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Commending Bishop Shawn L. Stephens.
Agreed to by the House of Delegates, January 26, 2026
Agreed to by the Senate, January 29, 2026
WHEREAS, Bishop Shawn L. Stephens, founder and pastor of Ignite Church International in Ashburn, has made an impact by providing his congregation with uplifting spiritual guidance, faithful leadership, and meaningful opportunities for community outreach; and
WHEREAS, after ministering in other capacities for more than 15 years, Shawn Stephens established Ignite Church International in December 2003 with a vision of creating an institution that would serve as both a house of worship and a foundation for community service endeavors to benefit the Greater Loudoun County community; and
WHEREAS, Shawn Stephens has supported individuals and families in need through outreach programs for homeless and displaced citizens, as well as mentorship and counseling programs and school supply, coat, and toy drives; and
WHEREAS, Shawn Stephens has been a steadfast advocate for communities of faith and has worked closely with local leadership in Loudoun County over the years to address the issues and concerns of Loudoun County residents; and
WHEREAS, Shawn Stephens has unselfishly given of his time, abilities, and expertise to help other new faith-based nonprofit organizations to plan and organize for their own future success; and
WHEREAS, Shawn Stephens provides marital, family, and grief counseling services to help individuals and families navigate the challenges they face and to find clarity and success through faith; and
WHEREAS, Shawn Stephens has served on the board of several local organizations, including the Loudoun Aftercare Program, Bright Life Buddies, and the Circle of Love Coalition; and
WHEREAS, through various community service initiatives in Northern Virginia, Shawn Stephens has proven himself to be an exemplary citizen of the Commonwealth; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Bishop Shawn L. Stephens, founder and pastor of Ignite Church International, for his legacy of service; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Bishop Shawn L. Stephens as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration for his contributions to the Commonwealth.