[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 133 (Tuesday, September 6, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1197]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  COMMEMORATING THE I75th ANNIVERSARY OF THE HISTORIC GRACE LUTHERAN 
                    CHURCH OF SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS

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                           HON. DARIN LaHOOD

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, September 6, 2016

  Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to recognize Historic 
Grace Lutheran Church in Springfield, IL. This month marks their 175th 
anniversary of spreading God's Word, serving the community, and 
worship.
  Grace Lutheran is both spiritually and historically significant. The 
Church's entirely stone steeple is one of only two of its kind in the 
country. Further, recognized as part of the Lincoln Home National 
Historic Site, Grace Lutheran's founder, Reverend Francis Springer, was 
a neighbor of Abraham Lincoln, in Springfield.
  Historic Grace Lutheran Church not only has a rich history, but it 
continues to serve the Greater Springfield Area with the utmost 
dedication. Its congregation remains committed to service through 
charitable endeavors including regular contributions to local food 
pantries. Their ongoing efforts to support the students, teachers, and 
staff of McClernand Elementary School and other schools in the area are 
commendable. Their commitment to helping the lives of the poor, 
uneducated, and the hungry embodies the virtues of true servants of 
God.
  On September 18, 2016, the Historic Grace Lutheran Church will 
celebrate 175 years of encompassing in the spirit of charity, religion, 
and community. As this momentous occasion is celebrated, I extend my 
sincerest congratulations and gratitude to the parish of Historic Grace 
Lutheran Church for all that they have done and continue to do.

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