WHEREAS, The Washington State Senate recognize and value the role and the contributions of the church to the development of our citizens and our communities; and
     WHEREAS, On August 1, 1863, six pioneers led by Reverend John Jay Clark and Reverend Alvin Clark formed the Salmon Creek Baptist Church, which later became Brush Prairie Baptist Church; and
     WHEREAS, The first pastor, Reverend John Jay Clark, of the church was elected to the Territorial Legislature in 1869, where he served one term; and
     WHEREAS, The Brush Prairie Baptist Church is recognized as the oldest Baptist Church in Washington State; and
     WHEREAS, The Brush Prairie Baptist Church has continued to serve the community from its present location since 1894; and
     WHEREAS, The Brush Prairie Baptist Church has sent ministers and assisted in founding new churches in Clark County, Washington, and around the world; and
     WHEREAS, The Brush Prairie Baptist Church has ministered to the greater Vancouver community in both temporal and spiritual needs since its inception until now; and
     WHEREAS, In August 2013, the Brush Prairie Baptist Church will be celebrating its 150th anniversary; and
     WHEREAS, The members of the Brush Prairie Baptist Church will celebrate this 150th anniversary by serving the community through 150 unique community service touch points, beginning in August 2013;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate recognize the longevity, perseverance, and contribution of the Brush Prairie Baptist Church and recognize its upcoming 150th anniversary; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to the City of Vancouver and the Brush Prairie Baptist Church.