[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 162 (Tuesday, October 15, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1281]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        HONORING THE 95TH ANNIVERSARY OF SMITH CHAPEL AME CHURCH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RASHIDA TLAIB

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 15, 2019

  Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, I rise today in tribute to Smith Chapel AME 
Church, a house of worship located in Inkster, Michigan, on the 
occasion of its ninety-fifth anniversary service.
   Smith Chapel AME Church held its first service on October 5, 1924 
when a small, but passionate group of people gathered together to 
worship. Drawn together under the shared value of creating a caring 
community, the congregation quickly grew in size and influence. Though 
the church has witnessed many changes over the years, the congregation 
continues to gather regularly to nourish the spirit, mind, and body and 
give back to the surrounding community. In recent years, Smith Chapel 
has expanded its food pantry program to include a community garden, 
which is tended by church members, as well as its Summer Youth Cafe 
program that offers recreational and character development programs for 
young people. Whether gathering in prayer, celebrating love in 
marriage, or marking the passing of a dear friend and loved one from 
this life, we all draw great strength from sharing with one another 
through faith. The history of Smith Chapel AME provides a wonderful 
example of how much this faith and unselfishness mean to our entire 
community.
   Please join me in recognizing Smith Chapel AME on this milestone as 
we wish them well in the years to come.

                          ____________________