[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 76 (Wednesday, May 19, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E881]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF BETHLEHEM MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

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                             HON. JO BONNER

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 19, 2010

  Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the congregation 
of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church of Bay Minette, Alabama upon the 
occasion of their 100th Anniversary which they celebrate this week.
  Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church was founded in 1910, when a group 
of concerned Christians realized a need to fellowship in a church of 
their own, rather than having to travel to a neighboring community. The 
name of Bethlehem Baptist was adopted and Reverend Issac Jones was 
named the first pastor.
  Initially, before they had a building, the congregation met under a 
brush arbor and in the homes of various members.
  Over the last century, the faithful congregation of Bethlehem Baptist 
encountered many trials and tribulations, including a fire that 
destroyed their first building, yet they never lost their faith or 
their love for their church. Their present sanctuary was built in 1963 
and has been enhanced over the following 47 years, adding on an annex, 
two classrooms and an office complex.
  In August of 2000, the Bethlehem Missionary Baptist congregation was 
the proud host of the Eastern Shore Baptist Convention.
  I wish to extend my congratulations to Pastor Jimmy Price, and all 
the congregation of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church as they proudly 
celebrate their 100th year, and I wish them every success as they look 
to a future of continued service to the Lord and their community.

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