Senate Resolution No. 158 BY: Senator GRIFFO COMMEMORATING the 200th Anniversary of the Zion Episcopal Church of Rome, New York WHEREAS, Religious institutions, and the many spiritual, social, and educational benefits they confer, play a vital role in the development of the moral fabric of a responsible citizenry; and WHEREAS, It is the tradition of this State and this Nation to pay tribute to those institutions and individuals who have contributed to the ethical and spiritual values of their communities; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the Zion Episcopal Church of Rome, New York, on Saturday, August 16, 2025; and WHEREAS, The Zion Episcopal Church of Rome, New York will celebrate this momentous milestone with a year full of celebrations, commencing with a Business After Hours reception hosted on Thursday, January 23, 2025, by the Rome Area Chamber of Commerce; this event will feature light refreshments, tours of the church, and displays that highlight significant moments in the church's storied history; and WHEREAS, In recognition of 200 years of dependable and gracious service to its community and in honor of two decades of opening its doors to devout parishioners, the Zion Episcopal Church will host other celebrations including a fundraising concert by the Clinton Symphony of the Mohawk Valley, an organ and piano hymn, a celebratory dinner, and Zion's usual annual Strawberry Festival, bake sale, and basket raffle; and WHEREAS, This historic year of events honoring this well-established church and pillar of the Rome community will culminate in a "Messiah Sing!" event in late December of 2025; members of the community are welcome to join in celebrating this esteemed occasion by attending the myriad of events offered throughout the year; and WHEREAS, Today, the Zion Episcopal Church stands on the threshold of tomorrow, prepared to meet the challenges of the coming decades, while retaining that spiritual resolve which has so characterized its glorious past; and WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to take note of enduring religious institutions and to bring such institutions to the attention of the people of this Empire State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the Zion Episcopal Church of Rome, New York, confident that this commemoration reflects the belief in those values which enhance the dignity and purpose of life; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the Zion Episcopal Church of Rome, New York.