RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, We, the members of the Chicago City Council, wish to extend our gratitude to Senior Pastor Walter Gillespie in recognition of his contributions to the community through his monumental nonprofit work and as a leader in the faith movement; and
WHEREAS, Pastor Gillespie was born and raised in Chicago, attending Chicago Public Schools and receiving a Bachelor's degree in Biblical Studies from Friends Christian University and a Master's degree in Business Administration from Golden Pacific University; and
WHEREAS, Pastor Gillespie founded and served as the Executive Director of the Center of Higher Development (COHD) which provides after school programming promoting technology education for students; and
WHEREAS, In 1994, Pastor Gillespie expanded the COHD program to include computer training centers for students and adults. Pastor Gillespie excels in empowering underprivileged youth by providing them with the technical skills to pursue impactful careers; and
WHEREAS, Pastor Gillespie used his platform to benefit his community by encouraging entrepreneurship and community-based organization. His involvement with the Southwest Public Action Defense Shelter and the Neighborhood Networks National Consortium enabled him to pursue his goal of promoting job-readiness training in underserved communities; and
WHEREAS, Not only did Pastor Gillespie contribute invaluably to the pursuit of education in his community, but his devotion to faith is truly inspiring. Pastor Gillespie founded Chosen Tabernacle Full Gospel Baptist Church in 1999 in Grand Boulevard. Pastor Gillespie co-pastors Chosen Tabernacle with his talented, faithful wife, Sandra Gillespie; and
WHEREAS, Pastor Gillespie, a servant of God, is known as an enigmatic speaker and promotes an environment of love, family, and community. As a husband, father, minister, and leader, Pastor Gillespie elevates all those who have the privilege of meeting him; and
WHEREAS, On behalf of the entire 4th Ward, Alderman Sophia King would like to extend Pastor Gillespie this additional honor for his longtime commitment to community and faith; and
BE IT RESOLVED, That we, the Members of the City Council of the City of Chicago, assembled this thirteenth day of March, 2019, do hereby extend our heartfelt best wishes to Senior Pastor Walter Gillespie; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That suitable copies of this resolution are presented to the Gillespie family as a sign of our honor, gratitude, and respect.
