[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 29 (Thursday, February 12, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E264]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE FOUNDER'S DAY CELEBRATION AT NEW GREATER BETHEL AFRICAN 
                       METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH

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                          HON. JOHN S. TANNER

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 12, 2009

  Mr. TANNER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to help commemorate the 222nd 
year since the founding of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. The 
New Greater Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Jackson, 
Tennessee--which I am honored to represent in this chamber--is hosting 
a Founder's Day celebration, beginning today.
  Pastor Sabrina Transou and Mr. Parrish Transou Sr. expect to share 
the event with parishioners from all across the country, including 
Presiding Prelate, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, the first female 
consecrated as Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. I join 
Pastor Transou in welcoming Bishop McKenzie and their numerous other 
guests to West Tennessee.
  The names of my dear friends Dr. Wesley McClure, President of Lane 
College, and Shirlene Mercer, who recently retired as our office's 
long-time Director of Constituent Services, have been submitted to 
Bishop McKenzie for the Legendary Award for outstanding service within 
the community. The award will be presented Friday evening. I also want 
to take this opportunity to acknowledge all that both of these 
individuals have done for our community.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues in the House join me 
in honoring the New Greater Bethel African Methodist as it begins this 
celebration of the founding of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. 
Thank you.

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