[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 129 (Thursday, October 6, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2014]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE CHURCH OF THE OPEN DOOR OF LIBERTY 
                      CITY ON ITS 47TH ANNIVERSARY

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                         HON. KENDRICK B. MEEK

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 6, 2005

  Mr. MEEK of Florida. I rise to recognize the Church of the Open Door 
in Liberty City, Miami on its 47th Anniversary, which was celebrated on 
Sunday, September 18, 2005.
  To celebrate its 47th year, the Church hosted civil rights activist 
and preacher, Rev. Dr. Joseph E. Lowery, a colleague of the late Dr. 
Martin Luther King, Jr. Rev. Lowery's powerful sermon was heard by many 
of the Church's founding members who are still active in the 
congregation.
  Open Door is home to many prominent activists in the Liberty City 
community. Many members participated in the March on Washington and 
other key events in the civil rights movement, and they continue to be 
strong voices in the fight for justice and equality.
  The Church of the Open Door was built in 1958 at 6001 NW 8th Avenue, 
and was founded by the family of Marie Faulkner Brown. To celebrate 
this anniversary the church unveiled portraits of its founding members 
and pastors, and hosted four days of guest choirs, fellowship, and 
worship services for its annual revival week.
  Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate Open Door's pastor, Rev. Joaquin 
Willis, and his congregants on this happy occasion.

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