[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 42 (Friday, March 10, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E316]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    IN RECOGNITION OF THE 130TH ANNIVERSARY OF SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH

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                        HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 10, 2017

  Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 130th 
Anniversary of Second Baptist Church in Long Branch, New Jersey. Its 
members will celebrate this milestone during Sunday service on March 
12, 2017 and it is my honor to join them in marking this significant 
occasion.
  Since its humble beginnings at the home of Ephraim Bell in 1887, 
Second Baptist Church has grown structurally and in membership, while 
continuing to provide outstanding spiritual guidance to the community. 
The construction of the church building where the church still stands 
today began in 1904, under the leadership of Rev. Asbury Smallwood. To 
accommodate the growing congregation over the years, an educational 
wing was constructed in the late 1970s and a second Sunday service was 
added in 2000.
  Throughout its 130 year history, Second Baptist Church has also 
expanded its vision and service to the community. In addition to 
serving the spiritual needs of its members, Second Baptist Church is 
also home to the Portuguese congregation led by Rev. Aloisio Campos, 
Jr. The church has also served as a Monmouth County Head Start facility 
as well as a New Hope tutoring program location.
  Its current pastor, Rev. Aaron N. Gibson, Sr., serves as the 13th 
pastor of the church and has dedicated over 20 years of service to the 
congregation. Under his leadership, the church has seen significant 
growth and remains a mainstay of the community.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Second Baptist Church 
on its 130th Anniversary. Its service to the community is truly 
deserving of this body's recognition.

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