Senate Resolution No. 1700

BY: Senator KENNEDY

HONORING Reverend Justo Gonzalez II upon the
occasion of his designation for special recognition
by the Coalition for Economic Justice on May 18,
2017

WHEREAS, The spiritual guidance and nurturing of the citizens of the
State of New York is of great importance to the vitality and well-being
of our communities; and

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to bring full
recognition and just tribute to those men and women of religious
commitment who accept the responsibility of moral leadership and render
the wisdom of human understanding; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Reverend Justo Gonzalez II upon the occasion of his designation for
special recognition by the Coalition for Economic Justice on Thursday,
May 18, 2017; and

WHEREAS, Pastor of Pilgrim-St. Luke's and El Neuvo Camino United
Church of Christ in Elmwood Village, Reverend Justo Gonzalez II brings
sincerity and compassion to his pastoral ministry, coaching, consulting,
and community outreach; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his 26 years as an ordained minister, Reverend
Justo Gonzalez II has served in several capacities including as a
motivational speaker, retreat leader, and both a preacher and
facilitator within the private and public sector; and

WHEREAS, With a steadfast and unwavering commitment to his
community, Reverend Justo Gonzalez II serves as a staunch advocate on
such issues as justice and peace, educational justice, restorative
justice, immigrant rights, LGBTQI, as well as women's and workers'
rights; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Justo Gonzalez II received a Bachelor's degree in
Media Communications from Medaille College in 1983; he went on to earn
his Master's degree in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve
University in 1993, and his Divinity degree from the Iliff School of
Theology in 1996; and

WHEREAS, Additionally, he received a Pastoral Ministry degree from
Christ the King Seminary in East Aurora, New York; he has also earned
Doctor of Ministry credit hours from Barry University in Miami, Florida;
and

WHEREAS, Singular in distinction is Reverend Justo Gonzalez II,
whose service to his church and his people, and his involvement in his
community mirror a commitment of compelling dimension; 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 jubilantly proclaim and commend that
individual for the edification of others; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Reverend Justo Gonzalez II upon the occasion of his designation
for special recognition by the Coalition for Economic Justice on May 18,
2017; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Reverend Justo Gonzalez II.