House Resolution 43

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING REVEREND BOB JONES UPON HIS RETIREMENT AS THE MUSIC MINISTER OF MAIN STREET BAPTIST CHURCH AFTER 30 YEARS OF OUTSTANDING SERVICE.

WHEREAS, on February 17, 2002, Reverend Bob Jones announced his retirement as the Music Minister of Main Street Baptist Church in Hattiesburg, after 30 years of outstanding service; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Jones, a native of Meridian, received his education from Meridian Junior College, Mississippi College and New Orleans Baptist Seminary; and

WHEREAS, in 1970, Reverend Jones arrived in Hattiesburg at the Main Street Baptist Church, serving under longtime pastor, Dr. John E. Barnes; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Jones created and developed the Singing Christmas Tree at Main Street Baptist Church, one of the most anticipated programs during the holidays in the area; and

WHEREAS, in addition, Reverend Jones served several years on staff part time at the University of Southern Mississippi School of Music, where he developed the school's Church Music Department; and

WHEREAS, although Reverend Jones is retiring as Music Minister, he will remain at Main Street Baptist Church as the Minister for Senior Adults; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize and commend outstanding service of Mississippians such as Reverend Jones, who has dedicated his life and career to ministering to hundreds of people:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate Reverend Bob Jones upon his retirement as Music Minister of Main Street Baptist Church and express our heartiest wishes for success in all his future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Reverend Bob Jones and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.