[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 45 (Monday, March 19, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E383]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                TRIBUTE TO REV. DR. JAMES A. KUYKENDALL

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 19, 2012

  Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the continued 
contributions of Rev. Dr. James A. Kuykendall to the State of New 
Jersey and to our Nation. As a spiritual leader, mentor, and community 
servant, Dr. Kuykendall has dedicated himself to bettering the lives of 
others.
  Dr. Kuykendall is a native of my hometown, Paterson, New Jersey. He 
attended Eastside High School, where he was an assistant drum major for 
the school marching band. Dr. Kuykendall went on to study at Montclair 
State University and Ramapo College. Ultimately, Dr. Kuykendall 
obtained his Doctor of Divinity degree from Shiloh Theological Seminary 
in 1999.
  Dr. Kuykendall also proudly and honorably served in the United States 
Army. He was stationed in Seoul, South Korea and completed his tour of 
duty as a financial specialist.
  In 1987, Dr. Kuykendall established the Agape Christian Ministries 
Church. He is the founder and pastor of one of the most multicultural 
and popular ministries in the City of Paterson.
  However, Dr. Kuykendall's message and goodwill is not confined to the 
Agape Christian Ministries Church on 76 Ward Street in Paterson, New 
Jersey. His weekly ministry broadcast is telecast to over 120 cities 
throughout New Jersey and New York. The Agape Christian Ministries 
Church also has one of the most generous college scholarship programs 
in the State of New Jersey. This has made higher education a reality to 
countless bright and talented students.
  Currently, Dr. Kuykendall serves as Chaplain to the Paterson Police 
Department and as Chief Chaplain to the Passaic County Jail. He serves 
on numerous community and civic boards. Dr. Kuykendall has received 
numerous awards and honorary resolutions for his civic and religious 
work throughout New Jersey.
  Dr. Kuykendall is married to Rev. Kathy Kuykendall of Paterson, New 
Jersey. They could not be more proud of their daughter Tanisha Vonetta 
and of their grandchild Te'ras Trae Samuels.
  The job of a United States Congressman involves much that is 
rewarding, yet nothing compares to recognizing and commemorating the 
achievements of individuals like Dr. James Kuykendall.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, Dr. Kuykendall's 
family and friends, all those whose lives he touched, and me, in 
recognizing Dr. James Kuykendall.

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