Title
To Recognize the Outstanding Contributions of Reverend Richard D. Ellsworth to Law Enforcement in the City of Columbus and the State of Ohio
Body
WHEREAS, Reverend Richard D. Ellsworth has served the Columbus community for over 50 years as pastor of Central College Presbyterian Church, where he expanded membership from 250 parishioners at the beginning of his tenure to nearly 3,400 parishioners today; and
WHEREAS, Reverend Ellsworth has served as chaplain for the Columbus Division of Police and Division of Fire for over 50 years, acting as counselor and spiritual advisor to members of the division and their families; and
WHEREAS, During his time of service, Reverend Ellsworth welcomed ten new chaplains to serve Columbus Public Safety personnel. In October of 2013, Columbus Chief of Police Kim Jacobs honored Reverend Ellsworth’s dedication to the men and women of the division; and
WHEREAS, Reverend Ellsworth is the longest serving chaplain in the history of the Ohio State Highway Patrol, providing spiritual support for Highway patrol officers for 25 years; and
WHEREAS, Reverend Ellsworth is an Army veteran who served in the European and Pacific theaters during WWII; and
WHEREAS, Reverend Ellsworth is a loving husband and father to his wife Linda and their five children; and
WHEREAS, Reverend Ellsworth is known by his friends, family, and colleagues for his “service above self” philosophy, comforting sense of humor, and calming spiritual presence; and
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That this Council does hereby express its appreciation and gratitude for the outstanding contributions made by Reverend Richard D. Ellsworth to the City of Columbus and the State of Ohio.