[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 131 (Friday, July 28, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E744]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING WORLD HARVEST UNITED CHURCHES

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. ABIGAIL DAVIS SPANBERGER

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 28, 2023

  Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commend the work of World 
Harvest United Churches during their 2023 National Holy Gathering in 
Dumfries, Virginia.
  An annual event, the National Holy Gathering brings people together 
in the spirit of service. This year's theme is ``Ignite 2023,'' and it 
is guided by Matthew 5:14-16: ``You are the light of the world. A town 
built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and 
put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives 
light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine 
before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your 
Father in heaven.''
  Guided by Presiding Prelate Bishop Calvin B. Davis, Sr., and hosted 
by Virginia State Bishop Kenneth W. Jones, Sr., this gathering provides 
attendees with activities, classes, and worship events. It culminates 
with a day of volunteerism and outreach in conjunction with Habitat for 
Humanity ReStore, Women of Worth, and Project-Mend-A-House.
  Finally, ``Ignite 2023'' would not be possible without the hard work 
of community leaders like Bishop George W. Thigpen, III, Bishop of 
Outreach, Pastor Kathleen Deane, National Director of Outreach, Elder 
Daniel M. Deane, Sr., Adjutant General, Bishop Rick Boykin, Co-Adjutor 
to the State Bishop, and Lady Michelle Thigpen, Director of Women of 
Worth Virginia.
  Mr. Speaker, l ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating World 
Harvest Churches on 11 years of service to the community through their 
annual National Holy Gathering. Their outreach and community-oriented 
mindset is invaluable to Virginia.

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