A house RESOLUTION

 

TO RECOGNIZE AND CONGRATULATE MOUNT MORIAH BAPTIST CHURCH OF SPARTANBURG ON THE OCCASION OF ITS ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-SECOND ANNIVERSARY AND TO COMMEND THE CHURCH FOR MORE THAN A CENTURY AND A HALF OF SERVICE TO GOD AND THE COMMUNITY.

 

Whereas, reflecting on the congregation's humble beginnings, the members of Mount Moriah Baptist Church remember a brush and grape arbor that once stood on a piece of land owned by the late Joseph Young. It was in 1863, during the year of the Emancipation Proclamation, that efforts were made to organize Mount Moriah. However, it was not until about 1870 that a more formal organization took place. Led by Joseph Young and six other men, the congregation worked together to construct its first church building. This historic edifice became known as the first Negro Baptist church in Spartanburg; and

 

Whereas, the church was located on a plot of land generously donated by Joseph Young Sr. at the corner of Young Street and South Liberty Street, a street named after the donor himself. For many years, this building served as a place of worship until the congregation saw the need for expansion. In 1912, construction began on a new edifice, and during this time services were temporarily held in a tent and later at Lodge Hall on Liberty Street. It was in the spring of 1914 that the basement of the new church was completed, allowing the congregation to gather there until the upper levels were finished. Mr. Lucious Gray, brother-in-law of Dr. J.W. Sexton, served as the contractor for this project; and

 

Whereas, throughout its history, Mount Moriah Baptist Church has been blessed with dedicated pastors and deacons who have shepherded the flock with unwavering commitment. Each leader has played a vital role in the growth and spiritual development of the Mount Moriah church family. The deacons, too numerous to mention individually, have faithfully served alongside the pastors, ensuring the smooth functioning of the church; and

 

Whereas, over the years, as God continued to respond to the prayers of his people, Mount Moriah Baptist experienced growth and progress. In 1977, the church celebrated the opening of a newly completed sanctuary and administration building on South Church Street, a testament to God's provision and faithfulness. Additional tracts of property were acquired for future expansion, including the establishment of the St. Luke Free Medical Clinic; and

 

Whereas, in more recent years, Mount Moriah Baptist Church has seen both spiritual and numerical growth. A wide range of ministries have been established to cater to the diverse needs of the congregation. Bible studies, children's and teens' church, a ministry to senior citizens, a singles ministry, and health and wellness programs are just a few examples of the vibrant and active community within the walls of Mount Moriah Baptist. The church's outreach and evangelism efforts also have been a focal point, as the congregation seeks to make Christ known to the community; and

 

Whereas, on May 21, 2023, the church had the great privilege of officially installing its new pastor, the Reverend Dr. Larry T. Crudup. Known for his innovative leadership style and his deep commitment to ministry, Pastor Crudup has been instrumental in fostering a spirit of unity and collaboration within the church. He strongly believes in empowering every member to utilize his or her unique gifts and talents in service to God. Through his dynamic preaching and teaching, he encourages the members of his congregation to deepen their relationship with Christ and live out their faith in practical ways; and

 

Whereas, Mount Moriah Baptist Church has been a beacon of light and a community worship center in the Spartanburg area for one hundred sixty-two years, and, God willing, will continue its godly heritage for many more years of worship and service. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, recognize and congratulate Mount Moriah Baptist Church of Spartanburg on the occasion of its one hundred sixty-second anniversary and commend the church for more than a century and a half of service to God and the community.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Mount Moriah Baptist Church.

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