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2004 SESSION

045931208
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 245
Offered January 16, 2004
Commending the Reverend Geoffrey V. Guns.
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Patrons-- Alexander, Drake, Howell, A.T., Joannou, Lewis and Melvin; Senators: Miller and Rerras
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WHEREAS, the Reverend Geoffrey V. Guns has served the congregation of Second Calvary Baptist Church in Norfolk for more than 20 years; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Guns received a bachelor's of science degree in business administration at Norfolk State University in 1972, served as a United States Army infantry officer for six years, earned a master’s of divinity summa cum laude from Virginia Union University in 1981, and obtained a doctor of ministry degree from Howard University in 1985; and

WHEREAS, at one time seriously considering a lifelong military career, Reverend Guns trained as a Ranger; attended flight, airborne, and parachute school; and retired from the Army with the rank of captain; and

WHEREAS, inspired at an early age to serve God in the ministry, Reverend Guns first was appointed pastor for a small country church in Kilmarnock, was assigned to Second Calvary Baptist Church in 1983, and has served faithfully in that position ever since; and

WHEREAS, a compassionate and tireless spiritual leader, Reverend Guns is devoted to the spiritual growth of his church, dedicated to its youth, and committed to the community through excellent programs of ministry and giving; and

WHEREAS, under the leadership of Reverend Guns, Second Calvary Baptist Church, established in 1879, has changed over the past two decades, most notably in the depth of the worship services, the flourishing of remarkable programs for women and senior parishioners, and the building of a beautiful new sanctuary; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Guns is a fine leader within the Baptist Church, serving as president of the Virginia Baptist State Convention from 1997 to 2001, and currently is the executive administrator; and

WHEREAS, freely giving of his time, gifts and talents, Reverend Guns travels across the country fostering the growth and development of fellow churches and helping young pastors in their ministry; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Guns has written numerous inspirational articles and two books for his denomination, sharing his wisdom and extraordinary vision for the church in the future; and

WHEREAS, over a long and fruitful career, the Reverend Geoffrey V. Guns has served the parishioners of Second Calvary Baptist Church with great devotion and affection; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend the Reverend Geoffrey V. Guns for his dedication to Second Calvary Baptist Church and the community of Norfolk; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the Reverend Geoffrey V. Guns as an expression of the appreciation of the General Assembly for his long and dedicated service.