[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 5]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 6659]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                   IN HONOR OF REV. DR. ANDREW DURGAN

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. NICK J. RAHALL II

                            of west virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 6, 2009

  Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to extend my deepest sympathy 
in the passing of my dear friend Rev. Dr. Andrew Durgan. Over 60 years 
ago, Rev. Durgan began his radio ministry over the airways of my 
family's radio station, WWNR, becoming the first African American to 
host a weekly program. I am proud that my father created an opportunity 
which Rev. Durgan used as a launching pad for his ministry. Joining 
together with my dear friend, the late Helen Dobson, made them both a 
powerhouse in the community.
  I was honored to be with Rev. Durgan as guest speaker for his 60th 
Anniversary of Broadcast Ministry and remember fondly the testimonies 
he shared concerning the goodness of the Lord. Rev. Durgan recounted 
the seven battles he had witnessed during his time in the service and 
although he never knew if he would make it out alive, he held fast to 
the words of the old hymn, ``The Lord will make a way Somehow.'' And 
though he may have had many storms in his life, he would say to his 
soul, Precious Lord, take my hand and lead me on, let me stand.
  Now, Rev. Durgan has another testimony, his living was not in vain, 
because he helped somebody as he traveled along this way, all because 
of God's Amazing Grace. Rev. Durgan's legacy will live on for years to 
come to inspire others to Hold On to God's Unchanging Hand.
  May God's blessing of peace be with you and may the memories of Rev. 
Durgan bring joy to your hearts.

                          ____________________