[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 106 (Thursday, July 24, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1510]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO REV. CHARLES BROOKS

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. GEORGE E. BROWN, JR.

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 24, 1997

  Mr. BROWN of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share in the 
thanks and praise being bestowed on Rev. Charles Brooks for his 
invaluable service to St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church and 
the community of San Bernardino. His 8-year dedication to this 
congregation as pastor will be fondly remembered and greatly missed. 
Since 1959, Reverend Brooks has undeniably touched the lives of 
hundreds with his positive and effective leadership.
  The many awards and honors that have been bestowed on Reverend 
Brooks, including Life Time Achievement Awards for his dedication to 
civic affairs in the black community and for his diligent commitment to 
community service, do not begin to capsulize the contribution he has 
made to San Bernardino and communities abroad. Reverend Brooks is not 
only recognized for his contributions to a number of congregations, but 
in his capacity as teacher, administrator, and civic leader. His 
groundbreaking career, as the first black elected as president of the 
San Bernardino Clergy Association and the La Jolla Ministerial 
Association, will continue to serve as a leading example of excellence.
  It is my honor to offer my congratulations and appreciation to such 
an outstanding pastor and leader at the arrival of his retirement. As 
he has given so greatly to San Bernardino and various other 
communities, it is my pleasure to wish him and his family the best in 
the years to come.

                          ____________________