[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 39 (Thursday, March 5, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E564]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 TRIBUTE ON THE 180TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF 
                           DANVILLE, ILLINOIS

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                        HON. TIMOTHY V. JOHNSON

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 5, 2009

  Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition 
of the 180th anniversary of the First Presbyterian Church of Danville, 
Illinois.
  Built on land so graciously dedicated by Reverend Enoch Kingsbury, 
the First Presbyterian Church was founded on March 7, 1829 by eight 
charter members. The Church provided the first school and library of 
Danville.
  From its humble beginnings in the 1830s, the church took a stand 
against slavery. Confirming their stance on slavery, the church would 
be honored with a visit from Abraham Lincoln, where he worshiped when 
his duties as attorney brought him to Danville.
  The First Presbyterian Church continues to have a positive impact on 
the community by establishing and supporting several programs including 
Aunt Martha's Youth service, a free clinic, Faith in action, a program 
for adults 60 years of age and older, and Big Brothers Big Sisters, a 
mentoring service for youth. The church is a strong supporter of the 
arts through the use of the Aeolian-Skinner Pipe organ and the use of 
their facilities for musical performances.
  I hope all of you will join me in recognizing The First Presbyterian 
Church in its faithful mission to be servants of Christ, both in their 
church and their community.

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