SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 212
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to
recognize First Pentecostal Church of Silsbee on the grand
occasion of its 100th anniversary, which is being celebrated
March 9, 2025; and
WHEREAS, The sanctuary of First Pentecostal Church is
located on the site of Old Town, where Henry Mark Blackmon and
Albert McKinney first gathered with members of the community to
hold Bible studies and prayer meetings beginning in 1925; as the
group grew, Mr. Blackmon purchased land and began constructing
the church's first building, which began holding church services
in 1927; and
WHEREAS, Under the guidance and wise stewardship of its
former pastors and the outstanding leadership of its current
pastor, Rev. James Homer Looper, First Pentecostal Church has
ministered faithfully to the spiritual needs of countless
Christians and has continued to play a vital role in the Silsbee
community; and
WHEREAS, The church has endured many challenges and
transitions since it was first organized; the addition of a
gymnasium and housing for elderly members in 1988 served as a
temporary center for services and revivals after the sanctuary
was destroyed in a fire, and the church's devoted congregants
have supported each other in times of hardship and have grown and
rejoiced during times of abundance; and
WHEREAS, The celebration of the church's 100th anniversary
is an opportunity for all to reflect on its rich history and on
the many benefits it has provided to the Silsbee community and
beyond through its ministries over the past century; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 89th
Legislature, hereby recognize First Pentecostal Church of
Silsbee on the occasion of its 100th anniversary and extend to
its clergy and members of the congregation best wishes for a
joyous commemorative celebration and for continued success in
their ministry; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
the church as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.
Nichols
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President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on March 6, 2025.
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Secretary of the Senate
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Member, Texas Senate