SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 49

WHEREAS, The members of St. John's Episcopal Church in Carthage are celebrating the 75th anniversary of their church's founding on September 21, 2025; and

WHEREAS, St. John's was first organized in an abandoned theater with a handful of charter members under the leadership of Pastor John W. Fritts on July 29, 1950; the growing congregation met in a garage apartment before breaking ground on a sanctuary in October 1951, and the new building was dedicated the following year; the congregation went on to add a parish hall and an education wing, and it paid off all its debts in 1961; and

WHEREAS, Since its establishment, St. John's has benefited from the dedicated efforts of a number of outstanding clergy, including Pastor Jennene Laurinec, who leads the congregation today; and

WHEREAS, United by their shared faith and strong traditions, the members of this notable house of worship have established a variety of commendable programs that foster fellowship and offer help to those in need; and

WHEREAS, Countless Carthage residents have looked to St. John's Episcopal Church for spiritual guidance over the years, and it is a pleasure to join in honoring the congregation at this special time in its rich history; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 89th Legislature, 1st Called Session, hereby commemorate the 75th anniversary of St. John's Episcopal Church and extend to its members sincere 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 from the Texas Senate.

Hughes

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on August 15, 2025.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate