[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 131 (Friday, September 26, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1878-E1879]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                TRIBUTE TO ST. JAMES PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BRAD SHERMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 26, 1997

  Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 
groundbreaking ceremony for St. James Presbyterian Church's new 
sanctuary. It is an honor to join the congregation in celebrating this 
momentous occasion.
  On January 17, 1994, the St. James sanctuary was destroyed by the 
Northridge earthquake. Since that time the congregation has worshiped 
in their fellowship hall which does not accommodate their entire 
congregation. Finally, 3\1/2\ years later, they are able to rebuild 
their sanctuary. We gather here to celebrate this new beginning.
  St. James Presbyterian has a long and detailed history which 
stretches back to the end of the Second World War. During that time the 
San Fernando Valley had an unexpected population boom and Dr. John 
Tufft was selected by the Presbyterian Church's Presbytery of

[[Page E1879]]

Los Angeles to be the organizing pastor of a new church in Tarzana, St. 
James Presbyterian Church.
  The membership grew quickly, from 132 members in 1952 to 1,295 
members in 1961. Luckily they were able to begin construction of a 
sanctuary to accommodate all who wanted to worship. They dedicated 
their magnificent sanctuary and the first service was so moving it was 
televised on the program ``Great Churches of the Golden West.'' 
Unfortunately, it was this sanctuary that was destroyed by the 
earthquake.
  Many members have struggled financially with the hopes of worshiping 
with the entire congregation under one roof again. This dream is 
finally a reality with today's groundbreaking ceremony.
  Mr. Speaker, distinguished colleagues, please join me in celebrating 
the groundbreaking of this beautiful sanctuary. The members of this 
congregation deserve this recognition for their dedication and 
sacrifice.

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