[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 116 (Thursday, September 15, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1876]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


           CELEBRATING 100 YEARS AT HANDLEY CHURCH OF CHRIST

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                        HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 15, 2005

  Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Handley Church 
of Christ for celebrating its 100th anniversary. This is a great 
accomplishment, and I am proud to have an establishment such as this in 
the 26th Congressional District of Texas.
  In 1905, J. Dan Thomas invited several families to meet at his house 
for a worship service; this was the first meeting of the congregation 
of the Handley Church of Christ. Soon after, the congregation grew and 
became too large for the Thomas home.
  Throughout the years, the congregation continued to grow and with 
that came the need for more space. In 1919, the church moved to a frame 
building with seating for 60 people. With church membership listed as 
150, there was still not sufficient room. The congregation has since 
stayed on that property and continually added to and remodeled the 
building.
  Today, the sanctuary will seat 1,000 people and the property includes 
an educational building as well as a building consisting of classrooms. 
The church will commemorate its 100 years by unveiling a Texas State 
historical marker.
  As its founders intended, the Handley Church of Christ endures today 
as an example of a pioneer institution which has adapted itself to new 
surroundings and times without compromising traditional beliefs and 
values. As one of Tarrant County's oldest churches, it occupies an 
important place in the Handley community today as a symbol of 
endurance, stability and service.
  Congratulations to the congregation at Handley Church of Christ on 
their anniversary. One hundred years of worship is a milestone to be 
celebrated.

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