[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 30 (Thursday, March 4, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E306]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF SAINT MARGARET'S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

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                         HON. ANTHONY D. WEINER

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 4, 2010

  Mr. WEINER. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the 150th anniversary 
of the historic Saint Margaret Roman Catholic Church in Middle Village, 
New York.
  Throughout their history, Saint Margaret's has withstood the test of 
time by wholeheartedly committing themselves to education, faith and 
service. Ever since its inception, the parish has continuously strived 
to reach out and respond to the changing needs of the community.
  On March 18, 1860 Father Goetz broke ground on the first Catholic 
Church in Middle Village. Much of the original parishioners were 
farmers concerned for their crops and animals. To its parishioners, 
Saint Margaret's acted as the protector of those animals against life 
threatening epidemics and the crops against harvests that brought harsh 
weather. During the civil war, Father Goetz and numerous other priests 
from Saint Margaret's made regular visits to rebel prisons, which 
housed prisoners captured by Union soldiers.
  A small frame school was built to house 20 pupils in 1890. Now that 
school holds 600 pupils with over 50,000 graduates. Their mission is 
comprised of community, charity and goodwill, in which they are 
tenaciously dedicated to pursuing. Throughout the years, Saint 
Margaret's Church has worked with some of the most extraordinary 
pastors and presiders in the country, and has developed a cadre of 
priests who have nurtured and challenged this ministry to continue to 
grow in purpose and commitment.
  St. Margaret's School works at building a family spirit while 
providing an education where excellence is encouraged and Christian 
values permeate. They have dedicated their existence to these values 
and their ongoing service to the community, serving in such things as 
Ministry to the Homebound and their food pantry for the less fortunate.
  I am pleased to note the 150th anniversary of Saint Margaret's Roman 
Catholic Church.

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