[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 76 (Friday, May 13, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E699]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF THE REVEREND DR. PAUL M. MARTIN

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                           HON. DIANA DeGETTE

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 13, 2016

  Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of an 
extraordinary constituent, the Reverend Dr. Paul M. Martin, who, as 
pastor of Macedonia Baptist Church for 16 years, was a change agent in 
the Denver community.
  Paul's passing in March shocked and saddened the many people he 
touched in a life filled with love, hope and purpose. We continue to 
grieve, but with the perspective of these past few weeks, we've also 
been able to take some consolation in memories of this extraordinary 
man and the knowledge that his legacy lives on within us.
  Paul Martin was a man of the people. Well educated and worldly, he 
nevertheless found endless satisfaction in working deep within the 
community, rolling up his sleeves and diving into the day-to-day 
matters that affect so many lives--from the parochial to the profound. 
I especially appreciated that the very same man who reached countless 
numbers of the faithful via a successful radio ministry also chose to 
serve on the committees to ensure that the development of DIA and 
Stapleton were done with community interests in mind.
  And for my own part, I'll never forget how the friendship and support 
Paul gave me through my years of public service. I first met Paul and 
his wonderful wife and soulmate, Agnes, when my church, Montview 
Presbyterian, partnered in worship with Macedonia. I spent so many 
special Sundays sitting in the Macedonia choir loft with my fellow 
choir-mates from both churches, listening to Paul's inspirational 
sermons.
  I am sure there are many others in Colorado, in California and in 
places around the world where Paul preached and taught who have similar 
stories to tell about his influence on the paths they followed.
  Paul was a voice of wisdom, consolation and inspiration. He will be 
deeply missed, but we are grateful that he was such a key part of our 
community and our lives for so long. Although a family commitment 
prevents me from being with you today in person, my spirit is there in 
solidarity. To Agnes, the Martin family, and the entire Macedonia 
community, I send my prayers and deepest condolences.

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