TITLE: Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the founding of St. John Lutheran Church in Bishop.

SUMMARY: Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the founding of St. John Lutheran Church in Bishop.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Members of the St. John Lutheran Church in Bishop celebrated the 100th anniversary of their church's founding on April 21, 2013; and WHEREAS, This historic congregation was organized in 1913 as the Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church with 13 charter members; services were originally held at the West Ward School or in a private home before the first church building was constructed, and were conducted in German; the congregation moved to its current location in 1951, and the facilities were expanded several years later to offer more amenities as well as office space and classrooms; and WHEREAS, Over the years, the church has benefited from the able leadership of many dedicated members of the clergy, and today that tradition of service continues with Reverend Melvin Q. Antonio, who assumed the pulpit in 2009; and WHEREAS, United by their shared faith and strong traditions, the members of this notable house of worship have initiated a variety of commendable programs that offer fellowship and support; the Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America quilt every month and sponsor donation collections for Lutheran World Relief; moreover, the church hosts a monthly luncheon and an annual fund-raising hamburger supper and participates in the Bishop Community Thanksgiving and Easter Sunrise Services; and WHEREAS, Throughout the past century, many Bishop residents have looked to St. John Lutheran Church for spiritual enrichment and guidance, and it is a pleasure to join in honoring the church at this special time in its rich history; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas Legislature hereby commemorate the 100th anniversary of the founding of St. John Lutheran Church and extend to its members and clergy 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 by the Texas House of Representatives. Lozano Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 1915 was adopted by the House on May 15, 2013, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House