[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 161 (Friday, October 11, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1276]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                IN HONOR OF ARCHBISHOP MARY FLOYD PALMER

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. BRENDAN F. BOYLE

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 11, 2019

  Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to 
honor Archbishop Mary Floyd Palmer, the first female African-American 
Archbishop in America and presiding prelate of the Philadelphia Council 
of Clergy. She has--and continues to be--a vital part of the 
Philadelphia community, where she carries out her life mission of 
helping and ministering those in need.
  As a native of my district, Archbishop Floyd Palmer is the eldest 
daughter of Rev. Dr. Melvin Floyd and has been serving her community 
since childhood. She began her career in full time ministry as a 
Motivational Speaker and soon became Confidante and Counselor to 
Pastors, their wives, and Episcopal leaders from all around the world.
  She continued to be a positive influence in Philadelphia by 
ministering in federal, state, and county prisons, half-way houses, 
nursing homes, and youth centers. Her commitment led to her appointment 
as the Pennsylvania Re-entry Council, which focused on reducing 
recidivism rates. Archbishop Palmer soon became the founder and Pastor 
of the Samaritan Temple.
  Her dedication has been recognized by the Philadelphia Chapter of the 
National Congress of Black Women and she was named their ``Women of the 
Year in Ministry.'' She also received the Lucien E. Blackwell Guiding 
Light Community Award. Moreover, Archbishop Floyd Palmer hosts an 
award-winning, weekly radio show called the ``The Bishop Mary Show'' to 
connect with national, and even international, listeners. In March 
2019, she made history by becoming the first female African American 
Archbishop in America.
  Philadelphia is extremely lucky to have someone like Archbishop Floyd 
Palmer to enrich our community. There is no doubt she has positively 
impacted many lives, and I am certain more lives will be impacted by 
her service.

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