HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 5104 Offered June 20, 2006 Commending Pastor Phillip E. Knight, Sr. ---------- Patrons-- Ingram and Dance ----------

WHEREAS, Pastor Phillip E. Knight, Sr., beloved minister of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, is recognized for his 22 years of exemplary service to the members of his congregation and the community of Prince George County; and

WHEREAS, born in Miami, Pastor Knight was devoted to his six siblings growing up, learned compassion for others at a very early age, and realized that he was drawn to the church and had an extraordinary gift for playing the piano and singing in the choir; and

WHEREAS, called to help others in need, Pastor Knight earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Bethune Cookman College in 1975, was ordained a minister in 1984, and received a master of divinity degree from Virginia Union School of Theology in 1985; and

WHEREAS, a devoted minister for over two decades, Pastor Knight is a respected leader and administrator in the church community, and an admired and talented musician and vocalist; and

WHEREAS, on April 5, 2006, Pastor Knight was honored with the Traditional Gospel Album of the Year Award by Inspirational Gospel Music Award, Inc.; and

WHEREAS, a dedicated preacher, counselor, and teacher for the church, Pastor Knight has touched the lives of many throughout his years of ministry and is an inspiration and a mentor to others, especially young people; and

WHEREAS, over a long and distinguished career, Pastor Knight has served Pleasant Grove Baptist Church and its neighbors with great devotion, affection, and vision and is aided in his ministry by his devoted wife of 29 years, Margarett Raines Knight, and his loving family; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Pastor Phillip E. Knight, Sr., for his 22 years of outstanding service; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Pastor Phillip E. Knight, Sr., as an expression of the gratitude of the General Assembly for his commitment to the citizens of Prince George County and his many gifts as pastor, counselor, and mentor.