IL HR1364

Congratulates the congregation of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Piopolis on its 175th anniversary in 2016.

Recognizes the church's founding in 1841 when 25 German pioneers from Ersingen arrived in the area and established the congregation with first Mass performed in a log cabin.

Documents the church's history including construction of its first log church in 1846, a frame church in 1860, and two brick churches (dedicated in 1884 and rebuilt after a 1996 tornado).

Notes significant milestones including the establishment of the Parish Council in 1975, the hosting of the Farm Blessing in 2007, and the appointment of Fr. Slawomir Ptak as the 13th pastor in 2011.

Directs presentation of a suitable copy of the resolution to the church congregation as a symbol of esteem and respect.