2025 SESSION

INTRODUCED

25100820D

SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 380

Offered February 13, 2025

Commending Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church.

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Patrons—Bagby; Delegates: LeVere Bolling and McQuinn

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WHEREAS, for 155 years, Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church of Richmond has faithfully served its congregation and the community by providing uplifting spiritual guidance, meaningful opportunities for fellowship and worship, and numerous occasions for charitable outreach; and

WHEREAS, tracing its origins to a small prayer group led by the Reverend Daniel James, Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church held its first formal service on May 10, 1869, in a Quaker schoolhouse in the Fulton neighborhood of Richmond; and

WHEREAS, in 1874, Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church purchased the Quaker schoolhouse in Fulton, using it as its place of worship until the 1890s when the church began its transition to a new site at the intersection of Graham and Erin Streets; since the 1970s, the church has been at its present location at the intersection of Hartman Street and Elkridge Lane; and

WHEREAS, from its first pastor, the Reverend Horatio Harris, to its current pastor, the Reverend Roscoe D. Cooper III, Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church has been led by a distinguished line of pastors, each of whom has contributed to the spiritual, social, and financial well-being of the church and the community; and

WHEREAS, Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church has continually pursued its mission through a variety of member groups, initiatives, and ministries, including several leadership boards, choirs, and outreach programs designed to serve its congregation, the Richmond community, and beyond; and

WHEREAS, the church has regularly renovated and expanded its facilities over the years to provide a safe, welcoming, and inspiring place of worship and to ensure that its physical space meets the needs of its growing congregation; and

WHEREAS, the remarkable achievements of Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church are the result of the vision and dedication of its leaders and the steadfast commitment and efforts of its members; and

WHEREAS, Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church has been a spiritual home to countless individuals and families since its founding and is an important part of what makes Richmond a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate, the House of Delegates concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church on the occasion of its 155th anniversary; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration for the church's history and its contributions to the Commonwealth.