[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 146 (Monday, October 3, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1746]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    REVEREND DOCTOR STEVEN D. RILEY

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. JOHN D. DINGELL

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 3, 2011

  Mr. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate my dear friend, the 
Reverend Doctor Steven D. Riley, who was honored this past weekend for 
his 30th Anniversary as Pastor of Christ Temple Baptist Church in 
Ypsilanti, Michigan and his 40 years of teaching the gospel. A large 
and enthusiastic group of friends from all walks of life, leaders from 
the community, and people he touched throughout his life all gathered 
for a service to pay tribute to this wonderful local leader. The 
greatest message given that evening was seen on the faces of the 
audience whose love, gratitude, affection and respect for Reverend 
Riley's service to the church and his community radiated throughout the 
service.
  He has led Ypsilanti and Southeast Michigan by his ministerial 
example and being steadfast in his mission to shape and mold the 
present into a better future. He has worked hard to ensure that 
residents in Southeast Michigan have a friend in faith, are cared for, 
and have a roof overhead. For that, I would like to say on behalf of 
the people of Michigan's 15th Congressional District, thank you.
  Reverend Doctor Riley has dedicated his career to spreading the 
gospel in Southeast Michigan. His commitment to serving others has 
helped my constituents lead healthier, more fulfilled lives. He has 
been a leader among the church-affiliated groups in Southeast Michigan. 
I want to thank him for his love of all people and for his tremendous 
friendship.
  Mr. Speaker, I am told that Reverend Doctor Riley chose his career 
early in life. At the age of 11, he began ministering to his neighbors 
in Detroit, and stayed focused growing in the faith by earning a 
bachelor's degree in theology and philosophy. He felt called to 
continue learning more, going on to get a master's degree in theology 
and religious studies, and a doctorate of divinity degree along with a 
doctorate of humane letters.
  Mr. Speaker, Reverend Doctor Riley is an honorable man who has done 
many great things for the citizens of Southeastern Michigan. I am 
honored to have him as friend. I ask that you and all of my colleagues 
join me in congratulating Reverend Doctor Riley for his tireless 
support, kindness and leadership to his community and to give him our 
best wishes for the future.

                          ____________________