[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 76 (Thursday, June 9, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1197]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        TRIBUTE TO MONUMENTAL BAPTIST CHURCH--105TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DONALD M. PAYNE

                             of new jersey

                  in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, June 9, 2005

  Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I ask colleagues here in the House of 
Representatives to join me as I rise to acknowledge the Monumental 
Baptist Church of Jersey City, New Jersey as it celebrates its 105th 
anniversary. Established in 1900, Monumental was incorporated in 1904 
and has been serving the needs of its congregation and the community 
continuously.
  Throughout the illustrious history of Monumental Baptist Church, 
effective leadership has been at the core of all the accomplishments 
the church has had. Beginning with Pastor William Edwards and 
continuing with Pastors Garlick, Smith, Fitzgerald, Webb, Ashley and 
the current pastor, Reverend Joseph L. Jones, Sr., Monumental has made 
many enhancements over the years. In addition to its leadership, the 
success of all of Monumental's initiatives can be attributed to the 
faith, hope, commitment and prayers of the loving membership that fill 
the pews of this landmark facility. In fact, Monumental Baptist Church 
is blessed to have 55 members who have fifty or more years of 
continuous membership. Clearly, that statistic is representative of the 
marvelous activities taking place at the church.
  Recently, Monumental Baptist Church was officially approved as a 
501(c)(3) religious organization. The church's finances have improved 
over the years enabling the on-going renovations and upgrades to church 
owned properties.
  Mr. Speaker, I know my colleagues agree that Monumental Baptist 
Church and the surrounding community have every right to be pleased 
with the lasting contributions that the church has made to the 
residents of Jersey City. I am pleased to congratulate Monumental 
Baptist Church on its 105th anniversary.

                          ____________________