The bill, S. 864, is a Senate Resolution that congratulates St. James the Greater Catholic Mission on the occasion of its two hundredth anniversary. The resolution commends the church for its legacy of faith and resilience, highlighting its long-standing service to the Colleton County community and the state of South Carolina. The mission, which began in 1826, is noted for being a rare example of a rural, southern, African American Roman Catholic parish that has maintained continuous existence since its antebellum origins. The resolution acknowledges the church's historical significance, including its complete campus that features a church, school, and cemetery, and the vital role played by community members throughout its history.
The resolution also recounts key historical events, such as the dedication of the first church building in 1833, the challenges faced during and after the Civil War, and the construction of the current church structure in 1935. It emphasizes the perseverance of the congregation, which has remained steadfast in their faith despite numerous hardships, including natural disasters. The resolution concludes by expressing the South Carolina Senate's appreciation for the dedication of St. James the Greater Catholic Mission and instructs that a copy of the resolution be presented to its pastor, Reverend Bruce C. Barnett.