The publication is reproduced in full below:
RECOGNIZING THE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF MERRIFIELD FOR THEIR 150TH
ANNIVERSARY
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HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY
of virginia
in the house of representatives
Friday, November 5, 2021
Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the First Baptist Church of Merrifield
(FBCM) on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of its sanctuary.
First Baptist Church of Merrifield was started in a log cabin between 1871-1872. FBCM had then branched out and began worshipping on property owned by Mr. Robert Bradley of Merrifield. In 1891, the property was purchased from him by church Trustees: John E. Coates, Joshua Ball, and Joshua Pearson for the sum of five dollars. And quickly, FBCM was a church formed from strong community family ties.
First Baptist Church of Merrifield was unable to adequately celebrate their 150th ``Sesquicentennial'' Homecoming Anniversary in 2020 due to the challenges of COVID-19. This year's celebration is significant as the spirit of last year is incorporated with the excitement of reaching 151 years. First Baptist Church of Merrifield remains a vital part of the community today partnering with their neighbors both before and during COYID-19. They hosted the Greater Merrifield Business Association Annual Fall Festival in 2018, and virtual Sunday Services and Bible Studies continued to be held each week. They also organized First Baptist Church of Merrifield Community Festivals held in 2018 and 2019, that included free food giveaways, gift card give-away, seminars on anxiety and grief, free tutoring, and mentorship sessions with local schools within the community (Luther Jackson Middle School, Timber Lane Elementary School, Annandale High School) as well as other outreach efforts.
In 151 years, there have been 13 pastors and 2 interim pastors. Each one contributing to the growth of FBCM in their own way. A few of those contributions include: the establishment of the Golden Ages Senior Saints Ministry, the Merrifield Child Development Center, the Recovery of the Historic Bell, creation of a youth mentoring program with Luther Jackson Middle School, tutoring outreach with Luther Jackson Middle School, Timber Lane Elementary School, and Annandale High School, and much more. FBCM truly leads by both faith and example in our community.
Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending First Baptist Church of Merrifield for its efforts to better the Northern Virginia region and in congratulating them on the occasion of this anniversary. It is a privilege to work alongside this great congregation in the community, and I wish them continued success through faith, family, and service.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 195
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