[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 128 (Tuesday, July 25, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E717]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        MOUNT SALEM AMERICAN BAPTIST CHURCH CELEBRATES 151 YEARS

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                           HON. MICHAEL CLOUD

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 25, 2023

  Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Mount Salem 
American Baptist Church on its remarkable 151st anniversary this year. 
This amazing milestone is a true testament to God's grace toward his 
people, as well as the unwavering faith, fellowship, and dedication of 
the congregation and its leaders throughout the years.
  Founded in 1872, the church began in Indianola as the Mount Salem 
American Baptist Free Mission Church. Soon after its founding, the 
church was sadly hit by 2 major hurricanes in 1875 and 1886, destroying 
the church's building. Yet with faith in God's providence, the 
congregation endured and continued the ministry. Led by Reverend Robert 
Greer, 20 church members moved to Victoria, bringing with them the 
pulpit, bell, and some of the salvaged lumber from the original church 
building to start anew--where the congregation reestablished and 
pressed forward in the mission. With that perseverance came God's 
guidance and blessing. The church continued to grow over the years and 
was eventually renamed as Mount Salem American Baptist Church in 1939. 
In 1962, the church moved to another new building, where they still 
prominently display the original bell and pulpit used by the founding 
members.
  To this day, Mount Salem American Baptist Church has touched 
countless lives in the Victoria community through its selfless acts of 
service. Through outreach programs, compassionate ministries, and 
social initiatives, the church has been a steadfast advocate for the 
greater community, serving their neighbors for over a century.
  But more than any building, program, or person, Mount Salem's 
anniversary milestone is a testament to God's enduring faithfulness 
toward his people. Through both triumph and trial, it is clear that the 
Lord has provided the path and made clear His purpose.
  Mr. Speaker, congratulations to Mount Salem American Baptist Church 
on this incredible day. May God continue to bless and keep them in the 
days and years ahead.

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