[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 14]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 20256]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



A TRIBUTE TO EVANS METROPOLITAN AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL ZION CHURCH

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                           HON. MIKE McINTYRE

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 17, 2001

  Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute and special 
recognition to Evans Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Zion 
Church on their 200 years of service to the citizens of Fayetteville 
and Cumberland County, NC.
  Founded in 1801 by Mr. Henry Evans, a free black cobbler and 
Methodist preacher from Virginia, Evans AME Church has played an 
important role in the spiritual and cultural life for local citizens. 
From her missions of teaching, nurturing, caring, and growing in the 
word of God, Evans AME church stands tall as a beacon of hope for all 
to see.
  In establishing this wonderful church, Pastor Evans faced numerous 
trials and tribulations. But he always overcame them to keep the Word 
of the Lord alive and well in Cumberland County, Pastor Evans was 
driven out of Fayetteville on numerous occasions, imprisoned at least 
three times, and even swam across the icy Cape Fear River to keep 
preaching the gospel. Pastor Evans' perseverance finally prevailed in 
1802 as town leaders granted him a license to preach.
  Mr. Speaker, 200 years later, Pastor Henry Evans' spirit continues to 
fill and move the congregation and community of Evans AME Church. I ask 
that all of my colleagues join me in recognizing this church on this 
historic occasion, knowing that as their motto states, ``We are a 
friendly church at the top of the hill on Cool Spring Street where 
visitors are always welcome.''

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