Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-08-10

HONORING MOUNT OLIVE BAPTIST CHURCH ON 155 YEARS OF SERVICE

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On 2026-08-10, Representative Eugene Simon Vindman (D-VA-7) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING MOUNT OLIVE BAPTIST CHURCH ON 155 YEARS OF SERVICE" in the House.

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HONORING MOUNT OLIVE BAPTIST CHURCH ON 155 YEARS OF SERVICE

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 131 (Monday, August 10, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 131 (Monday, August 10, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E779] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MOUNT OLIVE BAPTIST CHURCH ON 155 YEARS OF SERVICE ______ HON. EUGENE SIMON VINDMAN of virginia in the house of representatives Monday, August 10, 2026 Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Mount Olive Baptist Church of Culpeper, Virginia, as it celebrates 155 years of faithful service, steadfast leadership, and unwavering commitment to the people of Culpeper and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Since its founding in 1871, Mount Olive Baptist Church has served as a cornerstone of faith, hope, and compassion for generations of families. For more than a century and a half, this church has demonstrated that ministry extends far beyond its sanctuary walls through a deep and enduring commitment to serving its community. From feeding the hungry, and clothing those in need, to supporting local shelter services, and organizations assisting survivors of domestic and sexual violence, Mount Olive has consistently answered the call to care for its neighbors with grace and generosity. The church's annual Fitness Witness 5K has become a meaningful tradition, raising support each year for nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving the lives of Culpeper's most vulnerable residents. Through this effort and countless other acts of service, Mount Olive continues to strengthen the community while inspiring others to serve. In 2023, the congregation marked a historic milestone with the installation of its first female pastor, Reverend Dr. Tracey Dawkins Holley. Under her visionary leadership, Mount Olive Baptist Church has continued to grow in ministry, deepen its community partnerships, and build upon its remarkable legacy of service and spiritual leadership. This year, Mount Olive Baptist Church was recognized as the ``Most Respected House of Worship'' in the Culpeper Times Best of the Best 2026 awards--a well-deserved honor that reflects the congregation's enduring impact, trusted leadership, and unwavering dedication to serving others. On behalf of Virginia's Seventh Congressional District, I extend my sincere congratulations to Reverend Dr. Tracey Dawkins Holley, the church leadership, and every member of the Mount Olive Baptist Church family on this remarkable 155-year milestone. May this anniversary serve as both a celebration of an extraordinary, enduring legacy, and an inspiration for generations to come. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mount Olive Baptist Church for its enduring faith, exceptional service, and profound contributions to the Culpeper community. ____________________

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HONORING MOUNT OLIVE BAPTIST CHURCH ON 155 YEARS OF SERVICE Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 131 (Monday, August 10, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 131 (Monday, August 10, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E779] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MOUNT OLIVE BAPTIST CHURCH ON 155 YEARS OF SERVICE ______ HON. EUGENE SIMON VINDMAN of virginia in the house of representatives Monday, August 10, 2026 Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Mount Olive Baptist Church of Culpeper, Virginia, as it celebrates 155 years of faithful service, steadfast leadership, and unwavering commitment to the people of Culpeper and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Since its founding in 1871, Mount Olive Baptist Church has served as a cornerstone of faith, hope, and compassion for generations of families. For more than a century and a half, this church has demonstrated that ministry extends far beyond its sanctuary walls through a deep and enduring commitment to serving its community. From feeding the hungry, and clothing those in need, to supporting local shelter services, and organizations assisting survivors of domestic and sexual violence, Mount Olive has consistently answered the call to care for its neighbors with grace and generosity. The church's annual Fitness Witness 5K has become a meaningful tradition, raising support each year for nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving the lives of Culpeper's most vulnerable residents. Through this effort and countless other acts of service, Mount Olive continues to strengthen the community while inspiring others to serve. In 2023, the congregation marked a historic milestone with the installation of its first female pastor, Reverend Dr. Tracey Dawkins Holley. Under her visionary leadership, Mount Olive Baptist Church has continued to grow in ministry, deepen its community partnerships, and build upon its remarkable legacy of service and spiritual leadership. This year, Mount Olive Baptist Church was recognized as the ``Most Respected House of Worship'' in the Culpeper Times Best of the Best 2026 awards--a well-deserved honor that reflects the congregation's enduring impact, trusted leadership, and unwavering dedication to serving others. On behalf of Virginia's Seventh Congressional District, I extend my sincere congratulations to Reverend Dr. Tracey Dawkins Holley, the church leadership, and every member of the Mount Olive Baptist Church family on this remarkable 155-year milestone. May this anniversary serve as both a celebration of an extraordinary, enduring legacy, and an inspiration for generations to come. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mount Olive Baptist Church for its enduring faith, exceptional service, and profound contributions to the Culpeper community. ____________________