81R5620 JH-D
By: King of Zavala H.R. No. 190
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The members of the First United Methodist Church of
Crystal City are marking a momentous event in January 2009 with the
commemoration of the 100th anniversary of their church's founding;
and
WHEREAS, Established on January 19, 1908, by the Reverend
W. E. Broadhurst, First Methodist has experienced much growth since
its beginnings in the local unfinished schoolhouse where its
organizational meeting was held; a two-story building erected on
Avenue A in 1909 was replaced with a large white stucco edifice two
decades later; since 1960, the church home, which features lovely
stained glass windows, has been located at 616 East Valverde
Street; and
WHEREAS, Covered-dish evenings have provided a welcome
opportunity for fellowship through the years, with chicken and
dumplings and enchiladas counted as special favorites; among the
longtime congregants taking part in these and other church
activities are Ronald Martin "Marty" Harkey, Jane Marie Byrd Del
Re, and Joseph Patrick Byrd, Jr., all of whom are fourth-generation
members carrying on the religious legacy of their forebears; and
WHEREAS, A highly valued spiritual and social center in the
Crystal City area, First Methodist has long reached out to the wider
community; the church has hosted a monthly prayer breakfast, the
Thanksgiving service sponsored by the local ministerial alliance,
and the Christmas Eve candlelight service; and
WHEREAS, Since its inception, First United Methodist Church
has remained a source of strength, comfort, and inspiration to area
residents, and it is fitting that its clergy and parishioners, both
past and present, be honored on this joyous occasion; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas
Legislature hereby recognize the 100th anniversary of the founding
of the First United Methodist Church of Crystal City and extend to
all those affiliated with the church sincere best wishes for the
future; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for the church as an expression of high regard by the Texas
House of Representatives.