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2026 Regular Session ENROLLED
SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 27
BY SENATOR BOUDREAUX
A RESOLUTION
To commend and congratulate Trinity Christian Methodist Episcopal Church on the
occasion and celebration of its 154th Anniversary.
WHEREAS, originally named the Colored Methodist Episcopal Church in America,
Trinity Christian Methodist Episcopal Church is the oldest African American church in
Lafayette and began when free blacks found hope and meaning in the gospel preached by
former slave owners and started worshiping throughout the town of Vermilion, now
Lafayette, Louisiana; and
WHEREAS, on May 3, 1872, Governor Alexander Mouton granted a plot of ground
known as Lot Number 235 on the old Corporation of Vermilionville to the congregation of
the Colored Methodist Episcopal Church in America for "a church, parsonage or public
school house" to aid in the promotion and morality among the black population of the parish;
and
WHEREAS, a small group of free blacks erected a small frame building for worship
services which, despite the adversities of the 1880's and 1890's, grew and prospered, many
times being noted for its role providing education and other needed support systems for the
black citizens in the community; and
WHEREAS, beginning its spiritual journey in a tent, the congregation, guided by
faith and determination, through God's grace and hard work, the church was rebuilt in 1954
and located at 604 Lee Avenue, its current location, and the name "Colored" was officially
changed in 1956 to "Christian" and the church became known as "Trinity Christian
Methodist Episcopal Church", which today continues to be a special place in the lives of its
congregation; and
WHEREAS, throughout its long and distinguished history, Trinity Christian
Methodist Episcopal Church has become a beacon of hope and spiritual guidance within the
Lafayette community, providing leadership and compassion through numerous outreach
ministries that serve the needs of the people and is blessed with leadership by a number of
exceptional bishops, presiding elders, musicians, lay leaders, and faithful members; and
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SR NO. 27 ENROLLED
WHEREAS, Trinity is committed to service through meaningful programs that
include music ministry, participation in the downtown ministerial alliance, ministries
supporting the homeless and senior citizens, and outreach efforts to assist the poor and
underserved through its guiding motto, "We walk by faith, and not by sight", which reflects
the steadfast faith that has sustained the congregation through generations of worship,
service, and fellowship; and
WHEREAS, in June 2013, Bishop Thomas L. Brown, Sr. made history in assigning
Reverend Maggie C. Banks as the first woman pastor of Trinity Christian Methodist
Episcopal Church, and under her dedicated leadership, Trinity continues its mission of
spiritual growth, service, and community engagement, building upon the strong foundation
laid by generations of faithful members over the past one hundred fifty-four years; and
WHEREAS, the theme for the 154th Anniversary celebration, inspired by Philippians
1:3, "I thank my God for Trinity Christian Methodist Episcopal Church: A Look in Two
Directions", reflects both gratitude for the church's rich history and faith in its promising
future.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Senate of the Legislature of Louisiana
does hereby commend and congratulate Trinity Christian Methodist Episcopal Church of
Lafayette, Louisiana, on the occasion and celebration of its 154th Anniversary, recognizing
its historic contributions, spiritual leadership, and unwavering commitment to faith and
community service.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this Resolution be transmitted to
Trinity Christian Methodist Episcopal Church and the Reverend Maggie C. Banks.
PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE
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