[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 160 (Thursday, October 5, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1332]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF ST. GEORGE GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH 
                             OF SHREVEPORT

                                  _____
                                 

                            HON. MIKE JOHNSON

                              of louisiana

                     in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, October 5, 2017

   Mr. JOHNSON of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor for me to rise 
and recognize the 100th anniversary of the St. George Greek Orthodox 
Church in Shreveport, La. For over a century, this congregation has 
blessed our community by spreading the love of God and continuing the 
tradition of giving back to one's neighbors.
   In the beginning of the 20th century, some of the first Greek 
immigrants settled in Shreveport, La., and recognized the need for 
greater unity among the small community of orthodox families. They then 
founded a congregation that would grow to what we now know as the St. 
George Greek Orthodox Church. The name, ``Saint George,'' was chosen in 
honor of the Saint George Church of New Ephesus in Asia Minor, which 
was destroyed during the Turko-Grecian struggle in 1917. Religious 
liberty is a core principle in the United States. While fleeing 
religious persecution, many Greeks found their new home in Northwest 
Louisiana.
   Today, the church is considered the heart of the region's beloved 
Greek community and is distinguished by its rich and colorful artwork 
and architecture depicting insights of orthodoxy. The congregation of 
St. George has a long history of generosity and compassion and includes 
some of our closest personal friends. The congregation has hosted 
countless charitable events to support its three major philanthropic 
organizations: the Ladies Philoptochos Society, the American Hellenic 
Educational Progressive Association and the Daughters of Penelope. For 
over 60 years, the Philoptochos have held an annual pastry sale to 
raise funds for numerous charitable organizations, providing aid to 
anyone who may need it.
   Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress and the people 
of Northwest Louisiana, I am privileged to recognize the St. George 
Greek Orthodox Church and celebrate over 100 years of their dedication 
to the betterment of our community. I, along with my wife, Kelly, pray 
the Lord continues to bless this congregation and their important 
ministries.

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