[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 154 (Friday, September 26, 2008)]
[Senate]
[Page S9642]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            TRIBUTE TO REV. CAESAR ARTHUR WALTER CLARK, SR.

 Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, today I honor the life of a highly 
respected and gifted Baptist pastor, Caesar Arthur Walter Clark, Sr. 
Born on December 13, 1914, in Shreveport, LA, Reverend Clark spent his 
life devoted to the teaching of his faith, blessing many around the 
State and Nation by his work. He died Sunday, July 27, 2008, at age 93 
in Dallas, where he spent more than five decades preaching at Good 
Street Baptist Church.
  Reverend Clark showed his passion for preaching throughout his life, 
starting as a 19-year-old pastor of the Israelite Baptist Church in 
Longstreet, LA, where his fiery sermons earned him the nickname 
``Little Caesar.'' After joining Good Street Baptist Church in 1950, 
Reverend Clark helped build the church into a 5,000 member 
congregation. It was through his work with the local NAACP chapter that 
Reverend Clark met Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr., and invited him to 
give a speech hosted by Good Street Baptist.
  Reverend Clark cared as much about the presentation of his sermons as 
the presentation of his actions. He sought to live what he preached to 
the best of his ability, becoming a mentor to many. As a result, 
Reverend Clark's sphere of influence extended far beyond the pulpit. 
For example, he worked to improve the lives of his parishioners and 
members of the community by opening daycare centers, a credit union, a 
legal clinic, and low-income housing. In addition, he served as vice 
president of the National Baptist Convention and as president of the 
Missionary Baptist Association of Texas. Reverend Clark's service 
touched many lives; in particular, Reverend R.E. Price, pastor at Mt. 
Zion Baptist Church in Dallas. Reverend Price said, ``Dr. Clark was a 
man of great integrity and a speaker for all occasions. It was a 
privilege to serve with him in various leadership roles as his advice 
was always sage. Most of all, he was my friend.''
  Reverend Clark's accomplishments as a pastor and civic leader have 
earned him the respect and admiration of many. He leaves a legacy of 
good works, a mighty faith, and a purpose-filled life. I join with his 
family and friends in celebrating Reverend Clark for his long life of 
service to God and community.

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