79R4136 MAM-D

By:  Martinez Fischer                                             H.R. No. 211



R E S O L U T I O N
	WHEREAS, The congregation of West End Baptist Church of San 
Antonio is celebrating the 100th anniversary of their church on 
March 20, 2005, and this momentous occasion provides a fitting 
opportunity to reflect on the rich history of this venerable house 
of worship; and
	WHEREAS, In March 1905, with seven members and two ministers, 
West End Baptist Church opened in a one-room, rented building in a 
densely wooded area on Culebra Road; the Reverend P. H. Haywood was 
the group's first pastor and under his leadership the congregation 
grew steadily; he also helped organize the purchase of the present 
sanctuary's lot and the construction of a small frame house on the 
property; and
	WHEREAS, In the 1930s the church expanded rapidly to  include 
more than 3,000 members and a number of organizations, including 
the first layman's league in the district, the mission circles, the 
girls' auxiliary, the shepherd boys, and the starlight band; by 
1946, the church was debt-free and boasted a nursery school, a board 
of directors, and plans for a new building, which opened its doors 
four years later; and
	WHEREAS, West End Baptist Church was completely modernized in 
the 1990s under the wise stewardship of Dr. A. Bernard Devers, the 
congregation's current pastor; he initiated many new programs and a 
complete upgrade of the church's facilities, including new computer 
equipment and an expanded office staff; one of the most 
sought-after preachers and Bible teachers in San Antonio, Dr. 
Devers, like his predecessors, has served his congregation with 
selfless devotion, and the church has greatly benefited from his 
prayers and direction; and
	WHEREAS, Since its founding a century ago, West End Baptist 
Church has provided spiritual leadership and unwavering support to 
those who have worshiped there, and the church stands as a tribute 
to the dedication and deep commitment of its members, 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 hereby congratulate the members of West End Baptist 
Church on the joyous occasion of the church's centennial and extend 
to them sincere best wishes for a meaningful and memorable 
observance; 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.