Bishop Rainey Cheeks Legacy | Annapolis News

Annapolis News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 17, 2026 · 1m

Bishop Rainey Cheeks, a D.C. icon who died at 74 after battling cancer and complications from a kidney transplant, was more than a preacher—he was a taekwondo champion, HIV/AIDS advocate, and founder of the groundbreaking ClubHouse for Black gay Washingtonians. Diagnosed with HIV in 1985, he defiantly declared, “I have it. It does not have me,” launching Us Helping Us to serve the Black LGBTQ community. He also established Inner Light Ministries, an inclusive church that welcomed all. His life’s work built bridges, lifted voices, and left an indelible mark on countless lives—celebrated August…