[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 22 (Monday, February 5, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E137]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      FAITH, FAMILY, AND FLOODING

                                 ______
                                 

                              HON. TED POE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, February 5, 2018

  Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, we know that Houston is ``Houston 
strong'', but what makes us so strong is the faithful and determined 
volunteers in our community. I wanted to commend the Prince of Peace 
Catholic Community for their efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane 
Harvey.
  Over 1,500 volunteers were utilized through the Mercy Ministry's 
relief efforts, which included distributing flood buckets, clothing, 
gift cards, and food. Over 3,200 hot meals and 2,000 lunches were 
served to 12 different neighborhoods over a span of 7 days. They 
collaborated with Champions Forest Baptist Church to work together to 
assist in the demolition and clean-up process.
  The Mercy Ministry not only provided physical assistance, but 
emotional support. They have talked with over 160 families and assisted 
in prayer.
  In hard times like the one Houston experienced, emotional 
encouragement to those suffering is better than offering a mop and 
bucket.
  Weeks after Harvey, the Mercy Ministry was contacted from churches 
all over the Nation in hopes of getting some help to Houston. From 
Louisiana, Wisconsin, Colorado, New York, New Jersey, and Ohio. These 
churches sent tractor trailers full of donations from cleaning 
supplies, to handmade quilts and care packages for kids.
  Now, more than ever, our city needs the spiritual nourishment and 
support that our local churches can provide. Houston still has a long 
recovery to go, but what will pull us through are our faith driven 
volunteers, and the power of prayer.
  And that's just the way it is.

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