SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 185

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to join Texans everywhere in celebrating the rich history of the African Methodist Episcopal Church; and

WHEREAS, The African Methodist Episcopal Church was founded by African Americans who were facing racial discrimination in their churches; congregants created their own denomination while continuing to adhere to the Methodist doctrine and order of worship; and

WHEREAS, Among the tenets of the church are feeding the hungry, housing the homeless, and ministering to the needs of those in prisons, hospitals, nursing homes, and mental institutions; and

WHEREAS, The African Methodist Episcopal Church has long been a steadfast supporter of education, and it cosponsored the nation's first independent historically black college, Wilberforce University; the church is affiliated with other colleges and universities across the country, including Allen University, Morris Brown College, and Paul Quinn College; and

WHEREAS, To commemorate the unique history of this denomination, Rice Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Dallas is sponsoring a Founder's Day Banquet on February 25, 2011; born in protest against slavery and racial discrimination, the African Methodist Episcopal Church has served as a beacon for worshippers the world over; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 82nd Legislature, hereby commend the members and clergy of the African Methodist Episcopal Church on their many contributions to our society and extend best wishes for continued growth and success; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared in honor of the church's enduring legacy.

West

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 7, 2011.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate