[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 145 (1999), Part 18]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 26011]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                     HONORING JAMES EMERSON DENNIS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KEN BENTSEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 19, 1999

  Mr. BENTSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Rev. James Emerson 
Dennis for his 66 years of service in the ministry. His endurance and 
tremendous strength over the years is a testimony to the success of his 
efforts addressing the needs of his congregations and community.
  Rev. Dennis was seven years old when he accepted Christ and was 
baptized by his father at St. Paul Baptist Church. He was a young man 
of 24 when he was called to the Ministry, preaching his first sermon at 
Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Baileysville, Texas where Rev. R.A. Sharp 
presided as Pastor.
  Rev. Dennis was married to the late Hester Lee Williams Dennis on 
September 27, 1931. He is the father of four children: Ann M. White of 
Sea Side, California, Mayme D. Gardner of Kenner, Louisiana; James E. 
Dennis of Lake View Terrace, California; and the late John Williams 
Dennis. In February of 1934, Rev Dennis was ordained at Harlem's 
Chapel, B.C. where he pastored eight years. Later he was called to 
Bethlehem Baptist Church in Hammond, Texas, where he pastored for four 
years.
  Rev. Dennis' most enduring stint of service--an impressive 50 years--
was spent preaching at Mt. Rose Baptist Church in Brenham, Texas. From 
September 4, 1946 to March 31, 1997 he ministered to generations of 
families and neighbors who benefitted from his wisdom and faith. During 
that half century of service, Rev. Dennis amassed a wealth of 
accomplishments for his community. The present Church Edifice Mt. Rose 
M.B.C., Brenham, Texas was built under his administration. He also 
founded and organized the Brenham Cemetery Association.
  While Rev. Dennis' religious and spiritual obligations have always 
been paramount, as a community leader, he has undertaken his civic 
duties with the utmost seriousness and passion, serving on several 
boards and organizations. His love for his fellow man and desire for 
social justice was evidenced by his organization of the Brenham Chapter 
of the NAACP. He was a Bible Lecturer and Secretary for the Lincoln 
District Association for 20 years, as well as Executive Vice Moderator. 
He was Chairman of the Congress of Christian Workers of Texas. Rev. 
Dennis preached in the Lincoln District Association's State Congress, 
State Convention, and National Baptist Convention. He served as a 
Member of the Faith Mission Board of Directors in Brenham, Texas and 
President of the Washington County Ministers Association. He was also 
President of the Washington County Lions Club and the Brenham Civic 
Club.
  As an instructor, Rev. Dennis continues to share his gifts and 
experiences with those who seek knowledge and guidance. He teaches at 
Christian Bible College and A.P. Clay Theological Bible College in 
Kenner, Louisiana, and at the Union Theological Seminary in New 
Orleans. Rev. Dennis is presently a member of Christian Unity Baptist 
Church in New Orleans, Louisiana where Rev. Dwight Webster is Pastor.
  Rev. Dennis is a true hero of his community and a faithful servant of 
God. His 66 years of service in the ministry is a testament to the 
power of faith and to a life of good deeds and public service. He has 
been honored with several awards, including the Man of the Year Award 
from the Washington County Chamber of Commerce and a Special Award for 
Years of Devoted Service to the Ministers Conference Prairie View A&M 
University in 1987 and 1992. Numerous other Certificates of Recognition 
include those from President Bill Clinton and Gov. George W. Bush. It 
is appropriate that the Citizens Committee for Retirees and Unsung 
Heroes will be honoring Rev. Dennis on November 17, 1999. On October 
31, 1999, Houston's New Faith Church, pastored by Dr. T.R. Williams, 
will honor Rev. Dennis with celebrations during both morning worship 
services.
  Mr. Speaker, throughout his 66 years in the ministry, Rev. Dennis' 
intelligence, enthusiasm, and integrity has served his congregations 
well. He brings a tireless energy, an unflagging drive, and a 
passionate caring to each of his endeavors, whether it's as a Pastor, a 
civic officer, or friend. His contributions to the ministry and his 
energy in addressing the needs of his congregations and surrounding 
community are truly commendable.

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