[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 161 (Friday, September 28, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1339-E1340]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF BETHEL GILEAD COMMUNITY CHURCH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. TIM WALBERG

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 28, 2018

  Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 150th 
anniversary of Bethel Gilead Community Church in Bronson, Michigan.
  After the end of the Civil War, Jacob Patch was commissioned to 
organize a church in Branch County, and in 1868, the Union 
Congregational Church of Gilead and Bethel began meeting in homes and 
schools.
  In 1874, Luman Rose was commissioned as its first full-time minister, 
and in 1882, the church's first building was completed.
  Over the years, many faithful pastors have served and led the church 
through a number of transformative events, including name changes, 
mergers with other congregations, a devasting fire, building expansions 
and improvements, and the development of local and worldwide 
ministries.
  In 1996, Pastor Jim Erwin accepted Bethel Gilead's invitation to 
serve as pastor and is still faithfully shepherding the congregation.

[[Page E1340]]

  Under his leadership, the church has grown exponentially, expanding 
their vision, attendance, facilities, staff, and outreach.
  The congregation supports missionaries across the globe, hosts annual 
community events, and focuses on developing programs for all age groups 
within the congregation.
  As Bethel Gilead Community Church celebrates 150 years of history, I 
pray it continues to be a faithful witness of God's love in the Bronson 
community and beyond.

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