TO HONOR AND RECOGNIZE BISHOP THOMAS C. BELL FOR HIS TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF MINISTRY TO THE CAMDEN COMMUNITY.

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate are pleased to join Cathedral of Praise Ministries in celebrating its pastor, Bishop Thomas C. Bell, for his twenty-five years of ministry in Camden, South Carolina; and

Whereas, a native of Tarboro, North Carolina, Bishop Thomas C. Bell served in the United States Air Force for sixteen years. He is the father of four children; and

Whereas, Bishop Bell accepted the call to ministry and was mentored and licensed in 1989 under the covering of Grace Cathedral Ministries. His pastoring in Camden began at Saint Mark Church of God in Christ. In 2001, he was called from this post to establish Cathedral of Praise Ministries, Inc., and in 2002, he was elevated to the office of bishop through the establishment of Grace Cathedral Christian Fellowship. He currently serves as vice bishop for this fellowship of churches, ministers at church and over the radio, and assists in ministry throughout the Southeast; and

Whereas, a true community pastor, Bishop Bell has fostered a sense of community in Camden by breaking down denominational, racial, and economic walls and endeavoring to restore families and renew lives. Over the years, Bishop Bell has developed wonderful partnerships, connections, and relationships through his passion for life, his love for people, and his unique abilities to inspire youth, speak the truth boldly, and lead by example. His impact on the lives of others has been immeasurable; and

Whereas, over the years, Bishop Bell has spearheaded and supported various community programs, including Brother2Brother Fellowships, the 100 Men Strong movement, basketball tournament community fundraisers, and children's church and youth services and programs, such as Young People for Christ, Peach Out of Reach, and Destined for Greatness. He has also served on a number of religious, community, and business boards; and

Whereas, Bishop Bell's twenty-fifth anniversary kickoff celebration is scheduled for June 30, 2018 at Camden High School. The celebration will honor the vision given to him by God for the Camden community, including the establishment of Cathedral of Praise Ministries and the radio broadcast on KOOL 102.7 FM. The free, public celebration will feature vendors, voter registration, a silent auction, entertainment, face painting, and food. A second celebration will be held on August 25, 2018; and

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate are grateful for the ministry of Bishop Thomas C. Bell and his service to the community of Camden and the State of South Carolina. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the Senate:

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, honor and recognize Bishop Thomas C. Bell for his twenty-five years of ministry to the Camden Community.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Bishop Thomas C. Bell.