[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 89 (Tuesday, June 22, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1351]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CELEBRATING THE 96TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ST. PAUL AFRICAN METHODIST 
                            EPISCOPAL CHURCH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. LOIS CAPPS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 22, 1999

  Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to bring to the attention of my 
colleagues an extraordinary church that is celebrating 96 years of 
service to the community of Santa Barbara--the St. Paul African 
Methodist Episcopal Church.
  The St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church was founded in 1903 
by Reverend J.P. Wright. The following year, the first church was 
established on the corner of Haley and Canal Streets. In September of 
1913, during the pastorate of Reverend J.A. Duncan, the present 
building was completed. From the first organization of only one actual 
member in 1903, the membership has grown to approximately 175 
worshipers in 1999.
  Mr. Speaker, I am inspired by the A.M.E. Church's service and 
dedication to the city of Santa Barbara. The congregation has been an 
integral partner in the creation and success of local programs that 
fight racism and violence, programs such as Beyond Tolerance, the Pro-
Youth Coalition and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. celebrations. The 
church has shown a commitment and vision that continues to be a beacon 
of hope to our community.
  Mr. Speaker, I was honored to join the A.M.E. Church this past 
weekend in celebrating 96 years of fellowship. I thank the congregation 
for all that it has done through the years and wish many more years of 
success to the St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church.




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