Virginia 2026 Regular Session

Virginia House Bill HR107

Introduced
2/10/26  
Engrossed
2/16/26  

Caption

Commending Mt. Gazerine Baptist Church.

Impact

The passage of HR107 serves not just to honor Mt. Gazerine Baptist Church, but also emphasizes the importance of religious institutions in providing community support and fostering cultural heritage. By formally acknowledging the 162 years of service by the church, the resolution may inspire other communities to recognize and appreciate their local churches and the essential roles they play in society.

Summary

House Resolution 107 commends the Mt. Gazerine Baptist Church for its faithful ministry and community service over the past 162 years. Located in Blackstone, Virginia, this church, founded in 1864, has acted as a sanctuary for Christian believers and has played a significant role in local community life. The resolution highlights the church's history, beginning with a congregation of recently freed Negroes, and recognizes its contributions to the spiritual and social fabric of the community.

Contention

While the resolution is generally supportive, it could elicit mixed feelings among those who might see the distinction given to a single institution as a preferential treatment of religious bodies in public policy. However, the overtly celebratory tone of HR107 suggests a broad consensus on the achievements of Mt. Gazerine, minimizing potential contention regarding church and state separation. Overall, there seems to be alignment on the value attributed to historical churches in preserving community values and promoting faith.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VA SR200

Commending Mill Swamp Baptist Church.

VA SR194

Commending Bethany Presbyterian Church.

VA SR199

Commending David W. Poole.

VA HR458

Commending Midlothian High School.

VA SR201

Commending Greg May.

VA HR453

Commending Leland Teets.

VA HR462

Commending Mark Merrill.

VA SR186

Commending Grant Holloway.

VA HR464

Commending Mary Werkheiser.

VA SJR266

Commending Debbie Rountree.

Similar Bills

SC S1134

Mt. Nebo Church

SC H5588

Hopewell Baptist Church 150th anniversary

SC S0548

Jeannine Smalls

PA SR283

Honoring the life and legacy of Reverend Jesse Jackson.

SC S0673

Reverend Thurmond Merchison

SC S0626

Reverend Kenneth Hodges

US SR584

A resolution honoring the life and legacy of Reverend Richard Smallwood, a world-class composer, pianist, and arranger.

NY J01636

Mourning the death of the Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson and honoring his lifetime of service, leadership, and advocacy for civil rights and social justice