2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26108585D

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 247

Offered March 4, 2026

Commending Church of the Ascension.

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Patron—Feggans

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WHEREAS, for more than 50 years, Church of the Ascension in Virginia Beach has provided its congregation with uplifting spiritual guidance, joyful occasions for worship and fellowship, and meaningful opportunities for charitable outreach; and

WHEREAS, Church of the Ascension was founded in the Kempsville area of Virginia Beach in 1972 by Father Robert French and under the direction of Bishop Russell; and

WHEREAS, in addition to Father French, Church of the Ascension has been led by a distinguished line of pastors, including Father William Dale, Father James Parke, Father Charles Breindel, and Father Daniel Malingumu, the church's current pastor; and

WHEREAS, Church of the Ascension promotes health and well-being in the Virginia Beach community by providing a food pantry and financial assistance to individuals and families in need; and

WHEREAS, as a testament to the church's commitment to inclusivity, Church of the Ascension welcomed Congregation Beth Chaverim in Virginia Beach to share its worship space from 1985 to 1995; and

WHEREAS, Church of the Ascension has made an impact globally through its partnership with the St. Ludovick Parish in Tanzania, Africa; and

WHEREAS, Church of the Ascension helps its members grow in their faith and to develop a greater understanding of the world by hosting forums on a variety of pressing issues of the day; and

WHEREAS, as a beacon of hope and strength in the Virginia Beach community, Church of the Ascension has made a positive and lasting imprint on countless lives; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Church of the Ascension hereby be commended for its legacy of service on behalf of its congregation and the Virginia Beach community; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Church of the Ascension as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for the church's contributions to Virginia Beach and the Commonwealth.