[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 125 (Thursday, September 18, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1792]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 COMMEMORATING THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF ST. STEPHEN'S COMMUNITY CHURCH, 
                  UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST, LANSING, MI

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                          HON. DEBBIE STABENOW

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 18, 1997

  Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the 10th 
anniversary of St. Stephen's Community Church.
  Founded in the fall of 1987, St. Stephen's began as an 
interdenominational church whose doctrine focuses on spiritually rooted 
in African-American religious tradition, with an emphasis on community 
outreach and volunteerism. In 1990, they became affiliated with the 
United Church of Christ, a progressive denomination that embraces and 
celebrates multiracial, cultural, and ethnic background.
  Guided by Rev. Dr. Michael C. Murphy, the congregation lives by the 
proverb, ``Where There Is No Vision, the People Perish.'' This is 
evident in their passion to make a real difference in the community. 
From their spiritual and community leadership to their involvement in 
many local charitable projects, the St. Stephen's Community Church is 
an important local institution dedicated to the Lansing community.
  We are proud to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the St. Stephen's 
Community Church and congratulate their 300 member congregation. We 
thank them for their activism and we thank them for their vision.

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