[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 39 (Thursday, March 11, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E403]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING PASTOR EDDIE McDONALD, SR.

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DALE E. KILDEE

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 11, 1999

  Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I come before you today with a heavy heart, 
as I stand here to recognize the achievements of a great man who gave 
much to his family, his community, and to the Lord. On March 8, Pastor 
Eddie McDonald, Sr. of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Pontiac, 
Michigan, joined the Lord after a lifetime of service.
  For many years, Pastor Eddie McDonald was known as one of the most 
respected and influential leaders in the City of Pontiac. It is nearly 
impossible to imagine what the Pontiac area would be like had Pastor 
McDonald chosen not to move here from his home in Fayetteville, North 
Carolina in 1953. In 1958 he joined the congregation of Messiah 
Missionary Baptist Church. He was ordained as a deacon in January 1959 
and became a minister on March 18, 1962.
  In 1966, Pastor McDonald began a street ministry, and the following 
year organized Bibleway Missionary Baptist Church, serving as Pastor 
through its first year. On March 28, 1968, Pastor McDonald became the 
pastor of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, and held the position 
up until his untimely death.
  Pastor McDonald's influence extended not only in the Church, but the 
community as well. He was affiliated with a number of professional and 
charitable organizations including the Pontiac Ecumenical Ministry, 
Pontiac Citizen's Coalition, Lighthouse and the Pontiac Youth 
Assistance Program. Pastor McDonald also served as president of the 
Oakland County Ministerial Fellowship. Not limiting his good deeds to 
the State of Michigan, he and his family have been instrumental in food 
and clothing drives benefitting needy individuals throughout the 
country.
  Mr. Speaker, when Pontiac became a part of my district, I was told by 
many that the first person I should meet was Pastor Eddie McDonald. 
This advice proved to be beneficial because from it, I gained a 
resource, an ally, a confidant, and most importantly, a friend. My 
sincerest condolences go out to his wonderful wife, Mary, their 
extended family, and the congregation of Friendship Missionary Baptist 
Church. He will be sorely missed.

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