SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 1189

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Bishop Henry M. Williamson, Sr., the 52nd bishop of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church; and

WHEREAS, Born in Arkansas, Henry Williamson was called to the ministry in 1967 in Gary, Indiana, at Israel Christian Methodist Episcopal Church; he earned a master of divinity degree from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Illinois, and he was awarded an honorary doctor of divinity degree from United Theological Seminary in Monroe, Louisiana; and

WHEREAS, Bishop Williamson's pastoral ministry spanned 33 years, including his service as pastor at Carter Temple Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Chicago for 16 years; during his tenure, the congregation grew to over 3,000 active members, with 50 active ministries in the church; and

WHEREAS, Bishop Williamson is currently a trustee of The Phillips School of Theology at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia; he serves as chairman of the Department of Publication Services and as chairman of the Commission on Social Justice and Human Concerns of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church; he is also the founder of the One Church One School Community Partnership Program; he is a much-sought-after public speaker and is an advocate for civil and human rights; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 82nd Legislature, hereby commend Bishop Henry M. Williamson, Sr., on his outstanding service as the 52nd bishop of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for him as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.

Ellis

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 25, 2011.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate