[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 164 (Monday, October 6, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E936]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF ST. MARY'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH IN 
                            LAMPASAS, TEXAS

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. AUGUST PFLUGER

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 6, 2025

  Mr. PFLUGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 
150th anniversary of St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Lampasas, Texas.
  Founded in 1873 during the turbulent years of Reconstruction, St. 
Mary's has stood as a steadfast place of worship and community for a 
century and a half. From its beginnings under the leadership of Dr. 
Thomas S. Denny and a small group of faithful families, the church 
persevered through frontier hardships, local feuds, floods, and 
economic trials. Over the years, it has grown into a vibrant 
congregation rooted in service, tradition, and faith.
  The sanctuary itself, built of native limestone in the Victorian 
Gothic style, is a testament to the perseverance of its early leaders, 
including Capt. A.H. Barnes, Dr. James Bierbower, W.T. Campbell, T.H. 
Haynie, W.C. Price, and others whose dedication made possible the 
construction of a permanent church home. Generations of families, like 
the Campbells, the Haynies, the Richeys, the Olivers, and many more 
have sustained and enriched the life of St. Mary's across decades, 
ensuring its continued presence as a spiritual cornerstone of the 
Lampasas community.
  Today, St. Mary's remains a thriving parish, carrying forward its 
mission with more than a dozen families whose membership stretches back 
multiple generations, while also welcoming new parishioners who bring 
fresh perspectives and energy. Together, this congregation embodies the 
resilience, stability, and continuity that have defined St. Mary's 
since its founding.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring St. Mary's 
Episcopal Church for 150 years of faithful service to its members, the 
people of Lampasas, and the greater Central Texas region. May the 
congregation continue to serve as a beacon of hope, light, and grace 
for generations to come.

                          ____________________