Honoring the Reverend Abraham Marsach on the Occasion of His Retirement

HONORING THE REVEREND ABRAHAM MARSACH ON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT -- (Extensions of Remarks - July 12, 2004)

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today to join the many family, friends, and community members who have gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of one of our most outstanding leaders, and my dear friend-Reverend Abraham Marsach-as he celebrates his retirement. However, I am quite sure that his retirement does not mean the end of his advocacy and activism.

As we have seen across the nation, the Hispanic community in New Haven has grown and flourished over the last several decades. As it has grown so has its demands for strong, vocal advocates willing to stand and fight for the needs of its members. Reverend Marsach has been just this kind of advocate-a passionate, active leader who has made a real difference in the lives of many. It is not often that you find such dedicated individuals who commit themselves so fully to the betterment of their community.

As both a community and spiritual leader, Reverend Marsach has touched the lives of thousands in New Haven. In his role as President of the Asociacion Ministerial Evangelica Hispana de New Haven he helped to unite religious leaders across the community and worked with municipal leaders to effect change in the community. The founder of Junta for Progressive Action, he created a social service agency which has helped thousands in New Haven's Hispanic community access the programs and services they need to improve their quality of life. Mentor, leader, advocate, and friend-Reverend Marsach is a true community treasure.

Reverend Marsach has been a fixture in our community for many years and we owe him a great debt of gratitude for the multitude of contributions he has made that have enriched all of our lives. As a spiritual guide at the Star of Jacob Christian Church in New Haven, he has nourished the souls of many-often providing much needed comfort in the hardest of personal trials. I would be remiss if I did not personally thank him for the wonderful tribute that he made to Maria Perez-a member of my staff who passed away just over two years ago. He shared a unique friendship with Maria and his words were of great comfort to her family and my staff during a most difficult time.

Through his hard work and unparalleled dedication, Reverend Marsach has left an indelible mark on the New Haven community and a legacy that will inspire generations to come. For his innumerable contributions and selfless dedication, I am proud to stand today to extend my deepest thanks and sincerest appreciation. It gives me great pleasure to join his wife, Margarita, his three daughters, family, friends, and the New Haven community in congratulating Reverend Abraham Marsach as he celebrates his retirement. My very best wishes for many more years of health and happiness.