[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 107 (Tuesday, June 26, 2018)]
[House]
[Page H5667]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH FIRE

  (Mr. ESTES of Kansas asked and was given permission to address the 
House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer thoughts and 
prayers to the families of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Andale, 
Kansas. For nearly 125 years, the parish of St. Joseph has been a 
pillar of west Sedgwick County and our entire community.
  On Sunday morning, several hours before parishioners were to arrive 
for 8 a.m. Mass, it is believed a lightning strike caused a fire which 
soon engulfed the entire attic and roof. Two firefighters were injured 
responding to the fire which was contained after several hours. 
Thankfully, the firefighters treated for smoke inhalation and burns 
were released from the hospital.
  In a demonstration of the spirit in our community, nearby Andale High 
School was quick to open its doors and the church was able to celebrate 
10 a.m. Mass. I am confident that this resilient community will 
continue to join together to help Father Daryl Befort and all the 
parishioners in St. Joseph as they begin the long and difficult task of 
rebuilding their church.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in keeping St. Joseph and 
our first responders in our thoughts and prayers at this time.

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