[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 148 (Wednesday, October 27, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2199]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNITION OF REV. ALFRED WALKER, JR., AND NEW HOPE BAPTIST CHURCH

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                       HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 27, 1999

  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in 
recognition of Rev. Alfred Walker, Jr., the 12th pastor of the historic 
New Hope Baptist Church in Dallas, TX.
  Reverend Walker has served New Hope Baptist Church with unwavering 
faith. His fine tradition of spiritual guidance and community service 
is an inspiration to us all.
  New Hope Baptist Church is blessed to have called Reverend Walker its 
pastor. Likewise, the Reverend was fortunate to serve a church with 
such a rich history.
  New Hope has the distinction of being the first African-American 
church within the city limits of Dallas entirely organized and owned by 
African-American people. In the 1870's, Sisters Rainey, Robinson, 
Drake, Williams, Starke, Taylor, and Brother Jerry Taylor held regular 
prayer meetings. On July 27, 1873, these spiritual leaders organized 
their prayer band into a church. Many direct descendants of these 
pioneers continue to worship at New Hope.
  In addition to its religious programs, the church has been a strong 
force in the community. New Hope sponsored one of the earliest African-
American newspapers, and it has offered etiquette and public speaking 
classes to interested citizens. The church constructed the historic 
building at 919 Bogel Street, that became the center for cultural, 
political, and educational activities. Also, the first free public 
schools for African-Americans in Dallas were organized at New Hope 
Baptist Church.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the grateful congregation of New Hope 
Baptist Church, I commend Rev. Alfred Walker, Jr., for his dedication 
to the church and the community. I also commend Dallas' oldest African-
American Christian Witness, New Hope Baptist Church, for 126 years of 
continuous community service.

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