[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 73 (Wednesday, May 25, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E952-E953]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC CHAPEL OF 
                              CLIFFORD, MI

                                  _____
                                 

                         HON. CANDICE S. MILLER

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 25, 2011

  Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct privilege to 
properly acknowledge a special event occurring in the 10th 
Congressional District. On Sunday, June 5, 2011, St. Patrick Catholic 
Church of Lapeer County in Clifford, Michigan will celebrate a 
significant and historic milestone--its 125th Anniversary Celebration. 
This achievement will begin with a 1 p.m. Celebration Mass presided by 
special guest, Archbishop Allen H. Vigneron of the Archdiocese of 
Detroit. Following mass, the celebration will continue with an open 
house and reception for all to enjoy. Although I will be unable to 
personally attend this festive occasion, I certainly wanted to 
recognize this extraordinary accomplishment and offer my heartfelt 
congratulations.
  Mr. Speaker, I believe it would be fitting to share some history 
about St. Patrick Chapel. However, first let me start with the 
Archdiocese of Detroit which was formally established in 1833, but can 
trace its Catholic lineage back to 1701 when the first French traders 
arrived in the region. The history of St. Patrick Chapel shares a 
similar story in that the Church was first built in 1886, but Father 
Clement Krebs started offering masses inside the homes of local 
residents in 1879--seven prior to the church being constructed.

[[Page E953]]

  Despite lacking an official diocese or church, both stories exemplify 
a Catholic presence and influence which exceeds the creation of 
physical infrastructure. It is a testament to an often repeated adage 
which states that the people inside the church are the church; a church 
without people is just an empty building.
  St. Patrick Catholic Church has been an important resource for 
Michigan's Thumb Region, and has always worked to improve the 
community. It has always answered the call of service and almsgiving. 
And despite the struggles and obstacles faced along the way, St. 
Patrick has remained steadfast and resilient exhibiting its core values 
and trust in God.
  Currently, over 1.4 million Catholics embody the Archdiocese of 
Detroit and St. Patrick Church has been a strong part of its history 
and the history of Lapeer County. Parishioners can be extremely proud 
of this keystone anniversary and have every reason to celebrate. 
Reaching this notable achievement is a strong reflection of the faith 
and commitment of the people who attend religious services and worship 
every Sunday.
  Lastly Mr. Speaker, I commend the leadership, parish staff, event 
coordinating committee and everyone who had a helping hand in seeing 
this day come to fruition. Their hard work is recognized and greatly 
appreciated. I extend my best wishes to St. Patrick Catholic Church on 
a successful and wonderful celebration.

                          ____________________