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79S30593 BJM-D

By:  West                                                         H.R. No. 164



R E S O L U T I O N
	WHEREAS, The year 2006 marks the 100th anniversary of the 
founding of First Christian Church of Odessa, providing an ideal 
time to recognize the rich history of this venerable house of 
worship; and
	WHEREAS, The church was organized on June 6, 1906, by 13 
ranchers, who convened on the lawn of the Ector County Courthouse; 
the first service was held in a tent, and the courthouse horse 
trough served as the baptistry; and
	WHEREAS, By 1911, a tabernacle had been built, and in 1939 an 
education building and a beautiful sanctuary with striking stained 
glass windows were erected on the corner of Sixth and Lee Streets; 
today, the sanctuary serves as a fellowship hall, and congregants 
meet for services in a facility built in 1965; and
	WHEREAS, Recognized with markers by the Heritage Foundation 
of Odessa, First Christian Church has long played an important role 
in the vitality of the community through its religious, civic, 
social, educational, and volunteer programs; moreover, the church 
continues to enjoy a close relationship with Texas Christian 
University and Brite Divinity School, where many of its ministers 
have studied; and
	WHEREAS, Since its founding a century ago, First Christian 
Church has provided spiritual leadership and unwavering support to 
area residents, and the church stands as a tribute to the dedication 
of its members, both past and present, who have devoted their time, 
prayers, and financial resources to ensure its continued existence 
as a house of worship; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 79th Texas 
Legislature, 3rd Called Session, hereby congratulate the clergy and 
members of First Christian Church on the joyous occasion of the 
100th anniversary of the church's founding and extend to them 
heartfelt 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.