Senate Resolution No. 2192

BY: Senator BRESLIN

CONGRATULATING Reverend Donna Elia upon the
occasion of her designation as recipient of the
Reverend Joyce Giles Pastoral Award by the Capital
Area Council of Churches on September 18, 2019

WHEREAS, The character and richness of religious and community life
in our great Empire State is nourished and fulfilled through the
faithful concern and selfless devotion of those who would commit their
energies and purpose to the ministries of others; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body congratulates Reverend Donna Elia
upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the Reverend Joyce
Giles Pastoral Award by the Capital Area Council of Churches on
Wednesday, September 18, 2019; and

WHEREAS, This auspicious award is bestowed upon a person who has
actively participated in the Council's life and has exemplified the
ideals for racial, gender and interdenominational inclusiveness in the
Council; Reverend Donna Elia is one such individual; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Donna Elia has served as Executive Director of
Troy Area United Ministries since October of 2000; in this role, she
works with interfaith communities and others to provide a safe and just
space for those in need by offering meals, HIV/AIDS services, furniture,
education, spiritual counseling and advocacy; and

WHEREAS, Currently, she holds the esteemed position of Vice
President for the Board of Trustees on behalf of Albany Presbytery, and
serves as Chaplain of the New York State Assembly in addition to her
time spent as Pastor of First United Church in the Town of Hoosick
Falls; and

WHEREAS, These fulfilling positions have provided Reverend Donna
Elia ample opportunity to bring her community closer together and enrich
the lives of all individuals she has met and served; and

WHEREAS, This distinguished woman of faith has always given
enlightenment, guidance and wisdom to the many entrusted to her care and
has administered abundantly and unstintingly to the spiritual and
corporal needs of all; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when a person
of such noble aims and accomplishments is brought to our attention it is
appropriate to publicly and exultantly proclaim and commend that
individual for the edification of others; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate Reverend Donna Elia upon the occasion of her designation as
recipient of the Reverend Joyce Giles Pastoral Award by the Capital Area
Council of Churches, noting the role she has played in strengthening the
bond between interfaith communities and enriching their lives for the
better; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Reverend Donna Elia.