House Resolution 78

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING HARMONY BAPTIST CHURCH ON THE OCCASION OF ITS 175TH ANNIVERSARY, CELEBRATING ITS HISTORY OF SPIRITUAL EXCELLENCE.

WHEREAS, Harmony Baptist Church, in Mize, Mississippi, is the oldest church in Smith County being founded in 1832, and will celebrate its 175th anniversary on May 6, 2007; and

WHEREAS, located in the southern portion of Smith County, the land on which Harmony Baptist Church is situated was part of the Choctaw Indian Nation until the signing of the Treaty of Dancing Rabbit Creek in 1830, negotiated by representatives of President Andrew Jackson; and

WHEREAS, Harmony Baptist Church along with several other churches in Smith County endured the turmoil of the Civil War, at a time when there was a shortage of preachers of the Gospel in the area due largely in part to the pastors becoming military chaplains; and

WHEREAS, having always been noted for its giving to those in need, Harmony Baptist's early records indicate a December 1918 offering of $7.75 being given to the Baptist Orphanage, which is now known as the Baptist Children's Village; and

WHEREAS, with its rich history passed down through generation after generation of congregations Harmony Baptist, as the oldest church in Smith County, continues to serve as refuge for the weary, a pillar of strength and a safe haven for the spiritually downtrodden; and

WHEREAS, affiliated with the Smith County Baptist Church Association, the Mississippi Baptist Convention and the Southern Baptist Convention, Harmony Baptist Church built its present building and sanctuary in 1927, and paid it off in 1928, one year after its completion; and

WHEREAS, Harmony Baptist Church has been a beacon in the community, having contributed both spiritually and culturally to its community by promoting the love of God, self and education; and

WHEREAS, with excitement, humility and awe, Harmony Baptist Church looks back upon its past achievements, and with sincere thankfulness acknowledges God's grace and love, which has carried the church triumphantly throughout its 175-year legacy; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize outstanding and contributory religious institutions such as Harmony Baptist Church, which continues to be a vital part of Smith County and the Mize Community:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate the diligence of the pastors and members of Harmony Baptist Church upon the occasion of the church's 175th year anniversary and extend warmest wishes for continued prosperity, spiritual growth and success.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Harmony Baptist Church and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.