[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 52 (Tuesday, April 24, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E592]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            IN HONOR OF SAINT ELIAS MELKITE CATHOLIC CHURCH

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                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 24, 2001

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Saint Elias Melkite 
Catholic Church. This year, Saint Elias celebrates its centennial 
anniversary.
  For the past one hundred years, Saint Elias has served as an 
important part of the Northeast Ohio community. A place where people of 
all faiths can come together to pray for peace in the Middle East, 
Saint Elias has effectively ministered to a diverse neighborhood. In 
1997, the Catholic Church formally presented Saint Elias with the award 
for the Promotion of Catholic Unity and Inter-Religious Dialogue. The 
award recognized Saint Elias's years of dedication to ecumenicalism.
  The good nature of Saint Elias has not been limited to the 
neighborhood which houses the parish. Starting last year, the parish 
has sponsored children in Lebanon by helping to provide needed medical 
supplies and clothing. The goodwill and love of the people of Saint 
Elias has been demonstrated by these acts of sharing and concern.
  Saint Elias Church has always stayed true to its Melkite roots. 
Always stressing fellowship and service, Saint Elias has assumed 
important roles in its neighborhood. Most recently, Saint Elias created 
its first Mens Club, which has shown a deep dedication to the promotion 
of spiritual and material projects. They have organized countless 
benefits, and have raised funds for scholarships, provided relief to 
the poor and sponsored religious activities. The Men's Club has become 
a fixture in the neighborhood, bring people together to help one 
another.
  My fellow colleagues, please join me in honoring Saint Elias Melkite 
Catholic Church as they celebrate their one hundredth birthday.

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