Mount Calvary Presbyterian Church 180th Anniversary

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Travis Moore

South Carolina recognizes Mount Calvary Presbyterian Church’s 180-year history and impact, celebrating its ministry and community contributions.

Introduced and adopted

Summary of Bill H 5721 (2025-2026, South Carolina)

Purpose

The bill is a House Resolution designating and commemorating the 180th anniversary of Mount Calvary Presbyterian Church in Walnut Grove.

It recognizes the church’s history, leadership, and community service, and extends formal congratulations to the pastor and congregation.

Key Provisions

Declares that Mount Calvary Presbyterian Church will celebrate its 180th anniversary on Sunday, August 23, 2026.

Recounts historical milestones:

Organization date: August 23, 1846, by Reverend C.B. Stewart with six charter members.
Enrollment in the Presbytery of South Carolina: October 2, 1846.
Early worship locations: open air and Nesbit home for the first four years; first church building constructed and used for 35 years.
Subsequent sanctuaries: dedicated buildings in 1882 and 1905.
Destruction and rebuilding: church struck by lightning on August 7, 1963; new sanctuary dedicated August 26, 1966.
Denominational affiliation: united with the Presbyterian Church in America in 1973.
Growth and expansions: Family Life Center, sanctuary enlargement, facilities for youth and families, and planting of Grace Presbyterian Church in Spartanburg.
Outreach: establishment of Iglesia Presbiteriana Monte Calvario for Spanish-speaking community.
Notable leaders: pastors and church leaders including Reverend Richard M. Thomas, Reverend Justin J. Kendrick, Reverend James F. Stephenson, and Reverend Andrew D. Hane.

Expresses commendation of Mount Calvary’s 180 years of ministry and service, and extends warm congratulations to the pastor and congregation.

Directs that a copy of the resolution be presented to Reverend Richard M. Thomas.

Who is Affected

Mount Calvary Presbyterian Church and its congregation in Walnut Grove.

Reverend Richard M. Thomas (noted pastor) and church leadership.

The broader Spartanburg County community through recognition of the church’s historical contributions.

Procedural / Timeline Details

This is a ceremonial (non-binding) expressional resolution by the South Carolina House of Representatives.

Action history indicates introduction and adoption occurred on June 25, 2026.

Sponsor: Representative (and co-sponsor) names listed as part of the House record, with Travis Moore noted as a co-sponsor.

No fiscal impact, regulatory changes, or enforceable requirements; primarily a formal recognition and celebration of a historic milestone.

Net Effect

Provides formal state-level acknowledgement of Mount Calvary Presbyterian Church’s 180-year history and impact.

Serves as a ceremonial honor that can be used for public and community awareness, without creating legal or financial obligations.