[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 55 (Tuesday, April 12, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E403]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          UNION BAPTIST CHURCH

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 12, 2016

  Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the 
achievements of an outstanding faith community, the Union Baptist 
Church, who are celebrating their ministry's 80th Anniversary of 
successful service to the community of Passaic on Sunday, April 3, 
2016.
  Eighty years ago the Union Baptist Church was established through the 
Merger of two parishes in the city of Passaic NJ; the Ebenezer Baptist 
Church and Greater St. Paul Baptist Church on April 4, 1936. The 
combined Church membership was approximately 150 parishioners. The 
Church and its members worshipped Christ for 28 years at its 315 Oak 
Street and 30 Ann Street location. Due to an increase in membership the 
Union Baptist Church purchased 221 Myrtle Ave on September 27, 1964 and 
began to worship there.
  The Union Baptist Church is located in a welcoming neighborhood. 
Current ministries within the church include traditional Sunday morning 
worship service, Bible study, Sunday school, voluntary work such as 
feeding the homeless on Saturday afternoons, Camp Union for the youth, 
and the services provided to the senior citizens. Union Baptist has 
always focused on spiritual leadership accompanied by a strong sense of 
commitment to community involvement. I know that their dedication will 
continue to grow.
  In fact, the church has been an integral part of Passaic and the 
surrounding area for more than three quarters of a century. Its 
hallowed grounds have witnessed the miracle of new-born baptism, the 
holy matrimony of marriage as well as the somber rituals of burial. But 
most importantly, many lives have been changed by the people that have 
called the Church home since 1936. Indeed, the ministry has been a 
major part of the Passaic community and continues to serve all.
  In this sense, the Union Baptist Church clergy and organizers have 
worked passionately to build many bridges between different groups 
within the faith community. At the forefront of this cause has been the 
church's many leaders throughout its history. The first among several 
leaders to grace the halls of the church was Reverend O.D. Henry--who 
served from 1936-1942.
  His work undoubtedly laid a strong foundation for the others to 
follow, such as Reverend T.H. Alexander--who continued his 
predecessor's work until 1932. Reverend Ronald W. Johnson was the next 
to answer God's calling, and he devoted himself to the Union Baptist 
Church until 2010. Indeed, the Union Baptist Church has had many 
leaders throughout its years. Today, it is led by Reverend Kortney L. 
Haigler, who has inspired many to follow the path of faith and 
kindness.
  It gives me pride to recognize the excellence of the Union Baptist 
Church, as well as a deep sense of satisfaction for their service to 
the residents of Passaic. I am grateful to represent the Church and its 
congregation within the 9th Congressional District of New Jersey.
  The job of a United States Congressman involves much that is 
rewarding, yet nothing compares to recognizing and commemorating the 
achievements of faith communities such as the Union Baptist Church.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, and the Union 
Baptist Church in celebrating their 80th Anniversary and recognizing 
their leadership, dedication and loyalty to serving the community.

                          ____________________