[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 39 (Thursday, April 7, 2005)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E576] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] TRIBUTE TO BISHOP BILLY BASKIN--PASTOR, TEACHER AND COMMUNITY LEADER ______ HON. KENDRICK B. MEEK of florida in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 6, 2005 Mr. MEEK of Florida. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise to pay tribute to Bishop Billy Baskin, one of the preeminent religious leaders of our community. On Sunday, April 10, 2005 beginning at 7 p.m., he will be honored at Miami's New Birth Baptist Church Cathedral of Faith International during a special appreciation service defined by the theme: ``Adding Years to Your Life--Adding Life to Your Years.'' Bishop Victor T. Curry, the Pastor of New Birth Church Cathedral, will lead other members of Miami's clergy and countless admirers throughout Miami-Dade County, in lauding this honoree portrayed as The Man, The Mandate and the Ministry. Having founded Miami's New Way Fellowship Praise & Worship Center in 1975, Bishop Baskin truly evokes the genuine leadership of a Good Shepherd who attends to his flock in many ways, and the whole week long. As pastor and teacher, he exudes the knowledge and caring of a religious visionary who goes about empowering his congregation with his sermons. He has been a source of inspiration and a mentor to a host of other religious leaders who are now leading other congregations throughout South Florida and beyond. Throughout the longevity of his pastorate, he has truly persevered in showing us the Way, the Truth and the Life that only his knowledge and experience could expound. As he continues to be involved with our faith-community, Bishop Baskin is never oblivious of the needs and concerns of others, particularly the less fortunate among us. It is his tireless consecration to his ministry that defines the measure of his consummate commitment to serve ``. . . the least of these.'' His timely and resilient leadership at the New Way Fellowship Praise & Worship Center for some thirty years is genuinely commendable. As a respected community leader, he has indeed earned our deepest respects and utmost admiration. This is the legacy of Bishop Billy Baskin. I am truly privileged in thanking him for his many years of service. My honor in sharing his friendship is only exceeded by my gratitude for everything that has sacrificed on our community's behalf as he continues to teach us to live by the noble ethic of serving the community. ____________________