[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 155 (Friday, December 15, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2213]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CONGRATULATING REV. DR. CLAY EVANS ON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT

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                          HON. DANNY K. DAVIS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, December 15, 2000

  Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I take this opportunity to pay a 
special tribute to one of the nation's most dynamic, colorful, well-
known, influential and eminent religious leaders in America. One who is 
of humble origin and yet has been able to influence public decision 
making, develop programs and activities of enormous impact and to 
provide motivation, inspiration, spiritual consultation and consolation 
to millions.
  For more than fifty years, Rev. Clay Evans has been the founder, 
pastor and guiding light for development of the Fellowship Missionary 
Baptist Church. The ship as it is affectionately known has been a haven 
for Civil Rights, a home for aspiring clergymen-women, and a place to 
be for those who wanted to feel the spirit.
  Fellowship has been a platform for notables of every color, stripe or 
hue. It has been a church home for Rev. Jesse L. Jackson and a training 
ground for renowned clergy and musicians. Of all the decisions made by 
Rev. Evans over the past fifty years has been the decision to guide the 
parishioners in the selection of a new pastor so there is an orderly, 
peaceful and efficient leadership transition.
  I commend you, Rev. Evans for your ability to motivate and inspire 
and for the wisdom of understanding continuity. As you retire from 
active pastorship, may the Good Lord continue to bless and keep you and 
may he grant you peace as you enjoy the Golden Years of your life.

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