[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 69 (Thursday, May 22, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1037-E1038]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




A TRIBUTE TO REV. FREDERICK EID: 50 YEARS OF SERVICE AS A MISSIONARY OF 
                                 CHANGE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROBERT MENENDEZ

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 22, 1997

  Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a truly 
exceptional gentleman, Rev. Frederick Eid, on the 50th anniversary of 
his ordination to the priesthood. This momentous occasion will be 
recognized during a mass to be celebrated on May 31, 1997 at Our Lady 
of Grace Church in Hoboken, NJ.
  The story of Father Eid began 80 years ago on May 23, 1917, in my 
hometown of Union City, NJ. It was here that his desire to educate 
others was born. He was educated at local Catholic schools and 
subsequently attended Seton Hall University, after which he entered 
Holy Name Seminary. Father Eid was joyfully ordained into the 
priesthood on May 31, 1947.
  Father Eid began his life's journey of service to others while on a 
mission to Latin America. He started out in Mexico and traveled to El 
Salvador and Honduras, where he ministered to the local communities. 
Father Eid gained his deep appreciation of Hispanic culture and learned 
to speak Spanish. Upon his return to the United States, Father Eid 
expanded his focus with both an African-American mission in Essex 
County and St. Mary's Parish in Jersey City.
  The lives of the residents of Hoboken took a fortunate turn with 
Father Eid's arrival at Our Lady of Grace Church in December 1968. 
During his tenure at Our Lady of Grace Church, Father Eid has become a 
member of many families in the area. He has had a special affinity for 
those less fortunate than himself. Father Eid has worked tirelessly 
with the local court system, and the Division of Youth and Family 
Services in particular, to care for the needs of the children in the 
area. Additionally, Father Eid serves as chaplain to those charged with 
protecting and saving lives: the Hoboken Ambulance, Police, and Fire 
Departments.
  It is an honor to have such a caring and dedicated individual work on 
behalf of the residents of my district. Father Frederick Eid's 
extraordinary efforts will be remembered for

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many generations. I ask that my colleagues rise with me and applaud 
this remarkable missionary of change.

                          ____________________