[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 98 (Thursday, June 8, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E797-E798]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      IN RECOGNITION OF THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF SOUTH DENNIS

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                        HON. WILLIAM R. KEATING

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, June 8, 2017

  Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 200th 
Anniversary of the Congregational Church of South Dennis in 
Massachusetts.
  Founded in 1817 by a collection of sea captains, the Congregational 
Church of South Dennis today remains widely renowned as the Sea 
Captains' Church. Prior to its foundation, since 1795, a house of 
worship was built at the very location upon which the current building 
stands. From 1795 to 1817 the people of South Dennis shared ministers 
with North Dennis and Harwich. In 1817, the church received its first 
full-time minister, Reverend John Sanford, and was formally organized 
into the Congregational Church of South Dennis. Construction of the 
current building used by the church was completed in 1837.
  The Congregational Church is further recognized for its unique 
feature--the oldest working organ in the United States. Built in 1762 
by Swiss organ builder John Snetzler in London, England, very little is 
known regarding its journey to the United States. Historians confirm 
that it was acquired by the Congregational Church of South Dennis on 
September 22, 1854 for $600--where it has remained for over 160 years 
and delights and moves listeners through its chords and music every 
Sunday.
  Today, the Congregational Church is made up of an intimate, dedicated 
community of loving, caring, and welcoming neighbors. Part of the 
United Church of Christ, the church is led by Rev. Dr. Paul R Adkins. 
To celebrate this momentous occasion, the Congregational Church has 
organized a concert and guided tours of the meetinghouse and cemetery, 
which will showcase the church's fascinating history and ties to 
seafaring.
  Mr. Speaker, the 200th Anniversary of the Congregational Church of 
South Dennis is testament to the culture of acceptance and grace

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exhibited by this community. I ask that you join me in recognizing this 
historic anniversary.

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