[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 109 (Thursday, September 7, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1661]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              IN RECOGNITION OF RISING STAR BAPTIST CHURCH

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                        HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 7, 2006

  Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Rising 
Star Baptist Church of Fort Worth, Texas on its 75th Anniversary.
  The church's modest beginning began on September 13, 1931 in a local 
diner, when Reverend Smith Cary and a small number of members organized 
Rising Star Church. The church has seen the leadership of many dynamic 
ministers including, Reverend Smith Cary, Reverend T.H. Davis, and its 
present pastor, Reverend Ralph W. Emerson, Jr.
  The stated vision of the Church is to be ``the Worship Center that 
seeks to reclaim lost souls, reshape lives, rejoice in love, react to 
the Holy Spirit while responding to God's call''. Rising Star Baptist 
church has exemplified their vision through growth to a congregation of 
over 2,500 members and progressing into a multi-ministry church. Rising 
Star Baptist Church continues to be an influential presence and 
respected contributor to the Fort Worth community and greater Tarrant 
County citizenry.
  I extend my sincere congratulations to the Rising Star Baptist Church 
on their 75th anniversary and praise their dedication and service to 
the people of Fort Worth, Texas.

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