[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 154 (Thursday, November 8, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2040]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING PASTOR JOSEPH W. AND JOYCE ELLWANGER

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. THOMAS M. BARRETT

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 8, 2001

  Mr. BARRETT of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize the 
work of Pastor Joseph and Joyce Ellwanger as they retire from Cross 
Lutheran Church after more than thirty years of service to both their 
congregation and the people of Milwaukee.
  Pastor Joe began his ministry at St. Paul Lutheran Church in 
Birmingham, Alabama, during the era of the civil rights movement. It 
was at this time that he became committed to serving the poor and 
supporting social justice issues, this mission would become the 
framework for his life. In 1965, he joined the Reverend Martin Luther 
King Jr., and several members of the Southern Christian Leadership 
Conference in meeting with then--President Lyndon B. Johnson and 
petitioned him to swiftly pass the Voting Rights Act.
  The Ellwangers came to Milwaukee in 1967 to serve Cross Lutheran 
Church. They strengthened the faith and ministry of the Church and 
reached out to outlying communities. Through their leadership and 
vision, the congregation has become one known for its racial diversity, 
social justice, and emphasis on youth ministry.
  Both Pastor Joe and his wife, Joyce, saw the necessity of working 
ecumenically with others to obtain justice ministry in the life of the 
faith community. Pastor Joe's commitment is made evident through the 
creation of MICAH (Milwaukee Innercity Churches Allied for Hope), and 
participation in AODA Treatment Committee and the Education Committee. 
Joyce's dedication to serving others has been made visible through her 
coordination of outreach programs in community organizations, such as 
the World Food Day for Hunger Task Force, and the Hope House.
  During their 34 years in Milwaukee, Pastor Joe and Joyce have 
impacted our community in many positive ways, and they will be sorely 
missed. I am proud to join the members of Cross Lutheran Church in 
thanking them for their service to the people of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 
Please join me in honoring Pastor Joseph and Joyce Ellwanger for their 
enormous contributions and wishing them well in the future.

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