[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 135 (Friday, August 30, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E855]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





       HONORING THE 160TH ANNIVERSARY OF CALVARY EPISCOPAL CHURCH

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                      HON. SANFORD D. BISHOP, JR.

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, August 30, 2024

  Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the 160th 
anniversary of Calvary Episcopal Church in Americus, Georgia. 
Established in 1864 during the Civil War, this historic church has been 
a cornerstone of faith and community in Southwest Georgia. The 
congregation celebrated this momentous occasion on Wednesday, August 
28, 2024, in Americus.
  The history of the Episcopal Church in Americus began in 1858, with 
the first service officiated by Bishop Stephen Elliott. Despite the 
bloody and bitter challenges of the Civil War, the parish was 
reestablished in 1864 as Calvary Episcopal Church, symbolizing hope and 
resilience during a time of great turmoil. Rising from the ashes of 
hate and division--not succumbing to fear, anger, and distrust--is not 
only part of the legacy of Calvary Episcopal Church, but a hallmark of 
faith and service to the Lord. Overcoming hardship makes the faithful 
stronger, equipping one with the full armor of God.
  Reverend James Bolan Lawrence, who served as rector from 1905 to 
1947, played a pivotal role in the church's development and in the 
spread of the Episcopal faith throughout the region. Reverend Lawrence 
founded several churches across Southwest Georgia and was recognized as 
a saint by the Episcopal Diocese of Georgia in 1999 for his 
extraordinary contributions. Reverend Lawrence spearheaded the 
construction of the present church and had a significant impact on the 
church members he served and the community at-large. He dedicated his 
life to those in need: the sick, the poor, the young, and the elderly. 
Reverend Lawrence's impact cannot be understated and his work in 
service of others left a lasting mark.
  Over the years, Calvary Episcopal Church has undergone numerous 
restorations and expansions, including the construction of a parish 
hall and other facilities that have supported its mission. The current 
church building, completed in 1921, was designed by the renowned Gothic 
architect Ralph Adams Cram and stands as a testament to the strength of 
faith and service of the Calvary Episcopal Church congregation. Today, 
the church continues to be a beacon of faith and service in the 
community. Calvary Episcopal Church is and will remain a model of 
inclusion and benevolence.
  Calvary Episcopal Church endures today because the mission of the 
church shall never die. Faith, service, duty, and humility continue to 
shape the congregation of Calvary Episcopal Church. Romans 12:1 tells 
us, ``I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye 
present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, 
which is your reasonable service.'' The Lord calls upon his people to 
live their service to him. In doing so, the faithful heal the sick, 
clothe and provide safe harbor for the poor, and ensure hope need not 
be a luxury for those who have much at the expense of those who have 
little.
  Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian, and 
me, along with the more than 765,000 people of Georgia's Second 
Congressional District in recognizing and honoring Calvary Episcopal 
Church on its 160th anniversary. May their faith and actions continue 
to inspire others and make positive change in the Southwest Georgia 
community.

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