[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 100 (Wednesday, July 9, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1428]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING REVEREND HOWARD JOHNSON

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JO BONNER

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 9, 2003

  Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Reverend Howard 
Johnson for his 21 years of service as pastor of the Truevine 
Missionary Baptist Church of Mobile, Alabama, and for numerous other 
contributions he has made to his community throughout his lifetime.
  Rev. Johnson was born in Jackson, Alabama, on June 26, 1940. He grew 
up in Clarke County, and it is there that he received his primary 
education. In 1967, Mr. Johnson entered the ministry and was licensed 
to preach. His first church was the Bethlehem Baptist Church in 
Citronelle, Alabama, and he served there from 1968-1980. He received 
his Associate Arts Degree from S.D. Bishop State Junior College in 1975 
and Bachelor of Arts Degree from Mobile College in 1976. In 1979, he 
graduated from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary with a Master 
of Divinity Degree, and in 1980 he earned his Doctor of Divinity Degree 
from the Virginia Seminary. He became the pastor of the Truevine 
Missionary Baptist Church in 1982 and has remained there to date.
  Besides serving as a pastor, Rev. Johnson has held positions in the 
Mt. Olive Baptist Church and the Sweet Pilgrim Baptist Church. He 
currently serves as the Chaplain for the University of South Alabama 
Medical Center. Throughout the years he has been a member of and led 
many civic and religious organizations. With his dedication to God and 
his community it is no surprise that he has been recognized with awards 
by various groups on numerous occasions. His life has been and 
continues to be an example for all to follow.
  I got to know Rev. Johnson during what was most certainly the most 
difficult period in his life following the death of his son, Howard, 
II, in service to his country in Iraq. The reverend showed almost 
inhuman strength, faith, and courage during this tragic time, and he 
has my deepest respect and admiration.
  It is most appropriate that on July 13, 2003, Rev. Johnson will be 
recognized for his 21 years at the Truevine Missionary Baptist Church. 
His wife, Gloria, and two daughters, Zsaquez RaShaunn and Geiselle 
LaVonne will join him in his celebration. This is a much deserved 
honor. We are fortunate to have Rev. Johnson as a leader in our 
district, and I am truly proud to call him my friend.

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