78S30793 MDM-D

By:  Jones of Dallas                                              H.R. No. 311



R E S O L U T I O N
	WHEREAS, The year 2003 marks the 125th anniversary of the 
founding of the Greater New Zion Baptist Church in Dallas; and
	WHEREAS, Organized as the New Zion Baptist Church in 1878, 
the church traces its roots to the New Hope Mission in "Frogtown," 
when it functioned as a "prayer band" or "mission station" in the 
homes of members; in the early 1950s, a name revision to Greater New 
Zion Baptist Church differentiated it from another Dallas church; 
and
	WHEREAS, The Reverend A. B. Moore was the first of many fine 
spiritual leaders, including Pastor Emeritus Arthur Vance "A. V." 
Voice, whose tenure spanned 42 years; since 1991, the Reverend Joe 
S. Patterson has ably guided the congregation through a joyous time 
of increased membership, upgraded facilities, and ministries 
responsive to the needs of the church and community; and
	WHEREAS, As the membership has steadily grown through the 
years, more meeting space has been required, and since 1953, the 
church home has been situated at 2210 Pine Street, in the former 
facilities of the Colonial Baptist Church; and
	WHEREAS, Blessed with warm fellowship and inspirational 
preaching, the Greater New Zion Baptist Church reflects the 
commitment of its members, past and present, who have given 
generously of their time, energy, and financial resources to ensure 
its ongoing existence as a house of worship; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 78th Texas 
Legislature, 3rd Called Session, hereby congratulate Reverend 
Patterson and the members of the Greater New Zion Baptist Church on 
the momentous occasion of the church's 125th anniversary and extend 
to all those involved sincere best wishes for the future; and, be it 
further
	RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be 
prepared for the church as an expression of high regard by the Texas 
House of Representatives.