HR1932: HR1932 Copeland, Rev. Dr. Rufus; occasion of his 40th pastoral anniversary; recognize

26 LC 112 4063 House Resolution 1932 By: Representatives Prince of the 132nd, Howard of the 129th, and Myles of the 126th A RESOLUTION Recognizing and commending Rev. Dr. Rufus Copeland on the occasion of his 40th pastoral1 anniversary; and for other purposes.2 WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Rufus Copeland has demonstrated his commitmen t to teaching the3 Gospel, witnessing Christ through word and deed, and addressing the physical,4 psychological, intellectual, and spiritual needs of others; and5 WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Rufus Copeland was called by the Lord 40 year s ago to lead the6 congregation of Gardner Grove Baptist Church, and he has since contributed greatly to the7 spiritual enrichment of the Augusta community as a preacher, co unselor, teacher,8 humanitarian, and confidant; and9 WHEREAS, his vision and direction have helped Gardner Grove Baptist Church grow in size10 and influence, uplifting the community like the light of Bethlehem and serving as a spiritual11 leader and place for fellowship; and12 WHEREAS, over the past four decades leading Gardner Grove Bapti st Church, Rev. Dr.13 Rufus Copeland has established numerous programs and workshops which have improved14 the spiritual and educational growth of the church and the surrounding community; and15 H. R. 1932 - 1 - 26 LC 112 4063 WHEREAS, whether the task is preparing a sermon, visiting the s ick, counseling the16 troubled, baptizing a new believer, or acting as a theologian, educator, administrator, or17 humanitarian, Rev. Dr. Rufus Copeland has shown the energy, devotion, and commitment18 truly reflective of divine guidance; and19 WHEREAS, the unmatched spiritual assistance offered by Rev. Dr. Rufus Copeland is a20 source of strength and direction for persons in all walks of life; and21 WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper to recognize the outstanding accomplishments22 and dynamic Christian ministry of this devout and pious man.23 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that24 the members of this body recognize and commend Rev. Dr. Rufus C opeland on the25 wonderful occasion of his 40th pastoral anniversary and extend best wishes for many more26 years of successful fellowship and leadership.27 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized28 and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to Rev.29 Dr. Rufus Copeland.30 H. R. 1932 - 2 -