WHEREAS, in 2014, First Presbyterian Church in Charlottesville celebrates 175 years of serving and uplifting members of the Charlottesville community through worship services and outreach efforts; and

WHEREAS, officially established in 1839, First Presbyterian Church traces its earliest roots to 1819 when Presbyterians in Charlottesville and surrounding areas formed South Plains Presbyterian Church; the congregation began regular services in 1824 and built its first meeting house in 1829; and

WHEREAS, as the South Plains Presbyterian Church grew stronger, a separate congregation of 58 members called Charlottesville Presbyterian Church formed in 1839; Charlottesville Presbyterian Church constructed new meeting houses in 1856 and 1898 and purchased a private home for use as an educational building in 1930; and

WHEREAS, in 1939, 80 members of Charlottesville Presbyterian Church helped establish Westminster Presbyterian Church, carrying on a proud legacy of mission work in the community; and

WHEREAS, in 1955, the Charlottesville Presbyterian Church changed its name to First Presbyterian Church and began construction on its current building, which was dedicated in 1956; and

WHEREAS, First Presbyterian Church remained active in the community, partnering with Westminster Presbyterian Church to sponsor the foundation of Meadows Presbyterian Church in 1962; and

WHEREAS, over the years, First Presbyterian Church completed numerous enhancements to better serve the growing congregation, adding an educational wing in 1987 and a new organ in 1995; and

WHEREAS, throughout its history, First Presbyterian Church has been an integral part of the Charlottesville community, offering joyful fellowship and spiritual guidance; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend First Presbyterian Church for its long tradition of spiritual leadership on the occasion of its 175th anniversary; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to First Presbyterian Church as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration for its storied history and contributions to the community.