[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 79 (Monday, June 19, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1202]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 TRIBUTE TO THE NATIONAL BAPTIST CONVENTION OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION ON 
             THE COMMENCEMENT OF ITS 101ST ANNUAL CONGRESS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENJAMIN L. CARDIN

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 19, 2006

  Mr. CARDIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to the 
National Baptist Convention, USA, which opens its 101st congress today 
in Baltimore. An estimated 50,000 members will attend this convention, 
making it one of the largest conventions hosted by the city of 
Baltimore.
  The National Baptist Convention, USA, is the Nation's oldest and 
largest African-American religious convention, with a membership 
exceeding 7 million people. This convention is a great pillar of 
African-American tradition and history.
  It is especially fitting therefore that the inauguration of this 
convention falls on June 19th. Today is the 141st anniversary of 
Juneteenth, the national celebration commemorating the end of slavery 
in the United States. The convention is a prominent example of the 
power of faith, freedom, and compassion. I am pleased that the 
convention has taken a very active role in responding to the tragedy 
caused by Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans.
  I wish the convention a wonderful week in Baltimore. I appreciate the 
choice of my hometown--which has a very special role in African 
American history--as the site of their convention. I know that members 
of the convention will enjoy their time in Baltimore, and that 
Baltimoreans will enjoy serving as hosts.
  I urge my colleagues in the House to join me in saluting the National 
Baptist Convention of Christian Education for its proud tradition and 
noble service to the community.

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