SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 79

WHEREAS, The members of New Hope Baptist Church in Big Sandy are gathering on September 14, 2025, to celebrate the 170th anniversary of their church's founding; and

WHEREAS, New Hope Baptist traces its origins to September 22, 1855, when a group of 15 charter members organized the church under the guidance of Elders Thomas Willingham, Wm. B. Mathis, Jon. O. J. Davis, and P. K. Wilson; the congregation met in a one-room log house before a new sanctuary was constructed in 1883; that structure was dismantled and relocated to the Crossroads community in 1914, and in December 1950, the church was deeded land for the construction of a new building at its present site on State Highway 155; and

WHEREAS, Through the years, New Hope Baptist has benefited from the able leadership of a number of outstanding pastors, and today that tradition of service is continued by Pastor Ernest Graham; under his direction, the congregation continues to play a vital role in the community, providing its members with myriad opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship, and outreach; and

WHEREAS, New Hope Baptist Church has long served as a source of inspiration and guidance to those who worship there, and it is a pleasure to join in recognizing this venerable religious institution at this special time in its rich history; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 89th Legislature, 2nd Called Session, hereby commemorate the 170th anniversary of New Hope Baptist Church and extend to its members sincere best wishes for a meaningful and memorable celebration; 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

________________________________

President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on September 4, 2025.

________________________________

Secretary of the Senate

________________________________

Member, Texas Senate