FL H9069

Recognizes Bishop Rudolph W. McKissick, Sr., for a lifetime of service as pastor of Bethel Baptist Institutional Church in Jacksonville, serving for 47 years as the longest-serving leader of Florida's oldest African-American church.

Documents his educational credentials including a bachelor's degree from Edward Waters College and conferred doctoral degrees from Edward Waters College and Bethune-Cookman University, plus additional training at Tuskegee, Columbia, Princeton, and Luther Rice University and Seminary.

Acknowledges establishment of more than 50 church ministries and the 1993 founding of the B.E.S.T. Academy (Bethel Enhancing Students Totally) with his wife Estelle, which serves elementary and secondary students and operates as an approved summer school site for Duval County.

Highlights his inspirational leadership that motivated more than 50 servant leaders to enter ministry, his elevation to Bishop of Marriage and Family in the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International in September 2011, and his current service alongside his son as co-pastor.

Notes his numerous awards including the Meritorious Leadership Award from Dr. Martin Luther King, Sr., the 1992 Silver Medallion Humanitarian Award, and Jacksonville's Human Relations Award, along with service on boards including the University of North Florida's first board of trustees.