A RESOLUTION to honor and recognize Samuel Milton Leslie on the occasion of his retirement.
Summary
SJR 936 is a ceremonial joint resolution honoring Samuel Milton Leslie on the occasion of his retirement as Minister of Music at South Harriman Baptist Church. The resolution recounts his personal background, education, ordination, and decades of service in music, youth, senior adult, and mission ministries in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Alabama. It highlights his long tenure at South Harriman Baptist Church beginning in 1996 and recognizes his role in inspiring worship through music and broader church leadership.
The resolution does not change substantive law or create any new rights, duties, or programs. Instead, it directs that an official copy be prepared for presentation, with standard language omitted from the presentation copy and from copies requested through the clerk. Its effect is limited to formal legislative recognition and commendation by the Tennessee General Assembly.
Impact
Because SJR 936 is a commemorative resolution, it has no direct impact on Tennessee statutes, regulations, or public funding. Its practical effect is symbolic: it places the General Assembly’s official recognition on the record and honors an individual for service to his church and community. The only procedural consequence is the preparation of an appropriate presentation copy for delivery.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the resolution is strongly positive and respectful. The bill’s language is entirely laudatory, emphasizing Mr. Leslie’s faith, service, education, family support, and long ministry career. The voting history also reflects broad support, with the measure passing overwhelmingly and no indication of organized opposition in the available record.
Contention
There is no notable policy contention in the bill text or the available discussion record because the resolution is honorary rather than substantive legislation. Any differences in the voting record appear minimal and do not suggest disagreement over the resolution’s purpose. The measure’s focus is on celebrating a retiring minister, so the only relevant considerations are ceremonial recognition and legislative courtesy.