[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E55]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 CELEBRATING SAINT PAUL BAPTIST CHURCH

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JULIAN C. DIXON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 28, 1998

  Mr. DIXON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to call to the attention of the 
Congress the historic 90 year old Saint Paul Baptist Church of Los 
Angeles, California, whose great congregation will come together on 
Friday, February 13 to commemorate the one year anniversary of their 
esteemed Pastor, Dr. Joel Anthony Ward.
  An array of distinguished religious and civic leaders from around our 
city will join the congregation to honor Dr. Ward and his wife, MaLinda 
at this special service. The keynote address will be delivered by 
Reverend Joe B. Hardwick, Pastor of Praises of Zion Baptist Church, 
whose outstanding choir will sing at the service.
  This special weekend will culminate on Sunday, February 15, 1998, 
with a special worship service. Among the participants will be Dr. 
William Epps, Pastor of Second Baptist Church; Rev. Alvin Tunstill, 
Jr., Pastor of Trinity Baptist Church; Rev. Perry J. Jones, Pastor of 
Messiah Baptist Church; and Rev. G.D. McClain, Pastor of First Bethany 
Missionary Baptist Church. These distinguished clergymen recognize the 
challenges that religious leaders face today, and appreciate the 
remarkable record Dr. Ward has established in the short time he has 
been Pastor of Saint Paul Baptist Church.
  Dr. Ward was the Pastor and Organizer of Rehoboth Baptist Church in 
Detroit, Michigan when he accepted the call to become Pastor of Saint 
Paul. His inaugural year has been a great success. His exceptional 
stewardship has touched many lives, and has made an important 
difference in the life of his church.
  Mr. Speaker, I know my colleagues in this chamber join me in 
extending our best wishes to Dr. Ward on this joyous occasion. May God 
continue to bless his work as he ministers to the spiritual needs of 
his congregation.

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