TITLE: Recognizing First Baptist Church Gilmer on the occasion of its 175th anniversary.

SUMMARY: Recognizing First Baptist Church Gilmer on the occasion of its 175th anniversary.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, For 175 years, area residents have come together to celebrate their faith at First Baptist Church Gilmer, and the passage of this milestone anniversary offers a welcome opportunity to celebrate the congregation's rich history; and WHEREAS, First Baptist Church Gilmer traces its origins back to 1846, when its charter members met in a log cabin near North Montgomery Street; in 1870, the congregation relocated to a frame building on Titus Street, and in 1896, the church constructed a red brick building on the southeast corner of Buffalo and Trinity Streets; the current sanctuary on Buffalo Street was dedicated in 1969; and WHEREAS, In the early decades, a visiting preacher led services every other week, and in 1903, First Baptist began holding services every Sunday; the church has benefited from the dedicated efforts of a number of outstanding clergy through the years, including its first full-time pastor, the Reverend J. L. Mahan; today, that tradition of service is continued by Pastor Mike Kessler, who has led the congregation since 2017; united by their shared faith, the church's members have established a variety of commendable programs that foster fellowship and offer help to those in need; and WHEREAS, While this venerable church has undergone numerous changes to accommodate the evolving needs of the congregation, it remains a constant and enduring presence in Gilmer, and many who have worshipped there have experienced a renewal of their faith and the welcoming embrace of a caring community; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 87th Legislature, 3rd Called Session, hereby commemorate the 175th anniversary of First Baptist Church Gilmer and extend to the congregation 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 President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on October 1, 2021.