[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 176 (Wednesday, October 25, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1011]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CELEBRATING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH IN 
                         UNION, SOUTH CAROLINA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RALPH NORMAN

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 25, 2023

  Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the rich history 
and 150th anniversary of Grace United Methodist Church in Union 
County--a testament to the enduring spirit of the faith and community 
among all its members.
  Early Methodism found its roots in Union County thanks to the 
tireless efforts of the renowned Methodist missionary, Francis Asbury, 
who visited Union County between 1788 and 1802.
  By 1826, a ``new'' Methodist church had already been established on 
North Enterprise Street. Regrettably, it was eventually demolished in 
1893 to make way for the Union Cotton Mill facilities.
  In 1871, the dream of constructing a stone church was realized, 
largely due to the generous donation of granite by Benjamin Dudley 
Culp. The church was fittingly renamed ``Grace'' in honor of this 
contribution.
  Colonel John L. Young, a dedicated church member, businessman, and 
builder of the Union and Spartanburg Railroad, oversaw the 
construction. By 1873, the church had taken its current form.
  In 1919, further expansion and renovation work transformed Grace 
United Methodist Church into its present appearance. The center tower 
on the front was removed, and the belfry tower was raised and given a 
lower roof. On the right side of the sanctuary, a new section of pews 
was added, complete with a full basement and rooms on the main floor 
for a parlor, choir room, and Sunday school classes.
  The architectural integration of these changes was so skillful that 
the addition became virtually seamless. A significant milestone was 
achieved in 1968 when a new Casavant organ, boasting twenty-one stops, 
twenty-eight ranks, and 1,476 pipes, was dedicated to the church.
  The stained-glass windows in the church add to its beauty and 
significance. Four unique windows on the left side of the nave are 
particularly meaningful. The first window features a crown and cross, 
symbolizing celestial light. The second window displays an anchor, 
representing hope and fundamental truth. The third window showcases 
tablets with the Ten Commandments, a reminder of moral laws. The 
fourth, known as the Holy Bible window, depicts an open book, 
symbolizing accessibility to all and honoring the memory of Mary 
Elizabeth Greer, made by her sister, Cornelia Greer Walker.
  As I reflect on the history of Grace United Methodist Church, I want 
to recognize the profound impact it has had on the spiritual and social 
fabric of Union County. Grace United Methodist Church stands as a 
timeless testament to the enduring power of faith, community, and the 
unwavering dedication of its members. May it continue to inspire and 
uplift the hearts of those who gather within its hallowed walls for 
generations to come.

                          ____________________