House Resolution 1128
By: Representatives Adeyina of the 110th, Okoye of the 102nd, Clark of the 108th, Beckles of
the 96th, and Ali of the 106th
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing and commending Chestnut Grove Baptist Church on the occasion of its 175th
anniversary; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS, the seeds which were sown by the loving and humble efforts of the devoted
original worshipers of Chestnut Grove Baptist Church have blossomed, establishing a rich
tradition and history; and
WHEREAS, organized in 1850, Chestnut Grove Baptist Church has grown under the divine
direction of more than 50 pastors over the years, allowing the Word of God to spread
throughout the Grayson community and beyond; and
WHEREAS, the church was founded when nine men, Rev. William Seamon Moore, John
Carroll, James G. H. Herring, Nathan Fowler, James Johnson, Jethro Norris, Isaac Petty,
George Petty, and James Young, gathered with their families beneath a brush arbor to
proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ, forming a fellowship that quickly grew to nearly 50
people; and
WHEREAS, within two years of its founding, the church acquired two acres of land and
constructed a log cabin for worship, which also served as the area's only school, Trip
Academy, for many years; and
WHEREAS, in 1873, the church erected a wooden structure that served the congregation and
community until a new building was completed in 1911; now known as the LifeHouse, this
place remains a prominent fixture on the campus today; and
WHEREAS, in 2001, a new sanctuary was constructed on the north end of the campus to
accommodate the church's growing membership and evolving needs; and
WHEREAS, the church's current pastor, Dr. Chris Alexander, was called to lead the church
in 2018, and he continues to shepherd the congregation alongside his wife, Meredith, and
their children, Landry and Amelia; and
WHEREAS, the congregation of this church has compiled an unparalleled record of
constructive, compassionate, and humanitarian service that it demonstrates daily through
open minds, open hearts, and open doors; and
WHEREAS, the members of Chestnut Grove Baptist Church have a sincere desire to serve
the Lord and are wholeheartedly committed to spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ; and
WHEREAS, the story of Chestnut Grove Baptist Church is one of triumph through the grace
and sustaining power of God, and it stands as an immovable witness to the truth that God
keeps His promise; and
WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this enduring example of God’s message
of peace and love be recognized and congratulated for its innumerable good works rendered
on behalf of persons in need.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that
the members of this body recognize the rich history of Chestnut Grove Baptist Church,
commend its 175 years of dedicated service to the Lord and community, and extend warmest
best wishes for its continued growth and success.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized
and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to
Chestnut Grove Baptist Church.