Assembly Resolution No. 819
BY: M. of A. Beephan
COMMEMORATING the 50th Anniversary of Valley
Christian Church in Hopewell Junction, New York, to
be celebrated with a Jubilee on September 25, 2025
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor those religious institutions and congregations within the State of
New York that have faithfully served their communities and provided
spiritual guidance for generations; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
longstanding traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Valley Christian Church in Hopewell
Junction, New York, to be celebrated with a Jubilee on Thursday,
September 25, 2025; and
WHEREAS, Valley Christian Church was born out of a deep commitment
to fellowship and faith, with its origins in several Bible study groups
that gathered in the early 1970s at the home of Russ and Sharon
Williamson; and
WHEREAS, On September 15, 1975, these study groups joined together
to hold their first public service of corporate worship and teaching at
the Oak Grove Grange on Route 9; and
WHEREAS, After a fire destroyed that facility in December of 1975,
the congregation continued meeting in the Wappingers Fire House before
relocating to the Mt. Hope Grange Building in June 1976, where they
worshipped for the next five years; and
WHEREAS, On June 18, 1981, Valley Christian Church purchased its
current property at 1072 Route 82 in Hopewell Junction, New York, and
transformed an existing garage into a church facility, holding its first
service there on November 2, 1981; and
WHEREAS, Groundbreaking for a new sanctuary began in April 1986,
culminating in the dedication of the current structure on July 24, 1988;
and
WHEREAS, Dr. Greg Williamson, who was ordained at Valley Church on
May 20, 1990, succeeded his father, Pastor Russ Williamson, as Lead
Pastor in June 1993; alongside Pastor Susie Williamson, they have
shepherded Valley Church through remarkable growth-from 120 attendees to
more than 1,800 congregants today; and
WHEREAS, Valley Christian Church stands as a testament to God's
enduring grace and faithfulness, built through the vision, labor, and
love of generations of worshippers, many of whom have gone on to their
eternal reward, including founders Pastor Russ and Sharon Williamson;
and
WHEREAS, As it celebrates its 50th Anniversary Jubilee, Valley
Christian Church remains a vibrant and influential force in the East
Fishkill and greater Dutchess County community, continuing its mission
of worship, service, and discipleship; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
comemorate the 50th Anniversary of Valley Christian Church, and to
extend best wishes to its leadership and congregation for a meaningful
celebration and continued success in the years ahead; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Valley Christian Church, Hopewell Junction, New York.
