be The Glory,

Pastor Engel Burns and the Burns Family