SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 974

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Carmel Baptist Church on the occasion of its 160th anniversary; and

WHEREAS, This historic house of worship was established on May 6, 1853, on land owned by Zachariah Ellison in what is today Lindale; it represented the shared religious mission of the original six members; its pastor was the Reverend John Bledsoe, and Milton Carter was chosen as deacon and church clerk; and

WHEREAS, These early worshippers attended services faithfully, and by October of 1865, the membership had grown to 91 people, 26 of whom were African American; and

WHEREAS, In November of that year, the church authorized membership letters for its African American brethren, who then started Duck Creek Baptist Church, and the two churches have maintained a cordial relationship to this day; and

WHEREAS, Since the founding of Carmel Baptist Church, it has been overseen by more than 40 pastors, including the current minister, James E. Cheatham; and

WHEREAS, Over the decades, this historic church has provided a spiritual home and a place of peace for its members, and its evangelistic and mission-minded congregation has grown in its commitment and faith; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 83rd Legislature, hereby commend the members of Carmel Baptist Church on the occasion of the church's 160th anniversary; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for the church in honor of this milestone and as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.

Deuell

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 15, 2013.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate