Senate Resolution No. 2079

BY: Senator PARKER

COMMEMORATING the Joint Divine Service of St.
James Lodge No. 114 and Emerald Chapter No. 81, to
be held on May 17, 2026, and recognizing their
enduring commitment to faith, fellowship, charity,
and community service

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend organizations whose dedication to community service, spiritual
fellowship, charitable engagement, and moral leadership has contributed
significantly to the strength and well-being of the people of the State
of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, this Legislative Body is proud
to commemorate the Joint Divine Service of St. James Lodge No. 114 and
Emerald Chapter No. 81, to be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at the
historic First AME Zion Church in Brooklyn, New York; and

WHEREAS, The Joint Divine Service serves as a meaningful occasion
for reflection, worship, fellowship, and unity, bringing together
members, families, clergy, and community leaders in a shared expression
of faith, service, and civic responsibility; and

WHEREAS, St. James Lodge No. 114, operating under the traditions of
Prince Hall Freemasonry, has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to
brotherhood, philanthropy, mentorship, and community uplift through its
charitable initiatives, educational outreach, and civic engagement
throughout Brooklyn and the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Emerald Chapter No. 81, through the principles and service
traditions of the Order of the Eastern Star, has likewise distinguished
itself through acts of compassion, fellowship, charity, and support for
families and communities, contributing meaningfully to the moral and
social fabric of the communities it serves; and

WHEREAS, Together, St. James Lodge No. 114 and Emerald Chapter No.
81 continue to exemplify the values of faith, integrity, service, and
collective responsibility, fostering a spirit of unity and cooperation
through their ongoing dedication to humanitarian and community-centered
work; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body further recognizes the leadership and
service of Worshipful Master Joshua Feliciano, Worthy Matron Tiffany S.
Brooks, and Worthy Patron Winston Richards, whose commitment and
guidance have helped strengthen the organizations and the communities
they serve; and

WHEREAS, First AME Zion Church, a historic institution of faith and
community leadership in Brooklyn, provides a fitting setting for this
important observance, reflecting the enduring relationship between faith
communities and civic engagement in the advancement of justice,
fellowship, and public service; and

WHEREAS, The observance of the Joint Divine Service offers an
opportunity to celebrate the enduring importance of faith-based
fellowship, charitable service, and community leadership in promoting
unity, compassion, and hope among the people of New York State; now,
therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the Joint Divine Service of St. James Lodge No. 114 and
Emerald Chapter No. 81, to be held on May 17, 2026, and to honor both
organizations for their continued dedication to faith, fellowship,
charity, and community service; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the leadership of St. James Lodge No. 114 and Emerald
Chapter No. 81 as an expression of the esteem and appreciation of this
Legislative Body.