Honoring Canaan Baptist Church on its 105th Anniversary and recognizing its contributions to the community.

WHEREAS, Canaan Baptist Church was established as a Mission in April 1908 by Reverend Benjamin J. Holcomb, his brothers, Prophet M. Holcomb and Charles H. Holcomb, and a few other committed Christians; and

WHEREAS, The church began at a property at Belfield Avenue and Haines Street which the members bought for their place of worship. For 64 years the congregation continued to worship at that location; and

WHEREAS, In 1972, because of vast growth, the church moved to its present place of worship. The church subsequently was distinguished by unprecedented development in membership growth, outreach programs, and spiritual, physical and economic expansion; and

WHEREAS, Through the 1980s and early 1990s, the church continued to be productive in mission, evangelism and stewardship. Outreach programs were expanded and the children's church was developed. During that time, the building at 302 School House Lane was purchased as a center for community services; and

WHEREAS, In the 1990s and early 2000s, the church added new services and expanded existing programs in the areas of Christian and lay education, missions, counseling, personal growth, health care and civic responsibilities. These programs continue to this day; and

WHEREAS, The church continues to maintain its commitment established in 1908; and

WHEREAS, The church is celebrating its 105th Anniversary; now therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby congratulate Canaan Baptist Church on its 105th Anniversary and applaud its contributions to the community.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Canaan Baptist Church as evidence of the respect and sincere sentiments of this legislative body.

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