[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 132 (Tuesday, October 18, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2105]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            CELEBRATING 130 YEARS AT ST. JAMES A.M.E. CHURCH

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 18, 2005

  Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate St. James 
African Methodist Episcopal Church for celebrating its 130th 
Anniversary. This is a great accomplishment, and I am proud to have 
such a historical establishment in the 26th Congressional District of 
Texas.
  Founded in 1875, St. James A.M.E. is one of the oldest African-
American churches in Denton today. As the only African Methodist 
Episcopal church in Denton, members say that the church has survived 
130 years because of its people--the friendships, marriages and 
families have been the glue that keeps the small congregation together.
  St. James A.M.E. has dedicated itself to community service and 
involvement. Members help others by offering tutoring for students, 
help with credit establishment, and donations for those in need. Since 
the tragic event of Hurricane Katrina, the 83 member congregation of 
St. James A.M.E. reached out to support one relocated Louisiana family 
living in the parsonage. The church's value of submission is seen in 
this commitment to serving others in the community over the years.
  As one of the city's oldest churches, St. James A.M.E. occupies an 
important place in the Denton community today as a symbol of endurance, 
stability and service.
  Congratulations to the congregation at St. James African Methodist 
Episcopal Church on their anniversary. One hundred and thirty years of 
worship is a milestone to be celebrated.

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