R E S O L U T I O N 1-1 WHEREAS, This year, members of Antioch Baptist Church are 1-2 celebrating 135 years of faithful service to the religious needs of 1-3 their community, and this remarkable milestone is indeed worthy of 1-4 special praise and recognition; and 1-5 WHEREAS, Since its founding in 1862, the church has played a 1-6 vital role in the Bells community and has become a spiritual 1-7 bedrock to generations of devout members; and 1-8 WHEREAS, Inspired leadership and an active congregation have 1-9 helped Antioch Baptist Church to flourish over time; its current 1-10 preacher, the Reverend Dr. Lowell C. Howard, began his ministry in 1-11 June 1990 and for more than six years has offered comfort and 1-12 wisdom to his growing flock as a minister, evangelist, and 1-13 counselor; and 1-14 WHEREAS, Throughout its proud history, Antioch Baptist Church 1-15 has provided outstanding spiritual leadership and moral guidance to 1-16 its congregation; the church stands today as a tribute to the 1-17 dedication and hard work of its members, past and present, who have 1-18 devoted their time, energy, and resources to ensure its continued 1-19 existence as a house of God; now, therefore, be it 1-20 RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 75th Texas 1-21 Legislature hereby honor Antioch Baptist Church on the occasion of 1-22 its 135th anniversary and commend Dr. Lowell C. Howard and his 1-23 congregation for the many significant contributions they have made 1-24 to their community; and, be it further 2-1 RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be 2-2 prepared for Antioch Baptist Church as an expression of high regard 2-3 by the Texas House of Representatives. Clark _______________________________ Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 449 was adopted by the House on April 11, 1997, by a non-record vote. _______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House