Senate Resolution No. 158

BY: Senator GRIFFO

COMMEMORATING the 200th Anniversary of the Zion
Episcopal Church of Rome, New York

WHEREAS, Religious institutions, and the many spiritual, social, and
educational benefits they confer, play a vital role in the development
of the moral fabric of a responsible citizenry; and

WHEREAS, It is the tradition of this State and this Nation to pay
tribute to those institutions and individuals who have contributed to
the ethical and spiritual values of their communities; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the Zion Episcopal Church of Rome,
New York, on Saturday, August 16, 2025; and

WHEREAS, The Zion Episcopal Church of Rome, New York will celebrate
this momentous milestone with a year full of celebrations, commencing
with a Business After Hours reception hosted on Thursday, January 23,
2025, by the Rome Area Chamber of Commerce; this event will feature
light refreshments, tours of the church, and displays that highlight
significant moments in the church's storied history; and

WHEREAS, In recognition of 200 years of dependable and gracious
service to its community and in honor of two decades of opening its
doors to devout parishioners, the Zion Episcopal Church will host other
celebrations including a fundraising concert by the Clinton Symphony of
the Mohawk Valley, an organ and piano hymn, a celebratory dinner, and
Zion's usual annual Strawberry Festival, bake sale, and basket raffle;
and

WHEREAS, This historic year of events honoring this well-established
church and pillar of the Rome community will culminate in a "Messiah
Sing!" event in late December of 2025; members of the community are
welcome to join in celebrating this esteemed occasion by attending the
myriad of events offered throughout the year; and

WHEREAS, Today, the Zion Episcopal Church stands on the threshold of
tomorrow, prepared to meet the challenges of the coming decades, while
retaining that spiritual resolve which has so characterized its glorious
past; and

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to take note of
enduring religious institutions and to bring such institutions to the
attention of the people of this Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the Zion Episcopal Church of Rome,
New York, confident that this commemoration reflects the belief in those
values which enhance the dignity and purpose of life; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Zion Episcopal Church of Rome, New York.