[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 176 (Tuesday, October 31, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1463]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING MOUNT VERNON HEIGHTS CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 120TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ELIOT L. ENGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 31, 2017

  Mr. ENGEL. Mr Speaker, I want to acknowledge a Mount Vernon 
institution that this year is celebrating its remarkable 120th 
Anniversary. Founded on October 7, 1896 the Mount Vernon Heights 
Congregational Church has served parishioners in the Mount Vernon 
community and beyond for well over a century. Their rich history 
deserves our recognition.
  Though officially founded on a Thursday evening in 1896, the church's 
roots actually date back to 1892 when members of the community from all 
different denominations gathered for prayer services at the school 
house on Garden Avenue. Four years later, a meeting was held in the 
school house on Garden Avenue for the stated purpose of organizing a 
Congregational church in Mount Vernon Heights. Eighteen persons were 
present, and they voted unanimously to carry out this purpose.
  From there, the Church's rich history began to bloom. In September, 
1915 the corner lot of South Columbus and Beekman Avenues was purchased 
and by 1917 the new chapel was dedicated, which is currently Fellowship 
Hall. Through time, additional parcels of land were procured and new 
buildings were constructed.
  Through the years the Mount Vernon Heights Congregational Church has 
been a pillar to the community. The tall white bell tower stands high 
as landmark to many. This church has withstood World War I, World War 
II, the Korean War, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan and other military 
conflicts that have affected American life. The wall plaques in the 
church lobby stand for its contribution of lives. This church has 
fostered Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts troops; Women Leagues, Bible Study, 
Sunday School, Youth Groups and Support Groups, Home Missionary Society 
to name a few.
  Over the years there were many contributions made by the 14 different 
pastors that served this church, too many deeds to list. And those good 
deeds have always been mirrored by the congregation, which has raised 
money and donated countless hours to helping their community thrive. I 
want to congratulate them on this amazing 120th Anniversary.

                          ____________________