RESOLUTION CELEBRATING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF BETHANY UNION CHURCH
WHEREAS, Bethany Union Church, pillar of the Beverly and Morgan Park communities, will celebrate its 150th anniversary on May 5, 2022; and
WHEREAS, The City Council has been informed ofthis milestone by the Honorable Matthew J. O'Shea, Alderman of the 19th Ward; and
WHEREAS, Established on May 5, 1872, Bethany Union Church was founded by 14 individuals representing six denominations; Reverend J.B. Drew served as its first pastor, and since then 11 others have served in the position, including our current pastor, Reverend Doctor Lawrence M. Cameron; and
WHEREAS, Distinguished members and pastors of Bethany Union have been recognized with streets, schools, and other buildings named in their honor, demonstrating the role Bethany Union has played in the community over the decades; and
WHEREAS, Bethany Union provides an environment conducive to Christian values, education, and activities, and has sponsored a number of organizations throughout its history, including Boy Scout Troop #607 for 100 years, Cub Scout #3607 for 90 years, and Girl Scout Troops for 90 years; and
WHEREAS, In addition to sponsoring organizations, Bethany Union opens its doors and provides office and classroom space for the TEECH Foundation, a recovery and prevention ministry where adults suffering from addiction and mental health issues learn to develop life and job skills for a successful future; and
WHEREAS, Members and pastors of Bethany Union take active roles in faith and neighborhood endeavors, including supporting the Beverly/Morgan Park Community Ministerial Association, the Community of Churches, the Maple-Morgan Park Food Pantry, A New Direction, parades and other community events; Bethany Union also serves as a polling place for three precincts in the 19th Ward; and
WHEREAS, For 150 years Bethany Union has served as a beacon of light for the 19th Ward community and the 19th Ward is grateful for its service; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED, That we, the Mayor and Members ofthe City Council ofthe City of Chicago, gathered here this twenty-seventh day of April, 2022, do hereby express our gratitude and our heartfelt congratulations to Bethany Union Church in celebration of its 150th anniversary and extend to the entire congregation our very best wishes and every success in all of its future endeavors; and
MATTHEW J. O'SHEA Alderman, 19th Ward
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a suitable copy ofthis resolution be prepared and presented to Bethany Union Church.