[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 146 (Tuesday, September 4, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1197]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           100TH ANNIVERSARY OF SAINT JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH

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                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, September 4, 2018

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great enthusiasm that I honor 
Saint John the Baptist Church in Gary, Indiana, as the congregation 
commemorates the church's 100th anniversary. The church members and 
leaders will be celebrating this momentous milestone, ``100 Years on 
the Vine,'' with a Gala Banquet on September 21, 2018, followed by 
morning and evening services on September 23, 2018.
  For the past 100 years, Saint John the Baptist has had numerous 
influential pastors lead its congregation in faith and community, 
including Reverend A.J. Allen, Reverend T.L. Ballou, Reverend Leon 
Davis, Reverend Ivor Moore, Reverend Julius James, Reverend Raymond 
McDonald II, Reverend Rodney Griffin, and the current pastor, Reverend 
R.E. Robinson, to name a few.
  Saint John the Baptist's great history includes many poignant and 
significant moments. Because of Reverend Julius James' close friendship 
with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Dr. King made his first visit to Gary, 
Indiana. After the passing of Dr. King, Pastor James established the 
Ecumenical Celebration, which honors the legacy and goodwill of Dr. 
King. At that time, the church also started its not-for-profit housing 
development, The Saint John's Homes, which supported fair employment 
and housing in Gary.
  Reverend R.E. Robinson and the congregation continue to serve the 
citizens of Gary as well as the entire community throughout Northwest 
Indiana. Under Pastor Robinson's leadership, the congregation continues 
to grow, and numerous community projects have been completed. For their 
service and guidance to those most in need, the members and leadership 
of Saint John the Baptist Church are worthy of the highest praise.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues 
join me in honoring and congratulating Saint John the Baptist Church of 
Gary, Indiana, on its 100th anniversary. The congregation and 
leadership deserve the highest commendation for their devotion and 
commitment to the community of Northwest Indiana and beyond.

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