[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 84 (Tuesday, May 22, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1117]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO REV. THOMAS CHARLES

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BOBBY JINDAL

                              of louisiana

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 22, 2007

  Mr. JINDAL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Reverend Thomas 
Charles French, Jr., for his 49-year service to the congregation of 
Jefferson Baptist Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
  Reverend French, who retired this May, departs from a pastorship he 
has held since Jefferson Baptist's founding. In the five decades since; 
he has overseen its growth from a mere 17 members to nearly 1,500, has 
played an active role in the Southern Baptist Convention, has developed 
a television ministry program in collaboration with his church, and has 
ministered to four generations of some of the families at Jefferson 
Baptist.
  Though officially he is retired, Reverend French will continue to 
serve the community on various governing boards in Louisiana. He also 
will act as Jefferson Baptist's pastor emeritus after a new pastor is 
found. I know that even in retirement, Revered French will continue the 
good works that have made him so beloved to his community in Baton 
Rouge.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that all my colleagues join me today in honoring 
my good friend Reverend Thomas French's life and works. His exceptional 
energy, service to the public good, and lifelong dedication to his 
church and his state are an example for all of us to follow. I am 
honored to call him a friend, and I wish him the best in retirement.

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