H.R. No. 96 



R E S O L U T I O N
	WHEREAS, Pastor John Tatum is retiring from full-time 
ministry at St. Luke "Community" United Methodist Church (UMC) in 
Dallas, and this occasion provides a fitting opportunity to reflect 
on his outstanding career and many achievements; and
	WHEREAS, Responding to a call to serve in the ministry, 
Pastor Tatum was ordained as a deacon in 1961 and graduated from 
Paul Quinn College in 1963; over the next seven years, he earned a 
master of theology degree from Southern Methodist University and 
became an ordained elder in the church; and
	WHEREAS, While studying at the university, this esteemed 
spiritual leader oversaw the Saturday Church School and seasonal 
sports programs for children at St. Luke "Community" UMC; he later 
founded the Methodist Breadbasket, became the first African 
American on staff with the North Texas Conference, and served as 
parish director for the Inter-City Parish; and
	WHEREAS, In addition to his tenure at St. Luke's, Pastor 
Tatum has led congregants at Crest-Moore UMC and King UMC, before 
and after their merger into Crest-Moore King UMC, as well as at St. 
Paul UMC and Warren UMC; he assumed his current post as senior 
associate pastor in 1993, and has since won the respect and 
admiration of colleagues and church members alike for his 
dedication, wisdom, and compassion;  and
	WHEREAS, Pastor Tatum exemplifies the highest ideals of the 
ministerial profession, and it is a pleasure to join in honoring him 
at this time; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 78th Texas 
Legislature, 1st Called Session, hereby commend John Tatum for his 
distinguished service with St. Luke "Community" United Methodist 
Church and extend to him sincere best wishes for continued 
happiness and success; and, be it further
	RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be 
prepared for Pastor Tatum as an expression of high regard by the 
Texas House of Representatives.

                                                                        Giddings

                                                  ______________________________
                                                       Speaker of the House     

	I certify that H.R. No. 96 was adopted by the House on July 
18, 2003, by a non-record vote.

                                                  ______________________________
                                                     Chief Clerk of the House