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File #: 0058X-2025    Version: 1
Type: Ceremonial Resolution Status: Passed
File created: 3/19/2025 In control: Hardin
On agenda: 3/31/2025 Final action: 4/3/2025
Title: To Honor the Retirement of the Reverend Joshua C. Kelly from First Church of God
Sponsors: Shannon G. Hardin, Nicholas Bankston, Lourdes Barroso De Padilla, Otto Beatty III, Nancy Day-Achauer, Rob Dorans, Melissa Green, Emmanuel V. Remy, Christopher Wyche

Title

To Honor the Retirement of the Reverend Joshua C. Kelly from First Church of God

Body

WHEREAS, Reverend Joshua C. Kelly has faithfully served the body of Christ for over 25 years, ministering as a musician, singer, composer, evangelist, preacher, teacher, and servant leader with an impassioned and infectious style of preaching that has blessed thousands; and

WHEREAS, The Reverend Kelly earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Bernard Baruch College (CUNY) majoring in Psychology and Education, a Master of Science degree in Computers and Education from C.W. Post, Long Island University, and furthered his theological education through the Bethel Bible Institute and Beacon university, reflecting his commitment to intellectual and spiritual growth; and
WHEREAS, the Reverend Kelly previously served as the Senior Pastor of the Living Rock Christian Center of Far Rockaway, NY, where he led the congregation for 12 years, served as Treasurer for the Rockaway-Inwood Ministerial Coalition, and held leadership positions within the Church of God in Christ, 3rd Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction; and
WHEREAS in August 2004, the Reverend Kelly accepted the call to serve as Executive Pastor at First Church of God under the leadership of his childhood friend, Bishop Timothy J. Clarke, where he has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the church’s growth and spiritual guidance; and
WHEREAS, the Reverend Kelly has been a devoted husband to his wife, Latricia Patrice, since September 1982, and together they have raised four children and embraced the joy of four grandchildren, providing a loving and nurturing family environment grounded in faith; and
WHEREAS, the Reverend Kelly’s ministry and leadership have profoundly impacted First Church of God and the broader Columbus community, leaving a legacy of faith, compassion, and service that will endure for generations; now, therefore,

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS: That this Council hereby honors the re...

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