[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 135 (Wednesday, September 23, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2340]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    IN CELEBRATION OF SAINTS REST BAPTIST CHURCH'S 65TH ANNIVERSARY

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                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 23, 2009

  Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Saints Rest 
Baptist Church of Fresno, California, on this ceremonious day, in 
celebration of their 65th anniversary.
  The Saints Rest Baptist Church was organized by the late Rev. A.W. 
White and their motto of ``Spreading Hope in the Midst of 
Hopelessness'' remains inspirational today. Their mission statement 
rightfully explains the reason for their long-standing and continuing 
service to the community of Fresno: ``The mission of Saints Rest 
Baptist Church is to become a Christ Centered Community within the 
community that transforms the community by providing relevant 
ministries that speaks to the mind, body, and soul of humankind.''
  The community of West Fresno grew rapidly during the early years of 
the Second World War. Noticing the growth of California Avenue and 
knowing no church existed to accommodate residents of that area, a 
prolonged and dedicated fundraising venture began for the purpose of 
building a church.
  In 1945, groundbreaking ceremonies were conducted and the church was 
officially named Saints Rest Baptist Church. Only 1 year later, the 
church was able to add four deacons to serve the Saints Rest family. 
The church continued to grow and the faithful congregation endured 
worship services in a metal building located just north of the 
foundation with the knowledge and belief that this sacrifice would 
promote growth and allow them to continue their mission.
  Former Pastor Chester Riggins, who served the church as pastor for 44 
years from 1965 to 2009, helped to erect and then dismantle the metal 
building. It was in 1950 that the permanent building was officially 
erected and, poignantly, its first funeral service was for that of the 
founding father, Rev. A.W. White.
  Under the leadership of Pastor Chester Riggins, many programs were 
instituted at the church, including the House-to-House Revival, 
Community New Life and Big Brothers and Sisters. Additionally, the 
community stewardship expanded to include Marriage Workshops, the Food 
and Clothing Ministry, and the support of the Poverello House and the 
Fresno Rescue Mission. Senior Pastor Shane Scott has now assumed the 
leadership at Saints Rest and continues to expand upon the outstanding 
community service the church provides to the community. As a first 
course of business, Pastor Scott immediately undertook the project of 
renaming East Florence Avenue to East Chester Riggins Avenue, in 
memoriam for the outstanding dedication and service of Pastor Riggins. 
The Planning Commission accepted the renaming and a dedication ceremony 
was held in June 2007 and the address for Saints Rest is now 1550 E. 
Rev. Chester Riggins Avenue.
  Today, 65 years after its inception, the Saints Rest Baptist Church 
continues to be a shining light for the community of Fresno and its 
worshippers. Please join me in recognizing Senior Pastor Shane Scott 
and the Saints Rest family on the occasion of their 65th anniversary 
and wish them well as they continue to provide a meaningful place of 
worship for their congregation and the community. I am proud of the 
spiritual substance Saints Rest provides to our valley; the church's 
many efforts inspire and bring support to all of us.

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