[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 160 (Tuesday, October 29, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1092]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  HONORING THE CONSECRATION OF DR. PAUL L. BINION II TO THE OFFICE OF 
                                 BISHOP

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 29, 2024

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great honor and excitement 
on behalf of the Westside Church of God Consecration Planning Teams' 
announcement of Dr. Paul L. Binion II. Today, we will witness the 
Episcopal Consecration of Dr. Paul L. Binion to the esteemed office of 
Bishop.
  Elevating an individual to the position of Bishop is a recognition of 
their exceptional leadership, unwavering service, and unblemished 
integrity. Dr. Paul L. Binion, fondly known as Pastor Binion, has 
dedicated over four decades of his life to serving both his local 
community and the state of California. He is not only a spiritual 
leader but a mentor, confidant, and guiding light to countless 
individuals.
  Pastor Binion's remarkable journey began in Fairfield, Alabama, where 
he was born to Paul Lawrence Binion, Sr. and Sara Ellafair House 
Binion. As the eldest of five siblings, he embarked on a path that 
would lead him to Los Angeles, California, and eventually to Fresno, 
where he assumed the role of Senior Pastor at the Westside Church of 
God in 1977. His educational achievements include a Bachelor's Degree 
in History from California State University, Los Angeles, and a 
Master's Degree of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary in 
Pasadena, California. His profound commitment to faith and education 
was acknowledged when the Southern California School of Ministry 
conferred upon him the honorary title of ``Doctor of Divinity.''
  Pastor Binion's impact extends far beyond the walls of his church. He 
has been an active leader in various organizations and initiatives, 
demonstrating his dedication to the betterment of the community. Some 
of his notable roles include serving as a Presbyter of Berean 
Fellowship of Churches, participating in the African American Clergy 
Task Force, contributing to the Southwest Fresno Development 
Corporation, and advising the President of Fresno Pacific University on 
Clergy and Church Development. He has also been an advocate for social 
justice through his involvement with Central California Evangelicals 
for Social Action in addition to his contributions to the City of 
Fresno Mayoral Advisory Board and the Police Advisory Council. Pastor 
Binion's deep commitment to mental health and well-being is exemplified 
through the establishment of the Westside Community Counseling Center, 
which has served as a vital resource for the community.
  His dedication to education and career development has shone through 
the Education and Career Initiative, a program designed to empower 
students in the pursuit of their educational and professional 
aspirations. Throughout his journey, Pastor Binion has been a source of 
guidance and wisdom, not only for his congregation but also for fellow 
pastors and community leaders. He has shared his knowledge and faith as 
a conference speaker, preacher, and teacher of the Bible, leaving a 
lasting impact on both local and national levels. In addition to his 
remarkable professional achievements, Pastor Binion is a devoted 
husband to Valarie Jean Metoyer Binion, and a loving father and 
grandfather. He and Valarie have been married since 1978 and have three 
daughters, Tiffany, Crisandra, and Kimberley, along with several 
grandchildren.
  As we come together to witness the Episcopal Consecration of Dr. Paul 
L. Binion, we recognize not only a spiritual leader but a dedicated 
servant of the community. His journey is a testament to the enduring 
impact that one individual can have when guided by faith, compassion, 
and a commitment to the betterment of others.
  Mr. Speaker, I invite my esteemed colleagues to join me in 
commemorating this significant moment in the life of Dr. Paul L. 
Binion, a man whose contributions have touched the hearts and souls of 
many.

                          ____________________