[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 163 (Thursday, October 25, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2245-E2246]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   ANNIVERSARY OF THE ANTIOCH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH IN DECATUR, 
                                ILLINOIS

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. PHIL HARE

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 25, 2007

  Mr. HARE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 150th 
anniversary of the Antioch Missionary Baptist Church in Decatur, 
Illinois.
  The beginning of the church was the idea of Maria Carr, 
affectionately known as ``Grandma Carr,'' who in 1854 escaped slavery 
through the Underground Railroad and settled in Decatur, Illinois. 
Grandma Carr, along with Mrs. Gilbert Vernon and Mrs. Emily Stains held 
weekly prayer meetings at their homes with the goal of establishing a 
local community church based on the principles of equality and civil 
rights.
  With the help of Captain David L. Allen, a white Christian, their 
wish came true. He offered a small frame building to the church group 
and officially donated ownership of the land in 1858. The first pastor 
of Antioch was Reverend Tom Reasoner.
  With simple beginnings, the church developed a rich history of 
diversity and faith. The

[[Page E2246]]

Antioch Church housed the first school for black citizens in Decatur. 
Later, the church was blessed by a faithful servant named Reverend Dr. 
Turner who led the congregation from 1965 until his death in 1995. 
During the 30 years of his service, Reverend Turner established a free 
food bank and clothing room, which continue to serve needy families in 
the community today. Reverend Turner also opened a local extension of 
the United Theological Seminary through which many ministers in Decatur 
and in neighboring cities earned their bachelor's and master's degrees 
in theology.
  I am deeply honored to represent the Antioch Missionary Baptist 
Church and congratulate its congregation for 150 years of service. The 
strong faith and history of Antioch will no doubt continue to serve the 
Decatur community for another 150 years, and remind us of the values of 
diversity and public service upon which it was established.

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