Virginia 2025 Regular Session

Virginia Senate Bill SR255

Introduced
2/11/25  
Engrossed
2/13/25  

Caption

Commending Surry United Methodist Church.

Summary

Senate Resolution 255 is a commemorative resolution honoring Surry United Methodist Church on the occasion of its 100th anniversary. The resolution recounts the church’s origins in the early 1920s, its dedication in 1925, its later growth and building improvements, and its continued role in the Surry area through worship, fellowship, and outreach. It also notes the church’s historical ties to the broader Methodist tradition and its place within the Surry Charge and the Virginia United Methodist Conference. The resolution does not create or amend any substantive law. Instead, it directs the Clerk of the Senate to present a copy of the resolution to the church’s pastor as an official expression of the Senate of Virginia’s admiration and recognition. Its practical effect is ceremonial, serving as a formal state commendation of a local religious institution and its community contributions.

Impact

SR255 has no regulatory or fiscal impact and does not change the Virginia Code or any state agency duties. Its legal effect is limited to a formal legislative recognition, with the Senate authorizing presentation of the resolution to the church as a commemorative honor. The primary parties affected are Surry United Methodist Church, its pastor and congregation, and the local Surry community that has benefited from the church’s long-standing presence.

Sentiment

The sentiment around the resolution is uniformly positive and celebratory. The bill was agreed to by the Senate, and the text emphasizes admiration for the church’s century of service, spiritual leadership, and community outreach. Because this is a commendation resolution rather than a policy measure, there is no indication of partisan or substantive opposition in the available record.

Contention

There is no notable contention reflected in the bill text, voting history, or available discussion materials. The resolution is purely honorary and appears to have been noncontroversial. Any discussion would likely have centered on the church’s historical significance and community role rather than on competing policy positions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VA HR691

Commending Shiloh Baptist Church (Old Site).

VA HR739

Commending Culpeper Baptist Church.

VA HR612

Commending First Baptist Church Centralia.

VA HR758

Commending Mount Hermon Baptist Church.

VA HR670

Commending Augusta Stone Presbyterian Church.

VA HR781

Commending Immanuel Mar Thoma Church.

VA HR688

Commending the Reverend Dr. Melvin Marriner.

VA SR604

Commending the Reverend Dr. Melvin Marriner.

VA HR606

Commending the Reverend Dr. Vernon C. Walton.

VA HR709

Commending Forest Hill Presbyterian Church.

Similar Bills

SC S0763

Bethlehem United and Mount Nebo

MS SC533

Recognize Mississippi Methodist Hospital and Rehabilitation Center on occasion of its 50th Anniversary.

MD SB172

Corporations and Associations - Methodist Churches - Trust Requirement Repeal and Disaffiliation

MD SB586

Corporations and Associations - Methodist Church Trust Requirement Repeal and Disaffiliation Requirements

MS HC64

MS Methodist Hospital & Rehabilitation Center; commend upon 50th anniversary.

VA HR208

Commending Bermuda Hundred United Methodist Church.

MD HB1182

Public and Nonpublic Schools - Student Elopement - Locative Devices

SC H4452

Silver Hill Memorial United Methodist Church-156th anniversary