[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 135 (Thursday, September 26, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1705]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             TRIBUTE TO ZION-GRACE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DAVID E. BONIOR

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 25, 1996

  Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, this coming Sunday, September 29, 1996, the 
Zion-Grace United Church of Christ, in my home State of Michigan, is 
celebrating its 100th anniversary.
  The present congregation is the product of a 1972 merger of two 
churches, Zion Church of Fraser and Grace Church of Detroit. 
Coincidentally, both of the churches trace their foundings to the same 
year--1896. Zion Evangelical Congregation in Fraser was organized in 
February 1896, while Grace Church was organized in September 1896 in 
Hamtramck. From its original location in Hamtramck, Grace Church moved 
to Detroit in 1918. It remained at that location until the 1970's when 
declining membership forced it to seek a home elsewhere. A special 
celebration consecrated the union in 1972 as they became one church 
family, the Zion-Grace United Church of Christ.
  The founders of this united church were committed to seeing the 
emotional, educational, and spiritual needs of their community 
fulfilled. Continuing in that tradition, the Reverend Joseph A. 
Lachcik, pastor of Zion-Grace UCC and the dedicated members of the 
congregation reach out to serve in many ways. The Women's Fellowship 
group, through the Samaritan Workshop is very active in service 
projects, mission involvement, and hospital donations. Through their 
ministry to others they have provided a home for the Homestead Adult 
Day Care, Boy Scouts, and Alcoholics Anonymous as well as participating 
actively in the support of area health and welfare programs.
  The centennial celebration of the church is a proud milestone. As the 
community prepares to commemorate this event, I applaud the church for 
its contributions to the rich tapestry that makes up American life in 
Michigan. I urge my colleagues to join with me in wishing 
congratulations to all the members of the Zion-Grace United Church of 
Christ. May the next 100 years be a continued fruitful ministry.

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