[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 31 (Friday, February 26, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E241]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING THE 250TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF BRIDGE STREET A.M.E. 
                                 CHURCH

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. HAKEEM S. JEFFRIES

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 26, 2016

  Mr. JEFFRIES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 250th 
anniversary of the historic and illustrious Bridge Street African 
Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Church. Reverend David B. Cousin, Sr. and 
members of the congregation will commemorate this special milestone on 
Sunday, February 28, 2016 at Bridge Street A.M.E. Church in the 
Bedford-Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn, New York.
  Bridge Street is a church with a rich history that spans two and a 
half centuries. From its missionary origins in 1766 to its current 
location at 277 Stuyvesant Avenue in Brooklyn, it continues to be an 
extraordinary institution deeply rooted in social justice and spiritual 
transformation. As a stop on the Underground Railroad and platform for 
speaking out against injustice on both local and national issues, 
Bridge Street is a voice of conscience representing the least of those 
in our society.
  The African Methodist Episcopal Church is a global religious body 
with over 2.5 million members, who belong to more than 6,000 
congregations throughout 20 Episcopal districts across the Americas, 
Africa, Europe and India. In 1818, Bishop Richard Allen served as the 
first preacher of the A.M.E. Church, one of the oldest Protestant 
denominations established on American soil, at Bridge Street.
  The people of New York are grateful for the exemplary leadership of 
Reverend David B. Cousin, Sr., who was installed as the Pastor of 
Bridge Street A.M.E. Church in 1997. Under his guidance, and that of 
his predecessors, the congregation has touched the lives of countless 
individuals through their extensive services and wide range of active 
ministries, which include notable educational, civic engagement, health 
and wellness, music and youth mentorship programs.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues 
join me in congratulating the Bridge Street A.M.E. Church in 
commemoration of its 250th anniversary. This church community has 
dedicated itself to serving the people of New York, and those of our 
country, in pursuit of a just and moral nation.

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