[Page S4284]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF 
                                ASHLAND

  Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, I wish to congratulate Rev. Dan Fowler and 
First Presbyterian Church of Ashland on 150 years of commitment to 
welcoming and accepting people through all walks of life into your 
community of faith. Ever since Rev. Moses Allen Williams organized the 
First Presbyterian Church of Ashland on August 18, 1875, this church in 
southern Oregon has remained dedicated to--in their own words--
``honoring the teachings of Jesus and being a safe haven for all who 
walk through its doors.'' First Presbyterian Church celebrates its 
150th anniversary as a diverse church family that includes families, 
professionals of all kinds, including artists, college students, and 
people struggling with homelessness, all of whom come together to walk 
with God and serve their community.
  Since 1875, First Presbyterian Church of Ashland has been committed 
to serving the local and global community and has prided itself on 
being a welcoming and affirming place for all. Their specific forms of 
aid include overnight parking spots for those facing homelessness, a 
free pantry, emergency transportation and food aid, and free answers to 
medical questions. The church's continued service to our community 
represents the very best of Oregon's spirit of commitment, service, and 
dedication.
  First Presbyterian Church of Ashland's impact extends far beyond just 
the people they have directly helped; it ripples outward to make Oregon 
a better place for all of us to call home. The church's willingness to 
remain engaged and active in service exemplifies the values that we, as 
Oregonians, hold dear.
  It is an honor to represent First Presbyterian Church of Ashland in 
the U.S. Senate and congratulations again to the church on its 150th 
anniversary.

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