[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 54 (Friday, May 3, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E718]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   COMMEMORATING THE DEDICATION OF THE COVENANT HALL SHARED BETWEEN 
   BRADLEY HILLS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH AND BETHESDA JEWISH CONGREGATION

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                       HON. CONSTANCE A. MORELLA

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 3, 2002

  Mrs. MORELLA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate 
the dedication of Covenant Hall, in Bethesda, Maryland. This grand 
building is shared between the interfaith congregations of Bradley 
Hills Presbyterian Church (BHPC) and the Bethesda Jewish Congregation 
(BJC).
  Today, Covenant Hall symbolizes the thirty-five year friendship 
between BHPC and BJC that was once a mere ``rental agreement'' for 
shared space. The bonds between the congregations emphasize a 
partnership in dialogue, education, outreach and worship. This unique 
relationship is the longest in the Nation between Christians and Jews 
and is an example to the community and country that different faiths 
can work together to achieve a common goal.
  We celebrate the completion of Covenant Hall's five year renovation 
and construction project called ``Celebrate the Light.'' For five 
years, BHPC and BJC demonstrated tremendous collaboration and teamwork. 
Their sacrifices are the foundations of the unprecedented faith and 
trust that the two congregations enjoy today. Covenant Hall is 
testament to the relationship and will facilitate expanded 
opportunities for mutual cooperation and joint services in the future.
  The building is consecrated ``sacred space'' shared by two 
``spiritual siblings,'' and is uniquely designed to provide the full 
expression of each faith tradition. Covenant Hall will enhance the 
witness of both congregations to the surrounding community. 
Furthermore, the building and covenant between BHPC and BJC will serve 
as a constant reminder to the community that our divided world can 
enjoy and respect the beliefs of others.
  The continued success of this partnership between BHPC and BJC and 
the completion of Covenant Hall is due to the hard work of the 
congregation and staff. Reverend Susan Andrews of BHPC and Spiritual 
Leader, Hazzan Sunny Schnitzer of BJC are fortunate to lead these 
congregations into the 21st century, with the construction of Covenant 
Hall. Our community is richer for the daily contributions Bradley Hills 
Presbyterian Church and Bethesda Jewish Congregation make to everyone.

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