HONORING PASTOR TOM BEERS

On 2024-12-10, Senator Jim Banks (R-IN) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING PASTOR TOM BEERS" in the Senate. The speech addressed the environment.

HONORING PASTOR TOM BEERS

Congressional Record, Volume 170 Issue 183 (Tuesday, December 10, 2024) [Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 183 (Tuesday, December 10, 2024)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1246] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING PASTOR TOM BEERS ______ HON. JIM BANKS of indiana in the house of representatives Tuesday, December 10, 2024 Mr. BANKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Tom Beers, the longtime pastor of Columbia City Church of the Nazarene and my own childhood pastor, as he retires at the end of this year. Born in Elkhart, Indiana, Pastor Tom grew up in the church and accepted Jesus as his Savior at the early age of five. After graduating high school and marrying his sweetheart, Deborah Goble, he began to feel the call to full-time ministry. In 1976, he enrolled at Olivet Nazarene College with only $250 in his pocket, a new job at Arby's, and faith that God would provide for him and his young family. Pastor Tom graduated in 1982 and began his pastoral journey as an associate pastor at the Lansing Church of the Nazarene in Illinois. He went on to serve as the senior pastor at the Brookfield church for three years and the Waukesha, Wisconsin, church for another three before moving to Columbia City in 1991. Since then, Pastor Tom's leadership has guided Columbia City Church of the Nazarene, establishing it as a steadfast beacon of faith in the community. Under his care, the church has flourished as a sanctuary of worship, spiritual growth, and fellowship. Pastor Tom's vision and dedication have shaped a congregation deeply committed to both local outreach and global missions, creating a legacy within the community and beyond. Jeremiah 3:15 states: ``Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding.'' Pastor Tom's ministry has been a testament to the heart of a shepherd, providing wisdom, guidance, and love to countless lives--including my own. As he prepares to depart from his current role, I wish Pastor Tom many joyful years ahead to cherish time with his family, enjoy the community he has called home for so long, and cheer on his Indiana Hoosiers. His remarkable life of service, faith, and leadership will continue to inspire all who have been touched by his ministry. ____________________