A house RESOLUTION

TO CONGRATULATE SAINT PAUL MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH OF WINNSBORO FOR A CENTURY AND A HALF OF EXEMPLARY SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY AND TO EXTEND WARMEST CONGRATULATIONS ON THE OCCASION OF THE CHURCH'S HISTORIC ONE HUNDRED FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY.

Whereas, from its humble beginnings in 1873, Saint Paul Missionary has had a lasting impact on the people and community it has served for one hundred and fifty years. The church marked this passage of time and celebrated its outlook for future generations during activities held in November 2023; and

Whereas, established in a little schoolhouse standing in Presbyterian Woods by Simon McIntosh, Henry Golden, Lily Yarborough, Frances Kelly, Lizzie Hart, and others, the launch of the fledgling congregation is considered to be the first organized Baptist church for blacks in Winnsboro. The church was incorporated in 1990; and

Whereas, shortly thereafter, the small band of members relocated to a little house owned by Henry Golden and installed their first pastor, the Reverend Daniel Golden. Known throughout the area as the "Baptist War Horse," Reverend Golden faithfully pursued his calling under the motto "One Lord, One Faith, and One Baptism," serving God with Saint Paul Missionary Baptist Church for eighteen years. The first church structure was erected during his pastorate in 1876 on Cemetery Street; and

Whereas, during the ministry of Reverend J.C. Jackson, the present Saint Paul "church house" was built in 1893. The wooden frame structure was considered the largest church facility for blacks in Winnsboro at that time and boasted a quality bell imported by boat from England; and

Whereas, under the leadership of a number of godly pastors, the church continued to make significant improvements over the years. The pastorate of Reverend C.L. McMillian saw more than twenty years of renovation and building highlighted by the complete upgrading and modernization of the sanctuary. As a reminder of the church's honored past, the original pews, now augmented by cushioned seats and back rests, were retained; and

Whereas, under the leadership of its present pastor, the Reverend Terry Corbin, the church constructed its Christian Fellowship Center, purchased a twenty-five passenger bus, acquired several properties in the community, and applied for and received a state historical marker. Major upgrades to the sanctuary's interior included installation of audio and video systems to enhance the worship experience. Continuing its legacy of community service, Saint Paul established a food bank and clothing ministry, and provides an internet-based Bible study ministry; and

Whereas, to the local citizenry, Saint Paul long has been known for its courageous stance on issues facing the church and community, as during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s; and

Whereas, with the theme "The Goodness of the Lord - Thankful for the past, Embracing the present, Looking toward the future," and Psalm 90:4 as the theme text inspiring all events, a four-day celebration of Saint Paul's one hundred fiftieth anniversary was held on November 16, 2023, with a memorial service. A banquet was held on November 17, followed by a prayer breakfast and thanksgiving sing out on November 18. Activities culminated with Sunday service on November 19; and

Whereas, standing on the faith and strength of its pastors and members, Saint Paul's present congregation "presses toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 3:14), continuing to proclaim the Word of God; and

Whereas, Saint Paul Missionary Baptist Church has been a beacon of light in Winnsboro for one hundred fifty years, and, God willing, will continue its godly heritage in many more years of worship and service. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, congratulate Saint Paul Missionary Baptist Church for a century and a half of exemplary service to the community and extend warmest congratulations on the occasion of the church's historic one hundred fiftieth anniversary.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be provided to Reverend Terry O. Corbin Pastor, MDiv, for Saint Paul Missionary Baptist Church.

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