LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION congratulating The Reverend Edward Corley upon
the occasion of celebrating his 40th Anniversary as Pastor of Mt. Olive
Baptist Church in Manhasset, New York

WHEREAS, The character and richness of religious and community life in
this noble Empire State is nourished and fulfilled through the faithful
concern and selfless devotion of those who would commit their energies
and purpose to the ministry of others; and
WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body to bring full
recognition and just tribute to those individuals who distinguish them-
selves and the ministry through their unremitting commitment and preemi-
nence of service; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to congratulate The
Reverend Edward Corley upon the occasion of celebrating his 40th Anni-
versary as Pastor of Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Manhasset, New York;
and
WHEREAS, A native of Manhasset, New York, The Reverend Edward Corley
graduated from Manhasset High School in 1954, and received his bach-
elor's degree from New York University; he later earned his master's
degree in Social Work from Yeshiva University, and taught history in the
Great Neck School District for 16 years; and
WHEREAS, A dedicated member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church for 68 years,
The Reverend Edward Corley served in a variety of roles as the protege
of Reverend James C. Brown, including youth director, Sunday School
teacher, President of the Baptist Training Union, choir member, and
assistant minister; and
WHEREAS, In 1974, this esteemed man was called upon to assume leader-
ship of Mt. Olive Baptist Church; since then, he has worked to empower
and give voice to countless members of his community; and
WHEREAS, Throughout his ministry, The Reverend Edward Corley has
strived to overcome barriers and expand services to those in need; he
started a "black-Jewish dialogue" with Temple Beth-El of Great Neck,
leading to the formation of an organization which has provided legal
counsel and medical care to area residents; and
WHEREAS, A past-president of the North Shore branch of the NAACP, The
Reverend Edward Corley has worked his whole life to reduce racism when-
ever possible, while inspiring others to improve the social landscape;
and
WHEREAS, With him throughout has been his wife of 59 years, Marva;
their four children, Edward, Kim, Michael and the late Robyn; and six
grandchildren, Robyn, Renee, Ryanna, Taylor, Destiny and Michael, all of
whom feel privileged to be a part of his life and rejoice in his
achievements; and
WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an individ-
ual for the benefit of others which The Reverend Edward Corley has
displayed throughout his distinguished pastoral ministry; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those religious
leaders who enhance the well-being and vitality of their community and
have shown a long and sustained commitment to excellence certainly have
earned the recognition and applause of all the citizens of this great
Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate The Reverend Edward Corley upon the occasion of celebrating
his 40th Anniversary as Pastor of Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Manhasset,
New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Reverend Edward Corley.