Bill > J00831

This resolution honors Bishop Calvin Rice and First Lady Willie Mae Rice for their 46 years of dedicated ministry, recognizing their significant contributions to religious and community life in New York. The resolution highlights Bishop Rice's extensive work, including serving as Senior Pastor at New Jerusalem Worship Center in Jamaica, New York, founding the Rochdale Early Advantage Charter School, and leading the First Central Baptist Church of Staten Island, where he grew the congregation from 35 to over 2,000 members. It also acknowledges his community development efforts, such as establishing the First Central Housing Development Corporation and serving on various advisory boards. The resolution emphasizes Bishop Rice's numerous achievements, including receiving over 75 awards, preaching internationally, mentoring over 50 ministry leaders, and being the first living African American to have a street named after him in Staten Island. The legislative body formally recognizes the couple's commitment to spiritual guidance, charitable work, and community service, and will transmit an official, engrossed copy of the resolution to Bishop Rice and First Lady Willie Mae Rice at their church.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/J831