[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 76 (Tuesday, May 20, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E778]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     A TRIBUTE TO THE FIRST AFRICAN BAPTIST CHURCH OF PHILADELPHIA

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                          HON. ROBERT A. BRADY

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 20, 2014

  Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
First African Baptist Church of Philadelphia, the oldest African 
American founded Baptist congregation in Pennsylvania.
  The First African Baptist Church of Philadelphia was established in 
1809. Since then, it has helped establish many other churches and 
institutions, including the Downingtown Industrial School. The First 
African Baptist Church of Philadelphia has also played an integral role 
in helping to promote equality in Pennsylvania by establishing the 
first African American savings and loans bank and the first mortgage 
company for African Americans.
  Throughout its rich history, thirteen pastors have held the honor of 
leading its distinguished congregation. Currently, The Reverend 
Terrence D. Griffith serves as the church's pastor. At its centennial 
celebration in 1909, the church welcomed Booker T. Washington as its 
keynote speaker. In 2009, both Ed Rendell and Arlen Spector joined the 
church to celebrate its bicentennial anniversary. This year, the church 
will be celebrating its 205th anniversary, which I am personally 
attending.
  I invite you and all of my colleagues to join me in commemorating The 
First African Baptist Church of Philadelphia's 205th anniversary. May 
its success and commitment to helping the City of Philadelphia be an 
inspiration to all of us in the years to come.

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