[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 127 (Monday, September 8, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1333]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                TRIBUTE TO APLIN RIDGE METHODIST CHURCH

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. SHELLEY MOORE CAPITO

                            of west virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 8, 2014

  Mrs. CAPITO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Aplin Ridge 
Methodist Church located in Gay, Jackson County, West Virginia, who is 
celebrating its 100th anniversary with a Centennial Celebration on 
September 20 and 21, 2014.
  Aplin Ridge Methodist Church was constructed in 1914, built with hand 
tools by church members over several months. There was no electricity 
during construction, so lanterns were used by workers to illuminate the 
site during work at night. The land and the timber for the church were 
donated by Ester Aplin Waybright Thomas. The church was named for her 
father William Henry Aplin and was dedicated on November 2, 1914.
  Charles Westfall, a member of the church remembers hearing stories of 
his father standing on a ladder holding a lantern, while putting the 
final touches on the steeple and securing the church bell in 
preparation for the church's grand opening. Others recall that during 
winter months, dozens of lanterns could be seen lighting the ridge as 
church members headed to Aplin Ridge Methodist Church on foot, 
horseback or by wagon for evening worship services. Worshippers were 
warmed by a wood stove and the church was illuminated by oil lamps and 
candles until 1946, when electricity was made available. It is stories 
such as these, passed down from generation to generation, that enrich 
the history of the beloved church.
  Many Aplin Ridge members answered the call to service for World Wars 
I and II, Korean and Vietnam Wars, Iraq and Afghanistan. The church 
survived and pulled together during many significant events, in 
addition to the wars, ranging from the Great Depression to Neil 
Armstrong's walk on the moon and the horrific attack on this country on 
September 11, 2001. Throughout its existence, Aplin Ridge Methodist 
Church has conducted hundreds of baptisms, weddings, and family 
celebrations. The church is proud of its 80 member congregation, of all 
ages, many of which are fourth generation members. The church is also 
known for its benevolence by providing substantial help and financial 
relief to community members experiencing difficult times. The motto of 
the Aplin Ridge Methodist Church follows the teachings of Jesus, ``Love 
thy Neighbor.''
  Mr. Speaker, I would like to close by thanking Pastor Danny Cummings 
for his commitment to Aplin Ridge Methodist Church and its congregation 
for celebrating its greatness through this special Centennial 
celebration. Hopefully, this will be the beginning of the next 100 
years of service Aplin Ridge Methodist Church will have as the 
spiritual, loving beacon of the community of Gay and Jackson County. I 
am truly privileged to serve such a distinguished group of West 
Virginians.

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