[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 105 (Wednesday, July 17, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1302]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      TRIBUTE TO THE FIRST ARMENIAN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF FRESNO

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                         HON. GEORGE RADANOVICH

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 17, 1996

  Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the First Armenian 
Presbyterian Church of Fresno, which is preparing to celebrate its 99th 
anniversary on Sunday, July 28, 1996. It is indeed an honor and a 
pleasure for me to bring this time of celebration to the attention of 
my colleagues in the House of Representatives.
  The First Armenian Presbyterian Church was originally founded on July 
25, 1897, by 34 men and women from the Fresno area. The church was the 
first Armenian church to be founded in California and was received into 
the fellowship of the Presbytery of Stockton in October 1897. From 1897 
to the present, the First Armenian Presbyterian Church has continued to 
grow in faith and numbers to nearly 300 members.
  Over the years, the First Armenian Presbyterian Church has continued 
to be a source of inspiration and strength to the Fresno Armenian 
community. The foundations and teachings are passed from generation to 
generation within the church and children continue to learn about the 
traditions and lives of their ancestors. As a place of sanctuary, the 
church has offered people comfort during times of trial and hardship. 
Under the leadership of Senior Pastor Rev. Bernard Guekguezian, the 
church has offered continuous guidance and support. I am proud to have 
someone of Rev. Guekguezian's ability and knowledge in the 19th 
Congressional District.
  Mr. Speaker, the First Armenian Presbyterian Church of Fresno has 
been a remarkable organization of unity and vitality for 99 years. This 
congregation exemplifies perseverance and dedication to their families, 
the community of Fresno, and the State of California. I offer my 
sincere congratulations to the First Armenian Presbyterian Church on 
this special day.

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