[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 2 (Thursday, January 7, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E28]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  TRIBUTE TO THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF OUR LADY OF CHALDEANS CATHEDRAL, 
                          MOTHER OF GOD CHURCH

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DAVID E. BONIOR

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, January 6, 1999

  Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to recognize a parish 
that has dedicated 50 years to the service of God and community. On 
Friday, January 8, 1999, Our Lady of Chaldeans Cathedral, Mother of God 
Church will celebrate its Golden Jubilee Anniversary.
  Located in Southfield, Michigan, Our Lady of Chaldeans Cathedral has 
been a center of religious and social activity for 50 years. During 
those years, the congregation has joyfully celebrated Christmas and 
Easter, baptisms and weddings, while lending a warm shoulder to those 
suffering. The Church has been a faithful friend to all who have walked 
through the front doors.
  When the parish was founded in 1948, the church was named for the 
Holy Mother, calling it the Mother of God Church. In 1982, Pastor 
Ibrahim Ibrahim was named the first Chaldean Bishop in the United 
States. The Mother of God Parish was then elevated to a Cathedral. The 
Chaldean community is family oriented and religious. The congregation 
grew from 100 families to approximately four thousand in 1998. The 
clergy and membership have given their time and talents to serve God 
and their community.
  Our Lady of Chaldeans Cathedral, Mother of God Church has been the 
center of many people's lives for 50 years. Although history and time 
have changed the congregation, the spirit of the church has remained 
strong. I would like to personally congratulate the parishioners on 
this historic milestone. Best wishes in the next 50 years.

                          ____________________