WHEREAS, after three decades of wise spiritual leadership and generous contributions to the Chesapeake community, the Reverend Thomas L. Mercer, Jr., retired as pastor of Hickory United Methodist Church in 2019; and

WHEREAS, a longtime resident of Chesapeake, Thomas "Tom" L. Mercer, Jr., completed his education at Atlantic Christian College and Duke University, then became pastor of Hickory United Methodist Church in 1989; and

WHEREAS, Tom Mercer uses his unique preaching style to incorporate historical significance into biblical teachings and apply the importance of faith to everyday life; and

WHEREAS, outside of the church, Tom Mercer has been a champion for education and has supported young people as a member of the Chesapeake School Board, the Southeastern Cooperative Educational Programs Board, the National School Boards Association, the Virginia School Boards Association, and local preschool and day care programs; and

WHEREAS, Tom Mercer has volunteered his time and leadership with the Elizabeth River District Board of Mission, Chesapeake Care Clinic, the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways History Foundation, and Great Bridge Food Closet; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That the Reverend Thomas L. Mercer, Jr., hereby be commended on the occasion of his retirement as pastor of Hickory United Methodist Church; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the Reverend Thomas L. Mercer, Jr., as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for his legacy of inspirational leadership to the congregation of Hickory United Methodist Church and service to the residents of Chesapeake.