House Resolution 2004 is a commemorative resolution honoring St. John Baptist Church of Woodford on the occasion of its 160th anniversary. The resolution recounts the church’s origins in 1866, when Black members of New Bethel Baptist Church in Caroline County sought to form a new congregation, and notes the leadership of Reverend James F. Wright and Deacon Arthur Beasley in establishing the church. It also highlights the church’s physical history, including early worship in a brush arbor, later renovations, and the construction of the current brick building in 1936.
The resolution recognizes the church’s long-standing role in spiritual leadership, fellowship, and community outreach in Caroline County. It emphasizes the contributions of eight pastors and the church’s influence in helping members grow in faith and participate more fully in community life. The measure directs the Clerk of the House of Delegates to prepare a copy of the resolution for presentation to the church as a formal expression of admiration and appreciation.
This resolution does not change state law, create new programs, or appropriate funds. Its legal effect is ceremonial only, serving to place the House of Delegates’ commendation into the official record and authorize presentation of the resolution to St. John Baptist Church of Woodford. The affected parties are the church, its congregation, and the broader Caroline County community recognized for the church’s historical and civic contributions.
The sentiment around the resolution is uniformly positive and celebratory. The bill was agreed to by the House of Delegates, and the text itself is laudatory, focusing on the church’s longevity, leadership, and community service. No opposition, amendments, or recorded controversy appear in the provided context.
There are no notable points of contention in the available record. Because this is a commemorative House resolution, it appears to have been noncontroversial and passed without recorded debate or vote opposition. The only substantive focus is recognition of the church’s historical significance and its role in the community.