[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 55 (Tuesday, April 8, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E534]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CARROLLTON CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE

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                          HON. KENNY MARCHANT

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, April 8, 2008

  Mr. MARCHANT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 50th 
anniversary of the Carrollton Church of the Nazarene in Carrollton, 
Texas. Since its inception, the church has stood in the community as a 
symbol of perseverance and inspiration. This historic anniversary of 
the Carrollton Church of the Nazarene marks a time of remembrance of a 
storied past and renewal for a bright future.
  On April 6, 1958, a group of twelve founded the Valwood Church of the 
Nazarene in what would later evolve into the Carrollton Church of the 
Nazarene. At the time, all adults of the church became founding 
members. The first pastor was Rev. Monroe Burkhart and the song leader 
was Mrs. Jo Ann Marchant. Charter members included Rev. and Mrs. R.A. 
Holloway, Glen and Mary; Rev. and Mrs. M.S. Burkhart and Elson; Mr. and 
Mrs. Thurman Marchant; Mr. and Mrs. S.E. Marchant, Jr. and Mrs. Irene 
Cardwell.
  The founding members initially congregated at a building commonly 
referred to as the ``rabbit hutch'' on Harry Hines Boulevard. Over the 
coming years, the church relocated several times to worship at various 
locations including Carrollton City Hall, a store in downtown 
Carrollton, the Carrollton Community Center, individual homes, the 
basement of Valwood Parkway Baptist Church, local schools, a unit 
building on Dove Creek and Kelly Boulevard, and finally at Hebron 
Parkway. While the church has worshiped in many locations, its positive 
message has always remained the same.
  Madam Speaker, please join me in applauding the Carrollton Church of 
the Nazarene as it celebrates 50 years of dedicated fellowship. Clergy 
and members of the past and present are to be commended for their 
service to the church and greater community. It is my hope the 
Carrollton Church of the Nazarene continues to stand as beacon of 
resolve, inspiration, and worship for many years to come.

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