[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 28 (Tuesday, March 7, 2006)]
[Senate]
[Page S1832]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             TRIBUTE TO REDFORD AVENUE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

 Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, I would like to take this 
opportunity to congratulate Redford Avenue Presbyterian Church on 100 
years of worship and service to the community. This milestone was 
recently commemorated with 2 days of events, culminating in a dance and 
dinner celebration that took place on March 6, 2006. This momentous 
occasion provides the perfect opportunity to reflect on Redford's rich 
history and to remember the integral role Redford has played in the 
community over the years.
  Redford Avenue Presbyterian Church was established in March 1906 by a 
small congregation that served what was then known as the Sand Hill in 
Detroit. The church's membership grew rapidly, and as a result, in 
1929, a separate addition was built to accommodate the larger 
congregation. Unfortunately, in 1945 the sanctuary was completely 
destroyed by a fire. However, this tragedy provided an important 
opportunity for the congregation and community to work together to 
rebuild the church, and by 1954, a new sanctuary, educational wing and 
fellowship hall was constructed. By the late 1960s, the membership had 
grown to more than 3,600 people.
  Today, Redford Avenue Presbyterian Church has a smaller congregation 
but has maintained its strong spirit, deep faith and unwavering 
commitment to serve and minister to the greater Detroit community. For 
the last 30 years the church has run a daycare center that helps to 
meet the needs of many working parents in the community. In addition, 
Redford's educational building is currently being leased to a charter 
school and is also used by a local division of Sea Cadets.
  Redford Avenue Presbyterian Church also continues to make its 
building available to many groups and organizations in the 
neighborhood. Considered a cornerstone of the community, Redford 
consistently provides meeting space for groups such as Narcotics 
Anonymous and Metro Detroit Deaf Senior Citizens. And, for 1 night each 
January, the church opens its doors to house, feed, clothe, and 
minister to the homeless.
  I know my Senate colleagues will join me in congratulating Redford 
Avenue Presbyterian Church and wish its members, volunteers, and 
ministerial staff many more years of fellowship and service.

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