[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 17191]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



              TRIBUTE TO TERCERA IGLESIA BAUTISTA ESPANOLA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOSE E. SERRANO

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 14, 2001

  Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Tercera 
Iglesia Bautista Espanola, a treasured Bronx institution and a historic 
house of worship that celebrated its Centennial anniversary September 
15, 2001.
  Mr. Speaker, Tercera Iglesia Bautista Espanola was founded between 
the years of 1900 and 1902. As one of the first Baptist churches of its 
kind, serving a largely Hispanic congregation, it has become an 
invaluable part of Hispanic-American history and American history in 
general. Located on Alexander Avenue, the church stands as a beacon of 
true beauty in the heart of the south Bronx.
  Throughout its 100 years of existence, Tercera Iglesia has been a 
model of excellence with its numerous and far-reaching community 
services. Not only are Bronx residents able to come to Tercera Iglesia 
for spiritual enrichment and fellowship, they can come to the church 
for assistance with life's daily trials. The church's pastor, Reverend 
Dr. Jose D. Rivera-Tormos serves as a pillar of the community and as an 
exceptional spiritual guide for his congregation. Reverend Rivera-
Tormos is blessed with a dedicated and competent staff of church 
officials who go beyond the call of duty daily.
  Mr. Speaker, beyond Tercera Iglesia's wealth of community programs 
and remarkable religious activities, it's very structure makes it a 
priceless institution. The building was designed at the turn of the 
century by architects Ward and Davis who implemented modern techniques 
in its construction. A delicate balance of elaborate decor in the 
entrance and simple rustic design throughout other parts of the church 
make it a unique structure worthy of commemoration.
  For the past century, hundreds of thousands of Bronx residents have 
found solace and aid within the walls of Tercera Iglesia Bautista 
Espanola. I hope that all of my esteemed colleagues will join me in 
honoring this sacred and historic institution on its centennial 
anniversary.

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