“It is important that we not only celebrate and remember Dr. King, but that we also remember his dedication to serving others by living that example,” said Andrews.  “Through family and faith, we are able to demonstrate his teachings of serving others and I can think of no better way to strengthen both family and faith than through institutions like St. Matthews Church.”

In 1998, the parishioners of the St. Matthew's Baptist Church in Williamstown were almost stopped from achieving their community's goal of building an addition to the existing church, which would include a gymnasium, all-aluminum kitchen, a stage and 14 additional classrooms.  The general contractor the community hired for this construction had failed to pay his sub-contractors, and the project could not be completed because the financing company was holding the funding in escrow.  The half-completed building was deteriorating and in danger of collapse due to exposure to the elements.

In November of 1998, Congressman Rob Andrews met with the Dr. Rev. Ray Gordon, the Pastor of St. Matthews, and the church's new general contractor, Michael T. Martin of M.T. Martin Inc., who is also a parishioner.  Congressman Andrews immediately called the financing company to convey to them the severity of this situation.  Through persistent follow-up, Andrews convinced the lender to seek an amicable solution that would free up funds so that the church could complete the building project.  

"I am delighted that I was able to work with my friends and constituents to end the delay that was endangering their chance to complete this important community project,” said Andrews. “In the spirit of Dr. King, when many individuals unite from all different walks of life to work as one toward a common interest, a community can accomplish anything."