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2013 SESSION

13105115D
SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 416
Offered February 13, 2013
Commending the Reverend J. L. Williams.
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Patron-- Lucas
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WHEREAS, the Reverend J. L. Williams, the dynamic spiritual leader of New Testament Church in Portsmouth, will be consecrated as a bishop on July 27, 2013; and

WHEREAS, called to the ministry at a young age, J. L. Williams earned a bachelor’s degree from Smith Chapel Bible University in Tallahassee, Florida, and a master’s degree from Richmond Virginia Seminary; and

WHEREAS, the Reverend J. L. Williams joined New Testament Church in 1974 and became the pastor in 2000, stirring the hearts of congregation members with his passionate, Biblically based words of truth; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Williams, with the motto of “Changing Hearts by Keeping It Real,” inspired individuals to change their lives and lifestyles and reach out to one another and the community; and

WHEREAS, during Reverend Williams’ tenure, New Testament Church has grown from approximately 75 members to over 2,250 members with more than 40 ministries and two worship services; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Williams established Changing Hearts International Ministries, which includes radio and television broadcasts that spread the gospel message to thousands of homes; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Williams crosses denominational barriers as he reaches out to those of different faiths, speaking at conventions, ministerial meetings, revivals, and marriage seminars; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Williams is active in community affairs, serving on the board of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, and has earned numerous awards and accolades for his distinguished community service; and

WHEREAS, committed to his family, Reverend Williams is the proud husband of Elder Shajuan Williams and the devoted father of Jerrod; and

WHEREAS, on July 27, 2013, the Reverend J. L. Williams will be consecrated a bishop by Bishop Kim Brown and Bishop Courtney McBath in front of family members, friends, and church leaders; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate, the House of Delegates concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend the Reverend J. L. Williams on the occasion of his consecration as a bishop; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the Reverend J. L. Williams as an expression of the General Assembly’s congratulations and admiration for his dedication to serving the congregation of New Testament Church and the Portsmouth community.