[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 151 (2005), Part 15]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 20342]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




            CAMBRIA CITY MISSION CELEBRATES 75TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN P. MURTHA

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 14, 2005

  Mr. MURTHA. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Cambria City Mission as 
it celebrates its 75th year of serving the Johnstown community 
physically, mentally, materially, and spiritually. The non-
denominational mission is entirely financed by contributions from local 
churches, community service groups and generous individuals; operating 
without government assistance and following its Mission purpose for the 
last 75 years:
  ``To promote the Christian way of life and build character by 
teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. To provide spiritual inspiration 
through worship services and educational activities. To improve the 
home life of the community through boys' and girls' clubs and camps. To 
mold a greater love for country through an understanding of its 
opportunities and challenges.''
  Through the years, the Mission has experienced many growing pains and 
undergone many changes, but the commitment to its purpose stands firm.
  The Mission was founded in 1930 by the First Presbyterian Church of 
Johnstown as a Home Mission project. Bertha Bell, a member of the 
church, was asked to be the first executive director. She rented a 
storeroom at 602 Board Street, and began her work in December of 1930. 
When the Great Depression affected all communities, including 
Johnstown, the Mission ministered to all who came for help. Food was 
prepared and served daily for hungry children who came after school, 
and clothing was distributed to families who were in need.
  Today, in addition to Sunday school classes for children and adults, 
the mission also provides Sunday worship Bible study, craft, sewing and 
knitting classes and meeting facilities. Mother-daughter and father-son 
banquets are held annually, as well as vacation Bible school. Camp 
Harmony and Camp Allegheny remain the high points for the children of 
the Mission.
  As the programs and attendance at the Mission expanded, the need for 
larger facilities fulfilled with the 1958 purchase of a double house at 
906-908 Broad Street. However, the building burned in 1970. A new 
building was completed in 1972, and although it was severely damaged by 
the Johnstown flood of 1977, the building was restored and reopened in 
1984.
  Again I offer my congratulations to the Cambria City Mission and its 
interdenominational board of directors representing many churches in 
the Johnstown area.

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